Transfer paper for sublimation printing

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a transfer paper for sublimation printing, comprising a fibrous substrate and an ink receiving layer, wherein the ink receiving layer comprises a cationic inorganic component, a cationic organic component or both in an amount of 10 to 90% by dry weight, optionally a filler in an amount of up to 75% by dry weight, a hydrophilic binder in an amount of 5 to 50% by dry weight, and a hydrophobic binder in an amount of 5 to 50% by dry weight, based on the total weight of the ink receiving layer. The present disclosure also provides a method for preparing a transfer paper for sublimation printing, use thereof in a method for preparing a printed transfer paper, the printed transfer paper, use thereof in a method for decorating an object by sublimation, and a decorated object.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is an international application claiming priority and the benefit of European Application No. EP21206672.4 filed on November 5, 2021. The entire contents of the above application are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a transfer paper for sublimation printing, more specifically to a coated transfer paper for high-end applications, and a method of making the transfer paper. Other aspects of the present disclosure include printed transfer paper and a method of making the same, particularly but not exclusively by inkjet printing. In addition, the present disclosure relates to a decorated article and a method of decorating the article by sublimation printing. Background Art

[0004] It can be difficult to obtain high-fidelity images on certain items by printing directly on them. Such items include textiles (e.g., fabrics and clothing), particularly polyester textiles, and other items with metal, glass, ceramic, plastic, or wood surfaces. Sublimation printing technology is commonly used to provide images on such items by using sublimable inks. Sublimable inks are printed indirectly onto the final item. More specifically, the ink is first printed on a so-called transfer paper, and then the ink is transferred from the printed transfer paper to the final item using heat and pressure. Patent application US2008 / 0229962 describes an example of such a printing process.

[0005] However, not all transfer papers for sublimation printing are equally suitable. Some transfer papers do not absorb the solvent from the ink quickly enough, which increases the risk of the ink smearing or spreading when drying. However, transfer papers that absorb the solvent from the ink too quickly tend to have problems with the ink being introduced into the paper along with the solvent. Therefore, in order to ensure that a sufficient amount of ink is available for sublimation printing, a relatively large amount of sublimable ink must be printed onto such transfer paper. This can result in a loss of print clarity when transferring, for example due to ink smearing caused by a large amount of ink being printed onto the transfer paper, which means that there is a difference between the original digital file and the sublimation print on the final item, while the process itself is less efficient.

[0006] The most advanced and high-end transfer papers currently used for sublimation printing have high print clarity and usually contain some kind of coating or agent on the surface of the fiber substrate. In some publications, attempts are made to influence the ability of the transfer paper to handle sublimable inks by adjusting the properties of the paper substrate and coating to provide high-fidelity images.

[0007] It is known to use small proportions of cationic agents as ink fixatives for inkjet printing, the purpose of which is to fix the ink on the surface and to avoid the ink from bleeding in water. For example, patent application EP 3 568 521 provides a transfer paper for sublimation printing, which has one or more cationic agents on at least one side thereof. However, there is still potential for improvement.

[0008] Although there are many transfer papers for sublimation printing on the market, none can simultaneously provide instant drying of the sublimable ink, perfect print clarity and freedom from defects such as dusting during storage, solubility of the transfer paper's components in the sublimable ink or back gassing during the print transfer process.

[0009] Technical issues

[0010] Therefore, there is a need for a sublimation transfer paper on which sublimable ink dries quickly and produces substantially perfect print definition without any substantial defects during the printing process and the sublimation transfer process. In addition, there is a need for a transfer paper that can print with high definition and has a fast drying time when using standard inks or gel-like inks. In addition, there is a need for a method of preparing and printing such a transfer paper and a method of decorating an article and providing the article decorated with perfect print definition. Summary of the invention

[0011] The present disclosure aims to at least partially solve the problems of the prior art by providing a transfer paper for sublimation printing, the transfer paper comprising a fibrous substrate and an ink receiving layer. The ink receiving layer comprises a cationic inorganic component in an amount of 10 to 90% by dry weight, or a cationic organic component, or both, optionally a filler in an amount of up to 75% by dry weight, a hydrophilic binder in an amount of 5 to 50% by dry weight, and a hydrophobic binder in an amount of 5 to 50% by dry weight. The amount in dry weight % is based on the total dry weight of the ink receiving layer.

[0012] It has been found that transfer paper for sublimation printing comprising an ink receiving layer as described above provides simultaneously rapid drying of the sublimable ink, substantially perfect print definition and no dusting or other defects during storage, printing or the sublimation transfer process.

[0013] In addition, the present disclosure also provides a method for preparing a sublimation-printed transfer paper, use thereof in a method for preparing a printed transfer paper, the printed transfer paper, use thereof in a method for decorating an object by sublimation, and a decorated object.

[0014] When the present description mentions “preferred” embodiments / features, combinations of these preferred embodiments / features are also to be regarded as disclosed, as long as such combinations make technical sense.

[0015] In the following, the use of the term "comprising" should be understood as disclosing in a non-limiting manner, that is, additional components or steps may be present or implemented, as long as this makes technical sense. For more limited embodiments, the term "consisting of..." will be used and must be understood as disclosing in a limiting manner, that is, without any additional components or steps. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 : A schematic diagram showing a transfer paper for sublimation printing according to the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 2 : A schematic diagram showing an alternative embodiment of a transfer paper for sublimation printing according to the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 3 : represents a picture showing the drying test results of the embodiment of the present invention and two comparative examples. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The first embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a transfer paper for sublimation printing, which comprises a fiber base material and an ink receiving layer. The transfer paper used herein refers to a paper which, after being printed with a sublimable ink, is transferred from the printed transfer paper to an article as described below by using heat and pressure in the next step.

[0020] The term "sublimable ink" as used herein refers to a material comprising a sublimable dye as a colorant and a solvent as a carrier. In other words, the solvent allows the sublimable dye to be applied to the transfer paper because the sublimable dye is generally solid at room temperature. Therefore, it is difficult to print it onto a substrate without using a carrier solvent. The sublimable ink can be provided as a water-based ink, wherein the carrier comprises water.

[0021] The sublimable dyes used for sublimation printing in the context of the present disclosure are not particularly limited and may be any conventional sublimable dyes. In general, the sublimable dye is negatively charged or at least a nucleophile, which means that it coordinates or binds an electrophile by donating an electron pair. Exemplary sublimable dyes that may be found in sublimable inks include, but are not limited to, for example, azo dyes, nitro dyes, anthraquinone dyes, quinoline dyes, and fluorane dyes. In a particular embodiment of the present disclosure, the sublimable dye may be a sublimable dye from the following inks: SAWGRASS Sublijet black, or EPSON UltraChrome DS.

[0022] The transfer paper of the present disclosure comprises at least two layers, as described in more detail below. Figure 1The term "ink receiving layer" refers to a fiber substrate and an ink receiving layer coated on the fiber substrate. When the transfer paper is printed, for example, by inkjet printing, the ink receiving layer is provided to receive the sublimable ink. The ink receiving layer may be provided on one or both surfaces of the fiber substrate. However, since the sublimable ink is usually applied only on one surface of the transfer paper for sublimation printing, the ink receiving layer of the present disclosure is preferably provided only on the surface of the fiber substrate intended to be printed with the sublimable ink.

[0023] The ink receiving layer can be formed directly on the fibrous substrate, or at least one additional layer can be formed on the fibrous substrate before the ink receiving layer is formed. Such additional layer can be any additional layer, for example, to adjust the properties of the fibrous substrate. Preferably, the ink receiving layer is formed directly on the fibrous substrate so as not to interfere with the interaction between the fibrous substrate and the ink receiving layer of the present disclosure, as described in further detail below.

[0024] In the sense of the present disclosure, a fiber substrate refers to a base material having a substantially fiber structure, which can be described as a thin, flexible but non-elastic sheet. The fiber substrate is not particularly limited and can be any conventional fiber substrate, such as a woven or non-woven substrate, which is appropriately flexible and has sufficient strength for processing, printing, copying, coating, thermal transfer and other operations related to the present disclosure.

[0025] The fibrous base in the transfer paper facilitates drying and high print definition when the sublimable ink is applied to the paper because the paper absorbs the carrier solvent. This means that the solvent is removed from the sublimable dye, which is concentrated at or near the surface of the paper due to the properties of the ink receiving layer described in detail below.

[0026] Highly porous fiber substrates are less preferred because they can absorb large amounts of any material coated thereon. In addition, if the fiber substrate absorbs the carrier solvent too quickly, the solvent may introduce the sublimable dye deeper into the paper. Therefore, the fiber substrate of the present disclosure may preferably have a dense structure with low air permeability. The "air permeability" referred to herein is the Bendtsen porosity measured according to the ISO 5636-3 standard, which corresponds to the air flow rate vertically through a known area under a specified air pressure difference between the two surfaces of the material. The concept of air permeability is widely used in the textile industry to explain the inherent properties of fabrics. According to the ISO 5636-3 standard, 10 cm 2 The samples were subjected to a pressure differential of 1.47 kPa to measure air permeability.Preferably, the fibrous substrate of the present disclosure has a Bendtsen air permeability of less than 200 mL / min measured according to ISO 5636-3.

[0027] However, if the fiber substrate does not absorb the carrier solvent quickly enough, the sublimable ink may smear or spread on the surface of the transfer paper. Therefore, the choice of fiber substrate can contribute to the ability of the transfer paper to handle the sublimable ink and provide the desired high-fidelity image. Water absorption capacity refers to how much water a fiber substrate can absorb and can be measured according to the Cobb standard ISO 535. The Cobb value refers to the amount of water absorbed by a defined area of ​​a fiber substrate through contact with water on one side in a certain period of time. Preferably, the fiber substrate of the present disclosure has a water absorption capacity of greater than 40 g / m2 measured according to the ISO 535 standard. 2 , preferably 40-90g / m 2 The value of erectile dysfunction.

[0028] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the fibrous substrate may have a Bendtsen air permeability of less than 200 mL / min measured according to ISO 5636-3 and a permeability of greater than 40 g / m 2 , preferably 40-90g / m 2 The value of erectile dysfunction.

[0029] The fiber substrate of the present disclosure can be the base material for any printing process. Generally, the fiber substrate sheet is a woven or nonwoven web made of natural fibers, synthetic fibers or their blended fibers. The web structure refers to a fabric-like sheet with a single fiber structure woven or knitted in an identifiable manner. The nonwoven structure refers to a fabric-like sheet with a single fiber structure that is entangled and interlaced with each other in an unidentifiable manner. Nonwoven fabrics can be formed by many processes, for example, spinning, carding, air-laid (also referred to as dry-laid) and wet-laid (water laying) processes. These produce spinning, carding, air-laid (also referred to as dry-laid) and wet-laid nonwoven fabrics, respectively.

[0030] Natural fibers may include natural cellulose fibers (including pulp) or man-made cellulose fibers or a mixture of the two. Man-made cellulose fibers are also called regenerated cellulose fibers, such as lyocell fibers and viscose fibers, also known as rayon. Synthetic fibers for fiber substrates may include acrylic fibers, polyester fibers or nylon fibers.

[0031] The fiber substrate of the present disclosure may contain additional additives to adjust the properties of the fiber substrate. Such additives include fillers, binders (such as carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)), wet strength agents (such as PAE (polyamide-epichlorohydrin) Kymene), or sizing agents as described below. Preferably, the total amount of additives in the fiber substrate of the present disclosure is 15% by dry weight or less based on the total dry weight of the fiber substrate.

[0032] Papermaking fillers are also referred to as pigments or minerals. The category of fillers can be described as inorganic particulate minerals, and can be divided into natural fillers and synthetic fillers, while some minerals, such as calcium carbonate, can be obtained in natural and synthetic forms. Typical fillers for papermaking include calcium carbonate, clay minerals (such as kaolin or talc), titanium dioxide, silicates, hydroxide minerals, calcium sulfate and mixtures thereof. The main benefits of using fillers relate to improving brightness, drying of paper or controlling pore size. Preferably, the amount of filler in the fiber substrate of the present disclosure is 15% by dry weight or less, more preferably 10% by dry weight or less, based on the total dry weight of the fiber substrate, and most preferably, the fiber substrate does not contain fillers.

[0033] The ink receiving layer of the present disclosure comprises:

[0034] a. a cationic inorganic component, a cationic organic component or both,

[0035] b. optionally a filler,

[0036] c. a hydrophilic adhesive, and

[0037] d. Hydrophobic adhesive.

[0038] The term "organic" as used herein refers to components that always contain carbon, while "inorganic" components include metals and minerals as well as organometallic compounds. Therefore, "inorganic" components mostly do not contain carbon. Hereinafter, cationic inorganic components, cationic organic components, or both are also collectively referred to as cationic components, which are further described in detail below.

[0039] The cationic component (A) used herein is not limited to a specific chemical composition. It refers to a water-insoluble, preferably granular framework structure on which the cationic charge is located. The cationic component of the present disclosure is a pure substance composed of atoms of two or more chemical elements, wherein, compared with a mixture of substances, the atomic species have a specific ratio to each other. The cationic component has an anionic counterion that is weakly bound to the cationic framework. Therefore, the cationic charge is easily accessible and has a high bending affinity to at least partially negatively charged sublimable dyes or nucleophiles as described above. The ink receiving layer of the present disclosure is configured to retain the sublimable dye on the transfer paper surface or near the surface, so that it is transferred during sublimation printing, and prevents the diffusion of the dye present in the ink in the fiber substrate. Surprisingly, the present disclosure achieves high definition in sublimation printing because the sublimable dye is retained on the transfer paper surface or near the surface. In addition, the ink receiving layer of the present disclosure reduces the amount of sublimable ink required to provide the required high definition.

[0040] Cationic components can be specified by their cationic charge, for example, the specific charge density measured on the transfer paper surface. The specific charge density is calculated using Mütek TMPCD-05 device carries out quantitative charge measurement and obtains, as described in the experimental part below. Because paper sample can not be directly transferred to the cell of equipment, therefore back titration is carried out. In this back titration, transfer paper is contacted with anionic polyelectrolyte solution of known concentration. The concentration of anionic polyelectrolyte in solution is reduced as it is consumed by the cationic component present in the ink receiving layer of transfer paper. The residual concentration of anionic polyelectrolyte is obtained by titrating the solution with cationic polyelectrolyte titrant. Once the zero charge point (0mV) is reached, titration stops. According to the difference of anionic polyelectrolyte concentration, the charge on the transfer paper surface can be calculated. " Polyelectrolyte " used herein is polymer, for example macromolecule, which dissolves in water or other polar solvents by dissociating into overall negatively charged or positively charged polymer and counter anion of equal charge.

[0041] Preferably, the cationic component according to the present disclosure has a porous structure so as not to negatively affect the properties of the fibrous substrate, for example by interfering with the removal of the carrier solvent from the sublimable dye.Thus, the present disclosure provides a transfer paper that ensures very fast drying times.

[0042] The ink receiving layer of the present disclosure contains the cationic component in an amount of 10 to 90% by dry weight based on the total dry weight of the ink receiving layer. When an ink receiving layer containing less than 10% by dry weight of the cationic component is used, the effect of concentrating the sublimable dye on or near the surface of the transfer paper cannot be achieved. When the ink receiving layer contains more than 90% by dry weight of the cationic component, the ink receiving layer is not sufficiently bonded to the fiber substrate and dusting occurs, whereby the ink receiving layer is separated from the fiber substrate, broken or easily rubbed off.

[0043] The filler (b) in the ink receiving layer can be the same as the filler used for papermaking as described above. An exemplary embodiment of the filler in the ink receiving layer will be specifically described below. The inorganic mineral filler according to the present disclosure is a neutral substance or does not have an accessible charge. Therefore, the filler in the ink receiving layer can have a net charge of about zero and cannot be measured by quantitative charge measurement as described above. In addition, the filler in the ink receiving layer according to the present disclosure generally has a porous structure to promote the migration of ink solvents (e.g., water) from the ink receiving layer to the fiber substrate. Therefore, the performance of the fiber substrate is not affected by the ink receiving layer.

[0044] The filler is present in the ink receiving layer of the present disclosure in an amount of up to 75% by dry weight. It is not strictly required to be present in the ink receiving layer. When an ink receiving layer containing more than 75% by dry weight of filler is used, the cationic component is overly diluted and the effect of concentrating the sublimable dye at or near the surface of the transfer paper cannot be achieved.

[0045] In the sense of the present disclosure, a binder is a polymer component. A polymer according to the present disclosure is a natural or synthetic substance consisting of macromolecules, which are multiples of one or more monomer units.

[0046] As used herein, the hydrophilic binder (c) refers to a binder comprising polar functional groups. These polar functional groups include one or more of the following: -(C=O)OH, -OH, primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary ammonium compounds, -(C=O)NH 2 , -NO 2 ,-(SO 2 )OH, -SH, -(SO 2 )NH 2 , -SO 2 , -C≡N, -N≡C, -N=O and ions formed by hydrogen addition or cracking thereof. Preferably, the polar functional group comprises one or more of -OH, -O- and a quaternary ammonium compound. The quaternary ammonium compound used herein is an organic ammonium compound in which all four valence electrons of the nitrogen atom are bound to carbon. Therefore, a quaternary ammonium is a salt (ionic compound) composed of positively charged nitrogen (cation) and anion. An example of a hydrophilic adhesive comprising a quaternary ammonium compound ammonium chloride is polydiallyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (polyDADMAC). An example of a hydrophilic adhesive is polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) or starch.

[0047] Preferably, the hydrophilic binder (c) comprises at least 10 mol%, preferably at least 15 mol%, preferably at least 20 mol%, preferably at least 23 mol% and most preferably at least 30 mol% of polar functional groups as defined herein per monomer unit of the polymer component. Thus, polyDADMAC comprises 30 mol% of ammonium chloride per monomer unit. PVOH comprises 38 mol% of hydroxylate per monomer unit, and starch comprises 23 mol% of hydroxylate per monomer unit.

[0048] Most hydrophilic binders are soluble in water at temperatures of 35-100° C. due to the large number of polar functional groups per monomer unit. In the case of applying a water-based sublimable ink to a transfer paper, the hydrophilic binder can ensure accessibility of the ink receiving layer to the water-based sublimable ink, which allows the sublimable dye to contact the cationic component. In addition, the hydrophilic binder ensures wettability of the transfer paper, thereby improving the print definition on the transfer paper and on the article decorated by sublimation printing as defined below.

[0049] However, the inventors have surprisingly found that, in addition to the hydrophilic adhesive, the performance of the transfer paper of the present disclosure is improved by using a hydrophobic adhesive as described below. Without wishing to be bound by any theory, it is believed that the hydrophilic adhesive tends to swell when contacting with a water-based sublimable ink. However, the swelling of the adhesive is disadvantageous because it may close the porous structure of the transfer paper. This may cause the ink applied to the transfer paper to spread on its surface. Only by using a hydrophilic adhesive in combination with a hydrophobic adhesive, this negative effect can be reduced while keeping the ink receiving layer accessible to the sublimable dye. Usually, the purpose of the adhesive is to bond fillers and cationic agents while keeping the porosity of the fiber substrate.

[0050] The amount of the hydrophilic binder (c) included in the ink receiving layer of the present disclosure is 5 to 50% by dry weight, based on the total dry weight of the ink receiving layer. When using an ink receiving layer containing less than 5% by dry weight of a hydrophilic binder, the cationic component is not fully bonded to the fiber substrate. Fully bonded means that the binder material achieves sufficient stability of the interface between the ink receiving layer itself and the ink receiving layer and the fiber substrate. Dust generation in a printing press intended to print transfer paper may occur due to insufficient bonding, whereby the ink receiving layer is separated, broken or easily wiped off from the fiber substrate. When using an ink receiving layer containing more than 50% by dry weight of a hydrophilic binder, the porous structure of the ink receiving layer produced by the cationic component and / or filler may be blocked, and the performance of the fiber substrate as described above will be affected.

[0051] The term hydrophobic binder (d) as used herein refers to a binder that does not contain polar functional groups as defined above. Preferably, the hydrophobic binder contains less than 10 mol%, preferably less than 6 mol%, preferably less than 4 mol%, preferably less than 2 mol% of polar functional groups per monomer unit of the polymer component, and most preferably contains no polar functional groups.

[0052] As mentioned above, the presence of a hydrophobic binder in addition to a hydrophilic binder limits the swelling of the hydrophilic binder when in contact with a water-based sublimable ink.

[0053] The ink receiving layer of the present disclosure contains the hydrophobic binder (d) in an amount of 5 to 50% by dry weight based on the total dry weight of the ink receiving layer. When an ink receiving layer containing less than 5% by dry weight of the hydrophobic binder is used, the cationic component is not sufficiently bonded to the fiber substrate, which will cause the same problem as the above-mentioned hydrophilic binder. When an ink receiving layer containing more than 50% by dry weight of the hydrophobic binder is used, the porous structure of the ink receiving layer will be blocked, and the performance of the fiber substrate as described above will be affected.

[0054] According to the adhesive mixture disclosed in the present invention, not only the accessibility of the ink receiving layer to the sublimable dye is ensured, but also the potential swelling that the ink solvent (carrier) may cause is maintained within an acceptable range. The adhesive mixture of the present invention of the transfer paper described herein also allows the use of a very high amount of cationic components while ensuring the full combination of the ink receiving layer with the fiber substrate. Therefore, even in a thin ink receiving layer, high dye binding performance can be obtained. This reduces negative effects, such as the long drying time that limits the printing speed and the smearing, diffusion or feathering of the ink, which is usually accompanied by the use of adhesives in the coating. In addition, the disclosed adhesive mixture allows a very thin ink receiving layer to be provided. Without wishing to be bound by any theory, it is believed that a thin ink receiving layer may be preferred for retaining the performance of the fiber substrate (e.g., the above-mentioned reproducibility value directly related to the ink absorption capacity of the transfer paper). Last but not least, considering production efficiency and high-precision printing, the possibility of a thin ink receiving layer is preferred.

[0055] The ink receiving layer of the present disclosure may optionally contain other additives known to those skilled in the art of paper manufacturing. These additives may include thickeners, reinforcing agents, dispersants, rheology modifiers, fluorescent brighteners, lubricants, dyes, soluble dyes or sizing agents.

[0056] In view of the above explanation, the amount of cationic inorganic component, cationic organic component or both and filler in the ink receiving layer is preferably greater than 60 dry weight%, preferably greater than 70 dry weight% and most preferably greater than 75 dry weight%, based on the total dry weight of the ink receiving layer.

[0057] In another preferred embodiment, the mass ratio of cationic inorganic component, cationic organic component or both (e.g., cationic component) and filler to hydrophilic binder and hydrophobic binder (i.e., binder mixture) is 85:15 to 75:25, preferably 84:16 to 78:22, and most preferably 82:18 to 80:20. Particularly improved drying time, print clarity, and low dusting can be achieved within these ratios consistent with the above explanations.

[0058] Preferably, the mass ratio of cationic inorganic component, cationic organic component or both (e.g., cationic component) to filler is 80:20 to 20:80, preferably 60:40 to 22:78 and most preferably 35:65 to 24:76. As the amount of cationic component decreases, print clarity decreases. This may be related to the reduction in the number of binding sites for sublimable inks. In addition, a mixture of cationic component and filler as defined above may be advantageous. Without wishing to be bound by any theory, this is due to the contribution of the porous structure of ordinary inorganic mineral fillers to the overall porous structure of the ink receiving layer of the present disclosure. It is believed that the interaction of the porous structure of the ink receiving layer, which is not affected by the use of an adhesive, with the fiber substrate ensures that improved drying time, print clarity, and low dusting are achieved within the above ratios. Although it is likely that the same effect can be achieved by adjusting the porous structure of the cationic component and without using any filler, it is preferred that some filler be present because it is easily available in large quantities.

[0059] Preferably, the mass ratio of the hydrophilic binder to the hydrophobic binder is 65:35 to 35:65, preferably 60:40 to 34:66, preferably 50:50 to 36:64 and most preferably 45:55 to 38:62. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the above range relates to the use of water-based sublimable inks. Without wishing to be bound by any theory, it is believed that the hydrophilic binder enhances the accessibility of the ink receiving layer of the present disclosure to the water-based sublimable dye. However, the hydrophilic binder may also swell when in contact with the water-based sublimable ink. Therefore, the drying time may increase because the water molecules incorporated into the swelling binder structure may take longer to evaporate. Moreover, swelling may also cause a certain degree of ink smearing. Conversely, it is believed that too high an amount of the hydrophobic binder tends to repel the water-based sublimable ink. In this case, the ink tends to remain on the surface of the transfer paper. As a result, the carrier of the dye may be insufficiently absorbed, and the contact of the dye with the cationic component of the ink receiving layer may be hindered. Therefore, too high an amount of hydrophobic binder will also result in a certain degree of ink smearing and loss of print clarity.

[0060] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the amount of cationic component and filler in the ink receiving layer is preferably greater than 60 dry weight%, preferably greater than 70 dry weight% and most preferably greater than 75 dry weight%, based on the total dry weight of the ink receiving layer, while the mass ratio of the cationic component to the binder mixture is 85:15 to 75:25, preferably 84:16 to 78:22 and most preferably 82:18 to 80:20, the mass ratio of the cationic component to the filler is 80:20 to 20:80, preferably 60:40 to 22:78 and most preferably 35:65 to 24:76, and the mass ratio of the hydrophilic binder to the hydrophobic binder is 65:35 to 35:65, preferably 60:40 to 34:66, preferably 50:50 to 36:65 and most preferably 45:55 to 38:62.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment, the cationic inorganic component comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of cationic silica and cationic titanium oxide. The term "cationic" with respect to silica and titanium oxide is the same as the definition above with respect to the cationic component (a) described in detail above. Preferably, the cationic inorganic component comprises cationic silica. In a specific embodiment of the present disclosure, such cationic silica comprises cationic colloidal silica, such as cationic Particles which can be obtained by ion exchange.

[0062] In another preferred embodiment, the cationic organic component comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of a cationic polymer, a cationic organosilica and a cationic metal-organic framework. The term "cationic" with respect to polyelectrolytes, organosilica and metal-organic frameworks is the same as the definition above with respect to the cationic component (a) described in detail above. In a specific embodiment of the present disclosure, the cationic organosilica comprises cationic colloidal silica, such as cationic Particles, which can be obtained by modifying the surface of silica to introduce cationic functional groups.

[0063] The cationic component according to the present disclosure may be obtained by any suitable method, as long as an accessible cationic framework structure with weakly bound and thus exchangeable anions is obtained.

[0064] In another preferred embodiment, the filler in the ink receiving layer according to the present disclosure comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of silicate minerals, oxide minerals, hydroxide minerals, sulfate minerals and carbonate minerals. Preferably, the filler comprises a silicate mineral, more preferably, the filler comprises clay, and most preferably, the filler comprises kaolinite. In addition, the filler in the ink receiving layer according to the present disclosure is preferably calcined.

[0065] According to another preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the hydrophilic binder comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, starch, CMC, alginate and guar gum. Preferably, the hydrophilic binder comprises polyvinyl alcohol, starch or CMC.

[0066] In another preferred embodiment, the hydrophobic binder comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of styrene-butadiene rubber, styrene acrylate, butyl acrylate, acrylonitrile and copolymers thereof. Preferably, the hydrophobic binder is butyl acrylate styrene acrylonitrile.

[0067] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the cationic component is a cationic polymer, the amount of filler can be increased and the amount of hydrophilic binder or hydrophobic binder can be reduced depending on the amount of polar functional groups as defined above per monomer unit of the cationic polymer.

[0068] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the transfer paper of the present disclosure has an ink receiving layer comprising cationic silica, cationic organic silica, or both as a cationic component, calcined clay as a filler, polyvinyl alcohol as a hydrophilic binder, and butyl acrylate styrene acrylonitrile as a hydrophobic binder.

[0069] Since the ink receiving layer of the present disclosure preferably does not affect the performance of the porous substrate, the transfer paper may preferably have a relative humidity of greater than 40 g / m2 when measured according to ISO 535 standard. 2 , preferably 40 to 90 g / m 2 The value of erectile dysfunction.

[0070] Furthermore, in another preferred embodiment, the transfer paper may have a Bendtsen air permeability of less than 100 mL / min when measured according to ISO 5636-3 standard.

[0071] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the transfer paper may have a weight of greater than 40 g / m 2 , preferably 40 to 90 g / m 2 The composite material may have a Bendtsen air permeability of less than 100 mL / min when measured according to ISO 5636-3 standard.

[0072] Preferably, due to the composition of the ink receiving layer, the transfer paper of the present disclosure can have an ink drying time of less than 5 seconds in order to minimize the risk of sublimable ink smearing onto the transfer paper and achieve shortened manufacturing time when preparing printed transfer paper as described below.

[0073] When the cationic component is defined by the specific charge density measured on the transfer paper surface, the transfer paper may preferably have a charge density of 10 4 Up to 10 6 C / m 2 Between, preferably 3*10 4 Up to 7*10 5 C / m 2 Between and more preferably 6.20*10 4 Up to 4.70*10 5 C / m 2 , when measured according to the method described in the experimental section below.

[0074] In addition, the transfer paper can be defined by Parker Print-Surf (PPS) roughness. PPS roughness is an important factor in defining the printability of paper. PPS roughness is closely related to print quality by measuring the PPS roughness under conditions that simulate the way ink is applied during the printing process. Preferably, the transfer paper of the present disclosure may have a PPS roughness of 3 to 5 μm, preferably 3.5 to 4.5 μm and most preferably 4 μm, measured according to ISO 8791-4:2007 (using a hard roller and a pressure of 1000 kPa). Generally, PPS with a roughness below 3 μm is difficult to obtain. In addition, if the PPS roughness is greater than 5 μm, the print clarity on the transfer paper and the final product will be affected.

[0075] The transfer paper, ink receiving layer and fibrous substrate of the present disclosure can have any basis weight and thickness suitable for providing the desired properties of the transfer paper. The term "basis weight" as used herein refers to the area density of the substrate. Basis weight is usually expressed as weight per square meter (gsm = g / m 2 ). For the purposes of this disclosure, the terms "basis weight" and "grammage" are used interchangeably unless otherwise specifically stated. The basis weight defined herein is measured according to the ISO 536 standard. Basis weight is related to the thickness of the substrate. In this disclosure, thickness is measured according to the ISO 534 standard.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment, the ink receiving layer may have a thickness of 3 to 10 g / m 2 , preferably 4 to 9 g / m 2 , more preferably 5 to 8 g / m 2 And most preferably 6 to 7 g / m 2 Furthermore, the ink receiving layer may preferably have a thickness of 3 to 10 μm, more preferably 4 to 9 μm, more preferably 5 to 8 μm, and most preferably 6 to 7 μm.

[0077] In another preferred embodiment, the fiber substrate may have a thickness of 25 to 140 g / m 2 , preferably 35 to 120 g / m2 , more preferably 40 to 100 g / m 2 And most preferably 45 to 80 g / m 2 When the basis weight is less than 25g / m 2 When the fibrous substrate is not used, the dimensional stability of the fibrous substrate may be compromised, making such a fibrous substrate unsuitable for use in a transfer paper.

[0078] In a preferred embodiment, the transfer paper may have a g / m 2 , preferably 39 to 129 g / m 2 , more preferably 45 to 108 g / m 2 And most preferably 51 to 87 g / m 2 In addition, the transfer paper may preferably have a thickness of at least 50.5 μm, more preferably 56 to 305 μm, and most preferably 101.5 to 204 μm.

[0079] According to an alternative embodiment, the transfer paper of the present disclosure comprises at least three layers. In addition to the above two layers, ie, the fibrous substrate and the ink receiving layer, the transfer paper may comprise a barrier layer on the surface of the fibrous substrate opposite to the surface of the fibrous substrate with the ink receiving layer. Figure 2 This alternative embodiment is shown.

[0080] The barrier layer according to the present disclosure prevents backgassing, which occurs when the sublimable ink is transferred from the transfer paper to the substrate by the sublimation process. When the sublimable ink is heated and in gaseous form, its movement is not limited to a certain direction, but will occur uniformly in all directions. Therefore, a certain amount of sublimable ink may be lost, especially on the back side of the transfer paper, which is called backgassing. A known method used in the field of manufacturing transfer paper to avoid this phenomenon is to provide a barrier layer on the transfer paper as described above. For ordinary transfer papers comprising a barrier layer, an increase in drying time is often observed.

[0081] The chemical composition of the barrier layer is not particularly limited and can be any conventional barrier layer known in the art suitable for processing, printing, coating, thermal transfer and other operations related to the present disclosure. Without limitation, the barrier layer can include starch, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) or aluminum foil. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the barrier layer can be starch. Surprisingly, it has been found that the transfer paper of the present disclosure achieves very low drying time even when it includes a barrier layer.

[0082] The barrier layer can be directly formed on the fiber substrate, or at least one additional layer can be formed on the fiber substrate before forming the barrier layer. Such an additional layer can be any identical or different additional layers, which can be arranged between the fiber substrate and the ink receiving layer as described above. The barrier layer and the additional layer can contain a certain type of visual indicator (e.g., pigment or dye) so that the user of the transfer paper can immediately understand which surface of the transfer paper does not contain the ink receiving layer and therefore which surface is intended to receive sublimable ink. The pigment or dye provided as a part of the sizing agent can be selected so that it will not transfer during the sublimation process (e.g., it itself does not serve as sublimable ink). The barrier layer can reduce the Bentsen air permeability of paper. Therefore, the transfer paper comprising the barrier layer has a Bentsen air permeability of less than 50ml / min and more preferably less than 10ml / min.

[0083] Preferably, the cationic compound of the present disclosure is a cationic inorganic component based on particles having a particle size of less than 1 μm. This means that when the ink receiving composition is prepared to form an ink receiving layer as described below, the cationic component has a particle size of less than 1 μm.

[0084] Preferably, the filler in the ink receiving layer is based on particles, wherein at least 50% of the particles have a particle size of less than 2 μm. This means that when the ink receiving composition is prepared to form the ink receiving layer as described below, at least 50% of the particles have a particle size of less than 2 μm. Preferably, the filler particles are spherical or blocky particles.

[0085] The particle size and shape of the cationic component particles and filler particles were determined by SEM (scanning electron microscopy).

[0086] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for preparing a transfer paper for sublimation printing as described above. The method comprises the following steps:

[0087] i. providing a fiber substrate,

[0088] ii. preparing an aqueous dispersion comprising a cationic inorganic component, a cationic organic component or both, a hydrophilic binder, a hydrophobic binder and optionally a filler to obtain an ink receiving composition, and

[0089] iii. applying an ink receiving composition on a fibrous substrate, and drying the ink receiving composition to form an ink receiving layer.

[0090] The fiber substrate in the method for preparing the transfer paper of the present disclosure is as defined above.

[0091] The ink receiving composition is an aqueous dispersion of a cationic component as above, optional filler, hydrophilic adhesive and hydrophobic adhesive, for example a water-based dispersion. For purposes of the present disclosure, the term "dispersion" can be used interchangeably with the term "emulsion", unless otherwise specified. If desired, improve the solubility of hydrophilic adhesive and hydrophobic adhesive in water, can heat the water-adhesive mixture before adding the cationic component and the optional filler. The amount of water in the ink receiving composition can be regulated separately. For example, the amount of water can depend on the method or temperature when the composition is applied to the fiber substrate or depend on the fiber substrate itself. In a preferred embodiment, the solids content in the aqueous ink receiving composition dispersion is adjusted to 10 to 50 % by weight, preferably 20 to 40 % by weight and more preferably 25 to 35 % by weight.

[0092] Before applying the ink receiving composition according to the present disclosure to one or both surfaces of the fibrous substrate, the composition may be optionally cooled. The method of applying the coating composition is not particularly limited and may be carried out by knife coating, air knife coating, roller coating, curtain coating, spray coating, size press coating (e.g., thin press coating), film press (also known as metered size press) and cast coating. For laboratory technical prototypes, a Meyer rod may be used, while in industrial applications, a blade may be used for coating.

[0093] One advantage of the ink receiving layer according to the present disclosure is that it can be applied to the fibrous substrate "online". The expression "online" refers to the application of the ink receiving composition during the manufacture of the transfer paper for sublimation printing. Therefore, when manufacturing the paper, the ink absorbing composition can be applied relatively quickly after the fibrous substrate is formed. By applying the ink receiving composition "online", the transfer paper of the present disclosure can be provided with high production efficiency compared to an "offline" process, in which the fibrous substrate may have to be provided to a second setup for applying the ink receiving composition thereon, possibly even after transporting it to another location.

[0094] After the ink receiving composition is applied to the fibrous substrate, the paper is dried. When the ink receiving composition is applied "in-line", drying is preferably accomplished in the drying section of the paper machine. Any drying method may be used, such as infrared radiation, hot air, heated rollers, or any combination thereof, as well as drying at room temperature.

[0095] After drying the ink receiving composition, an ink receiving layer as described above is formed on the fibrous substrate, thereby obtaining the transfer paper for sublimation printing as defined herein.

[0096] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for preparing a printed transfer paper. The method comprises the following steps:

[0097] (a) providing a transfer paper for sublimation printing as defined above, and

[0098] (b) applying the sublimable ink to the ink receiving layer by using a printing device, preferably an ink jet printer, to produce a print in a continuous or discontinuous printing process.

[0099] The term "applying" as used herein in the context of sublimable inks refers to printing and any other process suitable for providing sublimable inks onto transfer paper. Printing refers to the use of a printing device to produce text or images on a transfer paper. Preferably, but not limited to, such a printing device is an electronic printer that receives information in the form of a digital file. Alternatively, the sublimable ink can also be applied by, for example, painting or pouring the sublimable ink directly onto the transfer paper.

[0100] Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to the use of a transfer paper for sublimation printing as described above in a method for preparing a printed transfer paper, wherein the sublimable ink is applied to the ink receiving layer in a continuous or discontinuous printing process by using a printing device, preferably an inkjet printer.

[0101] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a printed transfer paper, which comprises the transfer paper for sublimation printing as described above and at least one printed object on an ink receiving layer, wherein the printed object comprises the sublimable ink as described above.

[0102] The present disclosure also provides a method for decorating an article. The article used herein refers to a support material intended to receive at least one printed object through the sublimation process described herein. The article can be a textile and other materials having a metal, glass, ceramic, wood or plastic surface. When the article to be printed by the sublimation process comprises a surface of metal, glass, ceramic, wood or plastic, the surface can be treated with a polyester composition to improve the adhesion of the sublimable ink on the surface. In fact, it is known that polyester coatings form covalent bonds with sublimable inks, which enables the dye present in the sublimable ink to adhere firmly to the surface of the article printed by the sublimation process. The method for decorating an article includes the step of transferring at least one printed object from the above-mentioned printed transfer paper to the article. As described above, the printed object is transferred by sublimation.

[0103] Typically, sublimable dyes are transfer resistant at room temperature. Once the transfer temperature is reached, the sublimable dye can be transferred to the article. The exact mechanism of transfer is not necessarily clear. Without wishing to be bound by any theory, it is expected that at least a portion of the sublimable dye vaporizes and is transferred to the article as a gas. In addition, the temperature, pressure and time that can be used for sublimation printing can affect the degree of transfer. The sublimation temperature during the sublimation transfer process is at least 60°C. The upper limit of the sublimation temperature depends on the materials involved in the sublimation transfer process, such as transfer paper, the article to be decorated by the process, and other materials that may be involved, such as protective paper defined below. Preferably, sublimation printing is carried out at a temperature in the range of about 170°C to about 220°C, more preferably in the range of about 190°C to about 210°C. However, temperatures as high as 400°C are also known.

[0104] Preferably, a sublimation transfer machine comprising or consisting of a heat press is used for sublimation printing.

[0105] Optionally, the protective paper may be arranged on the surface of the printed transfer paper opposite to the surface of the printed transfer paper that contacts the article, for example between the pressing sheet and the transfer paper present on the sublimation transfer machine. Optionally or in addition to the aforementioned options, the protective paper may be arranged on the surface of the article opposite to the surface of the article that contacts the printed transfer paper, for example between the pressing sheet and the article present on the sublimation transfer machine. The protective paper is a fibrous material used to capture the ink that sublimates during the transfer process, protecting the equipment from contamination. The protective paper is intended to prevent dusting of at least some parts of the sublimation transfer machine.

[0106] In addition, another aspect of the present disclosure relates to the use of the printed transfer paper as described above in a method for decorating an article. In this context, at least one print on the printed transfer paper is transferred to the article by the sublimation process described above. Optionally, a protective paper may be used as described above.

[0107] In a final aspect, the present disclosure provides a kind of article of decoration. The article of decoration comprises at least one printed thing transferred to the article as described above, wherein the article serves as a support material for receiving at least one printed thing through a sublimation process. The article of decoration can be made of textile, plastic, metal, ceramic, glass, wood or a combination thereof. The article made of textile can be, for example, fashion, sportswear, flag or carpet. The article made of textile, plastic, metal, ceramic, glass, wood or a combination thereof can be, for example, a smart phone housing, a photo frame, a button, a storage container, a glasses frame, sports equipment, a commodity (clock, a mouse pad, a key chain, a cup holder), a pin badge, a stapler, a shoe or a part thereof.

[0108] Experimental Section

[0109] The formula of the ink receiving layer of the exemplary transfer paper for sublimation printing disclosed in the present invention is specifically described as follows. The ink receiving layer is formed by an ink receiving composition, which is obtained by heating an adhesive in water and then adding other components. The amount of water added varies according to the solid content of the ink receiving layer components provided as a dispersion. In the following examples, the solid content is adjusted to about 30% by weight, based on the total amount of the ink receiving composition. The ink receiving composition is then applied to one surface of a fiber substrate using a Meyer rod and dried in the final step to obtain a transfer paper comprising an ink receiving layer for sublimation printing as defined herein.

[0110] In all the following examples, a wood matrix comprising 30% softwood and 70% hardwood with a basis weight of 70 g / m 2 , water-resistant 60" value is 80g / m 2 , fiber substrate with a Bentsen air permeability of 150mL / min.

[0111] After forming the ink receiving layer as described in the following Examples 1 to 20 and Comparative Examples 1 to 5, a barrier layer was formed from a barrier composition obtained by heating 17 wt % starch in water. The barrier composition was then cooled and applied to the surface of the fibrous substrate opposite to the surface with the ink receiving layer by using a Meyer bar.

[0112] Printed transfer papers were prepared by printing the exemplary transfer papers described below using a SAWGRASS SG400 printer in black mode with black ink (SAWGRASS Sublijetblack) to obtain a black pattern, or by using an EPSON NET-7750 printer in color mode with EPSON UltraChrome DS ink.

[0113] For these specific embodiments, the decorated articles were obtained by sublimation printing on polyester fabric. The transfer of the print from the above printed transfer paper by sublimation printing was carried out in a printing press at 210° C. for 1 minute.

[0114] Characterization

[0115] Drying time was calculated by passing a strip of white copy paper (80 g / m2 from Clairefontaine) through the 2 Copy paper) on a solid black printed rectangle measuring 1 cm x 1.2 cm (see Figure 3 ).

[0116] The optical density of the print after transfer onto polyester fabric via the sublimation process was measured using an X-rite eXact Basic spectrodensitometer.

[0117] Dust is measured by placing a commercially available transparent tape on the coated surface. The tape is then removed and taped to black paper. In the case of dust, part of the white component of the ink receiving layer may be removed and clearly visible on the black paper.

[0118] The transfer paper's reproducibility is measured according to ISO 535 standard.

[0119] The Bendtsen air permeability of transfer paper is measured according to ISO 5636-3 standard.

[0120] The specific charge density of the transfer paper surface was measured using Mütek TM The PCD-05 device is measured by the following method.

[0121] Sample preparation: Cut the transfer paper into 10*10cm 2 Each sample was then folded at 1.5 cm from the edge to form a cup by binding the edges so that the ink receiving layer containing the cationic component was located at the bottom of the cup, for example, the bottom surface of the outside of the cup. The bottom area of ​​the cup thus obtained was 7*7 cm 2 =49cm 2 .

[0122] Blank determination: 10 mL of sodium poly(ethylene sulfonate) (PES-Na) solution (0.001 M aqueous solution, Noviprofibre) was titrated with poly(DADMAC) solution (0.001 M aqueous solution, Noviprofibre) to determine the concentration factor f, which was calculated by the mathematical formula (1):

[0123] f=V PES-Na / V eq (1)

[0124] in:

[0125] V PES-Na = Volume of sample to be titrated [mL]

[0126] V eq = titrant (polyDADMAC solution) consumption unit [mL]

[0127] Back titration: For each sample, prepare 10 tubes with a bottom surface area of ​​49 cm 2cup. 100 mL of PES-Na solution is provided in a 1L beaker. The first transfer paper cup is placed on the solution with the surface to be measured facing the solution and no air is collected between the paper and the solution. The cup is floated on the stirred PES-Na solution (250 rpm) for 10 minutes and then replaced with the next cup. These steps are repeated until 10 cups have reacted with the solution. After filtering through sintered glass using a Büchner system, 10 mL (=V) of polyDADMAC solution is titrated. PES-Na ) reaction solution. Repeat the titration at least 5 times to obtain the titrant consumption V eq If the starting potential is cationic because the concentration of the initial PES-Na solution is too low compared to the cationic charges present on the bottom surface of the sample, the polyDADMAC solution can be diluted with the PES-Na solution. The dilution factor D will then be taken into account in the calculation. The specific charge density q per square meter of sample mol / sqm [mol / m 2 ] is calculated by mathematical formula (2):

[0128] q mol / sqm =(V 空白 -V eq )*D*C*f / (S*10000) (2)

[0129] in:

[0130] q mol / sqm = specific charge density [mol / m 2 ]

[0131] V 空白 = Volume of initial PES-Na solution used for blank determination [mL]

[0132] V eq = titrant (polyDADMAC solution) consumption unit [mL]

[0133] D = dilution factor

[0134] C = concentration of poly DADMAC solution [M]

[0135] f = concentration factor

[0136] S = sample surface [cm 2 ]=49cm 2

[0137] 10000 = 1 cm 2 Convert to 1m 2 The coefficient of

[0138] Specific charge density q C / sqm Unit [C / m2 ], obtained by mathematical formula (3):

[0139] q C / sqm =q mol / sqm *F

[0140] in:

[0141] q mol / sqm = specific charge density [mol / m 2 ]

[0142] q C / sqm = specific charge density [C / m 2 ]

[0143] F = Faraday constant = 96,485 C / mol

[0144] The Parker Print-Surf (PPS) roughness of the transfer paper is measured according to ISO 8791-4:2007 standard.

[0145] The basis weights of the ink receiving layer, fibrous substrate and transfer paper were determined according to ISO 536 standard.

[0146] Examples 1 to 7

[0147] In Examples 1 to 7, the mass ratio between the hydrophilic binder and the hydrophobic binder varied between 21:79 and 79:21 (see Table 1 below). The total amount of binder (the sum of the hydrophilic binder and the hydrophobic binder) was adjusted to 19% by dry weight. In all examples, the mass ratio between the cationic component (20% by dry weight) and the filler (61% by dry weight) was 25:75. In all examples, the ratio of the total amount of the cationic component and the filler to the total amount of the binder was 81:19.

[0148] The cationic component is cationic silica ( C30E, Univar Solutions), the filler is calcined clay ( 93, BASF), the hydrophobic adhesive is butyl acrylate styrene acrylonitrile ( S360D, BASF), and the hydrophilic adhesive was PVOH (Wego 30 / 98, Wego).

[0149] Table 1 : The amounts of the components in the receiving layers of Examples 1 to 7 are expressed in dry weight %, based on the total dry weight of the ink receiving layer.

[0150] Example 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Cationic component (A) 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 Filler (B) 61 61 61 61 61 61 61 Hydrophilic adhesive (C) 4 6 7.5 9.5 11.5 13 15 Hydrophobic adhesive (D) 15 13 11.5 9.5 7.5 6 4 C:D Ratio 21:79 32:68 39:61 50:50 61:39 68:32 79:21

[0151] Examples 8 to 11

[0152] Examples 8 to 11 are the same as Example 3, except that the mass ratio between the cationic component and the filler is changed from 10:90 to 90:10 (see Table 2 below). In all examples, the mass ratio between the hydrophilic binder (7.5 dry weight %) and the hydrophobic binder (11.5 dry weight %) is maintained at 39:61, and the mass ratio of the total amount of the cationic component and the filler to the total amount of the binder is maintained at 81:19.

[0153] Table 2 : The amounts of the components in the receiving layer of Examples 3 and 8 to 11 are expressed in dry weight % based on the total dry weight of the ink receiving layer.

[0154] Example 8 3 9 10 11 Cationic component (A) 8.1 20 40.5 43.5 73 Filler (B) 72.9 61 40.5 37.2 8 Hydrophilic adhesive (C) 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 Hydrophobic adhesive (D) 11.5 11.5 11.5 11.5 11.5 A:B Ratio 10:90 25:75 50:50 54:46 90:10

[0155] Examples 12 to 17

[0156] Examples 12 to 17 are the same as Example 3, except that the mass ratio of the total amount of cationic component and filler to the total amount of binder is varied.

[0157] The amount of hydrophilic binder and hydrophobic binder was adjusted so that the mass ratio between hydrophilic binder and hydrophobic binder was maintained at 39:61. Likewise, in all examples, the amount of cationic compound and filler was adjusted so that the mass ratio between cationic component and filler was maintained at 25:75.

[0158] Table 3 : The amounts of the components in the receiving layer of Examples 3 and 12 to 17 are expressed in dry weight % based on the total dry weight of the ink receiving layer.

[0159] Example 12 13 14 3 15 16 17 Cationic component (A) 22.5 21 20.5 20 19 18.5 17 Filler (B) 67.5 64 62.5 61 58 55.5 51 Hydrophilic adhesive (C) 3.5 6 6.75 7.5 9.5 10.5 13 Hydrophobic adhesive (D) 6.5 9 10.25 11.5 13.5 15.5 19 ΣA+B 90 85 83 81 77 74 68 ΣC+D 10 15 17 19 23 26 32 A+B:C+D Ratio 90:10 85:15 83:17 81:19 77:23 74:26 68:32

[0160] Examples 18 to 20

[0161] Examples 18 to 20 are based on Example 3, wherein the cationic components are varied. Different cationic organic components are used to replace the cationic inorganic component cationic silica. The cationic silica in Examples 18 to 20 is replaced by non-cationic silica ( 2020K, Cabot's fumed silica) was substituted. In Examples 18 and 19, the hydrophilic binder was cationic (polyDADMAC, Adifloc RCAS20 from Adipap; and starch, Roquette's 1134A). In addition, in Example 19, another calcium carbonate filler ( 90, Omya) was used with a cationic starch binder. In Example 20, the hydrophobic binder was cationic ( 280KD, BASF).

[0162] Table 4 : The ink receiving layer formulations of Examples 3 and 18 to 20 and the amounts of the components in the receiving layer are expressed in dry weight % based on the total dry weight of the ink receiving layer.

[0163]

[0164] Comparative Examples 1 to 5

[0165] Comparative Examples 1 to 5 are based on Example 3, wherein the ink receiving layer does not contain a cationic component, a binder mixture, or both: In Comparative Example 1, there is no cationic component as defined herein, while Comparative Examples 2 and 3 lack a binder mixture as defined herein. In Comparative Examples 4 and 5, there is neither a cationic component nor a binder mixture.

[0166] Table 5 : The amounts of the components in the receiving layers of Comparative Examples 1 to 5 are expressed in dry weight % based on the total dry weight of the ink receiving layer.

[0167] Comparative Example 1 2 3 4 5 Cationic component (A) 0 20 20 0 0 Filler (B) 81 61 61 81 81 Hydrophilic adhesive (C) 7.5 19 0 19 0 Hydrophobic adhesive (D) 11,5 0 19 0 19

[0168] Comparative Examples 6 and 7

[0169] Commercially available high-end transfer papers were investigated as Comparative Example 6 (TextPrint XP HR, 105 gsm, Beaver) and Comparative Example 7 (SX30HS, 95 gsm, Coldenhove). Analysis of these products confirmed that both comparative transfer papers contained starch on both surfaces of the fibrous substrate and thus contained a barrier layer as defined herein.

[0170] result

[0171] The results for drying time, clarity and dusting are categorized according to Table 6 below.

[0172] Table 6 : Classification of drying time, clarity and dusting.

[0173]

[0174] None of Examples 1-20 showed any backgassing when sublimated printed.

[0175] Ratio of hydrophilic binder to hydrophobic binder

[0176] The properties of Examples 1 to 7 are summarized below in Table 7. As can be seen from the data, Example 3 shows favorable properties with respect to drying time, print clarity and dusting.

[0177] For relatively large amounts of hydrophilic binder, an increase in drying time has been observed, probably due to delayed evaporation of water molecules incorporated into the swollen binder structure. However, even with relatively large amounts of hydrophilic binder, the dusting properties of Examples 4 to 7 are still favorable.

[0178] As the amount of hydrophilic binder as well as the amount of hydrophobic binder increases, clarity deteriorates slightly, as it is believed that adjustment of the ratios within the binder mixture ensures optimal suppression of binder swelling and enhanced accessibility of the ink receiving layer to the sublimable ink. Nevertheless, the drying times of Examples 1 and 2 are as favorable as the dusting of Examples 4 to 7.

[0179] Some dusting can be observed for Examples 1 and 2 which have a considerable amount of hydrophobic adhesive. Without wishing to be bound by any theory, the adhesive properties of the hydrophobic adhesive may not be as good as the adhesive properties of the hydrophilic adhesive. Although some dusting was observed, the drying times for Examples 1 and 2 were favorable and the clarity was still acceptable.

[0180] Table 7 : Performance of Examples 1-7.

[0181] Example 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 C:D Ratio 21:79 32:68 39:61 50:50 61:39 68:32 79:21 Drying time(s) <5 <5 <5 10 15 35 >40 Clarity + / - + / - + + / - + / - + / - - Dust yes yes no no no no no

[0182] Ratio of cationic component to filler

[0183] The performance of Examples 8 to 11 compared to Example 3 is summarized in Table 8 below. As can be seen from the data, Example 3 shows favorable properties with respect to drying time, print clarity and dusting. A relatively small amount of cationic component results in a slight loss of clarity, which may be due to the reduced number of binding sites available for the ink. In addition, in view of the interaction of the porous structure of the ink receiving layer with the fibrous substrate, it is preferred to fine-tune the ratio between the cationic component and the filler to ensure improved drying time, print clarity and low dusting.

[0184] While it is possible to achieve the same effect by tailoring the porous structure of the cationic component and not using any filler, the presence of some filler is preferred because it is readily available in large quantities.

[0185] Table 8 : Performance of Examples 3 and 8 to 11.

[0186] Example 8 3 9 10 11 A:B Ratio 10:90 25:75 50:50 54:46 90:10 Drying time(s) 15 <5 <5 <5 10 Clarity + / - + + + + Dust no no Some Some Some

[0187] Ratio of the total amount of cationic components and fillers to the total amount of the binder mixture

[0188] Compared with embodiment 3, the performance of embodiment 12 to 17 is summarized in the following table 9.As can be seen from the data, embodiment 3 shows the favorable characteristics about drying time, print clarity and dusting property.Although the drying time and clarity performance of the embodiment with quite a small amount of adhesive mixture is favorable, the dusting property is increased due to the bonding reduction of cationic component and filler.Conversely, when using a large amount of adhesive mixture, dusting property is favorable.However, along with the increase of bonding amount, drying time and clarity performance are not too preferred.Not wishing to be bound by any theory, these improved performances may originate from the optimized accessibility of ink receiving layer to sublimable dye, the minimized swelling caused by carrier solvent, the optimized combination of ink receiving layer and fiber substrate and the high binding efficiency of sublimable dye and ink receiving layer.

[0189] Table 9 : Performance of Examples 3 and 12 to 17.

[0190] Example 12 13 14 3 15 16 17 A+B:C+D Ratio 90:10 85:15 83:17 81:19 77:23 74:26 68:32 Drying time(s) <5 <5 <5 <5 15 30 >40 Clarity + + + + + / - + / - + / - Dust yes yes Some no no no no

[0191] Different cationic components

[0192] The performance of Examples 12 to 17 compared to Example 3 is summarized below in Table 10. As can be seen from the data, Example 3 shows favorable properties with respect to drying time, print clarity and dusting.

[0193] When polyDADMAC or a cationic hydrophobic binder is used as the cationic component, the drying time is still acceptable.

[0194] The increased drying time using cationic starch may be due to the high water absorption capacity of starch. This may also be the reason for the superior clarity performance of other examples using starch as the cationic component. However, no dusting was observed when cationic starch was used as the hydrophilic binder.

[0195] When a cationic hydrophobic binder is used, clarity and dusting are reduced. Without wishing to be bound by any theory, the hydrophilicity of the ion-exchanged styrene-acrylate may increase, so that the effect of using a hydrophobic binder may be reduced.

[0196] Table 10 : Performance of Examples 3 and 18 to 20.

[0197]

[0198] No cationic components and / or binder mixtures are present

[0199] Table 11 below shows the necessity of the presence of a cationic component and a binder mixture and summarizes the performance of Comparative Examples 1 to 5 compared to Example 3.

[0200] As can be seen from the data, the presence of either a single binder mixture (Comparative Example 1) or a single cationic component (Comparative Examples 2 and 3) is not sufficient to obtain the advantageous properties of the present disclosure. Comparative Example 3, which contains a cationic component according to the present disclosure but does not contain a binder mixture, even results in such severe dusting that the paper is unacceptable for commercial applications. Thus, Comparative Examples 4 and 5, which do not contain a cationic component or a binder mixture, also result in very low clarity and long drying times. Only by using the cationic component, hydrophilic and hydrophobic binders defined herein together, the properties of the transfer paper are surprisingly significantly improved.

[0201] Table 11 : Performance of Example 3 and Comparative Examples 1-5.

[0202]

[0203] The performance of Example 3 and Comparative Examples 6-7 are compared below in Table 12. As can be seen from the data, Example 3 shows favorable properties with respect to drying time. Although Comparative Examples 6-7 all appear to contain a barrier layer, Comparative Example 6 still shows some backgassing.

[0204] Table 12 : Performance of Example 3 and Comparative Examples 6 to 7.

[0205]

[0206] Implementation

[0207] The present disclosure provides a transfer paper for sublimation printing, comprising a fiber substrate and an ink receiving layer, wherein the ink receiving layer comprises:

[0208] Cationic inorganic components and / or cationic organic components in an amount of 10 to 90% by dry weight

[0209] Optional fillers in an amount of up to 75% by dry weight

[0210] A hydrophilic binder in an amount of 5 to 50% by dry weight, and

[0211] A hydrophobic binder in an amount of 5 to 50% by dry weight,

[0212] The amount expressed in dry weight % is based on the total dry weight of the ink receiving layer. [Embodiment 1]

[0213] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to Embodiment 1, wherein the amount of the cationic inorganic component and / or cationic organic component and filler in the ink receiving layer is greater than 60% by dry weight, preferably greater than 70% by dry weight, based on the total dry weight of the ink receiving layer. [Embodiment 2]

[0214] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to Embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the mass ratio of the cationic inorganic component and / or the cationic organic component and the filler to the hydrophilic binder and the hydrophobic binder is 85:15 to 75:25. [Embodiment 3]

[0215] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the mass ratio of the cationic inorganic component and / or the cationic organic component to the filler is 80:20 to 20:80. [Embodiment 4]

[0216] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the mass ratio of the hydrophilic binder to the hydrophobic binder is 65:35 to 35:65. [Embodiment 5]

[0217] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the cationic inorganic component comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of cationic silica and cationic titanium oxide, and preferably, the cationic inorganic component comprises cationic silica. [Embodiment 6]

[0218] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to any one of Embodiments 1 or 5, wherein the cationic organic component comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of a cationic polymer, a cationic organic silica, and a cationic metal-organic framework. [Embodiment 7]

[0219] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to any one of Embodiments 1 or 5, wherein the filler comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of silicate minerals, oxide minerals, hydroxide minerals, sulfate minerals and carbonate minerals, preferably, the filler comprises a silicate mineral. [Embodiment 8]

[0220] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to any one of Embodiments 1 or 5, wherein the hydrophilic binder comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, starch, carboxymethyl cellulose, alginate and guar gum, preferably, the hydrophilic binder comprises polyvinyl alcohol, starch or carboxymethyl cellulose. [Embodiment 9]

[0221] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to any one of Embodiments 1 or 5, wherein the hydrophobic adhesive comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of styrene-butadiene rubber, styrene acrylate, butyl acrylate, acrylonitrile and copolymers thereof, preferably, the hydrophobic adhesive is butyl acrylate styrene acrylonitrile.

[0222] [Implementation Plan 10]

[0223] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 10, which comprises a barrier layer on the surface of the fiber substrate opposite to the surface of the fiber substrate with the ink receiving layer. [Embodiment 11]

[0224] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11, having a transfer weight of greater than 40 g / m2 as measured according to ISO 535. 2 , preferably 40 to 90 g / m 2 [Implementation Plan 12]

[0225] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to any one of embodiments 1 to 12, which has a Bendtsen air permeability of less than 100 mL / min, preferably less than 10 mL / min, measured according to ISO5636-3. [Embodiment 13]

[0226] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 13, which has an ink drying time of less than 5 seconds. [Embodiment 14]

[0227] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to any one of embodiments 1 to 14, which has a transfer thickness of 10 5 To 2.10*10 6 C / m 2 Specific charge density between. [Implementation 15]

[0228] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 15, which has a Parker Print-Surf (PPS) surface roughness of 3 to 5 μm measured according to ISO8791-4:2007. [Embodiment 16]

[0229] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to any one of embodiments 1 to 16, wherein the basis weight of the ink receiving layer measured according to ISO 536 is 3 to 10 g / m 2 [Implementation Plan 17]

[0230] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to any one of embodiments 1 to 17, wherein the basis weight of the fibrous substrate measured according to ISO 536 is 25 to 140 g / m 2 [Implementation Plan 18]

[0231] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to any one of embodiments 1 to 18, wherein the basis weight of the transfer paper measured according to ISO 536 is 28 to 150 g / m 2 [Implementation Plan 19]

[0232] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 19, wherein the cationic inorganic component in the ink receiving layer is based on particles having a particle size of less than 1 μm. [Embodiment 20]

[0233] The present disclosure also provides a transfer paper according to any one of embodiments 1 to 20, wherein the filler in the ink receiving layer is based on particles, preferably spherical or blocky particles, wherein at least 50% of the particles have a particle size of less than 2 μm. [Embodiment 21]

[0234] The present disclosure also provides a method for preparing a transfer paper for sublimation printing as defined in any one of embodiments 1 to 21, the method comprising the following steps:

[0235] (i) providing a fibrous substrate,

[0236] (ii) preparing an aqueous dispersion comprising a cationic inorganic component and / or a cationic organic component, a hydrophilic binder, a hydrophobic binder and optionally a filler to obtain an ink receiving composition, and

[0237] (iii) applying an ink receiving composition to a fibrous substrate, and drying the ink receiving composition to form an ink receiving layer. [Embodiment 22]

[0238] The present invention also provides a method for preparing printed transfer paper, the method comprising the following steps:

[0239] (a) providing a transfer paper for sublimation printing as defined in any one of Embodiments 1 to 21, and

[0240] (b) applying a sublimable ink to the ink receiving layer by using a printing device, preferably an inkjet printer, to produce printed content in a continuous or discontinuous printing process. [Embodiment 23]

[0241] The present disclosure also provides the use of a transfer paper for sublimation printing as defined in any one of embodiments 1 to 21 in a method for preparing a printed transfer paper, wherein the sublimable ink is applied to the ink receiving layer in a continuous or discontinuous printing process by using a printing device, preferably an inkjet printer. [Embodiment 24]

[0242] The present disclosure also provides a printed transfer paper, which comprises a transfer paper for sublimation printing as defined in any one of Embodiments 1 to 21 and at least one printed content on an ink receiving layer, wherein the printed content comprises a sublimable ink. [Embodiment 25]

[0243] The present disclosure also provides a method for decorating an article, the method comprising the step of transferring at least one printed matter from a printed transfer paper as defined in Embodiment 25 to an article by sublimation, wherein optionally, a protective paper may be arranged on the surface of the printed transfer paper opposite to the surface of the printed transfer paper contacting the article and / or arranged on the surface of the article opposite to the surface of the article contacting the printed transfer paper. [Embodiment 26]

[0244] The present disclosure also provides the use of a printed transfer paper as defined in Embodiment 25 in a method for decorating an article, wherein at least one printed matter on the printed transfer paper is transferred to the article by sublimation, wherein optionally, a protective paper may be arranged on the surface of the printed transfer paper opposite to the surface of the printed transfer paper contacting the article and / or arranged on the surface of the article opposite to the surface of the article contacting the printed transfer paper. [Embodiment 27]

[0245] The present disclosure also provides a decorated object obtained by the method of embodiment 26, wherein the decorated object is made of textiles, plastics, metals, ceramics, glass, wood or a combination thereof. [Embodiment 28]

[0246] Although specific embodiments have been described, the applicant or other persons skilled in the art may conceive of alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and substantial equivalents that are not currently or may not be foreseen. Therefore, the appended claims submitted and as they may be amended are intended to cover all such alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and substantial equivalents.

[0247] All ranges disclosed herein include endpoints, and the endpoints can be independently combined with each other (e.g., "up to 25% by weight, or more specifically, 5% by weight to 20% by weight" includes endpoints and all intermediate values ​​in the range of "5% by weight to 25% by weight", etc.). "Combination" includes blends, mixtures, alloys, reaction products, etc. The terms "first", "second", etc. do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are used to distinguish one element from another. The terms "a", "an", and "the" do not indicate a number limit and should be interpreted as covering the singular and plural, unless otherwise specified herein or clearly contradictory to the context. "Or" means "and / or", unless otherwise explicitly stated. References to "some embodiments", "one embodiment", etc. throughout the specification mean that the specific elements described in conjunction with the embodiment are included in at least one embodiment described herein, and may or may not be present in other embodiments. In addition, it should be understood that the described elements can be combined in any suitable manner in various embodiments. "Combinations thereof" is open ended and includes any combination comprising at least one of the listed components or properties, optionally together with similar or equivalent components or properties that are not listed.

[0248] Unless otherwise defined, technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this application belongs. All cited patents, patent applications and other references are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. However, if a term in this application contradicts or conflicts with a term in an incorporated reference, the term in this application takes precedence over the conflicting term in the incorporated reference.

[0249] Unless otherwise specified herein, all test standards are the most current standards in effect as of the filing date of this application or, if priority is claimed, the filing date of the earliest priority application in which such test standard appears.

[0250] Although the transfer paper, the article, system, use and method of the present disclosure have been described with reference to the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the present disclosure is not limited to such exemplary embodiments and / or implementations. On the contrary, the transfer paper, the article, system, use and method of the present disclosure are susceptible to the influence of multiple implementations and applications, as those skilled in the art will readily appreciate from the disclosure herein. The present disclosure explicitly encompasses such modifications, enhancements and / or variations of the disclosed embodiments. Since many changes can be made to the above-mentioned constructions and many widely different embodiments of the present disclosure can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, it is intended that all contents contained in the drawings and the specification be interpreted as illustrative rather than restrictive. Additional modifications, changes and substitutions are intended to be made in the foregoing disclosure. Therefore, the appended claims should be broadly interpreted in a manner consistent with the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A transfer paper for sublimation printing, comprising a fiber substrate and an ink receiving layer, wherein: The ink receiving layer comprises: Cationic inorganic components and / or cationic organic components in an amount of 10 to 90% by dry weight Optional fillers in an amount of up to 75% by dry weight A hydrophilic binder in an amount of 5 to 50% by dry weight, and A hydrophobic binder in an amount of 5 to 50% by dry weight, The amounts expressed in dry weight % are based on the total dry weight of the ink receiving layer.

2. The transfer paper according to claim 1, wherein the amount of the cationic inorganic component and / or cationic organic component and the filler in the ink receiving layer is greater than 60 dry weight % based on the total dry weight of the ink receiving layer.

3. The transfer paper according to claim 1, wherein: The mass ratio of the cationic inorganic component and / or cationic organic component and the filler to the hydrophilic binder and the hydrophobic binder is 85:15 to 75:25, and / or The mass ratio of the cationic inorganic component and / or cationic organic component to the filler is 80:20 to 20:80, and / or The mass ratio of the hydrophilic binder to the hydrophobic binder is 65:35 to 35:

65.

4. The transfer paper according to claim 1, wherein: The cationic inorganic component comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of cationic silicon dioxide and cationic titanium oxide, and / or The cationic organic component comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of a cationic polymer, a cationic organic silica and a cationic metal-organic framework, and / or The filler comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of silicate minerals, oxide minerals, hydroxide minerals, sulfate minerals and carbonate minerals, and / or The hydrophilic binder comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, starch, carboxymethyl cellulose, alginate and guar gum, and / or The hydrophobic adhesive comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of styrene-butadiene rubber, styrene acrylate, butyl acrylate, acrylonitrile and copolymers thereof; and The ratio of the cationic inorganic component and / or the cationic organic component to the filler is 80:20 to 20:

80.

5. The transfer paper according to claim 1, comprising a barrier layer on a surface of the fibrous base opposite to a surface of the fibrous base having the ink receiving layer.

6. The transfer paper according to claim 1, comprising: Greater than 40 g / m2 measured according to ISO 535 2 The value of erectile dysfunction, and / or A Bendtsen air permeability of less than 100 mL / min measured according to ISO 5636-3, and / or Ink drying time of less than 5 seconds, and / or The measured results were based on the method described in the manual. 5 To 2.10*10 6 C / m 2 The specific charge density between Parker Print-Surf (PPS) surface roughness of 3 to 5 μm measured according to ISO 8791-4:2007.

7. The transfer paper according to claim 1, wherein: The basis weight of the ink receiving layer is 3 to 10 g / m 2 , and / or The basis weight of the fiber substrate is 25 to 140 g / m 2 , and / or The basis weight of the transfer paper is 28 to 150 g / m 2 , Wherein basis weight is measured according to ISO 536.

8. The transfer paper according to claim 1, wherein the cationic inorganic component in the ink receiving layer is based on particles having a particle size of less than 1 μm, and / or Wherein the filler in the ink receiving layer is based on particles, wherein at least 50% of the particles have a particle size of less than 2 μm.

9. The transfer paper according to claim 1, wherein the ink receiving layer comprises 5 to 15% by dry weight of the hydrophilic binder, 8 to 75% by dry weight of the filler, and 5 to 19% by dry weight of the hydrophobic binder. 10 . The transfer paper according to claim 1 , wherein a mass ratio of the hydrophilic adhesive to the hydrophobic adhesive is 50:50 to 35:

65.

11. A method for preparing a transfer paper for sublimation printing as defined in any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising the following steps: (i) providing a fibrous substrate, (ii) preparing an aqueous dispersion comprising a cationic inorganic component and / or a cationic organic component, a hydrophilic binder, a hydrophobic binder and optionally a filler to obtain an ink receiving composition, and (iii) applying the ink receiving composition to a fibrous substrate, and drying the ink receiving composition to form an ink receiving layer.

12. A method for preparing a printed transfer paper, the method comprising the steps of: (a) providing a transfer paper for sublimation printing as defined in any one of claims 1 to 10, and (b) applying a sublimable ink to the ink receiving layer by using a printing device to produce a print in a continuous or discontinuous printing process.

13. Use of a transfer paper for sublimation printing as defined in any one of claims 1 to 10 in a method for preparing a printed transfer paper, wherein the sublimable ink is applied to the ink receiving layer in a continuous or discontinuous printing process by using a printing device.

14. A printed transfer paper comprising the transfer paper for sublimation printing as defined in any one of claims 1 to 10 and at least one printed matter on the ink receiving layer, wherein the printed matter comprises a sublimable ink.

15. A method for decorating an article comprising the step of transferring at least one print from a printed transfer paper as defined in claim 14 to the article by sublimation, Optionally, the protective paper can be arranged on the surface of the printed transfer paper opposite to the surface of the printed transfer paper contacting the article and / or on the surface of the article opposite to the surface of the article contacting the printed transfer paper.

16. Use of a printed transfer paper as defined in claim 14 in a method for decorating an object, wherein at least one print on the printed transfer paper is transferred to the object by sublimation, Optionally, the protective paper can be arranged on the surface of the printed transfer paper opposite to the surface of the printed transfer paper contacting the article and / or on the surface of the article opposite to the surface of the article contacting the printed transfer paper.

17. The decorated object obtained by the method of claim 15, wherein the decorated object is made of textile, plastic, metal, ceramic, glass, wood or a combination thereof.

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