Transfer film, method for manufacturing a transfer film, and method for recycling a transfer film

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for recycling a transfer film (1), a transfer film (1) suitable therefor, having a carrier film (2) and a transfer layer (4) arranged at least partially on the carrier film (2), wherein a separation layer (3) is arranged between the carrier film (2) and the transfer layer (4) and the transfer layer (4) has an alkali-soluble top coat (5), wherein the top coat (5) is arranged on the separation layer (3) and in the method the following step is carried out: x) dissolving (10) the alkali-soluble top coat (5), in particular the alkali-soluble binder of the top coat (5), by means of an alkaline washing liquor (9), preferably in a washing liquor bath, wherein the transfer layer (4) is separated from the carrier film (2).

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of patent application number 202211610207.1. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a transfer membrane, a method for manufacturing the transfer membrane, and a method for recycling the transfer membrane. Background Technology

[0003] Embossed films are known for their use in surface decoration. For example, this is achieved by applying a paint layer, particularly one containing dyes or pigments, and / or by evaporation a metal layer onto a non-water-soluble carrier film. A transfer layer, together with the carrier film, is then applied to the surface to be decorated. For decoration, the transfer layer is transferred completely or only partially to a suitable substrate using an application method. In the case of hot-press application, adhesion to the substrate is created by the heat activation of the primer layer of the transfer layer through an embossing mold. In the case of cold-press application, an adhesive layer is applied to the area of ​​the substrate to be decorated or correspondingly to the transfer layer before decoration, initiating the transfer of the transfer layer to the substrate. When the carrier film is subsequently removed, the transfer layer remains on the surface to be decorated and separates from the carrier film in the area to be decorated. To enable the separation of the transfer layer from the carrier film in the area to be decorated, a separation layer is provided between the transfer layer and the carrier film in the embossed film. For such a separation layer, a non-water-soluble wax is used, which softens at higher temperatures and thus specifically reduces the adhesion between the transfer layer and the carrier film.

[0004] In undecorated areas, the transfer layer is removed again along with the carrier film and thus remains on the carrier film in these partial areas. In cases where only small areas are to be decorated, such as in the form of fine characters or line patterns, a significant amount of transfer layer, or partial areas of the transfer layer, remains on the carrier film as residual transfer layer. Further use of this transfer film in the re-embossing process is generally not possible, or is only possible with very specialized application machines and / or with very specialized application methods. In all cases, the used carrier film with residual transfer layer must be cleaned in a somewhat complex manner.

[0005] The recycling of transfer membranes is of general interest, enabling the continued use or recovery of carrier membrane material and allowing for the separate cleaning of the remaining transfer layer after use in applications where transfer was incomplete. For example, a recycling technique is known from WO2021 / 151742 A1, which separates the transfer layer from the carrier membrane using mechanical methods or by applying strong shear forces. However, such methods offer technical disadvantages, such as high energy consumption and low throughput, and the fact that the transfer layer is often only partially separated from the carrier membrane, making the pure recycling of the carrier membrane or pure carrier membrane material, such as pure PET, possible only to a limited extent. Nevertheless, for the recycling of carrier membrane material, reprocessing the carrier membrane to the purest possible state is desirable, as even small amounts of non-self-contamination can lead to significant quality defects in the recycled product. Similar considerations apply to the recycling of carrier membrane material from mismanufactured transfer membranes, which are therefore considered waste. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention aims to provide an improved transfer membrane that also has improved recyclability.

[0007] This objective is achieved by a transfer membrane, particularly a recyclable transfer membrane, wherein the transfer membrane has a carrier membrane and a transfer layer at least partially disposed on the carrier membrane, and a separation layer is disposed between the carrier membrane and the transfer layer. Importantly, the transfer layer has an alkali-soluble top coating layer, wherein the top coating layer is disposed on the separation layer.

[0008] This objective is also achieved by a method for manufacturing a transfer membrane, particularly the transfer membrane according to claims 1 to 21, wherein the following steps are performed in particular in the following order:

[0009] Provide carrier membrane,

[0010] Applying a release layer to the carrier film, especially using gravure printing,

[0011] One or more transfer layers are applied, wherein, in particular, an alkali-soluble top coating is applied as the first layer of the transfer layer by means of gravure printing or slit nozzle method, such that the top coating is placed on the release layer.

[0012] This objective is also achieved by a method for recovering a transfer membrane, particularly a transfer membrane according to claims 1 to 21, wherein the transfer membrane is preferably manufactured by the method according to claims 22 to 29, wherein the transfer membrane has a carrier membrane and a transfer layer at least partially disposed on the carrier membrane, a separation layer is disposed between the carrier membrane and the transfer layer, the transfer layer has an alkali-soluble top coating layer disposed on the separation layer, and the method performs the following steps:

[0013] x) The transfer layer is separated from the carrier membrane by means of an alkaline washing solution, preferably dissolved in a washing solution bath, an alkaline-soluble top coating, particularly an alkaline-soluble adhesive for the top coating.

[0014] The transfer membrane according to the invention is preferably used in the method for recycling the transfer membrane according to the invention.

[0015] This transfer membrane, along with its manufacturing and recycling methods, offers particular advantages over energy-intensive applications: the recycled material of the carrier membrane can be used to manufacture new carrier membranes. It is also conceivable that the recycled plastic can be used to manufacture other plastic products, such as injection-molded parts and / or extruded parts. Preferably, the transfer membrane is recycled as waste not only after application but also during manufacturing. The carrier membrane material can be recycled in such a way that the resulting final product can be processed in further steps and will possess particularly good material properties.

[0016] Here, in particular, the recyclability of the transfer membrane is improved because the use of an alkali-soluble top coating enables relatively clean, simple, and / or cost-effective recycling of the transfer membrane. Specifically, the transfer membrane can be recovered in alkaline washing solutions (e.g., alkaline aqueous solutions or alkali solutions).

[0017] Recyclability and recoverability specifically refer to the ability of all layers applied to the carrier membrane to be completely removed during recycling. However, in some cases, a separation layer may remain on the carrier membrane. The separation layer preferably has a negligible thickness compared to the thickness of the carrier membrane. Even if the separation layer remains on the carrier membrane, this will not affect the material properties and / or quality of the recycled carrier or plastic material due to its relatively low weight content. In particular, the transfer layer can be removed from the carrier membrane without residue.

[0018] When using an alkaline washing solution, preferably an alkaline solution and / or an alkaline aqueous solution and / or an alkaline recovery solution, the transfer layer can be selectively separated from the carrier membrane by dissolving the alkali-soluble top coating, particularly the alkali-soluble binder of the top coating. Here, the top coating itself is part of the transfer layer. The top coating is completely separated from the carrier membrane. Depending on the content of the alkali-soluble binder in the top coating, the proportion of the top coating dissolved in the alkaline washing solution can also be less than 100%. Therefore, in particular, the carrier membrane is cleaned in step x), thereby causing the transfer membrane to detach from the transfer layer. As described above, the separation layer may remain on the carrier membrane.

[0019] Therefore, it is particularly possible to recover exceptionally pure materials from the carrier membrane. It is advantageous to perform exceptionally pure treatments on the carrier membrane for further use or utilization of the materials from the carrier membrane, for example, in other chemical or mechanical recycling steps. It is advantageous to reduce or avoid impurities, such as those from the transfer layer material, that cause quality defects in the recycled product or regenerated material.

[0020] Furthermore, by dissolving the alkali-soluble topcoat, particularly the alkali-soluble binder of the topcoat, the residual transfer layer can preferably be separated as a layered structure, which then exists, particularly as a continuous solid, in the alkaline washing liquid. Moreover, advantageously, particularly in terms of solubility in the alkaline washing liquid, no substance can be separated from the layered structure of the transfer layer. Only in a metallized film having a metallized layer made of base metal can these base metals dissolve. The alkali-soluble topcoat remains in the washing liquid as a homogeneous solution, while the insoluble transfer layer, or residual transfer layer, separated from the washing liquid, particularly constitutes a heterogeneous mixture. This achieves the advantage of reducing substances that can no longer, or particularly only, be filtered out of the washing liquid with increased consumption.

[0021] The transfer layer separated from the washing liquid, for example in the form of transfer layer components and / or transfer layer particles having a preferred heterogeneous composition, can also be processed, for example, in a further chemical and, in particular, transfer-optimized separation process.

[0022] It has also proven advantageous that the alkaline-soluble topcoat can achieve several purposes simultaneously. On the one hand, it ensures separation of the transfer layer from the carrier film when the transfer film is recycled; on the other hand, it serves a decorative function and also constitutes a protective layer for the transfer layer to be placed under the topcoat after application, once the transfer layer has been applied to the target substrate.

[0023] Preferably, the top coating is configured such that it is in direct contact with the release layer. That is, in the method for manufacturing the transfer film, the top coating is applied directly after the release layer. Subsequently, another layer can be applied over the top coating as a transfer layer. After the transfer layer is applied to the target substrate, the top coating forms the uppermost layer.

[0024] The transfer film according to the invention can be used, for example, for graphic packaging, greeting cards, documents, valuable documents, certificates, labels, or magazines.

[0025] Other advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0026] The alkali-soluble topcoat is preferably understood herein as a layer composed of one or more components, among which at least one component forms an alkali-soluble binder. Preferably, the alkali solubility of the topcoat is achieved by its inclusion of an alkali-soluble binder. In addition to the alkali-soluble binder, the topcoat may also contain other non-alkali-soluble components.

[0027] Packaging here can be understood as a general term, encompassing not only the retail packaging of a product but also outer packaging, such as the product's folding box. Packaging can also be a component of packaging, such as a label affixed to outer packaging. Packaging can also be a carton or similar object containing several outer packages of the product.

[0028] Here, transparency is specifically understood as an average transmittance of greater than 50%, preferably greater than 70%, and particularly preferably greater than 80% in the wavelength range of visible light visible to human observers, particularly from 380 nm to 780 nm.

[0029] Here, opacity is particularly understood to mean an average transmittance of less than 40%, preferably less than 30%, and especially preferably less than 20% in the wavelength range of visible light visible to a human observer, particularly in the range of 380 nm to 780 nm.

[0030] Layers, films, and foils are particularly understood as substantially flat structures that are either single-layered or multi-layered. Films are preferably self-supporting. For example, a layer or a film can be self-supporting or non-self-supporting.

[0031] The term "transfer film" can be understood not only as the transfer film before it is applied to a substrate or target object (the application method is particularly selected from: transfer method, hot pressing method, cold pressing method, lamination method, insert molding method, in-mold decoration method), but also as the portion of the transfer film that has not been transferred to the substrate or target object after application, as well as waste. In cases where the transfer layer of the transfer film has at least partially transferred to the substrate to be decorated (e.g., a component, paper, or roller material), the transfer film in particular has a carrier film and a residual transfer layer disposed thereon. The residual transfer layer here describes the portion of the transfer layer that has not yet been transferred to the substrate to be decorated and thus remains on the carrier film. In the case of waste, the transfer layer remains entirely on the carrier film. The weight percentage of the transfer layer relative to the carrier film is preferably greater for waste than for the transferred layer. Therefore, it is preferable that the transfer layer, particularly in the form of, for example, the residual transfer layer, is removed from the carrier film by this method, which can essentially be considered foreign material.

[0032] Furthermore, the transfer membrane should also be understood in particular as multiple cut materials generated, for example, by cutting the transfer membrane short. Specifically, in step x), the carrier membrane of the transfer membrane is guided through the washing solution as a whole (preferably as a single piece), or preferably the cut material comprising a carrier membrane and a transfer layer in one composition is sent to an alkaline washing solution. In particular, it is also conceivable that, in methods for recovering the transfer membrane, multiple transfer membranes, especially those of the same or similar type, preferably at least having a carrier membrane of the same type, are used instead of just one transfer membrane. The transfer layer preferably exists at least partially on the carrier membrane before step x). Therefore, the carrier membrane is preferably understood not only as a whole carrier membrane, but also as multiple cut materials or carrier membrane fragments. The transfer layer is preferably understood not only as a whole transfer layer, but also as multiple particles of the transfer layer.

[0033] Preferably, after step x), the carrier membrane and / or the material of the carrier membrane has a purity in the range of 99.0% by weight to 100.0% by weight (weight percentage = weight share expressed as a percentage of total weight). The numerical description of purity preferably refers to the mass fraction of the carrier membrane material.

[0034] The purity of the carrier membrane or carrier membrane material can therefore be improved, particularly by removing the transfer layer and the alkali-soluble top coating from the carrier membrane. As mentioned at the beginning, the separation layer may, if necessary, remain on the carrier membrane. However, even in this case, a purity of at least 99.0% by weight or more for the carrier membrane or carrier membrane material is preferred. The transfer layer and / or transfer layer components of the transfer membrane, especially in recycling methods, are preferably considered as foreign materials. The transfer layer and / or transfer layer components may accordingly dissolve in the washing solution or may exist insolublely.

[0035] Additionally, it is possible that after step x), the carrier membrane and / or the material of the carrier membrane is colorless, transparent, glassy transparent, opaque, dyed, at least partially dyed, or colored.

[0036] It is conceivable that, prior to step x), particularly before step a) and / or step b1), the transfer membrane has a foreign matter content ranging from 0% to 5% by weight, preferably from 0% to 1% by weight. By classifying the transfer membrane, particularly by pure type, prior to the actual recycling method, the downstream recycling process can be designed more effectively, and the resulting material of the carrier membrane has improved material properties.

[0037] Further preferably, prior to step x), and particularly prior to steps a) and / or b1), the transfer film has a tape and / or splicing tape content in the range of 0% to 0.5% by weight, preferably 0% to 0.1% by weight.

[0038] Preferably, during step x), the top coating, particularly the alkali-soluble binder of the top coating, is dissolved by the alkaline washing solution entering the transfer film, particularly the transfer layer, and / or the space between the carrier film and the transfer layer, through the cut edges and / or fracture edges and / or cracks and / or microcracks of the transfer film, particularly the carrier layer, thereby causing the top coating to expand. For example, microcracks and / or cracks appear when the transfer film is applied to the target substrate. Alternatively, the alkaline washing solution may diffuse through the alkali-insoluble layer and thus contact and dissolve the top coating. When the top coating, particularly the alkali-soluble binder of the top coating, is dissolved, the remaining transfer layer separates from the carrier film. Here, the transfer layer preferably decomposes into particles, wherein the particles are insoluble in the alkaline washing solution, particularly in the range of 10 μm to 50 mm when viewed in planar view, preferably in the range of 50 μm to 5 mm, and particularly preferably in the range of 20 μm to 5 mm. The expansion of the top coating further accelerates the decay of the transfer layer into particles. Depending on the pH of the alkaline washing solution and, if necessary, the size of the material being cut, the transfer layer is preferably completely separated from the carrier membrane after a duration of 30 to 120 seconds, preferably 60 to 120 seconds.

[0039] Specifically, it is specified that in step x), the pH value of the alkaline washing solution is greater than 9, preferably greater than 11, and particularly preferably greater than 13. However, it is also possible that the pH value of the alkaline washing solution is greater than or equal to 14. In laboratory experiments, the effect of pH value on the duration of dissolution of the alkali-soluble topcoat, and particularly the alkali-soluble adhesive of the topcoat, of the 5cm × 5cm cut material used for dissolving the transfer membrane was investigated. It was shown that at a pH value of 9, the topcoat, and particularly the alkali-soluble adhesive of the topcoat, completely dissolved within 20 to 30 minutes. At a pH value of 11, it was completely dissolved after 5 to 10 minutes. If a pH value of 14 or higher is used, the topcoat, and particularly the alkali-soluble adhesive of the topcoat, can be dissolved within 10 to 20 seconds.

[0040] It has also been shown that the size of the cut material affects the duration of the dissolution process of the topcoat, particularly the alkali-soluble adhesive of the topcoat. In experiments, the dissolution behavior of cut materials of different sizes in alkaline detergents with pH values ​​of 14 or higher was investigated at 25°C. Here, it has been shown that, in an area of ​​100 cm²... 2 In the cutting materials, the top coating, especially the alkali-soluble adhesive of the top coating, completely dissolves after exposure to alkaline washing liquid for up to 120 seconds. The top coating or adhesive at 25cm... 2 The material of that size was completely dissolved after being exposed for up to 60 seconds.

[0041] It is also conceivable that alkaline detergents include one or more solutions of the following: solutions of alkali metal hydroxides or alkaline earth metal hydroxides, such as potassium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide; or alkaline earth oxides, such as calcium oxide or barium oxide; or solutions of ammonia or amines.

[0042] Furthermore, it is preferred that step x) be carried out at ambient temperature, particularly within a temperature range of 15°C to 30°C. However, the dissolution in step x) can be carried out within a variety of temperature ranges where the alkaline detergent solution exists in a liquid aggregate state. However, ideally, a temperature corresponding to ambient temperature is suitable. This eliminates the need for the complex and expensive process of heating the alkaline detergent solution.

[0043] It can also be assumed that the density of the alkaline washing solution is 1.2 g / cm³. 3 Up to 1.4 g / cm 3 Within the range, preferably 1.25 g / cm³ 3 Up to 1.35 g / cm 3 Within a certain range, the density of the alkaline washing solution is chosen such that the carrier membrane settles due to density differences. In particular, it is advantageous to set the density of the alkaline washing solution in the upstream shaving step prior to step x). In this case, it is preferable to feed the shredded material into the washing bath. As described above, the alkali-soluble topcoat dissolves, causing the transfer layer to separate from the carrier membrane, and the transfer layer decomposes into particles. By appropriately selecting the density of the alkaline washing solution, the cleaned carrier membrane shreds settle at the bottom of the washing bath, while the transfer layer particles float on the surface due to their lower density. These particles can then be separated from the washing solution in a simple manner, such as by using a sieve.

[0044] Advantageously, in this method, the following steps are performed before step x):

[0045] a) The transfer film is cut into cutting materials by means of a cutting device, preferably the transfer film is wound on a roller.

[0046] Therefore, the transfer membrane in the form of cut material can be fed into an alkaline washing solution. Advantageously, this allows the alkaline washing solution to penetrate the transfer membrane more effectively via the cut edges and / or fracture edges, particularly into the transfer layer and / or between the carrier membrane and the transfer layer. Generally, the smaller the cut material, the larger the relative area of ​​the cut edges and / or fracture edges relative to the area of ​​the cut material. For larger cut edges and / or fracture edges, the alkaline washing solution can therefore dissolve the alkali-soluble topcoat, particularly the alkali-soluble binder of the topcoat, more quickly.

[0047] Preferably, in step a), particularly when viewed perpendicular to the plane defined by the cutting material, the cutting material has a depth of 0.1 cm. 2 Up to 100cm2 1cm is preferred 2 Up to 10cm 2 The area within the specified range.

[0048] Specifically, it is specified that the cutting device in step a) includes at least one device or a combination of devices, said device being selected from: paper cutter, shredder, cutting machine, hammer mill and / or shredder.

[0049] Specifically, it is stipulated that, prior to step x), particularly before step a) and / or before step b1), and preferably in the application method—particularly selected from: transfer methods, hot pressing methods, cold pressing methods, lamination methods, in-mold decoration methods—the transfer layer is at least partially transferred to the substrate to be decorated, wherein a transfer film is provided as a byproduct. Preferably, this involves a transfer film having a residual transfer layer. In this case, the residual transfer layer also includes an alkali-soluble top coating.

[0050] The transfer film can be collected using a collection container, particularly by type. The collected transfer film can be uncut or alternatively cut and / or shredded and / or compacted and / or pressed. Preferably, the transfer film is collected using a collection container, particularly using a support and / or container and / or transport box and / or bundled package, before step x), particularly before step a), and after the application method, preferably the transfer method and / or lamination method and / or in-mold decoration method.

[0051] The bundled packages are preferably referred to as compressed transfer films, the volume of which is reduced by compression. In order to hold the compressed transfer films together, it is preferably specified that these transfer films are wrapped with tape, thereby providing bundled packages.

[0052] "Pure type" preference can be understood as meaning that each roller should only wind and / or collect one transfer membrane as much as possible. This ensures good material properties of the regenerated or recycled carrier membrane material.

[0053] Therefore, it is possible that this method includes the following steps before step a):

[0054] The transfer film is collected using collection containers, particularly racks and / or containers and / or transport boxes and / or bundled bags.

[0055] Preferably, before step x), and particularly before step a), the following steps are also performed:

[0056] The transfer film, particularly the cutting material, is transported by means of a feeding device and / or by means of at least one transport container, particularly a collection container and / or a rack and / or a container and / or a transport box and / or a bundled bag and / or a large bag, wherein, particularly before step x), the at least one transport container is filled with the cutting material.

[0057] The feeding device can be understood as all transport vehicles and / or conveyor belts and / or pneumatic conveying devices or the like.

[0058] It is also possible that, before step x), particularly before step a) and / or before step b1), and after the application method—particularly selected from transfer methods, hot pressing methods, cold pressing methods, lamination methods, and in-mold decoration methods—the transfer film is wound, in particular, onto a core in the form of a roller. In another embodiment, the transfer film is wound, in particular, onto a core in a purely typological manner. Alternatively, the film can be wound in roll form without a core (i.e., coreless) and / or can be wound onto a core that is removed from the roll after winding, leaving the roll coreless thereafter. For example, such a removable core can be part of a machine on which the transfer film is processed.

[0059] A film core can be understood, in particular, as a roll of cardboard and / or plastic and / or a machine part, onto which a transfer film roll is wound. The film core may remain in the film roll or be removed from the film roll after winding.

[0060] Therefore, it is possible to perform the following steps before step a) and / or before proceeding in step b1):

[0061] The transfer membrane is wound, particularly wound onto a membrane core, thereby providing a roll.

[0062] Additionally, it is possible that this method includes the following steps before step a) and / or before unfolding in step x11):

[0063] The roll is fed to the unwinding device by hand and / or by means of a feeding device and / or the roll and / or collection container is fed to the cutting device.

[0064] By collecting or winding, particularly by collecting and / or winding transfer membranes of a single type, a low content of foreign matter is ensured. In step a), it is also conceivable, in particular, to process, and in particular cut short, multiple transfer membranes of one type instead of one transfer membrane.

[0065] When cutting the transfer film in step a), it is specifically stipulated that the wound transfer film is cut into webs, wherein the roll and transfer film are fixed in a V-groove, particularly horizontally, and then cut longitudinally with the aid of a knife, particularly from above, below, or from the side, down to the core and removing the core, especially if a core is present. This has the advantage that the transfer film can be quickly and easily separated from the core and can be used for further processing. Preferably, the roll is cut such that the knife cuts perpendicular to the circumferential tangent in the direction of the core. In particular, when cutting from above, the advantage is that the roll is fixed by the V-groove and no further support is needed to withstand the cutting pressure of the knife. Preferably, this method step is carried out using a paper cutter.

[0066] As mentioned at the beginning, the membrane core is preferably made of a different material from the transfer membrane, and therefore it is preferred to stipulate that the membrane core used as a foreign material be removed.

[0067] Preferably, during step x), especially if step a) is performed prior to it, the cutting material in the alkaline washing solution has a concentration in the range of 1% to 30% by weight, preferably 5% to 15% by weight. This concentration is preferably a weight-based solids concentration of the cutting material in the washing solution. Such a concentration ensures that there is always sufficient alkaline washing solution to dissolve the alkaline-soluble topcoat from each type of cutting material. Furthermore, clumping is avoided.

[0068] Advantageously, during step x), especially if step a) has been performed prior to this step, the alkaline washing solution is agitated with the transfer membrane and / or cutting material. This accelerates the incorporation of the alkaline washing solution into the transfer membrane or cutting material. Preferably, the alkaline washing solution is agitated for a duration ranging from 30 to 120 seconds, more preferably from 60 to 120 seconds. Preferably, the agitation speed of the agitator is in the range of 1 to 200 revolutions per minute, more preferably from 10 to 50 revolutions per minute.

[0069] Furthermore, it is possible that during step x), especially if step a) is performed prior to this, the transfer layer of the cutting material separates from the carrier membrane, resulting in particles of both the transfer layer and the carrier membrane cuttings. Preferably, no particles separate from the carrier membrane. This means that the carrier membrane cuttings have the same area as the cutting material. The transfer layer, however, breaks down into particles, as described above.

[0070] Preferably, the carrier membrane shavings are separated from the alkaline washing solution by means of filtration and / or centrifugation and / or sedimentation. As mentioned above, the carrier membrane settles due to density differences. Here, when using a PET carrier membrane, it is advantageous to adjust the density of the alkaline washing solution so that the carrier membrane shavings settle at the bottom of the washing solution bath. This process is also called sedimentation. On the other hand, it is also advantageous to select the density of the alkaline washing solution such that the particles of the separated transfer layer float in the washing solution, preferably on the surface of the washing solution. The particles can then be removed from the washing solution, for example, by means of a sieve. The carrier membrane shavings can then be removed from the washing solution for further processing.

[0071] For example, PET carrier membranes have a density of approximately 1.4 g / cm³. 3 The density of the transfer layer, such as the primer layer or the adhesion promoter layer, is 0.9 g / cm³. 3 Up to 1.25 g / cm 3 The density is within the range specified. This is achieved by adjusting the density of the alkaline washing solution to 1.2 g / cm³. 3 Up to 1.4 g / cm 3 Within the range, preferably 1.25 g / cm³ 3 Up to 1.35 g / cm 3 Within a certain range, precipitation can be achieved, for example. The density of the alkaline liquid is preferably selected based on the material of the carrier membrane. Compared to filtration or centrifugation, precipitation offers the advantage that it requires no additional energy.

[0072] Furthermore, it is possible to wash and / or neutralize and / or dry the separated carrier membrane shavings, preferably by means of mechanical drying and / or thermal drying processes, particularly to achieve a purity of 99% to 100% for the carrier membrane shavings, especially for the carrier membrane material. These method steps ensure that any possible residues of the alkaline washing solution remaining on the carrier membrane shavings or, optionally, particles of the transfer layer are removed, and further moisture is removed from the carrier membrane shavings. This results in a carrier membrane material that is as pure as possible. Here, at most, a separation layer remains on the carrier membrane shavings or the carrier membrane as possible as contamination. Because this separation layer, as mentioned at the beginning, has a negligible mass relative to the mass of the carrier membrane, a purity greater than 99% for the carrier membrane material can still be achieved.

[0073] Alternatively, instead of cutting the membrane short, a roller-to-roll recovery method is also preferred. Here, the transfer membrane is preferably guided as a whole through a washing bath, and then the transfer membrane without the transfer layer (i.e., only the carrier membrane, along with the separation layer thereon if necessary) is rewound.

[0074] Preferably, this method includes the following steps prior to step x):

[0075] b1) The transfer film is unwound from the unwound roll by means of an unwinding device, wherein the unwound transfer film is brought into contact with an alkaline washing solution, particularly by guiding the transfer film in a washing solution bath.

[0076] The transfer layer can also be roughened and / or stamped and / or scraped between steps b1) and x). Preferably, the alkali-soluble topcoat thus has a larger contact surface with the alkaline washing liquid. Therefore, the dissolution rate of the alkali-soluble topcoat, especially the alkali-soluble binder of the topcoat, can be increased. Preferably, here, the transfer film is guided by a roller equipped with a mechanical tool (e.g., a mandrel), thereby preferably creating pinpoint damage to the transfer layer. The transfer film, especially the carrier film, can even be punctured, as long as the transfer film still maintains sufficient mechanical stability and does not tear. The corresponding tool (especially the mandrel) can have a distance of 1 mm to 5 mm across the width of the transfer film.

[0077] Furthermore, it is preferably specified that the method, after step b1) and after step x), includes the following steps:

[0078] b2) The carrier film is wound onto a winding roller, wherein the carrier film is guided out of the alkaline washing solution bath, particularly the dissolved top coating and / or the undissolved transfer layer remain in the alkaline washing solution.

[0079] Here, the separation of the carrier membrane in step x1) is simplified by allowing the carrier membrane to be easily re-guided from the washing solution by winding. Preferably, the transfer layer is also separated from the carrier membrane by breaking it down into particles. These particles preferably float in the alkaline washing solution. These particles of the transfer layer are also referred to as the undissolved form of the transfer layer.

[0080] Preferably, the transfer membrane, particularly the carrier membrane, is guided through the alkaline washing solution at a speed of 1 m / min to 100 m / min between steps b1) and b2). In particular, the transfer membrane, preferably the carrier membrane, is brought into contact with the washing solution and / or passed through a washing solution bath for a duration in the range of 10 s to 150 s between steps b1) and b2).

[0081] For example, the transfer membrane, especially the carrier membrane, can be guided through a washing bath using one or more deflection rollers. This can, in particular, increase the residence time and accelerate the dissolution of the alkali-soluble topcoat.

[0082] Furthermore, it is possible to guide the carrier membrane through a washing bath after it has been guided out of the cleaning bath. Here, the carrier membrane is preferably brought into contact with a neutralizing cleaning solution, which preferably comprises water and / or one or more acids, alone or in combination, selected from carbonic acid, acetic acid, hydrochloric acid, and sulfuric acid. This neutralizes any adhering alkaline solution, or, for example, adjusts the pH to a range between 5 and 8. Additionally, alcohols selected from ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol, butanol, and acetone can be added alone or in combination. Furthermore, additives and / or surfactants, such as defoamers, can also be added to the cleaning solution. In particular, the washing bath preferably removes residues of the alkaline cleaning solution, which contain not only a portion of the dissolved alkaline-soluble topcoat but also particles of the transfer layer and still wet the cleaned carrier membrane. It is particularly preferable to prevent the already separated particles of the transfer layer from adhering to the cleaned carrier membrane. The carrier membrane is preferably guided back out of the cleaning bath before being wound onto the winding rollers.

[0083] Alternatively, the carrier membrane may be dried after it has been guided out of the washing bath and / or cleaning bath. After drying, it may optionally be removed by means of a suction device and / or an adhesive device to remove any loose residues of the transfer layer, particularly particles of the transfer layer.

[0084] Therefore, this method is particularly implemented using a roller-to-roll method and / or steps b1), x), and b2) are implemented in an online process. Alternatively, in one embodiment, the method for manufacturing and / or applying the transfer membrane is implemented in an online process, particularly with steps b1, x), and b2), within the method for recovering the transfer membrane.

[0085] It is also conceivable that, in order to separate the transfer layer from the carrier membrane, a mechanical abrasion system and / or a brush roller system and / or a foam roller system and / or a nozzle system may be additionally used in step x) and / or between steps b1) and b2). This can particularly accelerate the separation of the transfer layer. In particular, it is conceivable that, preferably additionally, by means of a nozzle, an alkaline washing solution may be provided to the side of the transfer membrane coated with the transfer layer to achieve even faster separation of the transfer layer.

[0086] Preferably, after step x), the insoluble particles of the transfer layer are separated from the alkaline washing liquid by means of a separation method, particularly the separation method including filtration and / or centrifugation and / or sieving and / or decantation.

[0087] Furthermore, it is particularly possible that, after step x), an alkaline washing solution is prepared by means of membrane filtration and / or chemical precipitation. This allows the components of the transfer layer dissolved in the alkaline washing solution, such as the components of the top coating and optionally the base metal of the metal layer dissolved in the alkaline washing solution, to be removed from the washing solution. The cleaned washing solution can then be reused to recover another transfer membrane.

[0088] Preferably, after step x), the carrier film and / or carrier film shavings and / or the material of the carrier film are further processed into dense products and / or extruded products. In particular, the dense products and / or extruded products are suitable for at least one subsequent process or combination of processes selected from: injection molding, extrusion, flatbed extrusion, compression molding, lamination, chemical recycling, and / or energy recovery. Thus, the carrier film material and / or carrier film and / or carrier film shavings in the recycling method exist with a purity in the range of 99.0% to 100.0%, and the subsequently manufactured products, such as injection molded parts, extruded parts, carrier films, etc., also have this purity, which in turn has a positive impact on the material properties of the recycled products.

[0089] Preferably, the carrier film of the transfer membrane has a layer thickness in the range of 4.5 μm to 100 μm, preferably in the range of 4.5 μm to 12 μm. The carrier film is preferably colorless, transparent, glassy transparent, opaque, dyed, at least partially dyed, or colored. The carrier film is, or preferably is, manufactured by extrusion, particularly flat film extrusion. Preferably, the carrier film is composed of or contains polyester, particularly containing one or more components or composite materials, or is composed of one or more components or composite materials selected from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid, polyvinyl furfural, polybutylene terephthalate, trimethyl terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, and / or polyester carbonate, cellophane, cellulose acetate, polyvinyl chloride, polyimide, polyvinylidene chloride, and / or paper, particularly coated paper and / or laminated paper.

[0090] Suitably, the carrier membrane has a main component, preferably PET, wherein the main component, preferably PET, has a content of greater than 97%, more preferably greater than 99.9%, and particularly preferably greater than 99.97% in the carrier membrane. To improve the recyclability of the carrier membrane and the material properties of the final product, it is preferred that the carrier material be as pure as possible, i.e., free from other foreign substances and / or plastics different from the carrier material. The main component of the carrier membrane is, in particular, PET.

[0091] In addition to the alkali-soluble topcoat, the transfer layer may preferably have additional layers, selected individually or in combination from: at least one metallic layer, at least one primer layer, at least one pigment layer, at least one adhesive layer, at least one adhesion promoter layer, at least one barrier layer, at least one protective layer, at least one replication layer, at least one oxide layer, and at least one mask layer. These additional layers may be present on the entire surface or only partially. Other layers may be formed individually or as a combination of multiple layers to create patterns, decorations, grids, geometric shapes, themes, alphanumeric symbols, logos, or combinations thereof.

[0092] The pigment layer preferably consists of a combination of at least one binder and / or at least one filler, and optionally at least one additive. The pigment layer is preferably understood as a special functional layer that, in particular, produces a color impression recognizable to the viewer.

[0093] Color is particularly understood as a staining that includes, preferably, glass-clear staining, scattering-clear staining, or opaque staining in terms of transparency and / or clarity or scattering ability. Preferably, the color appears as an inherent color of the material and / or is set as an additional staining layer in the viewing direction in front of the layer, wherein the layer beneath it, particularly a metallic layer, is modified in its color appearance, especially for the viewer. Here, the color appears optically constant or unchanging in its hue and / or saturation and / or transparency at almost (especially all) viewing and / or lighting angles. It is also possible that the color itself is optically variable, wherein the hue and / or saturation and / or transparency of the color changes particularly with changes in the viewing and / or lighting angle.

[0094] Preferably, the color layer is formed as a color layer with transparent pigments, particularly a transparent or translucent light-transmitting color layer. More preferably, the color layer preferably contains additives and / or fillers that preferably absorb light in the ultraviolet wavelength range, particularly in the wavelength range between 200 nm and 380 nm, and especially in this wavelength range. In particular, the UV blocking agent has no or very low absorption in the wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm, which is visible to the human eye, so as not to change the color impression of the color layer.

[0095] Dyes and / or pigments are preferably suitable as coloring substances for the at least one color layer. Preferably, the pigment is practically insoluble, particularly insoluble, in the medium in which it is integrated. The dye preferably dissolves during application and, in particular, loses its crystalline and / or particulate structure. Possible dye grades include basic dyes, fat-soluble dyes, or metal complex dyes. Possible pigment grades include organic pigments and inorganic pigments. Preferably, the pigment is composed of a monolithically existing material or, in particular, has an alternative complex structure, such as a layered structure having multiple layers of different materials and / or, for example, as a capsule of different materials, particularly having a core and a shell.

[0096] The color of the at least one color layer is, in particular, transparent or at least semi-transparent, wherein the transmittance is preferably averaged between 5% and 99%, particularly over a portion of the wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm visible to the human eye, and preferably over a range of 430 nm to 690 nm.

[0097] Furthermore, it is possible that the at least one color layer is formed and / or composed of a variety of different colors, wherein these color layers preferably also have regions of color mixing composed of a first color and a second color, said regions being created by overlapping color layers and / or by gridding color layers. In particular, color saturation varies in each color layer.

[0098] Color layers can be generated using at least one pigment or colorant from cyan, magenta, yellow, or black (CMYK cyan-magenta-yellow bond: black as color depth) or red, green, or blue (RGB), particularly to produce subtractive color mixtures.

[0099] Specifically, it is specified that the at least one color layer has a layer thickness in the range of 0.2 μm to 20 μm, preferably in the range of 0.4 μm to 8 μm.

[0100] The metal layer preferably has a thickness in the range of 5 nm to 50 nm, more preferably in the range of 10 nm to 40 nm. It is also possible that the metal layer is transparent or opaque. The metal layer particularly ensures a metallic luster and mirror effect that can be perceived by an observer or sensor.

[0101] Preferably, the metal layer comprises or is composed of materials and / or compounds having a high refractive index, selected individually or as an alloy of at least two of these materials or as a eutectic: aluminum, chromium, silver, gold, copper, nickel, tin, indium, silicon oxide, magnesium oxide, titanium oxide, aluminum oxide, zinc oxide, and zinc sulfide. The metal layer may be single-layered or multi-layered. When using a metal layer made of one or more base metals such as aluminum, as described above, the base metal layer also dissolves when the transfer film is immersed in an alkaline washing bath. Hydrogen gas may also be released here. Therefore, it is specifically stipulated that safety precautions, such as suction or ventilation, be taken.

[0102] Preferably, a metal layer is applied as one or more layers as a transfer layer by means of vacuum evaporation. By means of vacuum evaporation, a relatively thin layer can be applied, thereby achieving a layer thickness in the range of 5 nm to 50 nm, preferably in the range of 10 nm to 40 nm.

[0103] Specifically, the thickness of the dried layer of the primer is in the range of 0.1 μm to 5 μm, preferably 0.5 μm to 3 μm and / or in the range of 0.1 μm to 0.8 μm. If the transfer film is a cold-pressed film, a layer thickness of 0.1 μm to 0.8 μm is particularly suitable. If the transfer film is a hot-pressed film, a layer thickness of 0.5 μm to 3 μm is particularly suitable.

[0104] The use of a primer layer can preferably ensure that the transfer layer fully adheres to the substrate or target object during and especially after the application method.

[0105] Preferably, the primer layer comprises or is composed of one or more of the following materials: polyurethane, polyester, polyamide, polycarbonate, polyurea, polyacrylate and / or copolymers thereof, polymethyl methacrylate and / or copolymers thereof, hydrocarbon resin, shellac, alkyd resin, rosin resin, ketone resin, phenolic resin, polystyrene resin, epoxy resin, maleic ester resin, melamine resin, formaldehyde resin, polyvinyl acetate, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyvinyl chloride, nitrocellulose, polyolefin, modified polyolefin and / or plasticizer and / or dye and / or organic pigment and / or inorganic pigment and / or matting agent.

[0106] Suitablely, one or more of the layers described above are applied as a transfer layer using a printing method and / or by means of casting and / or by means of a squeegee. For example, the primer layer is applied by gravure printing. It is also possible to apply the primer layer at a concentration of 0.2 g / m³. 2 Up to 5.0g / m 2 The primer layer is applied by weight within the range of the dry layer application, preferably at 0.2 g / m² during cold pressing. 2 Up to 1.0 g / m 2 Apply the primer layer by weight within the range of the dry layer, while in hot-press application it at 0.5 g / m². 2 Up to 5.0g / m 2 Apply the primer layer by the weight of the dried layer within the specified range.

[0107] Depending on the application, an adhesion promoter layer may be provided between the alkali-soluble topcoat and the metal layer. The adhesion promoter increases the adhesion between the topcoat and the metal layer.

[0108] In particular, the thickness of the adhesive layer is likely to be in the range of 0.01 μm to 0.5 μm, preferably in the range of 0.01 μm to 0.3 μm. The adhesive layer comprises one or more of the following materials, or preferably consists of one or more of the following materials: polyurethane, polyester, polyamide, polycarbonate, polyacrylate and / or copolymers thereof, polymethyl methacrylate and / or copolymers thereof, hydrocarbon resin, alkyd resin, rosin resin, ketone resin, phenolic resin, polystyrene resin, epoxy resin, polyvinyl acetate, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyvinyl chloride, nitrocellulose, polyolefin and / or modified polyolefin.

[0109] Another adhesion promoter layer may also be provided between the metal layer and another layer, the other layer being disposed on the side of the metal layer away from the top coating.

[0110] The separation layer preferably comprises materials or combinations thereof selected from: waxes, silicones, polyurethanes, fluorinated compounds, fluorinated fatty acids, modified silicone waxes and silicone resins, unmodified silicone paraffins and silicone resins, and polymers preferably acrylate copolymers, polyester copolymers, polystyrene copolymers, and polycarbonate copolymers. Preferably, the separation layer is alkaline-insoluble. This provides the advantage that the separation layer does not dissolve in the alkaline washing solution when the transfer membrane is recovered. Therefore, the complex treatment of the alkaline washing solution after the recovery process is avoided.

[0111] Preferably, the separation layer has a thickness of 0.001 μm to 0.080 μm, more preferably 0.004 μm to 0.050 μm, that of the dried layer. This relatively small thickness of the separation layer allows for clear and clean separation of the transfer layer from the upper edge of the carrier membrane.

[0112] Preferably, gravure printing is used to achieve a density of 0.001 g / m 2 Up to 0.060g / m 2 0.005g / m 2 Up to 0.050g / m 2 Apply weight to the dry layer within the range to apply the separation layer.

[0113] It is particularly advantageous that the separation layer is transparent and / or translucent and / or opaque and / or stained and / or at least partially stained and / or glassy transparent.

[0114] In particular, by preferably reducing the separation force used to separate the transfer layer from the carrier film, the separation layer improves the transfer of the transfer layer to the substrate surface during application, such as during application by transfer method and / or lamination method and / or in-mold decoration method.

[0115] The layers applied to the carrier film, particularly the separation layer and the transfer layer, advantageously possess sufficient adhesion to each other and to the carrier film, especially to prevent the entire transfer layer or individual layers of the transfer layer from uncontrolled separation from the carrier film, for example, during winding and unwinding, during transport or storage. Preferably, the separation force used to separate the transfer layer from the carrier film is in the range of 1 cN / cm to 10 cN / cm, particularly at temperatures ranging from 15°C to 35°C, preferably in the range of 1 cN / cm to 3 cN / cm for cold-pressed films, and / or preferably in the range of 2 cN / cm to 5 cN / cm for hot-pressed films.

[0116] The separation forces between the individual layers of the transfer layer, particularly between the alkali-soluble topcoat and / or metal layer and / or primer layer and / or adhesion promoter layer and / or color layer, are preferably greater than the separation force of the transfer layer from the carrier film. This, in particular, enables complete transfer of the transfer layer to the substrate in the area to be transferred during the application method. Furthermore, it avoids breakage or splitting of the transfer layer during the application method.

[0117] Preferably, the minimum separation force within or between two or more layers of the transfer layer is at least twice the separation force required for the transfer layer to separate from the carrier membrane, particularly in the range of 10 cN / cm to 100 cN / cm, preferably at least 20 cN / cm to 100 cN / cm, and especially preferably at least 40 cN / cm to 100 cN / cm.

[0118] Preferably, to measure the separation force of the transfer layer from the carrier film to a rigid surface 25 cm long and 10 cm wide, double-sided adhesive tape is applied evenly without air bubbles. Then, a strip of transfer film 30 cm long and 10 cm wide is applied to the tape without air bubbles, with the transfer layer side exposed, leaving a 5 cm protrusion. The bonded transfer film is firmly pressed, the protruding protrusion is fixed to the measuring unit of a Z005 material testing machine from ZwickRoell GmbH & Co., and the carrier film is pulled out at a 90° pull-out angle and a speed of 50 cm / min. The force required here is measured and expressed in cN / cm film width.

[0119] The top coating preferably comprises at least 40% to 100% of an adhesive or adhesive mixture, of which at least 50%, preferably at least 75%, is soluble in alkaline detergents, particularly alkaline solutions, with a pH greater than 8.5, preferably greater than 10. Specifically, this adhesive is referred to as an ASR (ASR = Alkali-soluble resin) and includes hydrophobic regions and carboxylic acid groups. These functional groups deprotonate with increasing pH at a suitable alkaline pH, thus increasing the polarity of the polymer so that it is completely soluble in polar solvents such as water or at least exists as a colloidal dispersion. Deprotonation is a reversible process. The adhesive is insoluble in neutral water (pH ≈ 7) or acidic aqueous solutions (pH < 7) because the hydrophobicity of the adhesive is dominated by the protonated carboxylic acid groups.

[0120] Since deprotonation is a reversible process, this property is also advantageously applicable to the application of alkaline-soluble topcoats. It is preferably specified here that the topcoat is applied in an aqueous state and then dried, wherein the alkaline additive is completely or at least partially dried. By drying the alkaline additive, the topcoat becomes firm.

[0121] Preferably, the water-based topcoat has a solids content in the range of 5% to 45%, preferably in the range of 15% to 30%, and particularly preferably in the range of 15% to 25%. This achieves an advantageous pressure viscosity.

[0122] It is also possible that it is at 0.5g / m 2 Up to 20.0g / m 2 Within the range, preferably at 0.8 g / m 2 Up to 10.0 g / m 2 The top coating is applied by applying the coating weight of the dried layer within the range. Slit nozzle or gravure printing methods are particularly advantageous for applying the top coating. Preferably, the top coating is applied directly to the release layer, such that the top coating is applied as the first layer of the transfer layer.

[0123] Alternatively, the top coating may be transparent, translucent, transparently stained, stained, opaque, and / or matte. It may also have a dry layer thickness ranging from 0.2 μm to 20 μm, preferably from 0.4 μm to 8 μm.

[0124] As mentioned at the beginning, the alkali-soluble topcoat simultaneously fulfills multiple tasks. On one hand, the alkali solubility of the topcoat is advantageously used in the manufacturing process for applying it. In the recycling process, this alkali solubility of the topcoat is used to separate the transfer layer from the carrier film. After the transfer layer is applied to the target substrate, the topcoat constitutes the uppermost layer and thus protects the layers beneath the transfer layer, such as the metal layer, color layer, and / or primer layer, from external environmental influences.

[0125] Due to the alkaline solubility of the topcoat, it is essential to ensure that the topcoat remains sufficiently stable after application to the target substrate and therefore in practical applications. As mentioned above, during the drying process of the water-based topcoat, alkaline additives, such as ammonia or amines, are completely or at least partially dried, particularly ammonia. After drying, the topcoat, and especially the adhesive of the topcoat, is preferably in a protonated state. In this state, the topcoat, and especially the adhesive of the topcoat, is hydrophobic and therefore insoluble in water. For applications where alkaline-soluble topcoats are used to transfer decorative graphic packaging, greeting cards, labels, or magazines, low to insoluble solubility of the topcoat is necessary when in contact with moisture or neutral water to withstand damage during daily use. Here, moisture, for example, also means the sweat of a person who comes into contact with the topcoat when touching, for example, a greeting card or magazine.

[0126] Therefore, the stability of the alkali-soluble topcoat was tested in laboratory experiments.

[0127] In the first experiment, potential changes in the transfer layer, with an alkali-soluble topcoat, applied to a water-stabilized substrate were examined after 1 hour of exposure to neutral water with a pH range of 6 to 7. Following exposure to water, the transfer layer or the alkali-soluble topcoat was wiped with a cotton cloth and then allowed to dry for 1 hour at an ambient temperature of 25°C and a relative humidity range of 40% to 60%. Advantageously, no visible changes were observed in the alkali-soluble topcoat.

[0128] In the second experiment, the stability of the alkali-soluble topcoat relative to abrasion was investigated. For this purpose, a so-called tribometer test was performed according to AATCC Test Method 8, a test preferably known from the textile industry. First, a transfer layer with the alkali-soluble topcoat was applied to a water-stable substrate. A substrate made of ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) was preferably suitable. Then, ten complete rubbing motions were performed on the surface of the alkali-soluble topcoat with a dry or damp cotton cloth under a vertical force of 5 N. The damp cotton cloth here had a pH value of 6 to 7. In this experiment, it was also determined that there were no visible changes to the alkali-soluble topcoat.

[0129] The first two experiments concerned the stability of the topcoat after application to the substrate. However, it is also preferred that, particularly during hot pressing, the topcoat exhibit sufficient heat resistance to prevent softening and thus maintain the integrity of the thin metallic mirror if necessary. Preferably, the metallic mirror is constructed in the form of a vapor-deposited metal layer. Softening of the alkali-soluble topcoat during hot pressing causes it to become cloudy, and thus the observer can no longer perceive the luster of the underlying metallic layer. For this reason, in the third experiment, the heat resistance of the alkali-soluble topcoat during hot pressing was investigated compared to a conventional solvent-based topcoat. For this purpose, the transfer film according to the invention and a conventional transfer film with a solvent-based topcoat were hot-pressed on a Yuheng MK920 hot press at a temperature of 130°C and a production rate of 4000 sheets per hour. Visual inspection showed that the metallic mirror including the alkali-soluble topcoat had almost the same luster and reflectivity as the conventional transfer film with the solvent-based topcoat.

[0130] The described experiments demonstrate that the alkali-soluble topcoat exhibits similar stability to conventional solvent-based topcoats in terms of visually perceptible changes. Therefore, articles or substrates applied or decorated with the transfer film according to the invention can be used for everyday applications. For example, they can be used for decorative packaging of products or food intended for cooling in refrigerators. Tests show that the alkali-soluble topcoat has sufficient stability relative to condensation, for example, that occurs in a refrigerator.

[0131] The method according to the invention is particularly suitable for recycling transfer membranes whose transfer layer is made of a material different from that of the carrier membrane. This method offers the advantage that used transfer membranes are not discarded but are reused, thus creating more uses. The transfer membrane according to the invention and / or the manufacturing method according to the invention and / or the transfer membrane used in the recycling method according to the invention are preferably manufactured and constructed according to the principle of "Design for Recycling (DfR)". This provides significant economic and ecological advantages because it eliminates the need to manufacture new plastics. By removing the transfer layer, the purest possible plastic material is obtained, which can be used to manufacture new carrier membranes and / or other plastic components. Attached Figure Description

[0132] In the following description, the invention is explained by way of example with reference to several embodiments and the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the embodiments shown should not be construed as limiting.

[0133] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the transfer membrane is shown.

[0134] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the transfer membrane is shown.

[0135] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the transfer membrane is shown.

[0136] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the transfer membrane is shown.

[0137] Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing the recycling process of the transfer membrane is provided.

[0138] Figure 6 A schematic diagram showing the recycling process of the transfer membrane is provided.

[0139] Figure 7 A schematic diagram showing the recycling process of the transfer membrane is provided.

[0140] Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing the recycling process of the transfer membrane is provided.

[0141] Figure 9 A schematic diagram showing the recycling process of the transfer membrane is provided.

[0142] Figure 10 A schematic diagram showing the roller-to-roll recovery process of the transfer membrane. Detailed Implementation

[0143] Figure 1A schematic diagram of the transfer membrane 1 is shown. The transfer membrane 1 is preferably a recyclable transfer membrane 1, particularly one recyclable in an alkaline washing solution 9 or an alkaline solution. The transfer membrane 1 has a carrier membrane 2, a separation layer 3, and a transfer layer 4 applied to the separation layer 3. As the first layer, or the uppermost layer, the transfer layer 4 has an alkali-soluble top coating 5. Here, "first layer" of the transfer layer 4 should be understood as the layer first applied during the manufacture of the transfer membrane 1. Alternatively, "uppermost layer" of the transfer layer 4 should be understood as the layer formed as the top layer of the transfer layer 4 after it has been applied to the target substrate. The alkali-soluble top coating 5 is provided here, particularly directly on the separation layer 3. Figure 1 The transfer layer 4 of the transfer film 1 also has a primer layer 6, which is disposed below the top coating layer 5.

[0144] Therefore, it is particularly possible here that a layer is provided below the layer disposed on the carrier membrane 2 (e.g., transfer layer 4), which does not directly contact the carrier membrane 2, but is connected to the carrier membrane 2 via one or more other layers (e.g., via at least separation layer 3).

[0145] exist Figure 1 The transfer film 1 shown is a non-metallic hot-pressed film. Alternatively, the transfer film 1 may also be a metallized hot-pressed film, cold-pressed film, or hot-transfer film, as further described in the following embodiments.

[0146] The carrier membrane 2 is preferably manufactured by extrusion, particularly flatbed extrusion. The thickness of the carrier membrane 2 is preferably in the range of 4.5 μm to 100 μm, more preferably in the range of 4.5 μm to 12 μm. The carrier membrane 2 can be colorless, transparent, glassy transparent, opaque, dyed, at least partially dyed, or colored.

[0147] The carrier film 2 is composed of or contains polyester, particularly polyester. Preferably, the carrier film 2 comprises or is composed of one or more components or composite materials selected from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid, polyvinyl furfury, polybutylene terephthalate, trimethyl terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate and / or polyester carbonate, cellophane, cellulose acetate, polyvinyl chloride, polyimide, polyvinylidene chloride and / or paper, particularly coated paper and / or laminated paper.

[0148] exist Figure 1 The carrier membrane 2 shown is a PET carrier membrane 2, which is insoluble in the alkaline washing solution 9. The carrier membrane 2 has, for example, a main component, preferably PET. Preferably, the main component, preferably PET, has a content of more than 97%, more preferably more than 99.9%, and particularly preferably more than 99.97% in the carrier membrane 2.

[0149] The release layer 3 is preferably a water-insoluble release layer. A water-insoluble release layer enables the transfer layer 4 to be transferred to the substrate surface during the application method and allows for very precise control of the peel force and softening temperature. The release layer 3 particularly comprises materials or combinations thereof selected from: waxes, silicones, polyurethanes, fluorinated compounds, fluorinated fatty acids, modified silicone waxes and silicone resins, unmodified silicone paraffin waxes and silicone resins, polymers, preferably acrylate copolymers, polyester copolymers, polystyrene copolymers, and polycarbonate copolymers. It is also possible that the release layer 3 comprises fluorinated compounds, such as polytetrafluoroethylene, and / or fluorinated fatty acids and / or modified silicone waxes and resins and / or unmodified silicone waxes and silicone resins, or combinations thereof.

[0150] Furthermore, the separation layer 3 can be a water-based or solvent-based wax separation layer. Preferably, the separation layer 3 is alkaline-insoluble. This provides the advantage that the separation layer 3 does not dissolve in the alkaline washing solution 9 during the recovery of the transfer membrane 1. Therefore, the complex treatment of the alkaline washing solution 9 after the recovery process is avoided.

[0151] Preferably, the separation layer 3 has a layer thickness of a dried layer in the range of 0.001 μm to 0.080 μm, preferably 0.004 μm to 0.050 μm. Preferably, it is specified that the thickness is achieved by gravure printing at a density of 0.001 g / m³. 2 Up to 0.060g / m 2 0.005g / m 2 Up to 0.050g / m 2 Apply weight to the dry layer within the range to separate the layer 3.

[0152] In particular, it is possible that the release layer 3 can be at least partially transferred using the transfer layer 4. In other words, if the release layer 3 is not waste, it can be transferred to, or has been transferred to, the substrate using a coating method employing the transfer layer 4. This is particularly relevant to the composition of the release layer 3. In the case where the release layer 3 is transferred to the target substrate together with the transfer layer 4, it is specifically stipulated that the release layer 3 is transparent.

[0153] In particular, by therefore preferably adjusting the separation force for separating the transfer layer 4 from the carrier film 2, the separation layer 3 improves the transfer of the transfer layer 4 to the substrate surface during the application process, for example selected from: transfer methods, hot pressing methods, cold pressing methods, lamination methods, insert molding methods, and in-mold decoration methods.

[0154] Specifically, it is specified that the separation force used to separate the transfer layer 4 from the carrier membrane 2 is in the range of 1 cN / cm to 10 cN / cm, especially at temperatures in the range of 15°C to 35°C, preferably in the range of 1 cN / cm to 3 cN / cm for cold-pressed membranes, and / or preferably in the range of 2 cN / cm to 5 cN / cm for hot-pressed membranes.

[0155] Preferably, the minimum separation force within or between two or more layers of the transfer layer 4 can be at least twice the separation force required to separate the transfer layer 4 from the carrier membrane 2, particularly in the range of 10 cN / cm to 100 cN / cm, preferably at least 20 cN / cm to 100 cN / cm, and particularly preferably at least 40 cN / cm to 100 cN / cm. This ensures sufficient adhesion of the individual layers of the transfer layer 4, thereby preventing breakage or splitting of the transfer layer 4 during application.

[0156] As described above, the top coating 5 is alkali-soluble. This means that once the top coating 5 is placed in an alkaline washing solution 9 or an alkaline solution, it dissolves therein. The top coating 5 specifically comprises at least 40% to 100% of an adhesive or adhesive mixture, of which at least 50%, preferably at least 75%, is soluble in an alkaline washing solution 9, particularly an alkaline solution or alkaline solution, with a pH greater than 8.5, preferably greater than 10. In particular, this adhesive is referred to as an ASR (ASR = Alkali-soluble Resin) and includes hydrophobic regions as well as carboxylic acid groups. These functional groups deprotonate at a suitable alkaline pH with increasing pH, thus increasing the polarity of the polymer, making it completely soluble in polar solvents such as water or at least present as a colloidal dispersion. Deprotonation is a reversible process. The adhesive is insoluble in neutral water (pH ≈ 7) or acidic aqueous solutions (pH < 7) because the hydrophobicity of the adhesive is dominated by the protonated carboxylic acid groups.

[0157] ASR allows the formulation of environmentally friendly water-based coatings, which by definition contain less than 20% volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The alkaline pH can be adjusted by adding ammonia (NH3) or amines; ammonia is preferred because, unlike amines, it is not considered a VOC and, due to its very low boiling point of -33°C, it can be completely dried at very high speeds, especially with gravure printing. To improve wettability, processability, and film-forming properties, up to 20% of a hydrophilic organic solvent can be added to improve film formation; for example, alcohols or glycol ethers.

[0158] Alkali-soluble binders preferably include alkali-soluble acrylate polymers, which are commonly used in the printing ink industry or for grinding and dispersing pigment pastes. Examples of commercially available alkali-soluble acrylates are NeoCryl BT-24EU, NeoCryl BT-21, NeoCryl BT-100, NeoCryl-BT-107-S, NeoCryl-BT-101 (e.g., Costarol), and SOLURYL R-90, SOLURYL CE-1217 (e.g., Hanwha Chemical). Suitable ASRs especially have a molecular weight of less than 300,000 g / mol, preferably in the range of 1,000 to 100,000 g / mol, and particularly preferably in the range of 1,500 to 60,000 g / mol.

[0159] Alkali-soluble acrylates preferably have a high acid value, which is attributed to the formation of anionic groups by carboxylic acid functional groups in alkaline aqueous solutions. Preferably, the acid value of the alkali-soluble acrylate, particularly the alkali-soluble topcoat 5, is at least 20 mg KOH / g, preferably at least 50 mg KOH / g. To avoid low durability of the dried paint film against neutral water, the acid value of the polymer is particularly preferably in the range of 50 mg KOH / g to 225 mg KOH / g. Alkali-soluble acrylates preferably have a glass transition temperature in the range of 30°C to 150°C, particularly preferably in the range of 50°C to 150°C. When using a mixture of two or more alkali-soluble adhesives, the glass transition temperature range refers to a calculated value weighted by content.

[0160] Preferably, the water-based top coating 5 has a solids content in the range of 5% to 45%, preferably 15% to 30%, and particularly preferably 15% to 25% to obtain a favorable pressure viscosity. Preferably, the solids content is achieved at 0.5 g / m³ using gravure printing or a slit nozzle method. 2 Up to 20.0g / m 2 0.8g / m 2 Up to 10.0 g / m 2 The top coating 5 is applied by weight to the dry layer within the range, particularly to the release layer 3. It is also preferred that the top coating 5 be applied in an aqueous state and then dried, wherein the alkaline additive is completely or at least partially dried.

[0161] exist Figure 1 In the transfer film 1 shown, the top coating 5 preferably has a dry layer thickness in the range of 0.2 μm to 20.0 μm, and more preferably in the range of 0.4 μm to 8 μm.

[0162] Furthermore, the top coating 5 may preferably contain soluble dyes and / or pigments and / or matting agents in a content ranging from 0% to 60% as other components. The selection of these other components depends on their respective applications or optical designs. Preferably, the top coating 5 is transparent, translucent, transparently dyed, dyed, opaque, and / or matte. Combined with the subsequent metal layer 7, such as... Figure 2 , 3 As shown in Figure 4, a metallic luster effect is particularly produced. In non-metallized transfer films, for example... Figure 1 In this transfer film 1, pigments are preferably used to achieve strong coverage of the substrate surface, especially the transfer layer 4.

[0163] Preferably, the transfer layer 4, in particular, has at least one metal layer 7 and / or at least one primer layer 6 and / or at least one color layer and / or at least one adhesive layer and / or at least one adhesion promoter layer 8, in addition to the top coating layer 5.

[0164] exist Figure 1 In the transfer film 1 shown, the transfer layer 4, in addition to the top coating layer 5, also has a primer layer 6. The primer layer 6 enables the transfer layer 4 to adhere to the target substrate during application. Preferably, the primer layer 6 has a dry layer thickness in the range of 0.1 μm to 5.0 μm, more preferably in the range of 0.5 μm to 3 μm, wherein, preferably in cold-press application, the primer layer 6 has a dry layer thickness in the range of 0.1 μm to 0.8 μm, and in hot-press application, the primer layer 6 has a dry layer thickness in the range of 0.5 μm to 3 μm. As described above, Figure 1 The transfer film 1 shown is a thermoforming film. Accordingly, according to Figure 1 The primer layer 6 of the transfer film 1 has a dry layer thickness in the range of 0.5 μm to 3 μm. Furthermore, in this case, it is a heat-activated primer layer 6, which is activated, in particular, by the heat energy of a die and / or roller, during the application of the transfer layer 4 onto the target substrate.

[0165] In some cases, for example Figure 1 As shown, in a non-metallized transfer membrane, the primer layer 6 can be bonded to the protective varnish layer. In this case, the bonded layer will be water-based and will therefore be dissolved in the alkaline washing solution 9 or alkaline solution during the recycling process, so that only the carrier membrane 2, along with the separation layer 3 and the alkaline washing solution 9, remains as a product if necessary during recycling. However, in Figure 1 In the transfer membrane 1 shown, the primer layer 6 is alkaline insoluble. This provides the advantage that the primer layer 6 does not dissolve in the alkaline washing solution 9 when the transfer membrane 1 is recovered. This avoids the need for complex treatment of the alkaline washing solution 9 after the recovery process.

[0166] Preferably, the primer layer 6 comprises or is composed of one or more of the following materials: polyurethane, polyester, polyamide, polycarbonate, polyurea, polyacrylate and / or copolymers thereof, polymethyl methacrylate and / or copolymers thereof, hydrocarbon resin, shellac, alkyd resin, rosin resin, ketone resin, phenolic resin, polystyrene resin, epoxy resin, maleic ester resin, melamine resin, formaldehyde resin, polyvinyl acetate, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyvinyl chloride, nitrocellulose, polyolefin, modified polyolefin and / or plasticizer and / or dye and / or organic and / or inorganic pigment and / or matting agent.

[0167] Preferably, the primer layer 6 is applied by means of printing and / or by means of casting and / or by means of a scraper.

[0168] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of another transfer membrane 1, particularly a recyclable transfer membrane 1, is shown. Figure 2 The transfer film 1 shown is a metallized hot-pressed film. Here, Figure 2 The layer structure of the transfer film 1 shown is similar to Figure 1 The transfer film 1 in the original has the same layer structure, but differs in that a metal layer 7 is also provided between the primer layer 6 and the top coating layer 5. The metal layer 7 provides a metallic sheen and mirror effect perceptible to the viewer. Therefore, Figure 2 The transfer layer 4 of the transfer film 1 shown includes a top coating layer 5, a metal layer 7, and a primer layer 6.

[0169] Preferably, the metal layer 7 has a thickness in the range of 5 nm to 50 nm, more preferably in the range of 10 nm to 40 nm. Preferably, the metal layer 7 comprises a material and / or compound preferably having a high refractive index, which is selected individually or as an alloy of at least two of these materials or as a eutectic from: aluminum, chromium, silver, gold, copper, nickel, tin, indium, silicon oxide, magnesium oxide, titanium oxide, aluminum oxide, zinc oxide, and zinc sulfide.

[0170] Furthermore, it is preferred that the metal layer 7 is either transparent or opaque.

[0171] In particular, a metal layer 7 can be applied as one of the one or more layers of the transfer layer 4 by means of vacuum evaporation, and the metal layer 7 is applied with a layer thickness in the range of 5 nm to 50 nm, preferably in the range of 10 nm to 40 nm.

[0172] If the metal layer 7 is formed of a base metal, it is preferably alkali-soluble. When a base metal such as aluminum is used as the metal layer 7, the metal layer 7 dissolves upon contact with the alkaline washing solution 9 or an alkaline solution. Hydrogen gas (H2) is released in this process, and for process safety reasons, it is preferable to remove the hydrogen gas from the process by means of heat recovery, ventilation, and / or suction.

[0173] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of another transfer membrane 1, particularly a recyclable transfer membrane 1, is shown. Figure 3 The transfer film 1 shown is a metallized cold-pressed film. Figure 3 The layer structure of the transfer film 1 shown here is similar to... Figure 2 The transfer film 1 in the middle has the same layer structure, but the difference is that the primer layer 6 has a smaller layer thickness.

[0174] In this case, the primer layer 6 has a dry layer thickness ranging from 0.1 μm to 0.8 μm. (This is in accordance with...) Figure 2 Unlike the hot-pressed film, the primer layer 6 is not a heat-activated adhesive.

[0175] In particular, in cold-press transfer processes, an adhesive layer in the form of a decorative pattern is preferably applied to the substrate via a printing process (e.g., especially offset and / or flexographic and / or screen printing and / or inkjet printing). Subsequently, the transfer film 1 is applied to the substrate, preferably within a temperature range of 10°C to 40°C, and more preferably within a range of 15°C to 30°C, and then the carrier film 2 is peeled off. If the adhesive force of the adhesive layer on the transfer layer 4 is greater than the separation force of the transfer layer 4 on the carrier film 2, transfer of the transfer layer 4 to the substrate occurs. Therefore, upon peeling off the carrier film 2, the transfer layer 4 remains on the substrate, especially in the area containing the adhesive layer, and separates from the carrier film 2 there. Oxidation- and / or radiation-cured adhesives are particularly used for the adhesive layer.

[0176] In the cold pressing process, the task of the primer layer 6 is to improve the adhesion between the transfer layer 4 and the adhesive layer.

[0177] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of another transfer membrane 1, particularly a recyclable transfer membrane 1, is shown. Figure 4 The transfer film 1 shown is a metallized hot-pressed film. Figure 4 The layer structure of the transfer film 1 shown here is similar to... Figure 2 The transfer film 1 in the middle has the same layer structure, but the difference is that an adsorbent layer 8 is also provided between the metal layer 7 and the top coating layer 5.

[0178] The adhesive layer 8 comprises one or more of the following materials or preferably consists of one or more of the following materials: polyurethane, polyester, polyamide, polycarbonate, polyacrylate and / or copolymers thereof, polymethyl methacrylate and / or copolymers thereof, hydrocarbon resin, alkyd resin, rosin resin, ketone resin, phenolic resin, polystyrene resin, epoxy resin, polyvinyl acetate, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyvinyl chloride, nitrocellulose, polyolefin and / or modified polyolefin.

[0179] Preferably, the adhesion promoter layer 8 has a thickness in the range of 0.01 μm to 0.5 μm, more preferably in the range of 0.01 μm to 0.3 μm. The adhesion promoter layer 8 improves the adhesion between the top coating layer 5 and the metal layer 7. However, the adhesion promoter layer 8 is only an optional layer that is necessary for certain metals. For example, for aluminum coatings, the adhesion promoter layer 8 is not mandatory.

[0180] Instead of the adhesion promoter layer 8, the top coating layer 5 can also be constructed as a multilayer layer. In this case, it is preferred that all layers of the multilayer top coating are alkali-soluble; however, the layer of the top coating that contacts the metal layer may contain, in addition to having 40% to 100% ASR as a component in the coating weight of the dried layer, up to 60% of one or more of the following water-based emulsions or dispersions, in order to adjust the target adhesion to the metal interface without changing the composition of the top coating thereon: polyurethane, polyester, polyamide, polycarbonate, polyacrylate and / or copolymers thereof, polymethyl methacrylate and / or copolymers thereof, hydrocarbon resins, alkyd resins, ketone resins, phenolic resins, polystyrene resins, epoxy resins, polyvinyl acetate, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers, polyvinyl chloride, cellulose esters, polyolefins and / or modified polyolefins.

[0181] Figure 5 An exemplary method is shown for recovering a transfer membrane 1 having a carrier membrane 2 and a transfer layer 4 at least partially disposed on the carrier membrane 2, wherein a separation layer 3 is disposed between the carrier membrane 2 and the transfer layer 4. The transfer layer 4 has an alkali-soluble top coating layer 5 and a primer layer 6, wherein the top coating layer 5 is disposed on the separation layer 3. To recover the transfer membrane 1, the following steps are performed:

[0182] x) Using an alkaline washing solution 9, preferably in a washing solution bath, dissolve 10 an alkali-soluble top coating 5, particularly an alkali-soluble adhesive of the top coating 5, wherein the transfer layer 4 is separated from the carrier membrane 2.

[0183] In particular, during step x), the carrier membrane 2 is washed with alkaline washing solution 9 or alkaline solution. For this purpose, the transfer membrane 1 is detached, particularly from the transfer layer 4, thus leaving the carrier membrane 2 substantially after step x). The separation layer 3 may remain on the carrier layer. Since the thickness of the separation layer 3 is negligible compared to the thickness of the carrier membrane 2, the remaining separation layer 3 has no negative impact on further recycling processes. Rather, it ensures that even if the separation layer 3 remains on the carrier membrane 2 after step x), the carrier membrane 2 and / or the material of the carrier membrane 2 have a purity in the range of 99.0% to 100.0% by weight after step x). In the case where the carrier membrane 2 is made of PET, this means that the carrier membrane 2 obtained from the recycling process is composed of pure PET to a degree of 99% to 100%. Therefore, the recycled material preferably has substantially the same material properties as the newly obtained material.

[0184] Utilize Figure 5 and Figure 6 The carrier membrane 2, as exemplarily shown, can be guided as a whole through the alkaline washing solution 9. It is possible, for example, that the transfer layer 4 also exists as a whole on the carrier membrane 2 when the transfer membrane 1 constitutes waste; or that the transfer layer 4 exists on the carrier membrane 2 as a transfer layer component. The transfer layer component is, for example, a residual transfer layer that remains on the carrier layer after the transfer layer 4 has been partially transferred to the substrate. Alternatively, however, the transfer membrane 1 can be previously cut short using a cutting device to form a cutting material, which is then supplied to the alkaline washing solution 9. Therefore, the carrier membrane 2 is preferably understood not only as a whole carrier membrane 2, but also as a plurality of carrier membrane cuts. The transfer layer 4 is preferably understood not only as a whole transfer layer 4, but also as a plurality of transfer layer cuts.

[0185] Transfer membrane 1 preferably includes, in particular, reference before step x). Figures 1 to 4 The structure described.

[0186] As in Figure 6 As can be seen, the transfer layer 4 may not be present in the regions where the separation layer 3 is present. Here, the carrier film 2, together with the separation layer 3, has been separated from the transfer layer 4 in these regions, for example, by a previous coating process for transferring the transfer layer 4 onto the target substrate. Alternatively, it is possible that, in a previous application process with the transfer layer 4, the separation layer 3 is transferred onto the target substrate such that the separation layer 3 is not present in the regions without the transfer layer 4 prior to step x). The separation layer, with the transfer layer 4 transferred onto the substrate, preferably has high transparency, particularly 95% to 100% transmittance, preferably in the wavelength range of 350 nm to 800 nm, and especially in the average value within that wavelength range.

[0187] In step x), the alkaline washing solution 9 or alkali solution enters the transfer membrane 1, particularly the transfer layer and / or between the carrier membrane and the transfer layer, for example via the cut edge and / or fracture edge, and / or diffuses through the alkali-insoluble transfer layer, and begins to dissolve the alkali-soluble topcoat 5 upon contact with the alkaline washing solution 9 or alkali solution. Furthermore, micro-damage, particularly micro-cracks, are generated in the transfer layer 4 during application or membrane treatment. Through these micro-cracks, the alkaline washing solution 9 or alkali solution can also advantageously enter the transfer membrane, particularly the transfer layer and / or between the carrier membrane and the transfer layer. Because the topcoat 5 has a relatively high coating weight of the dry layer or a relatively high layer thickness relative to the rest of the transfer layer 4, the reaction surface traversed by the alkaline washing solution 9 in the topcoat 5 is relatively large. This has a favorable effect on the dissolution process and accelerates the dissolution of the topcoat 5, particularly the alkali-soluble binder of the topcoat 5. Advantageously, the topcoat 5 expands upon contact with the alkaline washing solution 9 or alkali solution, thereby further facilitating the separation of the remaining portion of the transfer layer 4 from the carrier membrane 2.

[0188] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the top coating 5, particularly the alkali-soluble binder of the top coating 5, is completely dissolved in the alkaline washing solution 9, thereby leaving the separated carrier membrane 2 and the remaining transfer layer. The remaining transfer layer components preferably appear in particulate form. Therefore, the particles in the washing solution 9 form a heterogeneous mixture, while the dissolved top coating 5 remains in the washing solution 9 and forms a homogeneous mixture therewith. Preferably, the transfer layer 4, which is not the top coating 5, does not enter the solution. However, as mentioned above, when base metals are used as the metal layer 7, they can dissolve in the alkaline washing solution 9 or an alkaline solution.

[0189] For example, the alkaline detergent 9 can be an alkaline aqueous solution, an alkaline solution, and / or an alkaline solution. The alkaline detergent 9 preferably contains one or more of the following solutions: solutions of alkali metal hydroxides or alkaline earth metal hydroxides, such as potassium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, or calcium hydroxide; or alkaline earth oxides, such as calcium oxide or barium oxide; or solutions of ammonia or amines.

[0190] Figure 6The diagram also schematically illustrates the presence of the transfer layer 4 as particles in the alkaline washing solution 9 after separation from the carrier membrane 2. Preferably, during step x), the transfer layer 4 decomposes into particles, wherein the particles are insoluble in the alkaline washing solution 9, particularly with particle sizes ranging from 10 μm to 50 mm when observed in planar view, preferably from 50 μm to 5 mm, and particularly preferably from 20 μm to 5 mm. Preferably, after step x), the insoluble particles of the transfer layer 4 can be separated from the alkaline washing solution 9 by means of a separation method, particularly including filtration and / or centrifugation and / or sieving and / or decantation. Thus, no nanoscale particles are formed in the recovery method according to the invention, eliminating complex separation steps, such as complex filtration for removing nanoscale particles. Furthermore, this eliminates the adhesion of nanoscale particles to the carrier membrane 2, thereby improving the purity of the recovered material or the expense required to achieve a certain purity. In addition, it particularly improves the usability, maintenance and upkeep of the alkaline washing solution 9 and process safety. The alkali-soluble top coating 5 advantageously achieves this by means of, particularly in order to separate the transfer layer 4 from the carrier membrane 2 in step x), using no or only very small mechanical forces that could result in the separation of very fine particles.

[0191] The particles are present in the alkaline washing solution 9, particularly in an undissolved form, and / or the particles in the alkaline washing solution have the entire layer structure of the transfer layer 4 minus the top coating layer 5 dissolved in the alkaline washing solution 9. In other words, since the transfer layer 4 is insoluble in the alkaline washing solution 9, the layer structure of the transfer layer 4 of the carrier membrane 2 and / or the transfer membrane 1 is maintained during step x).

[0192] However, as mentioned above, since the top coating 5 optionally also includes a metal layer 7, which dissolves in the alkaline washing solution 9 or an alkaline solution when using base metals, it is specifically stipulated that, after step x), the alkaline washing solution 9 is prepared by means of membrane filtration and / or chemical precipitation. This allows the dissolved components of the top coating 5 and optionally the metal layer 7 to be removed from the alkaline washing solution 9, so that the alkaline washing solution 9 can be reused in further subsequent recovery processes.

[0193] Preferably, during or after step x), the cutting material in the alkaline washing solution 9 has a concentration in the range of 1% to 30% by weight, preferably 5% to 15% by weight. This concentration is specifically calculated by the ratio of the sum of the weights of the transfer layer 4 present in the alkaline washing solution 9 to the weight of the alkaline washing solution 9 together with the weight of the topcoat layer 5 dissolved in the alkaline washing solution 9 and the weight of the transfer layer 4. Therefore, it is preferable to primarily concern the solid concentration in the washing solution 9 having the transfer layer 4.

[0194] The time required for the alkali-soluble topcoat 5 to dissolve in step x) and the particle size of the deposited particles of the transfer layer 4 depend particularly on the pH of the alkaline washing solution 9, the temperature of the alkaline washing solution 9, the stirring speed in the washing solution 9, and the amount of cutting material or the amount of transfer membrane 1 in the recovery container and / or washing solution bath. The higher the pH of the alkaline washing solution 9, the higher the temperature of the alkaline washing solution 9, and the higher the stirring speed in the alkaline washing solution 9, the faster the alkali-soluble topcoat 5, especially the alkali-soluble binder of the topcoat 5, dissolves, and the smaller the particles of the transfer layer 4 are produced. The parameters should preferably be selected in such a way that the formation of nanoscale particles is avoided. Furthermore, the adhesion and / or folding of the components of the carrier membrane 2 and / or the transfer layer 4 and / or the cutting material can be avoided by selecting the appropriate geometry and volume of the recovery container, especially the container for the washing solution bath, the level of the alkaline washing solution 9, especially the amount of transfer membrane 1 in the form of cutting material per process, and the stirring duration and stirring speed.

[0195] Preferably, step x) is carried out at ambient temperature, particularly within a temperature range of 15°C to 30°C. In other words, this means that the alkaline washing solution 9 in step x) has a temperature within the range of ambient temperature, particularly within 15°C to 30°C. However, it is conceivable that step x) is carried out over the entire temperature range in which the alkaline washing solution 9 exists in a liquid aggregated state. Advantageously, step x) is carried out at a temperature higher than ambient temperature, particularly above 30°C, because this minimizes the time required for separating the transfer layer.

[0196] Figure 7 An exemplary method is shown in step x) for recovering transfer membrane 1 by dissolving 10 alkali-soluble top coating 5, particularly the adhesive of top coating 5.

[0197] Preferably, in step x), the alkaline washing solution 9 has a pH value greater than 9, preferably greater than 11, and particularly preferably greater than 13. However, it is also possible that the alkaline washing solution 9 has a pH value of 14 or higher. Generally, the higher the pH value of the alkaline washing solution 9, the faster the alkaline soluble topcoat 5 dissolves and the faster the remaining portion of the transfer layer separates from the carrier membrane 2.

[0198] Figure 8 An exemplary method is shown for recovering transfer membrane 1 by dissolving 10 alkali-soluble top coatings 5, particularly the alkali-soluble binder of the top coatings 5, in step x) and subsequent steps, the subsequent steps being performed specifically before dissolving 10 alkali-soluble top coatings 5, particularly the alkali-soluble binder of the top coatings 5:

[0199] a) The transfer film 1 is cut into 20 pieces by means of a cutting device, preferably the transfer film 1 is wound on a roller.

[0200] This allows the transfer membrane 1, in the form of a cut material, to be fed into the alkaline washing solution 9. Advantageously, this enables the alkaline washing solution 9 to better enter the transfer membrane 1, particularly into the transfer layer 4, and / or between the carrier membrane 2 and the transfer layer 4, via the cut edge and / or break edge.

[0201] Preferably, especially when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the plane defined by the cut material, the cut material has a diameter of 0.1 cm. 2 Up to 100cm 2 Preferably 1cm 2 Up to 10cm 2 The area within the specified range. This also specifically ensures that when the thickness of transfer layer 4 is, for example, less than 50 μm, the transfer layer particles are large enough.

[0202] Furthermore, it is preferred that the transfer film 1 be wound onto the roller before step a). In this case, it is preferable that the following steps be performed before cutting 20, particularly in step a):

[0203] The rollers are fed to the cutting device by hand and / or with the aid of a feeding device.

[0204] Alternatively, it can be specified that when the 20mm transfer film 1 is shortened in step a), the wound transfer film 1 is cut into film webs, wherein the roller and the transfer film 1 are fixed in a V-groove, particularly horizontally, and then cut longitudinally with the aid of a knife, particularly from above, below, or from the side, down to the core and the core is removed, especially if a core is present. This has the advantage that the transfer film can be quickly and easily separated from the core and can be used for further processing.

[0205] In particular, it is possible that when the membrane is cut short at 20, especially in step a), the cutting device cuts and / or severs and / or crushes and / or tears the transfer membrane 1.

[0206] In particular, if the transfer membrane 1 is cut 20mm short according to step a) before step x), the alkaline washing solution 9 is stirred together with the transfer membrane 1 and / or the cut material. Here, stirring promotes the entry of the alkaline washing solution 9 into the transfer membrane 1 and thus accelerates the separation of the transfer layer 4 from the carrier membrane 2.

[0207] Additionally, it is possible that during step x), especially if step a) was performed previously, the alkaline washing solution 9 is stirred with the transfer membrane 1 and / or the cutting material for a stirring duration in the range of 30 to 120 seconds, preferably 60 to 120 seconds.

[0208] It is also possible that, during step x), especially if step a) was performed previously, the alkaline washing solution 9 is stirred with the transfer membrane 1 and / or the cutting material at a stirring speed of 1 to 200 revolutions per minute, preferably 10 to 50 revolutions per minute. The higher the stirring speed, the faster the transfer layer 4 separates from the carrier membrane 2. Furthermore, stirring plays an active role in generating a small shear force in the alkaline washing solution 9 that is conducive to the separation of the transfer layer 4 from the carrier membrane 2.

[0209] In particular, when the cutting 20 according to step a) is performed before step x), in addition to the aforementioned particles of transfer layer 4, carrier membrane cutting also occurs. Preferably, the area of ​​the carrier membrane cutting corresponds to the area of ​​the cut material, especially when viewed perpendicular to the plane defined by the carrier membrane cutting. In other words, this means that the recycling process is particularly careful with the material of carrier membrane 2 or the carrier membrane cutting and no particles separate from carrier membrane 2 itself.

[0210] After the transfer layer 4 is separated from the carrier membrane shavings in step x), it is specifically specified that the carrier membrane shavings are separated from the alkaline washing solution 9 by means of filtration and / or centrifugation and / or precipitation. Filtration and / or centrifugation describe a mechanical separation process, while precipitation is based on physical effects. Here, the density difference of the various components of the transfer membrane 1 is used. For example, the PET carrier membrane has a density of approximately 1.4 g / cm³. 3 The density of the transfer layer 4 (e.g., primer layer 6 or adhesion promoter layer 8) is 0.9 g / cm³. 3 Up to 1.25 g / cm 3 The density is within a certain range. By selectively adjusting the density of the alkaline washing solution 9, the separation of particles from the carrier membrane 2 or carrier membrane fragments and the transfer layer 4 can be achieved. Specifically, it is specified that the alkaline washing solution 9 has a density of 1.2 g / cm³. 3 Up to 1.4 g / cm 3 Within the range, preferably at 1.25 g / cm³ 3 Up to 1.35 g / cm 3 The density within the range, in particular the density of the alkaline washing liquid 9, was selected such that the carrier membrane 2 would settle due to the density difference.

[0211] The density of alkaline detergent 9 can be precisely adjusted according to the temperature by the amount of dissolved NaOH or KOH, for example, when using sodium hydroxide solution or potassium hydroxide solution.

[0212] Furthermore, combinations of the above separation processes can be performed. For example, pre-separation can be achieved using precipitation, followed by fine separation through filtration and / or centrifugation.

[0213] Following separation in step x), it is specifically stipulated that, preferably by means of mechanical drying and / or thermal drying processes, the separated carrier membrane shavings are washed and / or neutralized and / or dried, particularly to achieve a purity of 99% to 100% for the carrier membrane shavings, and especially for the carrier membrane material. Possible impurities are attributed here solely to the separation layer 3, which in some cases remains entirely or only in areas not previously transferred to the target substrate on the carrier membrane 2. However, because the separation layer 3 has a negligible thickness compared to the thickness of the carrier membrane 2, a purity exceeding 99% for the carrier membrane material is still guaranteed.

[0214] Advantageously, after drying, the carrier film extrusion has a humidity range of 0% to 15%, preferably 0% to 5%. Drying, in particular, ensures that other substances contained in the washing liquid 9 do not flow into optional subsequent process steps.

[0215] As an alternative to cleaning and cutting materials, a roller-to-roll recycling method can also be used. This is in Figure 9 and Figure 10 The diagram is shown schematically. Therefore, it is preferably specified that the method includes the following steps prior to step x):

[0216] b1) The transfer film 1 is unwound from the unwinding roller by means of an unwinding device, wherein the unwound transfer film 1 is brought into contact with the alkaline washing liquid 9, particularly by guiding the transfer film 1 in the washing liquid bath.

[0217] Specifically, for this purpose, the transfer membrane 1 is guided into the washing liquid bath, for example by means of one or more deflection rollers.

[0218] Preferably, the method includes the following steps after step b1) and after step x):

[0219] b2) The carrier film 2 is wound 40 onto a winding roller, wherein the carrier film 2 is guided out of the bath of alkaline washing liquid 9, in particular leaving the dissolved top coating 5 and / or the undissolved transfer layer 4 in the alkaline washing liquid 9.

[0220] In particular, the separation of the carrier membrane 2 can be abandoned by simply pulling the carrier membrane 2 out of the alkaline washing solution 9 by winding 40.

[0221] Preferably, between steps b1) and b2), the transfer membrane 1, particularly the carrier membrane 2, is guided through the washing solution 9 at a speed of 1 m / s to 100 m / s. In particular, the transfer membrane 1, particularly the carrier membrane 2, is preferably brought into contact with and / or guided through the washing solution bath by the washing solution 9 for a time ranging from 10 s to 150 s between steps b1) and b2).

[0222] In particular, the residence time of the alkali-soluble top coating 5 can be increased and / or the dissolution of the alkali-soluble top coating 5 can be accelerated by means of the one or more deflection rollers, for example due to friction between the transfer layer 4 and the washing liquid 9 and / or friction between the alkali-soluble top coating 5 and the washing liquid 9.

[0223] Alternatively, after the carrier membrane 2 has been removed from the cleaning bath, it may be guided through the cleaning bath. Here, the carrier membrane 2 is preferably in contact with a neutralizing cleaning solution, which preferably contains one or more materials selected from water or optionally a homogeneous mixture of water and one or more other substances. One or more other substances are preferably acids, selected alone or in combination from carbonic acid, acetic acid, hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, and / or one or more alcohols, preferably methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol, and acetone, selected alone or in combination. Furthermore, additives and / or surfactants, such as defoamers, may be added to the washing solution 9. The carrier membrane 2 is preferably guided back from the cleaning bath before being wound onto the winding rollers.

[0224] It is also possible that the carrier membrane 2 is dried after it has been guided out of the washing bath and / or cleaning bath.

[0225] Therefore, this method is particularly performed using a roller-to-roll method and / or steps b1), x), and b2) are performed in an online process. An embodiment is also conceivable in which the method of manufacturing and / or applying the transfer membrane is carried out in an online process, particularly in steps b1), x), and b2), in the method for recovering the transfer membrane.

[0226] It is also conceivable that, in order to separate the transfer layer 4 from the carrier membrane 2, a mechanical abrasion system and / or a brush roller system and / or a foam roller system and / or a nozzle system may be additionally used in step x) and / or between steps b1) and b2).

[0227] Similar to according to Figures 4 to 8 As described in the previously described embodiment, the particles of transfer layer 4 are produced in a roll-to-roll process, forming a heterogeneous mixture with the alkaline washing liquid 9. These particles of transfer layer 4 are separated from the alkaline washing liquid 9 in a roll-to-roll process in a manner similar to the separation method described above. This also applies to the top coating layer 5 dissolved in the alkaline washing liquid 9. Its components are also removed from the washing liquid 9.

[0228] Preferably, the raw materials are the same not only in the roll-to-roll process but also in the shaving process, i.e., the transfer film 1 is preferably wound on a roll. Preferably, before step x), and particularly before steps a) and / or b1), the transfer film 1 has a tape and / or splice tape content in the range of 0% to 0.5% by weight, preferably 0% to 0.1% by weight. This adhesive tape or splice tape is considered to be foreign material that is also separated from the carrier film 2. Preferably, before step x), and particularly before step a) and / or before step b1), the transfer film 1 has a foreign matter content in the range of 0% to 5% by weight, preferably 0% to 1% by weight.

[0229] Furthermore, after step x), the carrier membrane 2 and / or the carrier membrane shavings and / or the material of the carrier membrane 2 can be further processed into dense products and / or extruded products, in particular, the dense products and / or extruded products are suitable for at least one subsequent process or combination of processes selected from: injection molding, extrusion, flat film extrusion, compression molding, compounding, chemical recycling and / or energy recovery.

[0230] List of reference numerals

[0231] 1. Transfer membrane

[0232] 2. Carrier membrane

[0233] 3 Separation Layer

[0234] 4 transfer layers

[0235] 5 top coatings

[0236] 6 primer layers

[0237] 7 metal layers

[0238] 8 Adhesive Layers

[0239] 9. Alkaline detergent

[0240] 10. Dissolution of alkaline-soluble topcoat

[0241] 20 Cut short

[0242] 30 Reverse wrap

[0243] 40 windings.

Claims

1. A transfer membrane (1) having a carrier membrane (2) and a transfer layer (4) at least partially disposed on the carrier membrane (2), wherein a separation layer (3) is disposed between the carrier membrane (2) and the transfer layer (4), characterized in that, The transfer layer (4) has an alkali-soluble top coating (5), wherein the top coating (5) is disposed on the separation layer (3), and The top coating (5) contains at least 40% to 100% of an adhesive or adhesive mixture, at least 50% of which is soluble in an alkaline detergent (9) with a pH greater than 8.

5.

2. The transfer membrane (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The topcoat (5) is transparent, translucent, transparently stained, stained, opaque and / or matte.

3. The transfer membrane (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The top coating (5) has a dry layer thickness ranging from 0.2µm to 20.0µm.

4. The transfer membrane (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The separation layer (3) comprises materials or combinations thereof selected from the following: waxes, silicones, polyurethanes, fluorinated compounds, fluorinated fatty acids, modified silicone waxes and silicone resins, unmodified silicone waxes and silicone resins, and / or acrylate copolymers, polyester copolymers, polystyrene copolymers, and polycarbonate copolymers.

5. The transfer membrane (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The separation layer (3) has a coating weight of a dry layer in the range of 0.001µm to 0.080µm.

6. The transfer membrane (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The separation layer (3) is configured to be transparent and / or translucent and / or opaque and / or stained and / or at least partially stained and / or glassy transparent.

7. The transfer membrane (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transfer layer (4) has other layers selected individually or in combination from the following: at least one metal layer (7), at least one primer layer (6), at least one pigment layer, at least one adhesive layer, at least one adhesion promoter layer (8), at least one barrier layer, at least one protective layer, at least one replication layer, at least one oxide layer, and at least one mask layer.

8. The transfer membrane (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The metal layer (7) has a thickness in the range of 5 nm to 50 nm.

9. The transfer membrane (1) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The metal layer (7) comprises or is composed of materials and / or compounds selected from the following, having a high refractive index, alone or as an alloy of at least two of the following materials or as a eutectic: aluminum, chromium, silver, gold, copper, nickel, tin, indium, silicon oxide, magnesium oxide, titanium oxide, aluminum oxide, zinc oxide.

10. The transfer membrane (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The metal layer (7) is either transparent or opaque.

11. The transfer membrane (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The primer layer (6) has a dry layer thickness in the range of 0.1µm to 5.0µm, wherein, in cold pressing application, the primer layer (6) has a dry layer thickness in the range of 0.1µm to 0.8µm, and in hot pressing application, the primer layer (6) has a dry layer thickness in the range of 0.5µm to 3µm.

12. The transfer membrane (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The primer layer (6) comprises or is composed of one or more of the following materials: polyurethane, polyester, polyamide, polycarbonate, polyurea, polyacrylate and / or copolymers thereof, polymethyl methacrylate and / or copolymers thereof, hydrocarbon resin, shellac, alkyd resin, rosin resin, ketone resin, phenolic resin, polystyrene resin, epoxy resin, maleic ester resin, melamine resin, formaldehyde resin, polyvinyl acetate, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyvinyl chloride, nitrocellulose, polyolefin, modified polyolefin and / or plasticizer and / or dye and / or organic pigment and / or inorganic pigment and / or matting agent.

13. The transfer membrane (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The thickness of the adhesive layer (8) is in the range of 0.01µm to 0.5µm.

14. The transfer membrane (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The adhesive layer (8) comprises or is composed of one or more of the following materials: polyurethane, polyester, polyamide, polycarbonate, polyacrylate and / or copolymers thereof, polymethyl methacrylate and / or copolymers thereof, hydrocarbon resin, alkyd resin, rosin resin, ketone resin, phenolic resin, polystyrene resin, epoxy resin, polyvinyl acetate, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyvinyl chloride, nitrocellulose, polyolefin and / or modified polyolefin.

15. The transfer membrane (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thickness of the carrier membrane (2) is in the range of 4.5µm to 100µm.

16. The transfer membrane (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The carrier membrane (2) comprises or is composed of one or more components or composite materials selected from the following: polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid, polyethylene furfury, polybutylene terephthalate, polytrimethyl terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate and / or polyester carbonate, cellophane, cellulose acetate, polyvinyl chloride, polyimide, polyvinylidene chloride and / or paper.

17. The transfer membrane (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The carrier membrane (2) includes PET as the main component, wherein the content of the main component PET in the carrier membrane (2) is greater than 97%.

18. The transfer membrane (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The carrier membrane (2) is colorless, transparent, glassy transparent, opaque, dyed, at least partially dyed, or colored.

19. The transfer membrane (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, At temperatures ranging from 15°C to 35°C, the separation force used to separate the transfer layer (4) from the carrier membrane (2) is in the range of 1 cN / cm to 10 cN / cm, wherein for cold-pressed membranes it is in the range of 1 cN / cm to 3 cN / cm and for hot-pressed membranes it is in the range of 2 cN / cm to 5 cN / cm.

20. The transfer membrane (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The minimum separation force within or between two or more layers of the transfer layer (4) is at least twice the separation force between the transfer layer (4) and the carrier membrane (2), and is in the range of 10 cN / cm to 100 cN / cm.

21. A method for manufacturing the transfer membrane (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein, Follow these steps in the following order: Provide a carrier membrane (2). A separation layer (3) is applied to the carrier film (2), and gravure printing is used. One or more transfer layers (4) are applied, wherein an alkali-soluble top coating (5) is applied as the first layer of the transfer layer (4) by means of gravure printing or slit nozzle method, such that the top coating (5) is placed on the separation layer (3), the top coating (5) is applied in an aqueous state and then dried, wherein the alkaline additive is completely or at least partially dried.

22. The method for manufacturing a transfer membrane (1) according to claim 21, characterized in that, The top coating (5) is applied with a coating weight of the dried layer ranging from 0.5 g / m² to 20.0 g / m².

23. The method for manufacturing a transfer membrane (1) according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that, The water-based topcoat (5) has a solids content in the range of 5% to 45%.

24. The method for manufacturing a transfer membrane (1) according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that, The separating layer (3) is applied by means of gravure printing with an application weight of the dried layer in the range of 0.001 g / m² to 0.060 g / m².

25. The method according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that, A metal layer (7) is applied as one or more layers of the transfer layer (4) by means of vacuum evaporation, with a layer thickness in the range of 5 nm to 50 nm.

26. The method according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that, The primer layer (6) is applied as one or more layers of the transfer layer (4) by means of a printing process and / or by means of casting and / or by means of a squeegee.

27. The method according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that, The primer layer (6) is applied at a dry layer weight ranging from 0.2 g / m² to 5.0 g / m², wherein in cold pressing application the primer layer (6) is applied at a dry layer weight ranging from 0.2 g / m² to 1.0 g / m², and in hot pressing application the primer layer (6) is applied at a dry layer weight ranging from 0.5 g / m² to 5.0 g / m².

28. A method for recovering a transfer membrane (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 20 or a transfer membrane (1) manufactured by any one of claims 21 to 27, the transfer membrane (1) having a carrier membrane (2) and a transfer layer (4) at least partially disposed on the carrier membrane (2), wherein a separation layer (3) is disposed between the carrier membrane (2) and the transfer layer (4), and wherein the transfer layer (4) has an alkali-soluble top coating (5), wherein the top coating (5) is disposed on the separation layer (3), and the method comprises performing the following steps: x) Using an alkaline washing solution (9), the alkali-soluble topcoat (5) is dissolved (10), wherein, The transfer layer (4) is separated from the carrier membrane (2), wherein during step x), the top coating layer (5) is dissolved by alkaline washing solution (9) entering and penetrating into the transfer membrane (1) and / or into the space between the carrier membrane (2) and the transfer layer (4) through the cut edges and / or fracture edges and / or cracks and / or microcracks of the transfer membrane (1).

29. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that, After step x), the carrier membrane (2) and / or the material of the carrier membrane (2) has a purity in the range of 99.0% by weight to 100.0% by weight.

30. The method according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that, During step x), the transfer layer (4) decomposes into particles, wherein the particles are insoluble in alkaline washing liquid (9), and the particles have a size in the range of 10µm to 50mm when observed in a plane.

31. The method according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that, In step x), the pH value of the alkaline washing solution (9) is greater than 9.

32. The method according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that, The alkaline washing solution (9) includes one or more of the following solutions: a solution of alkali metal hydroxide or alkaline earth metal hydroxide; or a solution of ammonia or amine.

33. The method according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that, The alkaline washing solution (9) has a concentration of 1.2 g / cm³. 3 Up to 1.4 g / cm 3 The density is within the range, wherein the density of the alkaline washing liquid (9) is selected such that the carrier membrane (2) settles due to the density difference.

34. The method according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that, Step x) is performed in a temperature range of 15°C to 30°C.

35. The method according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that, In the method, before step x), the following steps are performed: a) the transfer film (1) is cut (20) into cutting material by means of a cutting device, and the transfer film (1) is wound on a roller.

36. The method according to claim 35, characterized in that, In step a), when viewed perpendicular to the plane defined by the cutting material, the cutting material has an area ranging from 0.1 cm² to 100 cm².

37. The method according to claim 35 or 36, characterized in that, When the transfer film (1) is cut short (20) in step a), the wound transfer film (1) is cut into film webs, wherein the roller and the transfer film (1) are fixed in a V-groove, and then cut in the longitudinal direction by means of a knife from above or from below or from the side until the core is removed, if the core is present.

38. The method according to claim 35 or 36, characterized in that, During step x) and in the case of step a), the cutting material in the alkaline washing solution (9) has a concentration in the range of 1% to 30% by weight.

39. The method according to claim 35 or 36, characterized in that, During step x) and if step a) was performed previously, the alkaline washing solution (9) is stirred with the transfer membrane (1) and / or the cutting material.

40. The method according to claim 35 or 36, characterized in that, During step x) and if step a) was performed previously, the alkaline washing solution (9) is stirred with the transfer membrane (1) and / or the cutting material for a stirring duration in the range of 30 to 120 seconds.

41. The method according to claim 35 or 36, characterized in that, During step x) and if step a) was performed previously, the alkaline washing solution (9) is stirred with the transfer membrane (1) and / or the cutting material at a stirring speed of 1 to 200 revolutions per minute using a stirring tool.

42. The method according to claim 35 or 36, characterized in that, During step x) and if step a) was performed previously, the transfer layer (4) of the cutting material is separated from the carrier film (2) to form particles of the transfer layer (4) and the carrier film cutting material.

43. The method according to claim 42, characterized in that, The carrier membrane fragments are separated from the alkaline washing solution (9) by filtration and / or centrifugation and / or precipitation.

44. The method according to claim 43, characterized in that, By employing mechanical drying and / or thermal drying processes, the carrier membrane shavings are washed and / or neutralized and / or dried to achieve a purity of 99% to 100%.

45. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that, This method is performed using a roller-to-roll method.

46. ​​The method according to claim 28, characterized in that, The method has the following steps prior to step x): b1) unwinding the transfer film (1) from the unwinding roller (30) by means of an unwinding device, wherein the unwound transfer film (1) is brought into contact with the alkaline washing liquid (9) by guiding the transfer film (1) in the washing liquid bath.

47. The method according to claim 46, characterized in that, The method, after step b1) and after step x), includes the following steps: b2) The carrier film (2) is wound (40) onto a winding roller, wherein the carrier film (2) is guided out of the bath of alkaline washing liquid (9), and the top coating (5) in dissolved form and / or the transfer layer (4) in undissolved form are retained in the alkaline washing liquid (9).

48. The method according to claim 47, characterized in that, In order to separate the transfer layer (4) from the carrier membrane (2), a mechanical abrasion system and / or a brush roller system and / or a foam roller system and / or a nozzle system are additionally used in step x) and / or between steps b1) and b2).

49. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that, Before step x), and before steps a) and / or b1), the transfer film (1) has a tape and / or splicing tape content in the range of 0% by weight to 0.5% by weight.

50. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that, Before step x) and before step a) and / or before step b1), the transfer membrane (1) has a foreign matter content in the range of 0% to 5% by weight.

51. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that, After step x), the insoluble particles of the transfer layer (4) are separated from the alkaline washing liquid (9) by means of a separation process, wherein the separation process includes filtration and / or centrifugation and / or sieving and / or decantation.

52. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that, After step x), an alkaline washing solution (9) is prepared by means of membrane filtration and / or chemical precipitation.

53. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that, After step x), the carrier membrane (2) and / or the carrier membrane shavings and / or the material of the carrier membrane (2) are further processed into dense products and / or extruded products, wherein the dense products and / or extruded products are suitable for at least one subsequent process or combination of processes selected from: injection molding, extrusion, flat film extrusion, compression molding, compounding, chemical recycling and / or energy recovery.

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