Contact member, drying apparatus, and printing apparatus

Abstract

[Object] To provide a contact member that prevents transfer of components from a contacted member to the contact member originating from a liquid composition even in the case where the contact member and the contacted member are used in contact with each other for a long time.[Means for achieving the object] A contact member configured to contact a contacted member to which a liquid composition is applied includes a surface layer (A) configured to contact the contacted member, wherein the surface layer (A) includes a support layer containing acid-resistant aluminum sulfate, a root mean square height Sq of the surface layer (A) is 1.0 μm or more, and an orthogonal line roughness ratio of the surface layer (A) is 0.7 or more.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to contact components, drying equipment, and printing equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Inside printing equipment such as inkjet devices, there is a transport member for conveying recording media, such as continuous sheets and cut sheets. The transport member guides the recording media to a mechanism for applying a liquid composition (such as ink), and to a mechanism for heating and drying the applied liquid composition.

[0003] In recent years, in order to provide a high-yield water-repellent substrate that can maintain super water-repellent properties, a water-repellent substrate has been proposed, which includes an aluminum substrate, an acid-resistant aluminum (alumite) layer disposed on the surface of the aluminum substrate, and a water-repellent coating disposed on the surface of the acid-resistant aluminum layer, wherein the acid-resistant aluminum layer has a base layer integrally disposed with the aluminum substrate, and has an irregular structure formed by a plurality of needle-like protrusions standing parallel on the surface of the base layer (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0004] Furthermore, in order to solve the problem of cracking, prevent the occurrence of image defects, and provide an image forming apparatus including a heating roller that can be used for a long time, a fixing device in the image forming apparatus is proposed for fixing an unfixed toner image onto a recording medium by using a heating roller provided with an acid-resistant aluminum film with fine holes (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

[0005] Citation List

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] [PTL 1] Japanese Patent No. 6641990

[0008] [PTL 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. H9-114294 Summary of the Invention

[0009] Technical issues

[0010] Therefore, the disclosed technology aims to provide a contact member that prevents components derived from the liquid composition from transferring from the contacted member to the contact member, even when the contact member and the contacted member are used for a long time in a manner that they are in contact with each other.

[0011] Solution to the problem

[0012] According to one aspect of the invention, a contact member configured to contact a contacted member to which a liquid composition is applied includes a surface layer (A) configured to contact the contacted member, wherein the surface layer (A) includes a support layer containing acid-resistant aluminum sulfate, the surface layer (A) has a root mean square height Sq of 1.0 μm or greater, and the surface layer (A) has an orthogonal line roughness ratio of 0.7 or greater.

[0013] Advantages of the invention

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a contact member is provided that prevents components derived from the liquid composition from transferring from the contacted member to the contact member, even when the contact member and the contacted member are used for a long time in a manner that they are in contact with each other. Attached Figure Description

[0015] [ Figure 1 ] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a printing apparatus using continuous paper.

[0016] [ Figure 2 ] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the contacted component in contact with the contacting component.

[0017] [ Figure 3 ] Figure 3 This is an image showing the height of the surface layer (A) of Example 1.

[0018] [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 This is an image showing the height of the surface layer (A) in Comparative Example 2.

[0019] [ Figure 5 ] Figure 5 This is an image showing the height distribution of the cross-section of the surface layer (A) of Example 1.

[0020] [ Figure 6 ] Figure 6 This is an image showing the height distribution of a cross-section of the surface layer (A) of Comparative Example 1.

[0021] [ Figure 7 ] Figure 7 This is an image showing the shape of the transfer portion when the contact member of Embodiment 1 is used.

[0022] [ Figure 8 ] Figure 8 This is an image showing the shape of the transfer portion when the contact member of Comparative Embodiment 1 is used. Detailed Implementation

[0023] Regarding conventional transport members used in image forming equipment, etc., when the transport member is in direct contact with the area where the liquid composition is applied, the transfer of the liquid composition to the transport member has caused malfunctions in some cases. It is known that this transfer of the liquid composition to such transport members becomes significant when using slow-drying inks, such as water-based inks or inks containing low-volatile solvents as main components, as the liquid composition.

[0024] Furthermore, in the aforementioned patent documents 1 to 2, which are conventional technologies, when the contact member comes into contact with the contacted member to which the liquid composition is applied, and the contact member is used for a long time in such a manner that the components originating from the liquid composition are transferred from the contacted member to the contact member.

[0025] As a result of in-depth research, the inventors of this invention have discovered that by providing a surface layer (A) having a support layer including acid-resistant aluminum sulfate on a contact member in contact with a liquid composition, and by adjusting the root mean square height Sq and orthogonal line roughness ratio of the surface layer (A), it is possible to prevent components originating from the liquid composition from transferring from the contact member to the contact member.

[0026] Therefore, in this invention, a contact member can be obtained that contacts a contacted member on which a liquid composition is applied, wherein even when the contact member and the contacted member are used for a long time in a manner that they are in contact with each other, the transfer of components from the contacted member to the contact member is prevented, wherein the contact member has a surface layer (A) that contacts the contacted member, the surface layer (A) has a support layer comprising acid-resistant aluminum sulfate, and the root mean square height Sq of the surface layer (A) is 1.0 μm or greater, and the orthogonal line roughness ratio of the surface layer (A) is 0.7 or greater.

[0027] The present invention will be described below.

[0028] (Contact components)

[0029] The contact member of the present invention, which contacts a contacted member to which a liquid composition is applied, has a surface layer (A) that contacts the contacted member, and may, as needed, have a substrate, a heating mechanism (heating unit), other components, etc.

[0030] Preferably, the surface layer (A) is disposed on the substrate as described below.

[0031] The contacting member can be a member that transfers the contacted member by contacting the contacted member described below (hereinafter also referred to as a transferring member), or a member that does not transfer the contacted member (hereinafter also referred to as a non-transferring member).

[0032] When the contact member is a conveying member, there are no particular restrictions on the form of the conveying member, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, the contact member may be roller-shaped, and the contact member may rotate to convey the contacted member.

[0033] When the contact member is a non-transferring member, there are no particular restrictions on its form, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, the contact member can be in the form of a plate, and can heat or press the contacted member while in contact with it. Examples of non-transferring members include iron, pressure plates, etc.

[0034] <Surface Layer (A)>

[0035] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the surface layer (A) is a layer that contacts the contacted component and has a support layer including acid-resistant aluminum sulfate, and has the characteristics of a predetermined shaped surface as described below.

[0036] Preferably, the surface layer (A) has fluoropolymer particles that adhere to the support layer, which will be described later.

[0037] <<Root Mean Square Height Sq>>

[0038] In this invention, the root mean square height Sq of the surface layer (A) is 1.0 μm or greater.

[0039] The root mean square height Sq of the surface layer (A) is preferably 1.0 μm or greater and 10.0 μm or less, more preferably 1.0 μm or greater and 9.0 μm or less, and even more preferably 1.0 μm or greater and 8.0 μm or less.

[0040] The root mean square height Sq of the surface layer (A) is 1.0 μm or greater, which is appropriate because the contact area between the surface layer (A) and the contacted component is reduced, and it can prevent components derived from the liquid composition from being transferred from the contacted component to the contacting component.

[0041] The root mean square height Sq of the surface layer (A) is 10.0 μm or less, which results in an increase in the thermal conductivity of the contact member relative to the contacted member. Therefore, this is effective when the contact member is used as a contact member with a heating mechanism described later.

[0042] In this disclosure, "components derived from a liquid composition" may be the liquid composition itself (described below) or a portion of the components included in the liquid composition (e.g., coloring materials described below).

[0043] There are no particular limitations on the method for measuring the root mean square height Sq in the surface layer (A), and it can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. For example, one method involves observing the surface layer (A) at 20x magnification using a laser microscope (LEXT OLS4000, manufactured by Olympus Corporation) and calculating it according to JIS B 0601:2013.

[0044] <<Roughness Ratio of Orthogonal Lines>>

[0045] In this invention, the orthogonal line roughness ratio of the surface layer (A) is 0.7 or greater.

[0046] A roughness ratio of orthogonal lines of surface layer (A) of 0.7 or greater indicates that linear irregularities in a specific direction caused by machining, polishing, etc., are prevented from occurring on surface layer (A). When a contact member with linear irregularities in a specific direction on surface layer (A) is used, the shape of the contact surface between surface layer (A) and the contacted member becomes linear, and the contact area of ​​each contact portion increases, making it easier for components originating from the liquid composition to transfer from the contacted member to the contact member. Then, the transfer area on the contacted member becomes linear, and therefore, the area is more obvious and easily identified as a defect in the contacted member. On the other hand, when the roughness ratio of orthogonal lines of surface layer (A) is 0.7 or greater, and the root mean square height Sq of surface layer (A) is 1.0 μm or greater, the shape of the contact surface between surface layer (A) and the contacted member becomes point-like, and the contact area of ​​each contact portion decreases, making it less likely for components originating from the liquid composition to transfer from the contacted member to the contact member. Furthermore, even when a transfer occurs, the transfer area of ​​the contacted component is a point in which the generation period is not constant. Therefore, the visibility of this area is reduced, and thus it cannot be clearly identified as a defect on the contacted component.

[0047] There are no particular limitations on the method for measuring the orthogonal roughness ratio of the surface layer (A), and it can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. For example, the following methods can be used.

[0048] First, any point on the surface layer (A) was defined as the measurement center point, and the line roughness of the surface layer (A) in any direction starting from the measurement center point was measured using a laser microscope (LEXTOLS4000, manufactured by Olympus Corporation) at 20x magnification and a measurement length of 260 μm. Next, the line roughness in the measurement direction with the minimum line roughness and the line roughness in the direction perpendicular to the measurement direction with the minimum line roughness were obtained. Further, new measurement center points were defined at 100 μm intervals in a certain direction from the aforementioned measurement center points, and the line roughness in the measurement direction with the minimum line roughness and the line roughness in the direction perpendicular to the measurement direction with the minimum line roughness were obtained in the same manner as the measurements at the aforementioned measurement center points. A total of five measurements were performed relative to the measurement center points, and the average Ra(Min.) of the line roughness in the measurement direction with the minimum line roughness and the average Ra(90°) of the line roughness in the direction perpendicular to the measurement direction with the minimum line roughness were obtained. Then, the ratio of Ra(Min.) to Ra(90°) was calculated.<Ra(Min.) / Ra(90°)> To obtain the orthogonal line roughness ratio.

[0049] The ratio of the area of ​​the surface layer (A) and the contacted component in contact with each other to the area of ​​the surface layer (A) is preferably 10% or more and 90% or less, more preferably 10% or more and 80% or less, further preferably 10% or more and 50% or less, and particularly preferably 10% or more and 40% or less.

[0050] Note that the “area of ​​surface layer (A)” can be referred to as the “observed area”, the “area of ​​surface (A) and the contacted component in contact with each other” can be referred to as the “contact area”, and the “ratio of the area of ​​surface layer (A) and the contacted component in contact with each other to the area of ​​surface layer (A)” can be referred to as the “contact area ratio”.

[0051] If the contact area ratio is 90% or less, the contact area is reduced, and it is suitable to prevent components derived from the liquid composition from transferring from the contacted component to the contacting component.

[0052] If the contact area ratio is 10% or greater, the thermal conductivity of the contact member to the contacted member increases. Therefore, this is effective when the contact member is used as a contact member with the heating mechanism described below.

[0053] There are no particular limitations on the method for measuring the contact area ratio, and the method can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, the following methods can be used.

[0054] First, the surface layer (A) was observed at 20x magnification using a laser microscope (LEXT OLS4000, manufactured by Olympus Corporation) to obtain the height distribution. Next, the contact area was obtained from the acquired height distribution; this contact area is the cross-sectional area formed when the contact member is cut at a depth of 5 μm from the maximum height (the top surface of surface layer (A)) in a plane parallel to surface layer (A). Then, the ratio of the contact area to the observed area (contact area / observed area) was calculated to obtain the contact area ratio.

[0055] In the surface layer (A) according to an embodiment of the present invention, the methods for obtaining the root mean square height Sq, the orthogonal line roughness ratio, and the contact area ratio are not particularly limited, but there are also methods in which the substrate is pretreated by sandblasting or the like before the acid-resistant aluminum sulfate process. A double irregular shape forming process is performed, wherein an irregular shape is randomly formed on the surface of the substrate by sandblasting, and an irregular shape is further formed while a support layer including acid-resistant aluminum sulfate is generated by the acid-resistant aluminum sulfate process. Therefore, it is easy to make the root mean square height Sq of the surface layer (A) 1.0 μm or greater, make the orthogonal line roughness ratio of the surface layer (A) 0.7 or greater, and make the contact area ratio 10% or greater and 90% or less.

[0056] There are no particular restrictions on the type of blasting agent used in sandblasting, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, glass beads (soda-lime glass), alumina beads, stainless steel beads, zirconia beads, etc. can be used. Among them, from the point of view of hardness, glass beads and alumina beads are preferred.

[0057] There are no particular restrictions on the form of the blasting agent, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, blasting agents with shapes such as spheres, polygons, and cylinders can be appropriately used.

[0058] There are no particular limitations on the particle size of the blasting agent; it can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. For example, it is preferred that the center particle size be 50 μm or larger and 1000 μm or smaller.

[0059] There is no particular limitation on the amount of blasting agent, and it can be appropriately set according to the purpose. However, from the viewpoint of reducing the drying energy required to prevent components derived from the liquid composition from being transferred from the contacted component to the contacting component, it is preferable that the amount of blasting agent is less than 100.

[0060] <Supporting Layer>

[0061] The support layer according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a layer containing acid-resistant aluminum sulfate as a constituent material (i.e., an acid-resistant aluminum sulfate coating), and may include other constituent materials as needed.

[0062] Here, "including acid-resistant aluminum sulfate" means including materials derived from the acid-resistant aluminum sulfate process, and the "acid-resistant aluminum sulfate process" refers to the anodizing of aluminum in an aqueous sulfuric acid solution. That is, the layer including materials derived from the acid-resistant aluminum sulfate process is a layer that includes aluminum oxide and in which sulfur components are detected.

[0063] Here, "detecting sulfur components" means, for example, obtaining data indicating the presence of sulfur components when the sulfur components are mapped onto the cross-section of the support layer.

[0064] There are no limitations on the methods for mapping sulfur components, and they can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, including, for example, methods for performing EDS elemental analysis on the cross-section of the support layer (UltraDry, Thermo Fisher Scientific).

[0065] When the aforementioned support layer includes acid-resistant aluminum sulfate as a component material, the hardness of the surface layer (A) configured by the support layer increases. Therefore, even when the contact member and the contacted member are used for a long time in a manner that they are in contact with each other (i.e., when frictional stress occurs between the contact member and the contacted member for a long time), the shape of the surface layer (A) can be maintained (i.e., the root mean square height Sq in the surface layer (A) remains at 1.0 μm or greater, and the orthogonal line roughness ratio in the surface layer (A) remains at 0.7 or greater), and a contact member capable of preventing components derived from the liquid composition from transferring from the contacted member to the contact member for a long time can be provided.

[0066] There are no particular limitations on the methods used to confirm that the layer includes acid-resistant aluminum sulfate (i.e., the layer includes alumina and sulfur content is detected therein), and they can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. For example, when mapping the components, aluminum components, and oxygen components to the cross-section of the support layer separately, there are methods for obtaining data indicating the presence of sulfur, aluminum, and oxygen components in the same region. Specifically, this includes methods for mapping sulfur, aluminum, and oxygen components separately by performing EDS elemental analysis (UltraDry, ThermoFisher Scientific) on the cross-section of the support layer.

[0067] The support layer comprises acid-resistant aluminum sulfate as a constituent material as described above, thereby increasing hardness. Specifically, preferably, the Vickers hardness of the contact member having the support layer is 400 Hv or greater and 500 Hv or less.

[0068] The contact member has a Vickers hardness of 400 Hv or greater and 500 Hv or less. Therefore, even when the contact member and the contacted member are used in contact with each other for a long time (i.e., when frictional stress is generated between the contact member and the contacted member for a long time), the shape of the surface layer (A) is maintained (i.e., the root mean square height Sq of the surface layer (A) is maintained at 1.0 μm or greater, and the orthogonal line roughness ratio of the surface layer (A) is maintained at 0.7 or greater), and a contact member can be provided that prevents components derived from the liquid composition from transferring from the contacted member to the contact member for a long time.

[0069] There are no particular limitations on the method for measuring the Vickers hardness of contact components, and the method can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, the measurement can be performed according to the test method of JIS Z 2244.

[0070] -Fluoropolymer particles-

[0071] Preferably, the surface layer (A) according to an embodiment of the invention comprises fluoropolymer particles. More specifically, preferably, the fluoropolymer particles are adhered to and supported on the surface of the support layer.

[0072] The surface layer (A) contains fluororesin particles, which increase the lubricity between the contacted component and the contacting component, and prevent components originating from the liquid composition from transferring from the contacted component to the contacting component. Furthermore, as described above, the surface layer (A) has an irregular shape and is provided with fluororesin particles; therefore, even when frictional stress is generated between the contacting component and the contacted component, the irregular shape prevents the fluororesin particles from falling off, and the aforementioned anti-transfer effect can be maintained for a long time.

[0073] There are no particular limitations on the fluoropolymer particles, and they can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, tetrafluoroethylene-perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether copolymer (PFA, melting point: 300-310℃), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, melting point: 330℃), tetrafluoroethylene-hexafluoropropylene copolymer (FEP, melting point: 250-280℃), ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE, melting point: 260-270℃), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF, melting point: 160-180℃), polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE, melting point: 210℃), and tetrafluoroethylene-hexafluoropropylene-perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether copolymer (EPE, melting point: 290-300℃), as well as mixtures comprising these polymers, can be used. Among these, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is preferred.

[0074] There are no particular limitations on the method for adhering fluoropolymer particles to the support layer, and it can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. For example, there is a method of immersing the component with the support layer formed thereon in a dispersion containing fluoropolymer particles and then air-drying the dispersion.

[0075] When performing elemental analysis, the amount of elemental fluorine in the surface layer (A) (the ratio of the amount of elemental fluorine to the total amount of elements detected within the observation range) is preferably 5.0 atm% or greater, more preferably 10.0 atm% or greater.

[0076] It is appropriate for the amount of elemental fluorine on the surface layer (A) to be 5.0 atm% or greater, as this can prevent components derived from the liquid composition from being transferred from the contacted component to the contacting component.

[0077] There are no particular limitations on the method for measuring the amount of elemental fluorine on the surface layer (A), and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, such as an EDS elemental analysis method under the following conditions. Specifically, spectroscopic analysis is performed under the following conditions, and the amount of elemental fluorine is obtained by automatic quantification using analytical software. The same method is performed at any five points, and the average of the obtained values ​​is used as the amount of elemental fluorine.

[0078] • Apparatus: Merlin scanning electron microscope manufactured by Carl Zeiss AG

[0079] • EDS detector: UltraDry, an electronically cooled SDD detector manufactured by Thermo Fisher Scientific

[0080] Accelerating voltage: 3.0kV

[0081] ·WD: 13.0mm

[0082] • Take-off angle: 35.0 degrees

[0083] Magnification: 2000x

[0084] • Conductive process: C-coating

[0085] • Total time: 10 seconds.

[0086] • Cumulative frequency: 100 times

[0087] • Drift correction: Yes

[0088] • Analysis software: NORAN System 6 manufactured by Thermo Fisher Scientific

[0089] The average thickness of the support layer is preferably 20.0 μm or greater and 40.0 μm or less.

[0090] The average thickness of the support layer is 20.0 μm or greater, thus increasing the hardness of the surface layer (A) configured by the support layer. Therefore, even when the contact member and the contacted member are used for a long time in contact with each other (i.e., when long-term frictional stress is generated between the contact member and the contacted member), the shape of the surface layer (A) is maintained (i.e., the root mean square height Sq of the surface layer (A) is maintained at 1.0 μm or greater, and the orthogonal line roughness ratio of the surface layer (A) is maintained at 0.7 or greater), and a contact member can be provided that prevents components derived from the liquid composition from transferring from the contacted member to the contact member for a long time.

[0091] The average thickness of the support layer is 40.0 μm or less, which increases the thermal conductivity of the contact member relative to the contacted member. Therefore, it is effective when the contact member is used as a contact member with the heating mechanism described below.

[0092] There are no particular limitations on the method for measuring the average thickness of the support layer, and the method can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, the measurement can be performed as follows.

[0093] First, the sulfur, aluminum, and oxygen components are mapped onto the cross-section of the contact member. An example of a method for mapping sulfur, aluminum, and oxygen components is EDS elemental analysis (UltraDry, manufactured by Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.). Next, the region where sulfur, aluminum, and oxygen components are all detected is identified as the support layer, and within the support layer, the lengths of perpendicular lines drawn from the surface of the support layer in the direction toward the substrate are obtained. The same method is performed at any 10 locations to obtain the lengths of the perpendicular lines in the support layer at any 10 locations, and the average of these values ​​is defined as the average thickness of the support layer.

[0094] <Substrate>

[0095] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a contact member may have a substrate disposed on the side of the surface layer (A) that does not contact the contacted member. That is, the contact member according to an embodiment of the present invention may have a substrate and a surface layer (A) disposed on the substrate.

[0096] Preferably, in the manufacturing step of the contact member, a support layer is formed by performing an acid-resistant aluminum sulfate process on the substrate. Therefore, it is preferred that the material constituting the substrate includes aluminum, more preferably, the material further includes magnesium, and even more preferably, the material further includes silicon. The acid-resistant aluminum sulfate process on aluminum results in columnar growth of alumina, but by also including magnesium, the growth direction of the alumina can be disrupted. The stress generated in the alumina allows for greater irregularity on the surface of the formed support layer. Furthermore, by including silicon, in the same manner as with the case of including magnesium, the growth direction of the alumina can be disrupted, and stress is generated in the alumina, resulting in greater irregularity on the surface of the formed support layer. This irregularity is desirable because it reduces the contact area between the surface layer (A) and the contacted member, and prevents components originating from the liquid composition from transferring from the contacted member to the contact member. Furthermore, this irregularity is desirable because it provides a spacer effect, preventing fluoropolymer particles adhering to the support layer from detaching from the support layer.

[0097] There are no particular limitations on the shape of the substrate, and the shape can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, the substrate is preferably in the shape of a long metal rod, and more preferably in the shape of a roller, such as a cylinder or tube with a circular cross-section (cut surface perpendicular to the length direction). By giving the substrate these shapes, the contact member can be used as a conveying roller.

[0098] When using a roller substrate, it is preferable that the diameter of the cross-sectional circle (the cut surface in the direction perpendicular to the length direction) of the contact member is 50 mm or more and 600 mm or less.

[0099] It is appropriate for the diameter of the cross-sectional circle (the cut surface in the direction perpendicular to the length direction) of the contact member to be 50 mm or greater, because the pressure per unit area generated between the contact member and the contacted member is reduced, and the transfer of the liquid composition is prevented.

[0100] It is suitable for the diameter of the cross-sectional circle (cut surface in the direction perpendicular to the length direction) of the contact member to be 600 mm or less, because it reduces excessive adhesion between the contact member and the contacted member and prevents the transfer of the liquid composition.

[0101] <Heating Mechanism>

[0102] The contact member may or may not include a heating mechanism for applying heat to the contacted member through the surface layer (A).

[0103] A heating mechanism is a mechanism used to apply heat to a contacted component through a surface layer (A).

[0104] When the contact member has a heating mechanism, the contact member is preferably a member that heats and dries the liquid composition applied to the contacted member by contacting the contact member.

[0105] There are no particular limitations on the heating mechanism, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. In an example of a heating mechanism, when comparing the shortest length between the predetermined position of the heating mechanism and the surface layer (A) with the shortest length between the predetermined position of the heating mechanism and the contacted member, the shortest length between the predetermined position of the heating mechanism and the surface layer is shorter. In an example of a heating mechanism, when the contacted member is roller-shaped, the heating device is disposed inside the roller substrate, and heat is applied to the contacted member through the substrate and the surface layer (A). As described above, the heating mechanism is configured to apply heat to the contacted member through the surface layer (A), thus the temperature of the surface layer (B) becomes higher. Generally, when the contacted member is used in an environment where the surface temperature of the contacted member is high, the fluoropolymer particles soften and tend to separate from the surface of the contacted member. However, as described above, when the fluoropolymer particles adhere to the support layer with irregularity as in this embodiment, separation of the fluoropolymer particles is prevented, and the effect of preventing components derived from the liquid composition from transferring from the contacted member to the contacted member is maintained.

[0106] The form in which the heating mechanism is disposed in the contact member according to an embodiment of the present invention is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, but it is preferably disposed integrally with other components constituting the contact member, such as the surface layer (A) and the substrate.

[0107] There are no limitations on the examples of heating mechanisms, and various well-known mechanisms can be used, such as mechanisms for generating heaters and hot air.

[0108] When the contact component includes a heating mechanism, it is preferred that the temperature of the surface layer (A) is 70°C or higher and 260°C or lower.

[0109] It is suitable when the temperature of the surface layer (A) is 70°C or higher, so that the liquid composition applied to the contacted component can be dried effectively.

[0110] It is suitable when the temperature of the surface layer (A) is 260°C or lower to prevent the denaturation of the fluoropolymer particles.

[0111] <Liquid Composition>

[0112] The liquid compositions according to embodiments of the present invention are not particularly limited and can be selected according to purpose, and include, for example, inks, pretreatment solutions applied for coagulating colorants in inks, posttreatment solutions applied for protecting the surface of applied inks, and liquids for forming circuits, etc., which include dispersed inorganic particles, such as metal particles, etc. These can be used by any known composition.

[0113] <<Ink>>

[0114] There are no particular restrictions on inks, and they can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. However, inks preferably include organic solvents, water, coloring materials, resins, waxes, additives, etc.

[0115] -Organic solvents-

[0116] There are no particular restrictions on organic solvents, and the appropriate organic solvent can be selected according to the purpose. For example, water-soluble organic solvents, other organic solvents, etc., can be used appropriately.

[0117] Examples of water-soluble organic solvents include ethers, such as polyols, polyol alkyl ethers and polyol aryl ethers, nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds, amides, amines, sulfur-containing compounds, etc.

[0118] Examples of polyols include ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, 1,2-propanediol, 1,3-propanediol, 1,2-butanediol, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, 2,3-butanediol, 3-methyl-1,3-butanediol, triethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, 1,2-pentanediol, 1,3-pentanediol, 1,4-pentanediol, 2,4-pentanediol, 1,5-pentanediol, 1,2-hexanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, 1,3-hexanediol, 2,5-hexanediol, 1,5-hexanediol, glycerol, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, 2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol, ethyl-1,2,4-butanetriol, 1,2,3-butanetriol, 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol, 3-methyl-1,3,5-pentanetriol, etc.

[0119] Specific examples of the aforementioned polyol alkyl ethers include ethylene glycol monoethyl ether, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether, diethylene glycol monomethyl ether, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether, tetraethylene glycol monomethyl ether, and propylene glycol monoethyl ether.

[0120] Specific examples of the aforementioned polyol aryl ethers include ethylene glycol monophenyl ether and ethylene glycol monobenzyl ether.

[0121] Specific examples of the nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds mentioned above include 2-pyrrolidone, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, N-hydroxyethyl-2-pyrrolidone, 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolium ketone, ε-caprolactam, γ-butyrolactone, etc.

[0122] Specific examples of the aforementioned amides include formamide, N-methylformamide, N,N-dimethylformamide, 3-methoxy-N,N-dimethylpropionamide, 3-butoxy-N,N-dimethylpropionamide, etc.

[0123] Specific examples of the aforementioned amines include monoethanolamine, diethanolamine, and triethylamine.

[0124] Specific examples of the sulfur-containing compounds mentioned above include dimethyl sulfoxide, sulfolane, and thiodiethanol.

[0125] Specific examples of the other organic solvents mentioned above include propylene carbonate and ethylene carbonate.

[0126] In addition to the examples mentioned above, polyol compounds and glycol ether compounds having eight or more carbon atoms can be appropriately used as organic solvents.

[0127] Specific examples of the polyol compounds having eight or more carbon atoms include 2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol, 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol, etc.

[0128] Specific examples of the aforementioned glycol ether compounds include polyvalent alcohol alkyl ethers, such as ethylene glycol monoethyl ether, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether, diethylene glycol monomethyl ether, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether, tetraethylene glycol monomethyl ether, propylene glycol monoethyl ether, etc.; and polyvalent alcohol aryl ethers, such as ethylene glycol monophenyl ether, ethylene glycol monobenzyl ether, etc.

[0129] When the ink includes a resin, the preferred organic solvents are N,N-dimethyl-β-butoxypropionamide, N,N-dimethyl-β-ethoxypropane, 3-ethyl-3-hydroxymethyloxetane, and propylene glycol monomethyl ether. One of these solvents may be used alone, or two or more may be used in combination. Among these solvents, amide solvents, such as 3-butoxy-N,N-dimethylpropionamide and 3-methoxy-N,N-dimethylpropionamide, are more preferred from the viewpoint of promoting the film-forming properties of the resin and developing high anti-slip properties.

[0130] Preferably, the organic solvent has a boiling point of 180°C or higher and 250°C or lower.

[0131] When the boiling point of the organic solvent is 180°C or higher, the evaporation rate during solvent drying can be adjusted appropriately, and the surface can be thoroughly leveled to reduce surface irregularities. This can increase gloss.

[0132] If the boiling point of the organic solvent is 250°C or lower, the problems of poor drying performance and long drying time can be eliminated. Long drying times are undesirable because the drying time of ink is finite, and with the rapid development of printing technology in recent years, drying times also need to be shortened.

[0133] There is no particular limitation on the content of organic solvents in inks, and it can be appropriately set according to the purpose. However, from the viewpoint of ink drying performance and discharge reliability, it is preferable that the content of organic solvents is 10% by mass or more and 60% by mass or less relative to the total amount of ink, and more preferably, the content of organic solvents is 20% by mass or more and 60% by mass or less.

[0134] There is no particular limitation on the content of amide in the ink, and it can be appropriately set according to the purpose. However, it is preferred that the content of amide is 0.05% by mass or more and 10% by mass or less relative to the total amount of ink, and more preferably, the content of amide is 0.1% by mass or more and 5% by mass or less.

[0135] -water-

[0136] There is no particular limitation on the water content in the ink, and it can be appropriately set according to the purpose. However, from the viewpoint of ink drying performance and discharge reliability, it is preferable that the water content is 10% by mass or more and 90% by mass or less relative to the total amount of ink, and more preferably 20% by mass or more and 60% by mass or less.

[0137] -Coloring Materials-

[0138] There are no particular restrictions on the coloring materials, and they can be selected appropriately depending on the purpose. Pigments (A) and dyes can be used.

[0139] --Pigment(A)--

[0140] As pigment (A), inorganic or organic pigments can be used. One of these types can be used alone, or two or more can be used in combination. Mixed crystals can be used as pigment (A).

[0141] There are no particular restrictions on the pigment (A) mentioned above, and pigment (A) can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, black pigment, yellow pigment, magenta pigment, cyan pigment, white pigment, green pigment, orange pigment, luster pigment such as gold or silver, metallic pigment, etc. can be used.

[0142] Inorganic pigments are not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, titanium dioxide, iron oxide, calcium carbonate, barium sulfate, aluminum hydroxide, barium yellow, cadmium red, chrome yellow, and carbon black produced by known methods such as the contact process, furnace process, and thermal process can be used.

[0143] Organic pigments are not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, and may include azo pigments, polycyclic pigments (e.g., phthalocyanine pigments, perylene pigments, pyrene pigments, anthraquinone pigments, quinacridone pigments, dioxazine pigments, indigo pigments, thioindolinone pigments, isoindolineone pigments, quinolineone pigments, etc.), dye chelates (e.g., basic dye chelates, acid dye chelates, etc.), nitro pigments, nitroso pigments, aniline black, etc.

[0144] Among these pigments (A), those with good affinity for solvents are preferred. Furthermore, resin hollow particles and inorganic hollow particles can be used.

[0145] Examples of the pigments (A) mentioned above include carbon black (CI Pigment Black 7) for black applications, such as furnace black, lamp black, acetylene black, channel black, etc.; metals, such as copper, iron (CI Pigment Black 11), titanium oxide; and organic pigments, such as aniline black (CI Pigment Black 1).

[0146] Examples of pigments (A) include CI Pigment Yellow 1, CI Pigment Yellow 3, CI Pigment Yellow 12, CI Pigment Yellow 13, CI Pigment Yellow 14, CI Pigment Yellow 17, CI Pigment Yellow 24, CI Pigment Yellow 34, CI Pigment Yellow 35, CI Pigment Yellow 37, CI Pigment Yellow 42 (Iron Oxide Yellow), CI Pigment Yellow 53, CI Pigment Yellow 55, CI Pigment Yellow 74, CI Pigment Yellow 81, CI Pigment Yellow 83, and CI Pigment Yellow 95, CI Pigment Yellow 97, CI Pigment Yellow 98, CI Pigment Yellow 100, CI Pigment Yellow 101, and CI Pigment Yellow 104, CI Pigment Yellow 105, CI Pigment Yellow 97, CI Pigment Yellow 98, CI Pigment Yellow 100, CI Pigment Yellow 101, and CI Pigment Yellow 104, CI Pigment Yellow 98, CI Pigment Yellow 100, CI Pigment Yellow 101, and CI Pigment Yellow 104, CI Pigment Yellow 105, CI Pigment Yellow 106, CI Pigment Yellow 107, CI Pigment Yellow 108, CI Pigment Yellow 109, CI Pigment Yellow 100, CI Pigment Yellow 101, CI Pigment Yellow 104, CI Pigment Yellow 109, CI Pigment Yellow 100, CI Pigment Yellow 101, CI Pigment Yellow 104, CI Pigment Yellow 109, CI Pigment Yellow 100, CI Pigment Yellow 101, CI Pigment Yellow 102, CI Pigment Yellow 103 ... Pigment Yellow 108, CI Pigment Yellow 109, CI Pigment Yellow 110, CI Pigment Yellow 117, CI Pigment Yellow 120, CI Pigment Yellow 138, CI Pigment Yellow 150, CI Pigment Yellow 153, CI Pigment Yellow 155, CI Pigment Yellow 180, CI Pigment Yellow 185, CI Pigment Yellow 213, CI Pigment Orange 5, CI Pigment Orange 13, CI Pigment Orange 16, CI Pigment Orange 17, CI Pigment Orange 36, CI Pigment Orange 43, CI Pigment Orange 51, CI Pigment Red 1, Pigment Red 2, CI Pigment Red 3, CI Pigment Red 5, CI Pigment Red 17, CI Pigment Red 22, CI Pigment Yellow 17, CI Pigment Red 22, CI Pigment Yellow 17, CI Pigment Yellow ... CI Pigment Red 23, CI Pigment Red 31, CI Pigment Red 38, CI Pigment Red 48:2, CI Pigment Red 48:2 (Permanent Red 2B(Ca)), CI Pigment Red 48:3, CI Pigment Red 48:4, CI Pigment Red 49:1, CI Pigment Red 52:2, CI Pigment Red 53:1, CI Pigment Red 57:1 (Brilliant Carmine 6B), CI Pigment Red 60:1, CI Pigment Red 63:1, CI Pigment Red 63:2, CI Pigment Red 64:1, CI Pigment Red 81, CI Pigment Red 83, CI Pigment Red 88, CI Pigment Red 101 (Iron Oxide Red), CI Pigment Red 10 4. CI Pigment Red 105, CI Pigment Red 106, CI Pigment Red 108 (Cadmium Red), CI Pigment Red 112, CI Pigment Red 114, CI Pigment Red 122 (Quinacridone Magenta), CI Pigment Red 123, CI Pigment Red 146, CI Pigment Red 149, CI Pigment Red 166, CI Pigment Red 168, CI Pigment Red 170, CI Pigment Red 172, CI Pigment Red 177, CI Pigment Red 178, CI Pigment Red 179, CI Pigment Red 184, CI Pigment Red 185, CI Pigment Red 190, CI Pigment Red 193, CI Pigment Red 202, CIPigment Red 207, CI Pigment Red 208, CI Pigment Red 209, CI Pigment Red 213, CI Pigment Red 219, CI Pigment Red 224, CI Pigment Red 254, CI Pigment Red 264, CI Pigment Violet 1 (Rhodamine Lake), CI Pigment Violet 3, 5:1, CI Pigment Violet 16, CI Pigment Violet 19, CI Pigment Violet 23, CI Pigment Violet 38, CI Pigment Blue 1, CI Pigment Blue 2, CI Pigment Blue 15 (Phthalocyanine Blue), CI Pigment Blue 15:1, CI Pigment Blue 15:2, CI Pigment Blue 15:3, CI Pigment Blue 15:4 (Phthalocyanine Blue), CI Pigment Blue 16, CI Pigment Blue 17:1, CI Pigment Blue 56, CI Pigment Blue 60, CI Pigment Blue 63, CI Pigment Green 1, CI Pigment Green 4, CI Pigment Green 7, CI Pigment Green 8, CI Pigment Green 10, CI Pigment Green 17, CI Pigment Green 18, and CI Pigment Green 36.

[0147] --dye--

[0148] There are no particular restrictions on dyes, and they can be selected appropriately according to the purpose. Acid dyes, direct dyes, reactive dyes, and basic dyes can be used. One of these types can be used alone, or two or more can be used in combination.

[0149] Specific examples of dyes include CI Acid Yellow 17, CI Acid Yellow 23, CI Acid Yellow 42, CI Acid Yellow 44, CI Acid Yellow 79, CI Acid Yellow 142, CI Acid Red 52, CI Acid Red 80, CI Acid Red 82, CI Acid Red 249, CI Acid Red 254, CI Acid Red 289, CI Acid Blue 9, CI Acid Red 45, CI Acid Red 249, CI Acid Black 1, CI Acid Black 2, CI Acid Black 24, CI Acid Black 94, CI Food Black 1, CI Food Black 2, CI Direct Yellow 1, CI Direct Yellow 12, CI Direct Yellow 24, CI Direct Yellow 33, CI Direct Yellow 50, CI Direct Yellow 55, CI Direct Yellow 58, CI Direct Yellow 86, CI Direct Yellow 132, CI Direct Yellow 142, CI Direct Yellow 144, and CI Direct Yellow. 173, CI Direct Red 1, CI Direct Red 4, CI Direct Red 9, CI Direct Red 80, CI Direct Red 81, CI Direct Red 225, CI Direct Red 227, CI Direct Blue 1, CI Direct Blue 2, CI Direct Blue 15, CI Direct Blue 71, CI Direct Blue 86, CI Direct Blue 87, CI Direct Blue 98, CI Direct Blue 165, CI Direct Blue 199, CI Direct Blue 202, CI Direct Black 19, CI Direct Black 38, CI Direct Black 51, CI Direct Black 71, CI Direct Black 154, CI Direct Black 168, CI Direct Black 171, CI Direct Black 195, CI Active Red 14, CI Active Red 32, CI Active Red 55, CI Active Red 79, CI Active Red 249, CI Active Black 3, CI Active Black 4, and CI Active Black 35.

[0150] There is no particular limitation on the content of coloring material in the ink, and it can be set appropriately according to the purpose. However, from the viewpoint of increasing image density and achieving good fixing and ejection stability, it is preferable that the content of coloring material is 0.1% by mass or more and 15% by mass or less relative to the total amount of ink, and more preferably, the content of coloring material is 1% by mass or more and 10% by mass or less.

[0151] There are no particular limitations on the method of dispersing pigment (A) in ink, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, it can be a method of introducing hydrophilic functional groups into pigment to form a self-dispersing pigment, a method of coating the pigment surface with resin and dispersing the pigment, and a method of dispersing pigment with a dispersant, etc.

[0152] Methods for preparing self-dispersible pigments by introducing hydrophilic functional groups into pigments include, for example, methods for preparing pigments (e.g., carbon) that are dispersible in water by adding functional groups such as sulfone or carboxyl groups to pigments.

[0153] A method for coating and dispersing pigments with resin includes encapsulating the pigment in microcapsules and making the pigment dispersible in water. Pigments obtained by this method can be called resin-coated pigments. In this case, all pigments mixed in the ink do not need to be resin-coated, but uncoated or partially coated pigments can be dispersed in the ink.

[0154] Examples of the above-mentioned methods for dispersing pigments using dispersants include methods for dispersing pigments using known low-molecular-weight dispersants, represented by surfactants, or known high-molecular-weight dispersants.

[0155] There are no particular restrictions on the dispersant used, and the dispersant can be appropriately selected according to the pigment used. For example, anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, and nonionic surfactants can be used.

[0156] As a dispersant, RT-100 (a nonionic surfactant manufactured by Takemoto Oil & Fat Co., Ltd.) or a Na-formalin condensate of naphthalene sulfonate can be used appropriately.

[0157] Regarding the dispersants mentioned above, one of these types can be used alone, or two or more can be used in combination.

[0158] Ink can be obtained by mixing materials such as water and organic solvents with pigment (A). Ink can also be obtained by mixing materials such as water and organic solvents with a pigment dispersion formed by mixing water, dispersant, etc. with pigment (A).

[0159] Pigment dispersions can be obtained by mixing water, pigment (A), dispersant, and other components as needed, dispersing these materials, and adjusting the particle size. Dispersion can be performed using a disperser.

[0160] There is no particular limitation on the particle size of pigment (A) in the pigment dispersion, and it can be appropriately set according to the purpose. However, from the viewpoint of better dispersion stability, discharge stability and higher image quality (such as image density), the particle size of the maximum frequency with respect to the maximum particle number conversion is preferably 20 nm or larger and 500 nm or smaller, more preferably 20 nm or larger and 150 nm or smaller.

[0161] There are no particular limitations on the method for measuring the particle size of pigment (A) in a pigment dispersion, and the particle size can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, the particle size can be measured by using a particle size analyzer (Nanotrac Wave-UT151, manufactured by Microtrack Bell Co., Ltd.).

[0162] There is no particular limitation on the pigment content in the pigment dispersion, and it can be appropriately set according to the purpose. However, from the viewpoint of obtaining good discharge stability and increasing image density, the pigment content relative to the total amount of the pigment dispersion is preferably 0.1% by mass or more and 50% by mass or less, more preferably 0.1% by mass or more and 30% by mass or less.

[0163] The pigment dispersion is preferably subjected to coarse particle filtration and degassing using filters, centrifuges, or other means as needed.

[0164] -Resin-

[0165] There are no particular limitations on the resins used, and they can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. Examples of resins include polyurethane resins, polyester resins, acrylic resins, ethylene acetate resins, styrene resins, butadiene resins, styrene-butadiene resins, vinyl chloride resins, acrylic-styrene resins, and acrylic silicone resins. Resin granules of these resins can be used.

[0166] Inks can be obtained by mixing a resin emulsion obtained by dispersing resin particles with materials such as coloring materials and organic solvents, using water as a dispersion medium. As resin particles, appropriately synthesized resin particles or commercially available resin particles can be used. One of these types of resin particles can be used alone, or two or more resin particles can be used in combination.

[0167] Polyurethane resin particles are preferred because they can form images with strong adhesion and improved image fixing properties. From the viewpoint of anti-clogging performance, it is preferable to mix polyurethane resin particles with other resin particles.

[0168] Furthermore, from the perspective of forming images with greater adhesion and increased fixing properties, it is preferable that the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the polyurethane resin particles is -20°C or higher and 70°C or lower.

[0169] Among the aforementioned resins, acrylic resin particles using acrylic resin are widely used because they exhibit excellent discharge stability and low cost. From the viewpoint of increasing abrasion resistance, it is preferable to mix elastic polyurethane resin particles with acrylic resin particles.

[0170] There is no particular limitation on the volume average particle size of the resin particles, which can be appropriately set according to the purpose. However, from the viewpoint of obtaining good fixing properties and high image hardness, the particle diameter is preferably 10 nm or larger and 1000 nm or smaller, more preferably 10 nm or larger and 200 nm or smaller, and even more preferably 10 nm or larger and 100 nm or smaller.

[0171] There are no particular limitations on the method for measuring volume average particle size, and the method can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, volume average particle size can be measured using a particle size analyzer (Nanotrac Wave-UT151, by Microtrack Bell Co., Ltd.).

[0172] There is no particular limitation on the resin content in the ink, and it can be appropriately set according to the purpose. However, from the viewpoint of ink fixing and storage stability, the resin content relative to the total ink volume is preferably 1% by mass or more and 30% by mass or less, more preferably 5% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less.

[0173] The particle size of the solids in the aforementioned ink is not particularly limited and can be appropriately set according to the purpose. However, from the viewpoint of improving discharge stability and image quality such as image density, the particle size with respect to the maximum particle number conversion, relative to the solids in the ink, is preferably 20 nm or larger and 1000 nm or smaller, and more preferably 20 nm or larger and 150 nm or smaller. The solids in the ink include resin particles and pigment particles.

[0174] There are no particular limitations on the method for measuring the particle size of solids in ink, and the particle size can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, the particle size can be measured by using a particle size analyzer (Nanotrac Wave-UT151, manufactured by Microtrack Bell Co., Ltd.).

[0175] -wax-

[0176] Including wax in ink can improve its abrasion resistance.

[0177] Furthermore, gloss can be increased when resin and wax are used together.

[0178] Polyethylene wax is preferred as the wax mentioned above.

[0179] As a polyethylene wax, either a suitably synthesized polyethylene wax or a commercially available polyethylene wax can be used.

[0180] Commercially available examples of polyethylene waxes include AQUASER 531 (manufactured by BYK Chemie Japan Co., Ltd.), Polylon P502 (manufactured by Chukyo Oil Co., Ltd.), Aquapeto DP2502C (manufactured by ToyoAdre Co., Ltd.), and Aquapetro DP2401 (manufactured by Toyu Adre Co., Ltd.). One of these types can be used alone, or two or more can be used in combination.

[0181] There are no particular restrictions on the content of polyethylene wax, and the content can be appropriately set according to the purpose. However, the content of polyethylene wax relative to the total amount of ink is preferably 0.05% by mass or more and 2% by mass or less, more preferably 0.05% by mass or more and 0.5% by mass or less.

[0182] When the content of polyethylene wax is 0.05% by mass or more and 2% by mass or less, it is sufficient to effectively increase abrasion resistance and gloss.

[0183] Furthermore, when the content of polyethylene wax is 2% by mass or less, the ink exhibits particularly good storage and discharge stability, and is more suitable for inkjet printing.

[0184] -additive-

[0185] There are no particular restrictions on additives, and they can be selected appropriately depending on the purpose. Examples of additives include surfactants, defoamers, preservatives and mildew inhibitors, rust inhibitors, pH adjusters, etc.

[0186] --surfactants--

[0187] There are no particular restrictions on the surfactants used as additives as described above, and the surfactants can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, silicone surfactants, fluorinated surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, nonionic surfactants, and anionic surfactants can be used.

[0188] ---Silicone Surfactants--

[0189] There are no particular limitations on silicone surfactants, and silicone surfactants can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. However, it is preferable that silicone surfactants do not decompose even at high pH. Examples include side-chain modified polydimethylsiloxanes, end-modified polydimethylsiloxanes, one-end modified polydimethylsiloxanes, and end-modified polydimethylsiloxanes. Among these, those having polyoxyethylene groups and polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene groups as modifying groups are preferred from the viewpoint of exhibiting good performance as aqueous surfactants.

[0190] Polyether-modified silicone surfactants can also be used as silicone surfactants.

[0191] There are no particular limitations on polyether-modified silicone surfactants, and they can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. For example, a polyepoxide structure can be introduced into the Si side chain of dimethylpolysiloxane represented by general formula (S-1).

[0192] [Chemical Formula 1]

[0193]

[0194] (In general formula (S-1), m, n, a, and b independently represent integers, R represents alkylene, and R' represents alkyl.)

[0195] As silicone surfactants, appropriately synthesized silicone surfactants or commercially available silicone surfactants can be used.

[0196] Commercially available silicone surfactants can be obtained from companies such as BYK Chemie Japan Co., Ltd., Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd., Toray Dow Corning Silicone Co., Ltd., Nihon Emulsion Co., Ltd., and Kyoeisha Chemical Co., Ltd.

[0197] Commercially available examples of polyether-modified silicone surfactants include KF-618, KF-642, KF-643 (manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.), EMLEX-SS-5602, SS-1906EX (manufactured by NihonEmulsion Co., Ltd.), FZ-2105, FZ-2118, FZ-2154, FZ-2161, FZ-2162, FZ-2163, FZ-2164 (manufactured by Toray Dow Corning Silicone Co., Ltd.), BYK-33, BYK-387 (manufactured by BYK Chemie Japan Co., Ltd.), and BYK-33, BYK-387 (manufactured by BYK Chemie Japan). (manufactured by Toshiba Silicone Co., Ltd.), TSF4440, TSF4452, TSF4453 (manufactured by Toshiba Silicone Co., Ltd.), etc.

[0198] ---Fluoro-based surfactants---

[0199] Fluorinated surfactants are not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, but compounds having 2 to 16 fluorinated carbon atoms are preferred, and compounds having 4 to 16 fluorinated carbon atoms are more preferred.

[0200] Examples of fluorinated surfactants include perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acid compounds, perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acid compounds, perfluoroalkyl phosphoric acid compounds, perfluoroalkyl ethylene oxide adducts, and polyoxyalkylene ether polymer compounds having perfluoroalkyl ether groups on their side chains. From the viewpoint of low foaming properties, polyoxyalkylene ether polymer compounds having perfluoroalkyl ether groups as side chains are preferred, and fluorinated surfactants represented by the following general formulas (F-1) and (F-2) are more preferred.

[0201] [Chemical Formula 2]

[0202] CF3CF2(CF2CF2) m -CH2CH2O(CH2CH2O) n H

[0203] General formula (F-1)

[0204] In the compounds of the above general formula (F-1), for the purpose of applying water solubility, m is preferably an integer from 0 to 10, and n is preferably an integer from 0 to 40.

[0205] C n F 2n+1 -CH2CH(OH)CH2-O-(CH2CH2O)a -Y

[0206] General formula (F-2)

[0207] In compounds of the above general formula (F-2), Y is H, or in C m F 2m+1 In this context, m is an integer from 1 to 6, or in CH2CH(OH)CH2-C m F 2m+1 In this case, m is an integer from 4 to 6, or in C... p H 2p+1 In this context, p is an integer from 1 to 19. n is an integer from 1 to 6. a is an integer from 4 to 14.

[0208] Examples of perfluoroalkyl sulfonate compounds include perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids, perfluoroalkyl sulfonates, etc.

[0209] Examples of perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acid compounds include perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids and perfluoroalkyl carboxylates.

[0210] Examples of the polyoxyalkylene ether polymer compounds having perfluoroalkyl ether groups as side chains include sulfates of polyoxyalkylene ether polymers having perfluoroalkyl ether groups as side chains, and salts of polyoxyalkylene ether polymers having perfluoroalkyl ether groups as side chains.

[0211] Examples of counterions of salts in fluorinated surfactants include Li, Na, K, NH4, NH3CH2CH2OH, NH2(CH2CH2OH)2, and NH(CH2CH2OH3).

[0212] As fluorinated surfactants, either appropriately synthesized fluorinated surfactants or commercially available fluorinated surfactants can be used.

[0213] Commercially available examples of fluorinated surfactants include Surflon S-111, S-112, S-113, S-121, S-131, S-132, S-141, and S-145 (manufactured by AGC Inc.); Fluorad FC-93, FC-95, FC-98, FC-129, FC-135, FC-170C, FC-430, and FC-431 (manufactured by Sumitomo 3M Limited); Megaface F-470, F-1405, and F-474 (manufactured by DIC Corporation); Zonyl TBS, FSP, FSA, FSN-100, FSN, FSO-100, FSO, FS-300, UR, Capstone FS-30, FS-31, FS-3100, FS-34, and FS-35 (manufactured by Chemours). (manufactured by Corporation); FT-110, FT-250, FT-251, FT-400S, FT-150, FT-400SW (manufactured by Neos Company Limited), Polypox PF-136A, PF-156A, PF.151N, PF-154, PF-159 (manufactured by OMNOVA Solutions Inc.) and Unidyne DSN-403N (manufactured by Daikin Industries, Ltd.). Among them, FS-3100, FS-34 and FS-300 manufactured by Chemours Corporation, FT-110, FT-250, FT-251, FT-400S, FT-150 and FT-400SW manufactured by Neos Company Limited, Polypox PF-151N manufactured by OMNOVA Solutions Inc., and Unidyne DSN-403 manufactured by Daikin Industries, Ltd. are preferred for their good print quality, especially for their significant improvement in color development, paper penetration, wettability and uniformity.

[0214] ---Amphoteric Surfactants---

[0215] There are no particular restrictions on amphoteric surfactants, and they can be selected according to the purpose, such as dodecyl aminopropionate, dodecyl dimethyl betaine, stearyl dimethyl betaine, and dodecyl dihydroxyethyl betaine.

[0216] ---Nonionic surfactants---

[0217] There are no particular limitations on nonionic surfactants, and they can be selected appropriately according to the purpose. For example, polyoxyethylene alkylphenyl ethers, polyoxyethylene alkyl esters, polyoxyethylene alkylamines, polyoxyethylene alkylamides, polyoxyethylene propylene block polymers, sorbitan fatty acid esters, and polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters can be used.

[0218] ---Anionic surfactants---

[0219] There are no particular limitations on anionic surfactants, and they can be selected appropriately depending on the purpose. For example, salts of polyoxyethylene alkyl ether acetate, dodecylbenzene sulfonate, laurate, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether sulfate, etc., can be used.

[0220] One of these types can be used alone, or two or more can be used in combination.

[0221] There is no particular limitation on the content of surfactant in ink, and it can be appropriately set according to the purpose. However, in terms of excellent wetting properties, emission stability and improved image quality, the content of surfactant relative to the total amount of ink is preferably 0.001% by mass or more and 5% by mass or less, more preferably 0.05% by mass or more and 5% by mass or less.

[0222] --Defoamer--

[0223] Surfactants used as other components can also be used as defoamers.

[0224] There are no particular restrictions on defoamers, and they can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, silicone defoamers, polyether defoamers, fatty acid ester defoamers, etc., can be used. One of these types can be used alone, or two or more can be used in combination. Among them, silicone defoamers are preferred from the viewpoint of excellent foam control effect.

[0225] --Preservatives and mildew inhibitors--

[0226] There are no particular restrictions on preservatives and mildew inhibitors, and they can be selected appropriately according to the purpose. For example, 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one can be used.

[0227] --Rust Inhibitor

[0228] There are no particular restrictions on rust inhibitors, and they can be selected appropriately depending on the purpose. For example, acidic sulfites, sodium thiosulfate, etc. can be used.

[0229] --pH adjuster--

[0230] As a pH adjuster, there are no particular restrictions, as long as the pH can be adjusted to 7 or higher. For example, amines such as diethanolamine and triethanolamine can be used.

[0231] <Contacted Component>

[0232] The contacting component according to embodiments of the present invention is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, recording media such as ordinary paper, glossy paper, specialty paper, cloth, etc. can be used. Among them, low-permeability recording media (hereinafter also referred to as low-absorption recording media) can be appropriately used.

[0233] <<Low-permeability recording media>>

[0234] Low-permeability recording media refers to recording media with surfaces that have low water permeability, low absorption, or low adsorption, and may contain multiple cavities, including cavities that are not open to the outside.

[0235] There are no particular limitations on low-permeability recording media, and they can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, a low-permeability recording media with a backing and a surface layer (B) disposed on at least one side of the backing and other layers as needed can be used.

[0236] The "surface layer (A)" of the contacting member is different from the "surface layer (B)" of the contacted member. For convenience, in this specification, the surface layer of the contacting member is described as "surface layer (A)," and the surface layer of the contacted member is described as "surface layer (B)." Details of "surface layer (B)" will be described later.

[0237] Examples of the aforementioned low-permeability recording media include coated paper for commercial printing or paperboard in which recycled pulp is incorporated into the intermediate and back layers and the surface is coated.

[0238] Compared to recording media such as ordinary paper, low-permeability recording media have strong grip and increased friction between the low-permeability recording media and the contact member. Therefore, it is difficult to maintain the shape of the surface layer (A). By using a contact member that maintains the shape of the surface layer (A) according to an embodiment of the present invention, even when using a low-permeability recording media, it is possible to prevent components derived from the liquid composition from transferring to the contact member for an extended period.

[0239] In low-permeability recording media, preferably, the amount of pure water and ink transferred to the low-permeability recording media during a contact time of 100 ms as measured by a dynamic scanning absorbance meter is 2 mL / m. 2 Or larger and 35 mL / m 2 Or smaller, and more preferably 2 mL / m 2 Or larger and 10 mL / m 2 Or smaller.

[0240] If the transfer rate of pure water and ink to the aforementioned low-permeability recording medium during a contact time of 100 ms, as measured by a dynamic scanning absorbance meter, is 2 mL / m 2 If more or more are used, the problem of bead formation that may occur can be eliminated.

[0241] If the transfer rate of pure water and ink to the low-permeability recording medium during a contact time of 100 ms, as measured by a dynamic scanning absorbance meter, is 35 mL / m 2 Using less ink can eliminate the problem of ink dots being too small in diameter after the image is formed.

[0242] In low-permeability recording media, the amount of pure water and ink transferred to the low-permeability recording media during a contact time of 400 ms, as measured by a dynamic scanning absorbance meter, is preferably 3 mL / m. 2 or more and 40 mL / m 2 Or less, and more preferably 3 mL / m 2 or more and 10 mL / m 2 Or less.

[0243] If the transfer rate of pure water and ink to the low-permeability recording medium during a contact time of 400 ms, as measured by a dynamic scanning absorbance meter, is 3 mL / m 2 More or more can solve the problem of insufficient drying.

[0244] If the transfer rate of pure water and ink to the low-permeability recording medium during a contact time of 400 ms, as measured by a dynamic scanning absorbance meter, is 40 mL / m 2 Using less or even less can solve the problem of reduced gloss in the dried image.

[0245] The amount of pure water and ink transferred to the low-permeability recording medium can be measured on one side of the surface layer (B) of the low-permeability recording medium during a contact time of 100 ms and a contact time of 400 ms.

[0246] Here, the Dynamic Scanning Absorber (DSA) is described as a device that can accurately measure the amount of liquid absorbed within a very short time period. The DSA automates measurements by reading the absorption velocity from the movement of the liquid surface in a capillary tube, positioning the sample in a disk shape, then spirally scanning the absorber head on the sample and automatically changing the scanning speed according to a predetermined pattern, thus measuring the required number of points on a single sample.

[0247] The liquid dispensing head for the paper sample is connected to a capillary via a Teflon (registered trademark) tube, and the position of the meniscus within the capillary is automatically read by an optical sensor. Specifically, the amount of pure water or ink transferred can be measured using a dynamic scanning absorbance meter (K350 Series D, manufactured by Kyowa Co., Ltd.).

[0248] During contact times of 100 ms and 400 ms, the amount of pure water and ink transferred to the aforementioned low-permeability recording medium can be obtained by interpolation based on measurements of the transfer amount during contact times near each contact time.

[0249] -Backing-

[0250] There are no particular restrictions on the backing material and it can be selected appropriately according to the purpose, and it can include, for example, wood fiber paper and sheet materials, such as nonwoven fabrics that mainly consist of wood fibers and synthetic fibers.

[0251] The "support layer" in the contacting component and the "backing" of the contacted component are different from each other.

[0252] There are no particular limitations on the average thickness of the backing, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, but 50 μm to 300 μm is preferred. Furthermore, the base weight of the backing is preferably 45 g / m². 2 Up to 290g / m 2 .

[0253] -Surface layer (B)-

[0254] There are no particular limitations on the surface layer (B) and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, the surface layer (B) may include pigments (B), adhesives and surfactants or other components as needed.

[0255] Note that the "pigment (A)" in the liquid composition is different from the "pigment (B)" in the contacted component. In this specification, for convenience, the pigment in the liquid composition will be referred to as "pigment (A)" and the pigment in the contacted component will be referred to as "pigment (B)".

[0256] Note that the term "resin" or "resin particles" in the liquid composition is different from the term "adhesive" in the contacted component. In this specification, for convenience, the term "resin" or "resin particles" will be used for the liquid composition, and the term "adhesive" will be used for the contacted component.

[0257] --Pigment(B)--

[0258] As pigment (B), inorganic pigments or a combination of inorganic and organic pigments can be used.

[0259] There are no particular restrictions on inorganic pigments in pigment (B) and they can be appropriately selected according to their uses, such as kaolin, talc, heavy calcium carbonate, light calcium carbonate, calcium sulfite, amorphous silica, titanium dioxide, magnesium carbonate, titanium dioxide, aluminum hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, zinc hydroxide, chlorite, etc.

[0260] The amount of inorganic pigment added to pigment (B) is preferably 50 parts by weight or more relative to 100 parts by weight of binder, as will be described later.

[0261] There are no particular restrictions on the organic pigments in pigment (B), and they can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, water-soluble dispersions such as styrene-acrylic acid copolymer particles, styrene-butadiene copolymer particles, polystyrene particles, polyethylene particles, etc. can be used.

[0262] The amount of organic pigment added to pigment (B) is preferably 2 parts by mass or more and 20 parts by mass or less, relative to 100 parts by mass of pigment (B) in the surface layer (B).

[0263] --Adhesive--

[0264] As an adhesive, at least one of water-soluble resin and water-dispersible resin may be used appropriately.

[0265] There are no particular restrictions on the water-soluble resins used as adhesives, and they can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, polyvinyl alcohol, cationic modified polyvinyl alcohol, acetal modified polyvinyl alcohol, polyester, polyurethane, etc. can be used.

[0266] --surfactants--

[0267] There are no particular restrictions on the surfactants included in the surface layer (B) as needed, and they can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, and nonionic surfactants can be used.

[0268] There are no particular restrictions on the method of forming the surface layer (B), and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, and the liquid constituting the surface layer (A) on the backing can be applied by impregnation or application.

[0269] The amount of liquid adhering to the surface layer (B) is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, and is preferably 0.5 g / m 2 Up to 20g / m 2 More preferably 1g / m 2 Up to 15g / m 2 A solid.

[0270] (Drying equipment)

[0271] The drying apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention is an apparatus for drying a contacted component to which a liquid composition has been applied by heating, and the apparatus has the contacted component as described above, and may optionally have other components.

[0272] (Printing equipment)

[0273] The printing apparatus according to embodiments of the present invention may include a liquid composition application mechanism, and may, as needed, include a contacted component supply mechanism, a contacted component retrieval mechanism, a conveying path, and other mechanisms.

[0274] <Liquid Composition Application Mechanism>

[0275] According to embodiments of the present invention, a liquid composition application mechanism refers to a mechanism for applying a liquid composition to a contacted component.

[0276] There are no particular limitations on the liquid composition application mechanism, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, an inkjet ejector head with multiple nozzle rows—which has multiple nozzles arranged therein—can appropriately use various known mechanisms, such as spin coating, spray coating, gravure roller coating, reverse roller coating, bar coating, etc.

[0277] <Contact Component Supplier>

[0278] According to embodiments of the present invention, a contacted component supply mechanism refers to a mechanism for supplying contacted components.

[0279] The contacted component supply step according to an embodiment of the present invention refers to the step of supplying the contacted component.

[0280] The supply process for the contacted components can be carried out by the contacted component supply organization.

[0281] <Mechanism for retrieving the contacted component and steps for retrieving the contacted component>

[0282] The contacted component retrieval mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention refers to a mechanism for retrieving the contacted component.

[0283] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the contacted component retrieval step refers to the step of retrieving the contacted component.

[0284] The step of retrieving the contacted component can be performed by the contacted component retrieval mechanism.

[0285] <Teleportation Path>

[0286] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the transmission path refers to the path from the contacted component supply mechanism to the contacted component being retrieved by the contacted component retrieval mechanism.

[0287] Preferably, the length of the contacted component in the conveying direction is longer than the length of the conveying path.

[0288] Here, we will refer to Figures 1 to 2 One embodiment of the printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is described. However, the use of the printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is not limited in any way to these embodiments.

[0289] In each figure, the same components are represented by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions may be omitted. Furthermore, the number, position, shape, etc., of the following components are not limited to this embodiment, and the number, position, shape, etc., preferably used to implement the present invention may be used.

[0290] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a printing apparatus using continuous paper; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the contacted component in contact with the contacting component.

[0291] Figure 1 The printing apparatus 100 shown includes a contacted component supply unit 1 (contacted component supply mechanism), a liquid composition application unit 2 (liquid composition application mechanism), a heating component 3, a contacting component 4, and a contacted component retrieval unit 6 (contacting component retrieval mechanism).

[0292] The printing apparatus 100 includes a drying apparatus 50, which may be an integrated device with the printing apparatus 100 or a separate device from the printing apparatus 100.

[0293] -Contacted component supply unit-

[0294] The contact component supply unit 1 is rotatably driven to supply the contact component 7, which is wound into a roll and housed therein, to the transport path 8 in the printing equipment 100. The transport direction of the contact component 7 in the transport path 8 is indicated by arrow D.

[0295] The contact component supply unit 1 adjusts its rotation drive to convey the contact component 7 at a high speed of 50 m / min or higher.

[0296] The contacted component 7 is a sheet-like conveyed object that extends continuously in the conveying direction D of the printing apparatus 100, and specifically a recording medium such as continuous paper. The contacted component 7 is conveyed along the conveying path 8 between the contacted component supply unit 1 and the contacted component retrieval unit 6. The length of the contacted component 7 in the conveying direction D is longer than the length of the conveying path 8 between the contacted component supply unit 1 and the contacted component retrieval unit 6. As described above, the printing apparatus 100 according to this embodiment uses the contacted component 7 that extends continuously in the conveying direction D of the printing apparatus 100 and conveys the contacted component 7 at high speed. For this purpose, a large tension is applied to the contacted component 7 between the contacted component supply unit 1 and the contacted component retrieval unit 6.

[0297] -Liquid composition application unit-

[0298] The liquid composition application unit 2 is an inkjet ejector head comprising multiple rows of nozzles arranged therein, and the nozzles are arranged such that ink flows from the ejection direction of the nozzles toward the transport path 8 of the contact member 7. Therefore, the liquid composition application unit 2 sequentially ejects inks of colors magenta (M), cyan (C), yellow (Y), and black (K) as a liquid composition to the contact member 7. The color of the ejected ink is not limited to these, and can be white, gray, silver, gold, green, blue, orange, purple, etc.

[0299] Note that although the liquid composition has been described as ink as an example in this embodiment, other liquid compositions may also be used as described above.

[0300] Furthermore, although in this embodiment, as an example, the liquid composition is applied to the contacted member 7 via an inkjet ejector head, the liquid composition can be applied in other ways as described above.

[0301] - Heating components

[0302] The heating member 3 heats and dries the liquid composition applied to the contacted member 7 from the rear side of the surface of the contacted member 7, which has an area where the liquid composition is applied. Note that there are no particular limitations on the mechanism used to heat the liquid composition, but various known mechanisms can be used, such as mechanisms for blowing hot air or one or more mechanisms for contacting the back side of the contacted member 7 with a flat heater to dry the liquid composition.

[0303] Heating element 3 is disposed near contact element 4, which will be described later. Therefore, when using printing equipment 100, the surface temperature of contact element 4 may be high (e.g., 70°C or higher and 260°C or lower). As described above, when a contact element with adhered fluoropolymer particles is used in an environment where the surface temperature of the contact element is high, the fluoropolymer particles typically soften and tend to detach from the contact element surface. However, when using the configuration according to this embodiment, the detachment of the fluoropolymer particles is prevented as described above, thus achieving a significant effect of preventing components derived from the liquid composition from transferring from the contacted element to the contact element.

[0304] In this application, the terms "heating mechanism" and "heating component" are clearly distinguished.

[0305] As described above, the heating mechanism is a mechanism for applying heat to the contacted member through the surface layer (A), and is configured to constitute the contact member.

[0306] On the other hand, the heating element is a component that is incorporated into the drying or printing equipment as a component separate from the contact element.

[0307] -Contact Components-

[0308] The contact member 4 is a roller with a cylindrical or cylindrical shape, which conveys the contact member 7 while changing the conveying direction D of the contact member 7.

[0309] In the printing apparatus 100 according to this embodiment, as described above, the contacted component supply unit 1 conveys the contacted component 7 at a speed of 50 m / min or higher. When the contacted component 7 is conveyed at such a high speed, as... Figure 1 As shown, when the contact member 4 changes the conveying direction of the contacted member 7, a large pressure is applied between the contact member 4 and the contacted member 7. This results in increased friction due to the pressure applied to the contact member 4. However, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the shape of the surface layer (A) is maintained as described above (i.e., the root mean square height Sq in the surface layer (A) is maintained at 1.0 μm or greater, and the orthogonal line roughness ratio in the surface layer (A) is maintained at 0.7 or greater), and it can prevent components derived from the liquid composition from transferring from the contacted member to the contact member for a long time.

[0310] As described above, the printing apparatus 100 according to this embodiment conveys the contacted member 7, which extends continuously in the conveying direction D of the printing apparatus 100. Therefore, a large tension is applied to the contacted member 7 between the contacted member supply unit 1 and the contacted member retrieval unit 6. In this case, as... Figure 2As shown, when the contact member 4 changes the conveying direction of the contacted member 7 under high tension, a large pressure is applied between the contact member 4 and the contacted member 7. Therefore, the frictional force associated with the pressure applied to the contact member 4 increases. However, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the shape of the surface layer (A) is maintained as described above (i.e., the root mean square height Sq in the surface layer (A) is maintained at 1.0 μm or greater, and the orthogonal line roughness ratio in the surface layer (A) is maintained at 0.7 or greater), and components derived from the liquid composition can be prevented from transferring from the contacted member to the contact member for an extended period.

[0311] Furthermore, when the contact component 4 is a roller-shaped conveyor roller, such as Figure 1 As shown, the contacted member 7 is wound around the conveyor roller, thus changing the conveying direction of the contacted member. At this time, the winding rate of the contacted member 7 relative to the conveyor roller is preferably 10% or more, more preferably 15% or more, and even more preferably 20% or more.

[0312] When the winding rate of the contacted component 7 relative to the conveyor roller is 10% or greater, the pressure per unit area between the conveyor roller and the contacted component 7 decreases, and the friction induced in the conveyor roller decreases.

[0313] Furthermore, the winding rate of the contacted member 7 relative to the conveyor roller is preferably 90% or less, more preferably 70% or less, and even more preferably 50% or less.

[0314] When the winding rate of the contacted component 7 relative to the conveying roller is 90% or less, the contacted component can be properly conveyed.

[0315] Reference Figure 2 To describe the "winding ratio" according to this embodiment. For example... Figure 2 As shown, when the contacted member 7 is wound and contacts the contacted member 4 which has a roller shape, the “winding ratio” represents the ratio of the circumferential length X of the contacted member 4 between the ends 9a and 9b of the contacted member and the contacted member 4 on the side of contact with each other to the total circumferential length X of the contacted member 4, wherein the contacted member is separated from the contacted member at one end 9a and the other end 9b.

[0316] Furthermore, Figure 2The contact member 4 shown does not include a heating mechanism for applying heat to the contacted member 7 through the surface layer (A), but may include a heating mechanism. When the contact member 4 has a heating mechanism, the surface temperature of the contact member may be high (e.g., 70°C or higher and 260°C or lower) when using the printing equipment 100. As described above, when a contact member with adhered fluoropolymer particles is used in an environment with a high surface temperature of the contact member, the fluoropolymer particles typically soften and easily detach from the surface of the contact member. However, when using the configuration according to this embodiment, the detachment of the fluoropolymer particles is prevented as described above, thus achieving a significant effect of preventing components derived from the liquid composition from transferring from the contacted member to the contact member.

[0317] -Retrieval unit for contacted components-

[0318] The contacted component retrieval unit 6 rotatably drives the contacted component 7, on which an image has been formed by applying a liquid composition, to roll up and stores it.

[0319] (Printing method)

[0320] The printing method according to embodiments of the present invention includes a liquid composition application step and a contact step, and may include a drying step and other steps as needed.

[0321] <Liquid Composition Application Steps>

[0322] The liquid composition application step according to an embodiment of the present invention refers to the step of applying the liquid composition to the contacting member. The liquid composition application step can be performed by a liquid composition application mechanism.

[0323] <Contact Method>

[0324] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the contact step refers to the step of bringing the contacting member and the contacted member to which the liquid composition has been applied into contact with each other.

[0325] The contact step can be a transfer step, wherein the contact member transfers the contacted member by bringing the contact member into contact with the surface of the contacted member on which the liquid composition is applied.

[0326] <Drying Method>

[0327] According to embodiments of the present invention, the drying step refers to the step of drying the applied liquid composition by heating it with a heating member after the liquid composition application step. When the heating mechanism is incorporated into the contact member, the drying mechanism can be performed by the contact member.

[0328] Now refer to Figures 1 to 2A printing method according to an embodiment of the present invention is described. However, the use of the printing method of the present invention is not limited in any way to these embodiments.

[0329] In each figure, the same components are represented by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions may be omitted. Furthermore, the number, position, shape, etc., of the following components are not limited to this embodiment, and the numbers, positions, shapes, etc., preferably used to implement the present invention may be used.

[0330] -Liquid composition application step-

[0331] The liquid composition application step is the step of applying a liquid composition, such as ink, to the contacted member 7 supplied from the contacted member supply unit 1. This results in the formation of an area on the contacted member 7 where the liquid composition has been applied.

[0332] -Drying Steps-

[0333] The drying step is a step that dries the applied liquid composition by heating it with heating member 3 after the liquid composition application step. Preferably, the drying is performed such that the contacted member 7 no longer feels sticky. As described above, when the heating mechanism is integrated into the contact member 4, the drying step can be performed through the contact member.

[0334] -Transfer Steps-

[0335] In this embodiment, the transfer step will be described as an example of a contact step. In the transfer step, after the drying step, the contacted member 7 is transferred by bringing the contacted member 7 into contact with the contact member 4. The transfer step can be performed before or after the liquid composition application step. The transfer step can also be performed before or after the drying step. It is also preferred that the contact member 4 contacts the surface of the contacted member 7 on which the liquid composition has been applied.

[0336] Example

[0337] Embodiments of the invention will be described below, but the invention is not limited in any way to these embodiments.

[0338] <Preparation Examples of Self-Dispersible Black Pigment Dispersions>

[0339] In this embodiment, 20 g of carbon black (NIPEX 160, manufactured by Degussa AG, with a BET specific surface area of ​​150 m²) was mixed at room temperature using a Silverson mixer (6000 rpm). 2 / g, average primary particle size 20nm, pH 4.0, DBP oil absorption 620g / 100g), 20mmol of the compound represented by the following structural formula (1) and 200mL of ion-exchange high-purity water.

[0340] If the pH of the resulting slurry is greater than 4, 20 mmol of nitric acid is added. After stirring for 30 minutes, sodium nitrite (20 mmol) dissolved in a small amount of ion-exchanged high-purity water is slowly added to the mixture. Further, the mixture is heated to 60°C while stirring and reacted for 1 hour. The modified pigment is formed by adding a compound represented by the following structural formula (1) to carbon black.

[0341] The modified pigment dispersion was then obtained by adjusting the pH to 10 with an aqueous NaOH solution and stirring the mixture for 30 minutes. Ultrafiltration was performed using a dialysis membrane, by using a dispersion of pigment containing at least one geminal bisphosphonate group or a sodium geminal bisphosphonate salt bonded together, and by ion-exchange with high-purity water, followed by ultrasonic dispersion to obtain a self-dispersible black pigment dispersion with a solids dispersion concentration of 16% by mass and containing bisphosphonate groups as hydrophilic functional groups.

[0342] [Chemical Formula 3]

[0343]

[0344] <Preparation Examples of Liquid Compositions (Inks)>

[0345] In this embodiment, 50.00% by mass of a self-dispersible black pigment dispersion (pigment solids concentration of 16%), 2.22% by mass of polyethylene wax AQUASER 531 (45% by mass of non-volatile component, manufactured by BYK Chemie Japan Co., Ltd.), 30.00% by mass of 3-ethyl-3-hydroxymethyloxetane, 10.0% by mass of propylene glycol monopropyl ether, 2.00% by mass of a silicone surfactant (TEGO Wet 270, manufactured by TOMOE ENGINEERING CO.,LTD.), and deionized water (residue) were mixed and stirred for 1 hour, and then filtered through a membrane filter with an average pore size of 1.2 μm to obtain a liquid composition (ink).

[0346] <Examples of Manufacturing Contact Components>

[0347] (Example 1)

[0348] The surface of an 80 mm diameter aluminum hollow roller substrate (A5052, manufactured by Misumi Corporation) was sandblasted by spraying a polygonal alumina blasting agent (count 60, center particle size 6 μm) at 0.3 MPa. Next, the substrate was anodized in an aqueous sulfuric acid solution (acid-resistant aluminum sulfate method). More specifically, electrodes were attached to the ends of the hollow roller substrate, which was then immersed in a 15% by mass aqueous sulfuric acid solution adjusted to 0°C, and a metal rod was used as the anode at 1.0 A / dm. 2 An electrolysis process was performed for 1 hour at a current density, and an acid-resistant aluminum sulfate film (comprising a layer of alumina and in which sulfur content was detected) was deposited to form a support layer with an average thickness of 29.5 μm. The surface was thoroughly washed with pure water, immersed in a PTFE dispersion (Fluon, manufactured by AGC Inc.) prepared at a 10% solids concentration, and then subjected to an air-drying step. After air drying, while the hollow roller was rotated at a speed of 10 rpm, a polishing step was performed by squeezing and wiping the hollow roller with fluoropolymer fibers (TommyFilec, manufactured by TOMOEGAWA CO.,LTD.). The hollow roller thus obtained was combined with a halogen lamp to form a contact member according to Example 1.

[0349] (Examples 2 to 14)

[0350] The contact components of Examples 2 to 14 were obtained in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the various conditions of the sandblasting process in Example 1 and the presence or absence of the treatment to adhere fluoropolymer particles were changed to the contents shown in Tables 1 to 3 below.

[0351] (Comparative Example 1)

[0352] The contact member of Comparative Example 1 was obtained in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the sandblasting treatment in Example 1 was not performed.

[0353] (Comparative Examples 2 and 3)

[0354] The contact components of Comparative Examples 2 and 3 were obtained in the same manner as in Example 1, except that a lathe was used instead of the sandblasting process in Example 1 to create irregularities in the conveying direction of the substrate. In Comparative Example 2, the surface was treated by lathe to make the surface appear substantially smooth, and in Comparative Example 3, the surface was treated by lathe to make the surface appear to have striped irregularities.

[0355] (Comparative Example 4)

[0356] The contact component of Comparative Example 4 was obtained in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the anodizing treatment (acid-resistant aluminum sulfate treatment) in sulfuric acid aqueous solution was not performed as in Example 1.

[0357] Next, in the contact members of Examples 1 to 14 and Comparative Examples 1 to 4, the ratio of the area of ​​the surface layer (A) and the contacted member to the area of ​​the surface layer (A) (contact area ratio), the root mean square height Sq of the surface layer (A), the orthogonal line roughness ratio of the surface layer (A), the fluorine content in the surface layer (A), the average thickness of the support layer, and the Vickers hardness of the contact member were obtained according to the following methods, and the results are shown in Tables 1-3 below.

[0358] For reference, an image showing the height in the surface layer (A) of Example 1 is shown (see [link]). Figure 3 (See image showing the height in the surface layer of Comparative Example 2) Figure 4 (See image showing the height distribution of the cross-section of surface layer (A) in Example 1) Figure 5 ), and an image showing the height distribution in a cross-section of the surface layer (A) of Comparative Example 1 (see Figure 6 ).However, Figure 5 and Figure 6 The line in the figure represents a plane parallel to the surface layer (A), which has a depth of 5 μm from the maximum height (the surface portion of the surface layer (A)).

[0359] <Methods for measuring contact area ratio>

[0360] First, the surface layer (A) was observed at 20x magnification using a laser microscope (LEXT OLS4000 manufactured by Olympus Corporation) to obtain the height distribution. Next, the contact area was obtained from the acquired height distribution; this contact area was the cross-sectional area formed when a plane parallel to the surface layer (A) was cut at a depth of 5 μm from the maximum height (the top surface portion of surface layer (A)). Then, the ratio of the contact area to the observed area (contact area / observed area) was calculated to obtain the contact area ratio.

[0361] <Method for measuring the root mean square height Sq>

[0362] The surface layer (A) was observed at 20x magnification using a laser microscope (LEXT OLS4000 manufactured by Olympus Corporation) and calculations were performed according to JIS B 0601:2013.

[0363] <Method for measuring the roughness ratio of orthogonal lines>

[0364] First, any point on the surface layer (A) was defined as a measurement center point, and the line roughness of the surface layer (A) in any direction starting from the measurement center point was measured using a laser microscope (LEXTOLS4000, manufactured by Olympus Corporation) at 20x magnification and a measurement length of 260 μm. Then, the line roughness in the measurement direction with the minimum line roughness and the line roughness in the direction perpendicular to the measurement direction with the minimum line roughness were obtained. Further, new measurement center points were defined at 100 μm intervals in a certain direction from the aforementioned measurement center points, and the line roughness in the measurement direction with the minimum line roughness and the line roughness in the direction perpendicular to the measurement direction with the minimum line roughness were obtained in the same manner as the measurements at the aforementioned measurement center points. A total of five measurements were performed at the measurement center points, and Ra(Min.), which is the average line roughness in the measurement direction with the minimum line roughness, and Ra(90°), which is the average line roughness in the direction perpendicular to the measurement direction with the minimum line roughness, were obtained. Then, the ratio of Ra(Min.) to Ra(90°) was calculated.<Ra(Min. / Ra(90℃)> To obtain the orthogonal line roughness ratio.

[0365] <Methods for measuring elemental fluorine content>

[0366] The surface layer (A) was subjected to spectral analysis under the following conditions, and the amount of elemental fluorine was obtained by automatic quantification using analytical software. The amount of elemental fluorine was obtained at any five points in a manner similar to that described above. The average of the obtained values ​​was then used as the amount of elemental fluorine.

[0367] • Apparatus: Merlin scanning electron microscope, manufactured by Carl Zeiss AG

[0368] • EDS detector: UltraDry electronically cooled SDD detector, manufactured by Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.

[0369] Accelerating voltage: 3.0kV

[0370] ·WD: 13.0mm

[0371] • Takeoff angle: 35.0 degrees.

[0372] Magnification: 2000x

[0373] • Conductive process: C-coating

[0374] • Total time: 10 seconds.

[0375] • Cumulative frequency: 100 times

[0376] • Drift correction: Yes

[0377] • Analysis software: NORAN System 6 manufactured by Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.

[0378] <Methods for measuring average thickness>

[0379] First, sulfur, aluminum, and oxygen components were mapped across the cross-section of the contact member using EDS elemental analysis (UltraDry, manufactured by Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.). Next, the regions where all sulfur, aluminum, and oxygen components were detected were identified as the support layer, and the lengths of the perpendicular lines drawn from the surface of the support layer along the substrate direction within the support layer were obtained. Similarly, the lengths of the perpendicular lines within the support layer were obtained at any 10 points, and the average of these values ​​was defined as the average thickness of the support layer.

[0380] <Methods for measuring Vickers hardness>

[0381] Vickers hardness is measured according to the test method of JIS Z 2244.

[0382] Next, by using the contact member in its initial state and the contact member after the durability test, the extent to which the components derived from the liquid composition were transferred from the contact member to the contact members of Examples 1 to 14 and Comparative Examples 1 to 4 (hereinafter also referred to as "transferability") was evaluated using the following method.

[0383] Furthermore, the shape (area and aspect ratio) of the transfer portion and the heat transfer properties of the contact components are evaluated using the following methods.

[0384] <Transitional Assessment (Initial State)>

[0385] An improved printing apparatus was manufactured by incorporating the contact components of Examples 1 to 14 and Comparative Examples 1 to 4 into an inkjet printing system (RICOHPro VC60000, manufactured by Ricoh Co., Ltd.), and by discharging a liquid composition (ink) from an inkjet head, which serves as the liquid composition application mechanism, onto a recording medium (MagnoSatin 300gsm, manufactured by Sappi Co., Ltd., a low-permeability recording medium), which serves as the contact component, to form a solid image, such that the amount of ink applied is 0.9 μL / cm. 2 .

[0386] Next, a drying step is performed, in which a drying roller with a surface temperature of 120°C contacts the surface of the component to be contacted, on which no liquid composition has been applied, so as to dry the liquid composition while the component is being transported. At this point, the drying energy (°C × seconds) is defined as calculated by the following formula: “(Temperature of the component in the drying step - Temperature of the component before the drying step) (°C) × Contact time between the component and the drying roller (seconds)”.

[0387] Next, with a contact time of 0.2 seconds per contact, the contact member whose surface layer (A) has been heated to a temperature of 120°C by the built-in heating mechanism (halogen lamp) is brought into contact with the surface of the contact member to which the liquid composition has been applied ten times.

[0388] The above series of steps were performed by adjusting the conveying speed of the contacted component while varying the contact time (in seconds) between the contacted component and the drying roller. The drying energy required to prevent components originating from the liquid composition from transferring from the contacted component to the contacting component was obtained and evaluated according to the following evaluation criteria. The evaluation results are shown in Tables 1 to 3.

[0389] (Evaluation Criteria)

[0390] A: The required drying energy is less than 20℃ × seconds.

[0391] B: The required drying energy is 20℃×second or greater and less than 35℃×second.

[0392] C: The required drying energy is 35℃×second or greater and less than 50℃×second.

[0393] D: The required drying energy is 50℃ × seconds or more.

[0394] <Transferability Assessment (After Durability Testing)>

[0395] An improved printing apparatus was manufactured by incorporating the contact components of Examples 1 to 14 and Comparative Examples 1 to 4 into an inkjet printing system (RICOHPro VC60000, manufactured by Ricoh Co., Ltd.). In this case, an electric motor was installed as the drive source for the contact components, allowing them to rotate independently of the printing apparatus's transport mechanism. Next, while transporting the recording medium (Lumi Art Gloss 200gsm, manufactured by StoraEnso Oyj) as the contacted component under tension of 40N and 1mpm, the contact components were rotated at 500rpm in the same direction as the transport direction for 18 hours, and durability tests were conducted regarding the wear of the contact components and the contacted components.

[0396] The drying energy required to prevent components originating from the liquid composition from transferring from the contacted component to the contact component was obtained by using the contact component after durability testing, through the same method as described in <Transferability Assessment (Initial State)>, and evaluated using the same evaluation criteria. The evaluation results are shown in Tables 1 to 3.

[0397] <Shape Evaluation of the Transfer Section>

[0398] In the aforementioned <Transferability Assessment (Initial State)>, transfer was intentionally induced by setting the drying energy to 9.2 °C × sec. Next, images showing the voids induced by transfer were observed at 20x magnification using a laser microscope (LEXT OLS4000 manufactured by Olympus Corporation). The observed images were binary-coded using the MaxEntropy algorithm and subjected to particle analysis using analysis software (ImageJ manufactured by the National Institutes of Health) to calculate the average area and aspect ratio of each void. The results were evaluated according to the following criteria. The evaluation results are shown in Tables 1 to 3.

[0399] (Evaluation criteria for void area)

[0400] A: Less than 1000μm 2

[0401] B: 1000μm 2 or larger and smaller than 5000μm 2

[0402] C: 5000μm 2 Or larger and smaller than 10,000 μm 2

[0403] D: 10000μm 2 or larger

[0404] (Evaluation criteria for the aspect ratio of the voids)

[0405] A: 0.8 or greater

[0406] B: 0.7 or greater but less than 0.8

[0407] C: 0.6 or greater but less than 0.7

[0408] D: Less than 0.6

[0409] For reference, an image showing the shape of the transfer portion when using the contact member of Embodiment 1 is shown (see [link]). Figure 7 (See also) and an image showing the shape of the transfer portion when using the contact member of Comparative Example 1 (see) Figure 8 ).

[0410] <Heat Transfer Assessment>

[0411] The surfaces of the contact members of Examples 1 to 14 and Comparative Examples 1 to 4 were heated to a temperature of 140°C, and the sheet surface temperature was measured by a radiation thermometer after 0.4 seconds of contact with the contact member (Lumi Art Gloss 200gsm, manufactured by Stora Enso Oyj), and evaluated according to the following criteria. More specifically, the paper surface temperature was measured by a radiation thermometer at a position 12 mm from the nip when the contact member was being conveyed at 30 mm / s. The evaluation results are shown in Tables 1 to 3.

[0412] (Evaluation Criteria)

[0413] A: 79℃ or higher

[0414] B: 75°C or higher but less than 79°C

[0415] C: 70°C or higher but less than 75°C

[0416] D: Less than 70℃

[0417] [Table 1]

[0418]

[0419]

[0420] [Table 2]

[0421]

[0422]

[0423] [Table 3]

[0424]

[0425]

[0426] Examples of embodiments of the present invention are as follows.

[0427] <1> A contact member configured to contact a contacted member to which a liquid composition is applied, comprising a surface layer (A) configured to contact the contacted member, wherein the surface layer (B) comprises a support layer containing acid-resistant aluminum sulfate, the surface layer (A) having a root mean square height Sq of 1.0 μm or greater, and the surface layer (A) having an orthogonal line roughness ratio of 0.7 or greater.

[0428] <2> According to the contact member described in <1>, the root mean square height Sq of the surface layer (A) is 10.0 μm or less.

[0429] <3> According to the contact member described in <1> or <2>, the ratio of the area of ​​the surface layer (A) and the contacted member in contact with each other to the area of ​​the surface layer (A) is 10% or greater and 90% or less.

[0430] <4> According to any one of <1> to <3>, the contact member wherein the surface layer (A) comprises fluoropolymer particles adhered to the support layer.

[0431] <5> According to any one of <1> to <4>, the amount of elemental fluorine in the surface layer (A) is 5.0 atm% or greater.

[0432] <6> The contact member according to any one of <1> to <5>, wherein the contact member has a Vickers hardness of 400 Hv or higher and 500 Hv or lower.

[0433] <7> According to any one of <1> to <6>, the average thickness of the support layer is 20 μm or greater and 40 μm or less.

[0434] <8> The contact member according to any one of <1> to <7>, wherein the contact member comprises a substrate and a surface layer (A) disposed on the substrate, wherein the substrate comprises aluminum.

[0435] <9> The contact member according to any one of <1> to <8>, wherein the contact member is formed as a roller with a diameter of 50 mm or greater and 600 mm or less.

[0436] <10> The contact member according to any one of <1> to <9>, wherein the contact member includes a heating unit configured to apply heat to the contacted member via the surface layer (A).

[0437] <11> According to any one of <1> to <10>, the temperature of the surface layer (A) is 70°C or higher and 260°C or lower.

[0438] <12> The contact member according to any one of <1> to <11>, wherein the contact member is a recording medium.

[0439] <13> A drying apparatus comprising a contact member according to any one of <1> to <12>, wherein the drying apparatus is configured to dry a contact member to which a liquid composition has been applied.

[0440] <14> A printing apparatus comprising a liquid composition application unit configured to apply the liquid composition to the contacted member; and a contact member according to any one of <1> to <12>.

[0441] <15> The printing apparatus according to <14> further includes a contacted component supply unit configured to supply the contacted component; a contacted component retrieval unit configured to retrieve the contacted component; and a transport path along which the contacted component supplied from the contacted component supply unit is transported until retrieved by the contacted component retrieval unit, wherein the length of the contacted component along the transport direction is longer than the length of the transport path.

[0442] <16> According to the printing apparatus described in <14> or <15>, the speed at which the contacted component is conveyed is 50 m / min or higher.

[0443] <17> A printing method comprising applying a liquid composition to a contacting member; and

[0444] The contact member according to any one of <1> to <12> is brought into contact with the contacted member on which the liquid composition is applied.

[0445] according to <1> to <12> The contact member as described in any one of the following, according to <13> The drying equipment, according to <14> to <16> The printing equipment and according to <17> The printing method described above can solve various problems in traditional technologies and achieve the purpose of this invention.

[0446] [List of Reference Markers]

[0447] 1 Contacted component supply unit

[0448] 2 Liquid composition application unit

[0449] 3 heating components

[0450] 4 contact components

[0451] 6. Contacted component retrieval unit

[0452] 7 Contacted Components

[0453] 8 Teleportation Paths

[0454] 9a The end of the contacted component that is separated from the contacting component

[0455] 9b The end of the contacted component that is separated from the contacting component

[0456] 50 Drying Equipment

[0457] 100 printing equipment

[0458] This application is based on and claims priority to Japanese priority application No. 2021-071698 filed on April 21, 2021 and Japanese preference application No. 2022-028908 filed on February 28, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A contact member configured to contact a contacted member to which a liquid composition is applied, said contact member comprising: Surface layer (A), configured to contact the contacted member, wherein The surface layer (A) includes a support layer containing acid-resistant aluminum sulfate. The root mean square height Sq of the surface layer (A) is 4.75 μm or greater and 10.0 μm or less. The orthogonal line roughness ratio of the surface layer (A) is 0.74 or greater and 0.82 or less. The amount of elemental fluorine in the surface layer (A) is 5.0 atm% or greater. The ratio of the area of ​​the surface layer (A) in contact with the contacted component to the area of ​​the surface layer (A) is 16.0% or greater and 34.0% or less, and The average thickness of the support layer is 20 μm or greater and 31 μm or less.

2. The contact member according to claim 1, wherein the surface layer (A) comprises fluoropolymer particles adhered to the support layer.

3. The contact member according to claim 1, wherein the contact member has a Vickers hardness of 400 Hv or higher and 500 Hv or lower.

4. The contact member according to claim 1, wherein, The contact member includes a substrate and the surface layer (A) disposed on the substrate, and The substrate includes aluminum.

5. The contact member according to claim 1, wherein the contact member is formed as a roller with a diameter of 50 mm or greater and 600 mm or less.

6. The contact member according to claim 1, wherein the contact member includes a heating unit configured to apply heat to the contacted member via the surface layer (A).

7. The contact member according to claim 1, wherein the temperature of the surface layer (A) is 70°C or higher and 260°C or lower.

8. A drying apparatus comprising: The contact member according to claim 1, wherein, The drying equipment is configured to dry a contacted component to which a liquid composition is applied.

9. A printing apparatus comprising: A liquid composition application unit configured to apply the liquid composition to a contacted member; and The contact member according to claim 1.

10. The printing apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising: A contacted component supply unit configured to supply the contacted component; A contacted component retrieval unit, configured to retrieve the contacted component; and A conveying path along which the contacted component supplied from the contacted component supply unit is conveyed until it is retrieved by the contacted component retrieval unit, wherein... The length of the contacted component in the conveying direction is longer than the length of the conveying path.

11. The printing apparatus of claim 9, wherein the speed at which the contacted component is conveyed is 50 m / min or higher.

Images