Method for manufacturing transfer medium and transfer recording method

Abstract

Provided are a method for manufacturing a transfer medium and a transfer recording method, with which it is possible to suitably manufacture a transfer medium that is less likely to cause ink dripping during conveyance, is less likely to cause problems such as bleeding and insufficient color emissivity in an image formed by being transferred to a transfer receiving medium, and is also less likely to cause problems such as color bleeding and insufficient color emissivity in an image formed by being transferred to the transfer receiving medium. And transfer of an image to a transfer receiving medium can be appropriately performed. A method for manufacturing a transfer medium according to the present invention comprises: a first layer formation step for forming a first layer by adhering an image-forming ink to a transfer sheet; and a second layer forming step for forming a second layer by adhering an adhesive ink so as to overlap the first layer, the transfer sheet having a substrate and an ink-receiving layer containing a resin, the ink-receiving layer having a thickness of 7 [mu] m or more, the total adhesion amount of the image forming ink and the adhesive ink per unit area of the transfer sheet is 110 g / m2 or more.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method for manufacturing transfer media and a method for transferring and recording. Background Technology

[0002] The following transfer printing method is known: by overlapping a transfer medium with an image on a medium to be transferred, such as cloth, and then heating and pressurizing it, the image is transferred onto the medium to be transferred.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes the following: In the transfer printing method described above, a transfer sheet is used as the transfer medium, and the transfer sheet is manufactured by the following process: after forming an image by spraying an aqueous ink containing resin A and resin B with a glass transition temperature 80°C or higher than that of the resin A onto a release support in an inkjet manner, an aqueous adhesive liquid is sprayed onto the image in an inkjet manner in an manner that at least partially overlaps with the image (for example, see Patent Document 1).

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-17827.

[0007] However, when using such a method, there are problems such as ink dripping during the transfer of the transfer medium or ink bleeding into the image transferred to the transfer medium. Summary of the Invention

[0008] This invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems and can be implemented as the following application examples.

[0009] The method for manufacturing a transfer medium according to an application example of the present invention includes: a first layer forming step in which image forming ink is adhered to a transfer sheet to form a first layer; and a second layer forming step in which adhesive ink is adhered to the transfer sheet in an overlapping manner to form a second layer. The transfer sheet has a substrate and an ink receiving layer comprising a resin, the ink receiving layer having a thickness of 7 μm or more, and the total amount of image forming ink and adhesive ink adhered per unit area of ​​the transfer sheet being 110 g / m². 2 above.

[0010] The transfer recording method described in the application example of the present invention thermally transfers the ink receiving layer, the first layer, and the second layer of a transfer medium manufactured using the transfer medium manufacturing method described in the application example of the present invention onto a transfer medium.

[0011] Another application example of the present invention relates to a transfer recording method comprising: a first layer forming step, wherein image forming ink is adhered to a transfer sheet to form a first layer, the transfer sheet having a substrate and an ink receiving layer containing resin and inorganic oxide particles with a maximum particle size of 5 μm or more; a second layer forming step, wherein adhesive ink is adhered to the transfer sheet in an overlapping manner with the first layer to form a second layer; a drying step, wherein the transfer sheet having the first layer and the second layer formed is heated to 100°C or higher to dry it; and a heat transfer step, wherein the transfer sheet obtained by the series of steps including the first layer forming step to the drying step is transferred to a heat transfer sheet. The ink receiving layer, the first layer, and the second layer of the printing medium are thermally transferred onto the transfer medium. The ink receiving layer comprises at least one resin selected from the group consisting of acrylic resin, vinyl acetate resin, and urethane resin. The thickness of the ink receiving layer is 7 μm or more. In the first layer formation process, colored ink and white ink are used as the image forming ink. In at least a portion of the transfer sheet, the white ink is adhered to the colored ink in an overlapping manner. The amount of image forming ink adhered per unit area of ​​the transfer sheet is 30 g / m². 2 Above and 200g / m 2 Hereinafter, the amount of adhesive ink adhering to each unit area of ​​the transfer sheet is 30 g / m². 2 Above and 500g / m 2 Hereinafter, the total amount of the image forming ink and the adhesive ink adhering to each unit area of ​​the transfer sheet is 110 g / m². 2 above. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 (1a), (1b), and (1c) are process diagrams illustrating a preferred embodiment of the method for manufacturing the transfer medium of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 2 (2a), (2b), and (2c) are process diagrams illustrating a preferred embodiment of the transfer recording method of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 3 This is a table showing the composition of the image forming inks used in preparation examples A1 and A2.

[0015] Figure 4 This is a table showing the composition of the adhesive inks used in preparation examples B1 to B5.

[0016] Figure 5 This is a table summarizing the manufacturing conditions of the transfer media and manufactured products of Examples 1 to 9.

[0017] Figure 6This is a table summarizing the manufacturing conditions of the transfer media and manufactured products of Examples 10-18.

[0018] Figure 7 This is a table summarizing the manufacturing conditions of the transfer media and manufactured products of Examples 19, 20, and Comparative Examples 1 to 3.

[0019] Figure 8 This is a table summarizing the evaluation results of Examples 1 to 9.

[0020] Figure 9 This is a table summarizing the evaluation results of Examples 10-18.

[0021] Figure 10 This is a table summarizing the evaluation results of Examples 19, 20, and Comparative Examples 1 to 3.

[0022] Symbol Explanation

[0023] 1. Transfer sheet; 11. Substrate; 12. Ink receiving layer; 2'. Image forming ink; 2. First layer; 3'. Adhesive ink; 3. Second layer; 4. Recording section; 5. Transfer medium; 10. Transfer medium; 50. Inkjet head; 50'. Inkjet head; 100. Recorded material. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail.

[0025] [1] Method for manufacturing transfer media

[0026] First, the method for manufacturing the transfer medium of the present invention will be described.

[0027] Figure 1 (1a), (1b), and (1c) are process diagrams illustrating a preferred embodiment of the method for manufacturing the transfer medium of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 1 The manufacturing method of the transfer medium 10 shown in (1a), (1b), and (1c) includes: a first layer forming step (1a), in which image forming ink 2' is adhered to the transfer sheet 1 to form a first layer 2; and a second layer forming step (1b), in which adhesive ink 3' is adhered to the transfer sheet 1 in an overlapping manner to form a second layer 3. Furthermore, the transfer sheet 1 has a substrate 11 and an ink receiving layer 12 containing resin. Additionally, the thickness of the ink receiving layer 12 is 7 μm or more, and the total amount of image forming ink 2' and adhesive ink 3' adhered per unit area of ​​the transfer sheet 1 is 110 g / m². 2The above describes a method for manufacturing a transfer medium that, through this configuration, can appropriately produce a transfer medium that is less prone to ink dripping during transport, less prone to bleeding or insufficient color development in the image formed by transferring it to the substrate, and can appropriately transfer the image to the substrate. Furthermore, it can effectively prevent cracking of the coating film during the drying of the first layer 2 and the second layer 3. Additionally, when cloth is used as the substrate 5 in the transfer recording method described later, it can effectively prevent whitening after washing the manufactured recording object 100.

[0029] In contrast, unsatisfactory results cannot be obtained if the above conditions are not met.

[0030] For example, if the thickness of the ink receiving layer on the transfer sheet is too small, ink dripping is likely to occur during the transfer of the transfer sheet, which can easily cause problems such as bleeding in the image formed when it is transferred onto the transfer medium.

[0031] In addition, if the total amount of image forming ink and adhesive ink adhering to each unit area of ​​the transfer sheet is too small, problems such as insufficient color development of the image transferred to the transfer medium or reduced transferability of the image to the transfer medium will occur.

[0032] It should be noted that, for example, when the ink receiving layer contains inorganic oxide particles (described later) or when the particle size of these inorganic oxide particles is relatively large, resulting in variations in the thickness of the ink receiving layer, it is acceptable as long as the thickness at the location with the greatest ink receiving layer thickness (maximum thickness) meets the aforementioned conditions. Furthermore, in this specification, the total amount of image-forming ink and adhesive ink adhered per unit area of ​​the transfer sheet refers to the total amount of ink adhered to at the location with the greatest total amount of image-forming ink and adhesive ink adhered to in the transfer sheet. When calculating the total amount of ink adhered, it is possible to calculate the total amount of ink adhered (mass) over a small area of ​​the transfer sheet, such as a 1mm × 1mm area, and then convert that value to the amount of ink adhered per 1m². 2 Adhesion amount (unit: g / m) 2 The value of ). Furthermore, when calculating the total adhesion amount, the mass of each ink being sprayed is used, not the mass after drying. Alternatively, the adhesion amount of the image forming ink per unit area and the adhesion amount of the adhesive ink per unit area can also be calculated similarly, as described later.

[0033] [1-1] First layer forming process

[0034] In the first layer forming process, image forming ink 2' is applied to the transfer sheet 1 to form the first layer 2 (1a).

[0035] [1-1-1] Transfer film

[0036] The transfer sheet 1 has a substrate 11 and an ink receiving layer 12 containing resin. Image forming ink 2' is applied to the ink receiving layer 12 of the transfer sheet 1.

[0037] [1-1-1-1] Substrate

[0038] The substrate 11 functions to support the ink receiving layer 12. Examples of materials that can be used to construct the substrate 11 include paper, plastic, and metal.

[0039] Examples of plastic materials constituting the substrate 11 include polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate, polyolefins such as polyethylene, and polypropylene. Polyethylene terephthalate is preferred as a constituent material of the substrate 11. This improves the flexibility of the substrate 11 and enhances its ease of handling. Furthermore, in the transfer recording method described later, the release properties between the ink receiving layer 12 at the portions where the first layer 2 and the second layer 3 are formed and the substrate 11 are improved, allowing for more appropriate transfer of the ink receiving layer 12 at the portions corresponding to the first layer 2 and the second layer 3, together with the first layer 2 and the second layer 3, to the transfer medium 5.

[0040] The substrate 11 can be any shape, but is preferably sheet-like.

[0041] When the substrate 11 is in sheet form, the thickness of the substrate 11 is not particularly limited, but it is preferably 30µm or more and 500µm or less, more preferably 50µm or more and 300µm or less, and even more preferably 70µm or more and 200µm or less.

[0042] [1-1-1-2] Ink Receiving Layer

[0043] The ink receiving layer 12 is the portion on which the image forming ink 2' is applied, and it is the layer that receives the applied ink. Furthermore, in the transfer recording method described later, the ink receiving layer 12 on which the first layer 2 and the second layer 3 are formed is transferred together with the first layer 2 and the second layer 3 onto the transfer medium 5.

[0044] The ink receiving layer 12 is made of a resin-containing material. Examples of resins constituting the ink receiving layer 12 include acrylic resins, vinyl acetate resins, polyurethane resins, and polyester resins; one or more of these resins can be used. Preferably, the resin constituting the ink receiving layer 12 is selected from at least one of the group consisting of acrylic resins, vinyl acetate resins, and urethane resins. This allows the ink receiving layer 12 to retain ink more effectively, reducing the likelihood of ink dripping or image bleeding. Furthermore, it improves the transferability of the ink receiving layer 12, which has the first layer 2 and the second layer 3, to the transfer medium 5 in the transfer recording method described later.

[0045] The resin content in the ink receiving layer 12 is not particularly limited, but is preferably 20% by mass or more and 95% by mass or less, more preferably 40% by mass or more and 90% by mass or less, and even more preferably 60% by mass or more and 85% by mass or less. This allows the ink receiving layer 12 to retain ink more effectively, reducing the likelihood of ink dripping or image bleeding. Furthermore, it improves the transferability of the ink receiving layer 12, which has the first layer 2 and the second layer 3, to the transfer medium 5 in the transfer recording method described later.

[0046] The ink receiving layer 12 may contain components other than resin. Examples of such components include inorganic oxide particles, polyvalent metal salts (magnesium sulfate, calcium chloride, calcium nitrate), etc.

[0047] By containing inorganic oxide particles, the ink receiving layer 12 can retain ink more effectively, making it less prone to problems such as ink dripping and image bleeding. Furthermore, it enhances the transferability of the ink receiving layer 12, which has the first layer 2 and the second layer 3, to the transfer medium 5 in the transfer recording method described later.

[0048] Inorganic oxide particles, such as alumina and silicon dioxide, can be used, and one or more of them can be used. Among these, alumina and silicon dioxide are preferred. As a result, the ink receiving layer 12 can retain ink more effectively, and problems such as ink dripping and image bleeding are less likely to occur. In addition, the transferability of the ink receiving layer 12, which is provided with the first layer 2 and the second layer 3, to the transfer medium 5 in the transfer recording method described later is improved.

[0049] The inorganic oxide particles are preferably porous inorganic particles. This allows the ink receiving layer 12 to retain ink more effectively, reducing the likelihood of ink dripping or image bleeding. Furthermore, it improves the transferability of the ink receiving layer 12, which has the first layer 2 and the second layer 3, to the transfer medium 5 in the transfer recording method described later.

[0050] The maximum particle size of the aforementioned inorganic oxide particles is preferably 5µm or more, more preferably 5µm or more and 20µm or less, and even more preferably 5µm or more and 15µm or less. This allows for more effective suppression of variations in the thickness of the ink receiving layer 12. Furthermore, the ink receiving layer 12 can retain ink more appropriately, making it less prone to problems such as ink dripping and image bleeding. Additionally, the transferability of the ink receiving layer 12, which has the first layer 2 and the second layer 3, to the transfer medium 5 in the transfer recording method described later is further improved.

[0051] It should be noted that the maximum particle size can be determined, for example, by the following process: adding the sample to methanol, dispersing it with an ultrasonic disperser for 3 minutes, and measuring the resulting dispersion using a Coulter Counting Particle Size Analyzer (COULTERELECTRONICS INS TA-II type) with a 50 μm pore size.

[0052] The content of inorganic oxide particles in the ink receiving layer 12 is not particularly limited, but is preferably 1% by mass or more and 50% by mass or less, more preferably 3% by mass or more and 30% by mass or less, and even more preferably 5% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less. This allows for more effective suppression of variations in the thickness of the ink receiving layer 12. Furthermore, the ink receiving layer 12 can retain ink more appropriately, making it less prone to problems such as ink dripping and image bleeding. Additionally, the transferability of the ink receiving layer 12, which has the first layer 2 and the second layer 3, to the transfer medium 5 in the transfer recording method described later is improved.

[0053] As described above, the thickness of the ink receiving layer 12 can be 7µm or more, but is preferably 8µm or more and 70µm or less, more preferably 9µm or more and 50µm or less, and even more preferably 10µm or more and 30µm or less. Therefore, the ink receiving layer 12 can retain ink more effectively, making it less prone to problems such as ink dripping and image bleeding. Furthermore, it improves the transferability of the ink receiving layer 12, which has the first layer 2 and the second layer 3, to the transfer medium 5 in the transfer recording method described later.

[0054] Although the transfer sheet 1 only needs to have a substrate 11 and an ink receiving layer 12, it may also have other configurations. For example, the transfer sheet 1 may also have a release layer (not shown) between the substrate 11 and the ink receiving layer 12 to improve the release properties of the substrate 11 and the ink receiving layer 12.

[0055] [1-1-2] Image forming inks

[0056] Image forming ink 2' is used to form the first layer 2. The first layer 2 is the layer that constitutes the image transferred to the transfer medium 5 in the transfer recording method described later.

[0057] Image forming inks 2' typically contain a colorant and a liquid medium that dissolves or disperses the colorant.

[0058] [1-1-2-1]Color material

[0059] As a colorant contained in the image forming ink 2', various pigments and dyes can be used, and one or more of these colorants can be used in combination.

[0060] As pigments, a variety of inorganic or organic pigments can be used.

[0061] Alternatively, self-dispersible pigments can also be used as pigments. Self-dispersible pigments are pigments that have hydrophilic groups on their surface. Examples of such hydrophilic groups include -OM, -COOM, -CO-, -SO3M, -SO2M, -SO2NH2, -RSO2M, -PO3HM, -PO3M2, -SO2NHCOR, -NH3, and -NR3. It should be noted that M in the formula represents a hydrogen atom, an alkali metal, ammonium, or an organoammonium, and R represents an alkyl group with 1 or more but less than 12 carbon atoms, or a naphthyl group that may have substituents. Furthermore, a phenyl group, for example, may be present between the pigment surface and the hydrophilic group.

[0062] Self-dispersible pigments can be manufactured through processes such as applying physical or chemical treatments to bind hydrophilic groups to the pigment surface. Examples of such physical treatments include vacuum plasma treatment. Examples of such chemical treatments include wet oxidation methods using an oxidizing agent in water.

[0063] Furthermore, as a self-dispersible pigment, a surface treatment that has been performed, for example, using hypohalous acid and / or hypohalate oxidation, ozone oxidation, or persulfate and / or persulfate oxidation, is preferred for its high color rendering. Additionally, commercially available products can also be used as self-dispersible pigments; preferred examples include Microjet CW1 (manufactured by Orient Chemical Industries, Ltd.), CAB-O-JET250C, CAB-O-JET260M, CAB-O-JET270Y, and CAB-O-JET444MP (all manufactured by Cabot Corporation).

[0064] As dyes, examples include various acid dyes, reactive dyes, disperse dyes, sublimation dyes, etc.

[0065] The content of the colorant in the image forming ink 2' is not particularly limited, but is preferably 1.0% by mass or more and 25.0% by mass or less, more preferably 2.0% by mass or more and 20.0% by mass or less, and even more preferably 5.0% by mass or more and 15.0% by mass or less. Therefore, in the first layer 2 formed using the image forming ink 2', sufficient color concentration is easily ensured, resulting in better color development on the record 100 and better preservation stability of the image forming ink 2'. Furthermore, when the image forming ink 2' is ejected by inkjet, the ejection stability of the image forming ink 2' based on the inkjet method and the clogging recovery of the inkjet head 50 are improved.

[0066] [1-1-2-2] Liquid medium

[0067] The image forming ink 2' contains a liquid medium that dissolves or disperses the aforementioned colorant. In other words, the liquid medium contained in the image forming ink 2' has the function of dissolving or dispersing the aforementioned colorant.

[0068] While various organic solvents can be used as liquid media, it is preferable to contain at least water.

[0069] The proportion of water in all liquid media constituting the image forming ink 2' is not particularly limited, but is preferably 40.0% by mass or more and 90.0% by mass or less, more preferably 50.0% by mass or more and 85.0% by mass or less, and even more preferably 55.0% by mass or more and 80.0% by mass or less.

[0070] The image forming ink 2' can contain an organic solvent as a liquid medium. This allows for appropriate adjustment of the viscosity and surface tension of the image forming ink 2'. Furthermore, for example, the image forming ink 2' exhibits excellent moisture retention properties. For instance, when the image forming ink 2' is ejected by inkjet printing, it more effectively prevents the unintended precipitation of solid components of the image forming ink 2' due to drying in the inkjet head 50, etc., resulting in better clogging recovery and superior ejection stability of the image forming ink 2'.

[0071] Water-soluble organic solvents are preferred as organic solvents. Suitable water-soluble organic solvents are those with a solubility of 10 g / 100 g water or higher at 25°C. In particular, the image forming ink 2' preferably contains an organic solvent with a boiling point of 280°C or higher. This improves the moisture retention of the image forming ink 2'.

[0072] As an organic solvent contained in the image forming ink 2', especially as a water-soluble organic solvent, examples include polyol compounds, glycol ethers, cyclic amide compounds, etc., and one or more of these compounds can be used.

[0073] Examples of polyol compounds include those with 2 or more but less than 6 carbon atoms in the molecule and that may have one ether bond in the molecule, with diol compounds being preferred. Specific examples include: 1,2-pentanediol, glycerol, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene glycol, 1,2-hexanediol, 1,2-heptanediol, 1,3-propanediol, 1,2-butanediol, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, 2,3-butanediol, 2-methyl-3-phenoxy-1,2-propanediol, 3-(3-methylphenoxy)-1,2-propanediol, 3-hexoxy-1,2-propanediol, 2-hydroxymethyl-2-phenoxymethyl-1,3-propanediol, 3-methyl-1,3-butanediol, 1,5-pentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, 2-methyl-2,4-pentanediol, 3-methyl-1,5-pentanediol, and other diols. Examples of glycol ethers include monoalkyl ethers selected from glycols such as ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, and polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene glycol. Examples of the aforementioned monoalkyl ethers include triethylene glycol monomethyl ether, triethylene glycol monobutyl ether, triethylene glycol monoethyl ether, and dipropylene glycol monopropyl ether. Examples of cyclic amide compounds include 2-pyrrolidone, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, N-hydroxyethyl-2-pyrrolidone, 1,3-dimethylimidazolinone, 2-piperidinone (δ-valeronamide), and N-cyclohexyl-2-pyrrolidone.

[0074] The proportion of organic solvent in the entire liquid medium constituting the image forming ink 2' is not particularly limited, but is preferably 10.0% by mass or more and 60.0% by mass or less, more preferably 15.0% by mass or more and 50.0% by mass or less, and even more preferably 20.0% by mass or more and 45.0% by mass or less. This allows for a more significant utilization of the effects of containing the aforementioned organic solvent.

[0075] The content of the liquid medium in the image forming ink 2' is not particularly limited, but is preferably 55.0% by mass or more and 90.0% by mass or less, more preferably 62.0% by mass or more and 88.0% by mass or less, and even more preferably 68.0% by mass or more and 85.0% by mass or less. Therefore, in the first layer 2 formed using the image forming ink 2', sufficient color concentration is easily ensured, resulting in better color development on the record 100 and better preservation stability of the image forming ink 2'. Furthermore, when the image forming ink 2' is ejected by inkjet, the ejection stability of the image forming ink 2' based on the inkjet method and the clogging recovery of the inkjet head 50 are improved.

[0076] [1-1-2-3] Resin

[0077] The image forming ink 2' may contain resin. This, for example, improves the adhesion of the first layer 2 formed using the image forming ink 2' to the second layer 3 and the ink receiving layer 12. Furthermore, when the image forming ink 2' contains pigment, the dispersion stability of the pigment in the image forming ink 2' is improved.

[0078] The resin content in the image forming ink 2' is preferably 2.0% by mass or more and 15.0% by mass or less, more preferably 4.0% by mass or more and 13.0% by mass or less, and even more preferably 7.0% by mass or more and 12.0% by mass or less. This ensures excellent ejection stability of the ink 2' based on the inkjet method, excellent manufacturing stability of the recording object 100 using the transfer recording method described later, and excellent adhesion of the recording section 4 to the transfer medium 5. Furthermore, it improves the texture of the recording object 100 when the transfer medium 5 is fabric or the like.

[0079] When the image forming ink 2' contains resin, the form of the resin in the image forming ink 2' is not particularly limited. For example, the resin in the image forming ink 2' may be contained in a dispersed state or in a dissolved state, but it is preferred to contain it in a dispersed state. As a result, the ejection stability of the ink 2' based on the inkjet method can be improved, and the recording 100 can be manufactured more stably.

[0080] When the image forming ink 2' contains resin in a dispersed state, the average particle size of the resin is preferably 30 nm or more and 3 µm or less, more preferably 50 nm or more and 1 µm or less, and even more preferably 60 nm or more and 300 nm or less. This allows the aforementioned effects to be achieved more significantly.

[0081] It should be noted that, in this specification, the average particle size refers to the average particle size based on volume, which can be determined, for example, by adding the sample to methanol, dispersing it with an ultrasonic disperser for 3 minutes, and measuring the resulting dispersion using a Coulter ELECTRONICS INS TA-II type particle size analyzer with a 50 μm pore size.

[0082] Examples of resins included in the image forming ink 2' include polyurethane, polyester, styrene-acrylic resin, acrylic resin, and polyvinyl chloride. One or more of these resins can be used. Polyurethane is preferred. This allows the aforementioned effects to be achieved more significantly.

[0083] The glass transition temperature of the resin contained in the image forming ink 2' is preferably -40°C or higher and 0°C or lower, more preferably -35°C or higher and -5°C or lower, and even more preferably -30°C or higher and -10°C or lower. Therefore, for example, when cloth is used as the transfer medium 5 in the transfer recording method described later, the texture and wash fastness of the manufactured recording 100 can be improved.

[0084] When the image forming ink 2' contains resin and pigment, and the resin content in the image forming ink 2' is set to XR [mass%] and the pigment content is set to XP [mass%], it is preferable to satisfy the relationship 0.2 ≤ XR / XP ≤ 1.8, more preferably to satisfy the relationship 0.6 ≤ XR / XP ≤ 1.5, and even more preferably to satisfy the relationship 0.8 ≤ XR / XP ≤ 1.2. Therefore, in the first layer 2 formed using the image forming ink 2', sufficient color concentration is easily ensured, resulting in better color development on the recording material 100 manufactured using the transfer recording method described later, and also better preservation stability of the image forming ink 2'. Furthermore, when the image forming ink 2' is ejected by inkjet, the ejection stability of the image forming ink 2' based on the inkjet method and the clogging recovery of the inkjet head 50 are improved. Additionally, when the transfer medium 5 is fabric or the like, the texture of the recording material 100 is improved.

[0085] [1-1-2-4] Surfactants

[0086] The image forming ink 2' may contain a surfactant. Various surfactants can be used, such as anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, and nonionic surfactants.

[0087] When the image forming ink 2' contains a surfactant, the surfactant content in the image forming ink 2' is preferably 0.02% by mass or more and 1.50% by mass or less, more preferably 0.05% by mass or more and 1.00% by mass or less, and even more preferably 0.07% by mass or more and 0.70% by mass or less.

[0088] [1-1-2-5] Other ingredients

[0089] Image forming ink 2' may contain ingredients other than those mentioned above. Hereinafter, such ingredients will also be referred to as "other ingredients" within this project. Examples of other ingredients include, for instance, chelating agents, preservatives, mildew inhibitors, rust inhibitors, flame retardants, various dispersants, pH adjusters such as triethanolamine, antioxidants, ultraviolet absorbers, oxygen absorbers, solvent aids, penetrants, etc.

[0090] Examples of chelating agents include ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Examples of preservatives / mildew inhibitors include sodium benzoate, sodium pentachlorophenate, sodium 2-pyridinium-1-oxide, sodium sorbate, sodium dehydroacetate, 1,2-dibenzisothiazolin-3-one, and 4-chloro-3-methylphenol. Examples of rust inhibitors include benzotriazole. Compounds having an intramolecular isothiazolinite ring structure can be appropriately used as preservatives / mildew inhibitors.

[0091] The content of other components in the image forming ink 2' is preferably 6.0% by mass or less, more preferably 5.0% by mass or less. It should be noted that the lower limit for the content of other components is 0% by mass.

[0092] [1-1-2-6] Other conditions

[0093] The first layer 2 is formed by applying image forming ink 2' to the transfer sheet 1 having the ink receiving layer 12. More specifically, the image forming ink 2' is applied in such a way that it contacts the ink receiving layer 12 of the transfer sheet 1. In this process, the first layer 2 is formed as a flipped image, i.e., a mirror image, of the recording section 4 that should be formed on the transfer medium 5.

[0094] In this process, a variety of image forming inks 2' can be used. For example, two or more image forming inks 2' of different shades can be used in combination, more specifically, a group consisting of white ink, black ink, cyan ink, magenta ink, and yellow ink.

[0095] In particular, in the first layer forming process, it is preferable to use colored ink and white ink as image forming ink 2', and to apply white ink to the colored ink in an overlapping manner in at least a portion of the transfer sheet 1. When the white ink is applied to the colored ink in an overlapping manner on the transfer sheet and then transferred to the transfer medium, there is a tendency for the overall amount of image forming ink adhered, and the combined amount of image forming ink and adhesive ink, to increase. This problem is easily generated in the prior art. In contrast, in the present invention, even when the amount of ink adhered increases in this way, the effects described above are obtained. That is, in the first layer forming process, when colored ink and white ink are used as image forming ink 2', and white ink is applied to the colored ink in an overlapping manner in at least a portion of the transfer sheet 1, the effects of the present invention as described above are more significantly achieved. It should be noted that, in this specification, colored ink refers to ink containing colored pigments.

[0096] The method of applying the image forming ink 2' to the transfer sheet 1 is not particularly limited; for example, various printing methods can be used, but inkjet printing is preferred. This allows for the enjoyment of benefits such as the ability to more appropriately form fine patterns and excellent on-demand capability.

[0097] Examples of inkjet printing methods include charged deflection, continuous printing, piezoelectric, and bubble jet (registered trademark) types, but piezoelectric printing is particularly preferred, as it ejects ink from an inkjet head using a piezoelectric vibrator. This more effectively prevents unintended degradation of the components of the image-forming ink 2' within the inkjet head 50, resulting in superior inkjet-based ejection stability.

[0098] Furthermore, the inkjet head 50 can be categorized as a line head that records in a line manner and a serial head that records in a serial manner. In the line mode using a line head, for example, an inkjet head 50 with a width greater than or equal to the recording width of the transfer sheet 1 is fixed to the recording device. Then, the transfer sheet 1 is moved along the sub-scanning direction (the transport direction of the transfer sheet 1), and ink droplets of image forming ink 2' are ejected from the nozzle of the inkjet head 50 in conjunction with this movement, thereby forming the first layer 2 on the transfer sheet 1. In the serial mode using a serial head, for example, the inkjet head 50 is mounted on a carriage that can move along the width direction of the transfer sheet 1. Then, the carriage is moved along the main scanning direction (the width direction of the transfer sheet 1), and ink droplets of image forming ink 2' are ejected from the nozzle of the serial head, which is the inkjet head 50, in conjunction with this movement, thereby forming the first layer 2 on the transfer sheet 1.

[0099] The preferred amount of image-forming ink 2' adhering to each unit area of ​​the transfer sheet 1 is 30 g / m². 2 Above and 200g / m 2 The following is more preferably 35g / m 2 Above and 150g / m 2 The following is a further preferred value: 40g / m 2 Above and 100g / m 2 Therefore, problems such as ink dripping and image bleeding can be effectively prevented, and sufficient color concentration can be easily ensured in the first layer 2 formed using image forming ink 2', resulting in better color development on the recording 100.

[0100] The viscosity of the image forming ink 2' at 25°C is preferably 2 mPa·s or more and 10 mPa·s or less, more preferably 3 mPa·s or more and 8 mPa·s or less. Therefore, for example, when the image forming ink 2' is ejected by inkjet printing, the ejection stability of the image forming ink 2' based on the inkjet printing method and the clogging recovery of the inkjet head 50 can be improved. It should be noted that the viscosity can be determined by measuring using a vibratory viscometer, a rotational viscometer, a capillary viscometer, or a falling ball viscometer. For example, as a vibratory viscometer, it can be determined by measurement based on JIS Z8809.

[0101] The surface tension of the image forming ink 2' at 25°C is not particularly limited, but is preferably 20 mN / m or more and 60 mN / m or less, more preferably 25 mN / m or more and 50 mN / m or less, and even more preferably 27 mN / m or more and 40 mN / m or less. Therefore, for example, when the image forming ink 2' is ejected by inkjet, the ejection stability of the image forming ink 2' based on the inkjet method and the clogging recovery in the inkjet head 50 can be improved. It should be noted that the surface tension can be a value measured by the Wilhelmy method or the ring method. Surface tension can be measured using a surface tension meter (e.g., Kyowa Interface Science Co., Ltd., DY-300, DY-500, DY-700, etc.).

[0102] [1-2] Second layer forming process

[0103] In the second layer forming process, the adhesive ink 3' is attached in a manner that overlaps with the first layer 2 to form the second layer 3 (1b).

[0104] [1-2-1] Adhesive Ink

[0105] The adhesive ink 3' is used to form the second layer 3. In its dry state, although any ink that provides adhesion can be made of any material, it is preferable to contain resin and water. Therefore, for example, when the adhesive ink 3' is ejected by inkjet printing, the ejection of the adhesive ink 3' based on inkjet printing can be performed more appropriately. Furthermore, the adhesion of the recording unit 4 to the transfer medium 5 is improved. Additionally, when the transfer medium 5 is fabric or the like, the wash fastness of the manufactured recording 100 is improved.

[0106] [1-2-1-1] Resin

[0107] The adhesive ink 3' preferably contains a resin. Examples of resins included in the adhesive ink 3' include polyester, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, styrene-based acrylic resins, and acrylic resins. One or more of these resins can be used, but it is preferable to use one or more resins selected from the group consisting of polyester, polyurethane, and polyvinyl chloride. Therefore, for example, when using cloth as the transfer medium 5 in the transfer recording method described later, the texture and wash fastness of the manufactured recording 100 can be balanced to a higher level.

[0108] The form of the resin in the adhesive ink 3' is not particularly limited. For example, the resin in the adhesive ink 3' may be contained in a dispersed state or a dissolved state, but it is preferred to contain it in a dispersed state. As a result, for example, when the adhesive ink 3' is ejected by inkjet, the ejection stability of the adhesive ink 3' based on the inkjet method and the clogging recovery of the inkjet head 50' can be improved, and the transfer medium 10 and the recording medium 100 can be manufactured more stably. In addition, the unintentional retention of liquid components in the second layer 3 and the recording section 4 can be more effectively prevented.

[0109] When the adhesive ink 3' contains resin in a dispersed state, the average particle size of the resin is preferably 30 nm or more and 3 µm or less, more preferably 50 nm or more and 1 µm or less, and even more preferably 60 nm or more and 300 nm or less. This significantly enhances the aforementioned effects.

[0110] The glass transition temperature of the resin contained in the adhesive ink 3' is preferably -20°C or higher and 50°C or lower, more preferably -10°C or higher and 45°C or lower, and even more preferably 0°C or higher and 40°C or lower. This allows for superior preservation stability of, for example, the adhesive ink 3'. Furthermore, it enables a higher level of balance between the texture and wash fastness of the recorded material 100, for example, when the transfer medium 5 is cloth or similar fabric.

[0111] The melting point of the resin contained in the adhesive ink 3' is preferably 80°C or higher and 140°C or lower, more preferably 85°C or higher and 130°C or lower, and even more preferably 90°C or higher and 120°C or lower. This allows for superior preservation stability of the adhesive ink 3'. Furthermore, it enables a higher level of balance between the texture and wash fastness of the recorded material 100 when the transfer medium 5 is fabric or the like.

[0112] The resin content in the adhesive ink 3' is preferably 5.0% by mass or more and 20.0% by mass or less, more preferably 6.0% by mass or more and 17.0% by mass or less, and even more preferably 7.0% by mass or more and 15.0% by mass or less. This allows for superior preservation stability of, for example, the adhesive ink 3'. Furthermore, it enables a higher level of balance between the texture and wash fastness of the recorded material 100 when the transfer medium 5 is, for example, fabric.

[0113] [1-2-1-2] Water

[0114] The adhesive ink 3' preferably contains water. Water is a component in the adhesive ink 3' that functions, for example, as a dispersion medium for dispersing the resin or as a solvent for dissolving the resin.

[0115] The water content in the adhesive ink 3' is preferably 50.0% by mass or more and 85.0% by mass or less, more preferably 55.0% by mass or more and 80.0% by mass or less, and even more preferably 60.0% by mass or more and 75.0% by mass or less.

[0116] [1-2-1-3] Organic solvents

[0117] The adhesive ink 3' may contain an organic solvent. This allows for appropriate adjustment of the viscosity and surface tension of the adhesive ink 3'. Furthermore, for example, the moisturizing properties of the adhesive ink 3' become excellent. Therefore, for example, when the adhesive ink 3' is ejected by inkjet printing, the unintended precipitation of solid components of the adhesive ink 3' due to drying in the printhead 50' or similar sources is more effectively prevented, resulting in better clogging recovery and improved ejection stability of the adhesive ink 3'.

[0118] However, the adhesive ink 3' preferably does not contain organic solvents with a boiling point of 280°C or higher. As a result, the drying properties of the second layer 3 formed using the adhesive ink 3' are improved, and the peelability of the laminate having the ink receiving layer 12, the first layer 2, and the second layer 3 from the transfer sheet 1 is improved.

[0119] Water-soluble organic solvents are preferred as organic solvents. Suitable water-soluble organic solvents are those with a solubility of 10 g / 100 g water or more at 25°C. Examples of organic solvents, particularly water-soluble ones, contained in the adhesive ink 3' include polyol compounds, glycol ethers, and cyclic amide compounds; one or more of these compounds can be used. Examples of polyol compounds include those with 2 to 6 carbon atoms in the molecule and one ether bond within the molecule; diol compounds are preferred. Specific examples include: 1,2-pentanediol, glycerol, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene glycol, 1,2-hexanediol, 1,2-heptanediol, 1,3-propanediol, 1,2-butanediol, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, 2,3-butanediol, 2-methyl-3-phenoxy-1,2-propanediol, 3-(3-methylphenoxy)-1,2-propanediol, 3-hexoxy-1,2-propanediol, 2-hydroxymethyl-2-phenoxymethyl-1,3-propanediol, 3-methyl-1,3-butanediol, 1,5-pentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, 2-methyl-2,4-pentanediol, 3-methyl-1,5-pentanediol, and other diols. Examples of glycol ethers include monoalkyl ethers selected from glycols such as ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, and polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene glycol. Examples of the aforementioned monoalkyl ethers include triethylene glycol monomethyl ether, triethylene glycol monobutyl ether, triethylene glycol monoethyl ether, and dipropylene glycol monopropyl ether. Examples of cyclic amide compounds include 2-pyrrolidone, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, N-hydroxyethyl-2-pyrrolidone, 1,3-dimethylimidazolinone, 2-piperidinone (δ-valeronamide), and N-cyclohexyl-2-pyrrolidone.

[0120] In particular, the adhesive ink 3' preferably contains propylene glycol as an organic solvent. This improves drying properties, facilitates the curing of the resin during heating, and enhances adhesion. Especially when the adhesive ink 3' contains propylene glycol, the proportion of propylene glycol in the total organic solvents contained in the adhesive ink 3' is preferably 50% by mass or more, more preferably 70% by mass or more, and even more preferably 80% by mass or more. This allows the aforementioned effects to be achieved more significantly.

[0121] The content of organic solvent in the adhesive ink 3' is preferably 5.0% by mass or more and 35.0% by mass or less, more preferably 7.0% by mass or more and 30.0% by mass or less, and even more preferably 10.0% by mass or more and 25.0% by mass or less. This allows for more appropriate adjustment of the viscosity and surface tension of the adhesive ink 3'. Furthermore, the moisture retention of the adhesive ink 3' is improved, and when the adhesive ink 3' is ejected by inkjet printing, it more effectively prevents the unintended precipitation of solid components of the adhesive ink 3' due to drying in the inkjet head 50', etc., and also improves clogging recovery and ejection stability of the adhesive ink 3'.

[0122] [1-2-1-4] Surfactants

[0123] The adhesive ink 3' may contain a surfactant. Various surfactants can be used, such as anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, and nonionic surfactants.

[0124] When the adhesive ink 3' contains a surfactant, the surfactant content in the adhesive ink 3' is preferably 0.02% by mass or more and 1.50% by mass or less, more preferably 0.05% by mass or more and 1.00% by mass or less, and even more preferably 0.10% by mass or more and 0.70% by mass or less.

[0125] [1-2-1-5] Other ingredients

[0126] The adhesive ink 3' may contain ingredients other than those mentioned above. Hereinafter, such ingredients will also be referred to as "other ingredients" within this project. Examples of other ingredients include, for instance, chelating agents, preservatives, mildew inhibitors, rust inhibitors, fire retardants, various dispersants, pH adjusters such as triethanolamine, antioxidants, ultraviolet absorbers, oxygen absorbers, solvent aids, penetrants, etc.

[0127] The content of other components in the adhesive ink 3' is preferably 6.0% by mass or less, more preferably 5.0% by mass or less. It should be noted that the lower limit for the content of other components is 0% by mass.

[0128] [1-2-1-6] Other conditions

[0129] The second layer 3 is formed by applying adhesive ink 3' to the transfer sheet 1 on which the first layer 2 is formed. More specifically, the adhesive ink 3' is applied in such a way that it overlaps with and contacts the first layer 2 formed in the first layer forming process.

[0130] In this process, various adhesive inks 3' can also be used. For example, adhesive inks 3' with different types and contents of resin can also be used.

[0131] The method of applying the adhesive ink 3' to the transfer sheet 1 on which the first layer 2 is formed is not particularly limited; for example, various printing methods can be used, but inkjet printing is preferred. This allows for the enjoyment of benefits such as the ability to more appropriately form fine patterns and excellent on-demand capability.

[0132] Examples of inkjet printing methods include charged deflection, continuous printing, piezoelectric, and bubble jet (registered trademark) types, among others. A piezoelectric type, ejected from an inkjet head using a piezoelectric vibrator, is particularly preferred. This more effectively prevents unintended degradation of the components of the adhesive ink 3' within the inkjet head 50', resulting in superior ejection stability based on the inkjet printing method. Furthermore, examples of inkjet heads 50' include line print heads that record in a line manner and serial print heads that record in a serial manner.

[0133] The preferred amount of adhesive ink 3' per unit area of ​​transfer sheet 1 is 30 g / m². 2 Above and 500g / m 2 The following is more preferably 35g / m 2 Above and 300g / m 2 The following is a further preferred value: 40g / m 2 And above 200g / m 2 Therefore, it can effectively prevent problems such as ink dripping and image bleeding, and can also make the transferability to the transfer medium 5 better.

[0134] The total amount of image-forming ink 2' and adhesive ink 3' adhering to each unit area of ​​transfer sheet 1 is 110 g / m². 2 The above is acceptable, but 115g / m³ is preferred. 2 Above and 700g / m 2 The following is more preferably 120g / m 2 Above and 200g / m 2 Therefore, problems such as ink dripping and image bleeding can be effectively prevented, and the transferability to the transfer medium 5 can be improved. In addition, in the first layer 2 formed using image forming ink 2', sufficient color concentration can be easily ensured, and the color development on the recording medium 100 can be improved.

[0135] The viscosity of the adhesive ink 3' at 25°C is preferably 2 mPa·s or more and 10 mPa·s or less, more preferably 3 mPa·s or more and 8 mPa·s or less. Therefore, when the adhesive ink 3' is ejected by inkjet, the ejection stability of the adhesive ink 3' based on the inkjet method and the clogging recovery of the inkjet head 50' can be improved.

[0136] The surface tension of the adhesive ink 3' at 25°C is not particularly limited, but is preferably 20 mN / m or more and 60 mN / m or less, more preferably 25 mN / m or more and 50 mN / m or less, and even more preferably 27 mN / m or more and 40 mN / m or less. Therefore, when the adhesive ink 3' is ejected by inkjet printing, the ejection stability of the adhesive ink 3' based on the inkjet printing method and the clogging recovery properties in the printhead 50' are improved.

[0137] [1-3] Drying process

[0138] The method for manufacturing the transfer medium only needs to include the first layer forming step and the second layer forming step described above, but it is preferable to also include a drying step of heating and drying the transfer sheet 1 on which the first layer 2 and the second layer 3 are formed. This can more effectively prevent problems such as ink dripping and image bleeding as described above.

[0139] The heating temperature for the transfer sheet 1, which forms the first layer 2 and the second layer 3, during the drying process is not particularly limited, but is preferably 100°C or higher, more preferably 120°C or higher and 200°C or lower, and even more preferably 140°C or higher and 180°C or lower. This allows for more effective prevention of problems such as image bleeding as described above, and also improves the productivity of the transfer medium 10 and the recording material 100.

[0140] The heating time (heating time above 100°C) in this process is preferably 10 seconds or more and 10 minutes or less, more preferably 1 minute or more and 8 minutes or less, and even more preferably 3 minutes or more and 6 minutes or less.

[0141] The transfer medium 10 (1c) is obtained in the manner described above.

[0142] [2] Transfer recording method

[0143] Next, the transfer recording method of the present invention will be described.

[0144] Figure 2 (2a), (2b), and (2c) are process diagrams illustrating a preferred embodiment of the transfer recording method of the present invention.

[0145] Figure 2The transfer recording method shown in (2a), (2b), and (2c) includes: a transfer medium preparation step (2a), in which a transfer medium 10 manufactured using the transfer medium manufacturing method described above is prepared; and a heat transfer step (2b), in which the transfer medium 10 is heated with the side of the transfer medium 10 having the ink receiving layer 12, the first layer 2, and the second layer 3 facing the transfer medium 5, thereby heat-transferring the second layer 3, the first layer 2, and the ink receiving layer 12 of the transfer medium 10 to the transfer medium 5. More specifically, the ink receiving layer 12, the first layer 2, and the second layer 3 of the transfer medium 10 manufactured using the method described above [1] are heat-transferred to the transfer medium 5. As a result, a transfer recording method is provided in which problems such as bleeding and insufficient color development are difficult to occur in the image (recording section 4) formed by transferring to the transfer medium 5, and the image can be properly transferred to the transfer medium 5. Furthermore, in the prior art, when the transfer medium is cloth, unintended unevenness is generated on the recording area when the recording material is selected, sometimes causing light diffuse reflection and making the transferred image appear white. However, the heat transfer method described above can effectively prevent such problems from occurring.

[0146] [2-1] Transfer media preparation process

[0147] In the transfer medium preparation step, a transfer medium 10 (2a) manufactured using the transfer medium manufacturing method described above is prepared. The transfer medium 10 prepared in this step may also be a transfer medium manufactured using the transfer medium manufacturing method described above, which has undergone treatments such as cutting to make it an appropriate size.

[0148] [2-2] Heat transfer process

[0149] In the heat transfer process, the side of the transfer medium 10 with the ink receiving layer 12, the first layer 2 and the second layer 3 is heated so that the second layer 3, the first layer 2 and the ink receiving layer 12 of the transfer medium 10 are heat transferred to the transfer medium 5 (2b).

[0150] [2-2-1] Transfer medium

[0151] The transfer medium 5 can be any component, but it is preferably an absorbent component. Therefore, compared with the case of using a non-absorbent component, it is more effective in preventing problems such as ink dripping and image bleeding as described above.

[0152] It should be noted that, in this specification, the absorbent component refers to the component that has been in contact with the material for 30 minutes in the Bristol process. 1 / 2The water absorption rate up to 10 mL / m 2 The Bristol method is the most widely used method for determining liquid absorption over a short period of time and is being adopted by the Japan Pulp and Paper Technology Association (JAPAN TAPPI). Details of the test method are described in Standard No. 51 "Paper and Paperboard - Liquid Absorption Test Method - Bristol Method" of "JAPAN TAPPI Pulp and Paper Test Methods 2000 Edition".

[0153] Examples of absorbent materials include various types of paper, porous metals, porous ceramics, porous glass, porous plastics, fabrics, and leather, but fabrics are preferred. In transfer recording onto fabrics, it is sometimes required that the recording material possess the soft texture and wash fastness characteristic of fabrics. However, the transfer recording method of the present invention can also obtain recording materials with excellent texture and wash fastness by employing the preferred embodiments described above, thus making it particularly suitable for transfer recording onto fabrics.

[0154] [2-2-2] Heating conditions

[0155] The heating temperature in this process is not particularly limited, but it is preferably 120°C or higher and 270°C or lower, more preferably 140°C or higher and 250°C or lower, and even more preferably 150°C or higher and 210°C or lower. This allows for a more suitable thermal transfer of the second layer 3, the first layer 2, and the ink receiving layer 12 formed on the transfer medium 10 to the transfer medium 5, and more effectively prevents these constituent materials from unintentionally remaining on the transfer sheet 1. Furthermore, it saves energy and improves the productivity of the recording medium 100.

[0156] When the glass transition temperature of the resin contained in the adhesive ink 3' is set to Tg [°C] and the heating temperature in the heat transfer process is set to Tp [°C], it is preferable to satisfy the relationship 70 ≤ Tp - Tg ≤ 290, more preferably to satisfy the relationship 95 ≤ Tp - Tg ≤ 260, and even more preferably to satisfy the relationship 110 ≤ Tp - Tg ≤ 210. This allows for a more suitable heat transfer of the second layer 3, the first layer 2, and the ink receiving layer 12 formed on the transfer medium 10 to the transfer medium 5, and more effectively prevents these constituent materials from unintentionally remaining on the transfer sheet 1. Furthermore, it saves energy and improves the productivity of the recording medium 100.

[0157] The heating time in this process is not particularly limited, but it is preferably 5 seconds or more and 90 seconds or less, more preferably 15 seconds or more and 70 seconds or less, and even more preferably 20 seconds or more and 60 seconds or less. This allows for a more suitable thermal transfer of the second layer 3, the first layer 2, and the ink receiving layer 12 formed on the transfer medium 10 to the transfer medium 5, and more effectively prevents these constituent materials from unintentionally remaining on the transfer sheet 1. Furthermore, it saves energy and improves the productivity of the recording medium 100.

[0158] This process can be performed by heating the side of the transfer medium 10 where the ink receiving layer 12, the first layer 2, and the second layer 3 are disposed, while keeping it opposite to the transfer medium 5. It can be performed by any method, but hot pressing is preferred.

[0159] When this process is performed by hot pressing, the pressure applied to the laminate of the transfer medium 10 and the substrate 5 is preferably 0.1 N / cm. 2 Above and 30 N / cm 2 The following is more preferably 0.6 N / cm 2 Above and 15 N / cm 2 The following is a further preferred value of 1.5 N / cm. 2 Above and 5N / cm 2 the following.

[0160] [2-3] Records

[0161] Record 100 (2c) is obtained through the process described above.

[0162] The recording object 100 obtained as described above has a recording section 4 formed by a second layer 3, a first layer 2 and an ink receiving layer 12.

[0163] When the transfer medium 5 is an absorbent component, it is preferable that at least a portion of the recording section 4 penetrates into the interior of the transfer medium 5. This allows for improved durability and other properties of the recording 100.

[0164] [2-4] Summary

[0165] As described above, the transfer recording method of the present invention simply involves thermally transferring an ink receiving layer, a first layer, and a second layer of a transfer medium manufactured using the following method to a transfer medium. The method includes: a first layer forming step in which image forming ink is adhered to a transfer sheet to form the first layer; and a second layer forming step in which adhesive ink is adhered to the transfer sheet in an overlapping manner to form the second layer. The transfer sheet has a substrate and the ink receiving layer comprising resin, the ink receiving layer having a thickness of 7 μm or more, and the total amount of image forming ink and adhesive ink adhered per unit area of ​​the transfer sheet being 110 g / m². 2 However, the preferred embodiment of the transfer recording method of the present invention includes: a first layer forming step, wherein image forming ink is adhered to a transfer sheet to form a first layer, the transfer sheet having a substrate and an ink receiving layer comprising resin and inorganic oxide particles with a maximum particle size of 5 μm or more; a second layer forming step, wherein adhesive ink is adhered to the transfer sheet in an overlapping manner with the first layer to form a second layer; a drying step, wherein the transfer sheet having the first layer and the second layer formed is heated to 100°C or higher to dry it; and a heat transfer step, wherein the transfer medium obtained through a series of steps including the first layer forming step to the drying step is transferred to the transfer medium. The ink receiving layer, the first layer, and the second layer are thermally transferred onto the transfer medium. The ink receiving layer contains at least one resin selected from the group consisting of acrylic resins, vinyl acetate resins, and urethane resins. The thickness of the ink receiving layer is 7 μm or more. In the first layer formation process, colored ink and white ink are used as the image forming ink. In at least a portion of the transfer sheet, the white ink is adhered to the colored ink in an overlapping manner. The amount of image forming ink adhered per unit area of ​​the transfer sheet is 30 g / m². 2 Above and 200g / m 2 Hereinafter, the amount of adhesive ink adhering to each unit area of ​​the transfer sheet is 30 g / m². 2 Above and 500g / m 2 Hereinafter, the total amount of the image forming ink and the adhesive ink adhering to each unit area of ​​the transfer sheet is 110 g / m². 2 Therefore, the various effects described above work synergistically to achieve exceptionally good results.

[0166] [3] Ink group

[0167] Next, the ink group involved in this invention will be described.

[0168] The ink group according to the present invention includes the image forming ink and the adhesive ink described above. More specifically, the ink group according to the present invention preferably includes the image forming ink that satisfies the conditions described in [1-1-2] above, and the adhesive ink that satisfies the conditions described in [1-2-1] above.

[0169] The ink group according to the present invention only needs to include at least one image forming ink and one adhesive ink, but it can include multiple image forming inks and multiple adhesive inks. Furthermore, the ink group according to the present invention can include other inks besides the image forming inks and adhesive inks that meet the conditions described above.

[0170] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments.

[0171] For example, the method for manufacturing the transfer medium of the present invention only needs to include a first layer forming step and a second layer forming step, and the drying step described above can be omitted. Furthermore, the method for manufacturing the transfer medium of the present invention may also include steps other than those described above, such as a pretreatment step, an intermediate treatment step, and a post-treatment step. Additionally, the transfer recording method of the present invention only needs to include a heat transfer step, and may also include steps other than the heat transfer step.

[0172] Furthermore, the above description focuses on the case where the method of applying ink droplets by inkjet is used as the method of applying ink for image forming and the method of applying adhesive ink. However, the method of applying ink for image forming and the method of applying adhesive ink are not limited to inkjet.

[0173] Furthermore, the above description focuses on the case where an absorbent component is used as the transfer medium. However, non-absorbent components, such as non-absorbent metal or plastic components, can also be used as the transfer medium.

[0174] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the following situation was described: after applying image forming ink to the transfer sheet to complete the first layer of the target pattern, applying adhesive ink to complete the second layer of the target pattern, and then performing a heat transfer process, however, in the present invention, multiple processes can also be performed simultaneously. More specifically, for example, the application of image forming ink and adhesive ink can be performed simultaneously on different parts of the same transfer sheet.

[0175] Example

[0176] Next, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described.

[0177] [4] Modulation of inks for image formation

[0178] Preparation Example A1

[0179] It is obtained by mixing the components in a predetermined ratio. Figure 3 The image composition shown is formed using ink.

[0180] Preparation Example A2

[0181] Besides changing the types of components and the mixing ratio of each component in the ink used to prepare the image forming ink, it becomes Figure 3 Except for the components shown, image forming inks were prepared in the same manner as in Preparation Example A1.

[0182] The composition of the inks used for image forming in the preparation examples A1 and A2 is summarized below. Figure 3 It should be noted that, in Figure 3 In this document, CI pigment blue 15:3 is referred to as "PB15:3", the polyurethane resin with a glass transition temperature of -20°C (manufactured by Mitsui Chemicals, the solid component of Takelac W6110) is referred to as "polyurethane resin", and the surfactant Silface SAG503A (manufactured by Nissin Chemical Industries, Ltd.) is referred to as "SAG503A". Furthermore, the image forming inks of Preparation Examples A1 and A2 all have an average particle size of resin in the range of 60 nm or more and 300 nm or less. Additionally, the image forming inks of Preparation Examples A1 and A2 all have a surface tension at 25°C in the range of 27 mN / m or more and 40 mN / m or less, and a viscosity at 25°C in the range of 3 mPa·s or more and 8 mPa·s or less. It should be noted that the surface tension was measured using a surface tension meter (DY-300, manufactured by Kyowa Interface Science Co., Ltd.) and the Wilhelmy method, while the viscosity was measured using a vibratory viscometer (VM-100, manufactured by Sekonic Corporation) according to JIS Z8809.

[0183] [5] Preparation of adhesive ink

[0184] Preparation Example B1

[0185] It is obtained by mixing the components in a predetermined ratio. Figure 4 The adhesive ink shown has the following composition.

[0186] Preparation Examples B2-B5

[0187] Besides changing the types of components used to prepare adhesive inks and the proportions of each component, it also becomes... Figure 4 Except for the components shown, adhesive inks were prepared in the same manner as in Preparation Example B1.

[0188] The composition of the adhesive inks of the preparation examples B1 to B5 is summarized as follows: Figure 4 It should be noted that, in Figure 4 In this document, polyester resin (the solid component of KT0507 manufactured by Unitika) is referred to as "polyester resin," vinyl chloride resin (the solid component of Vinyblan 715S manufactured by Nissin Chemical Industries, Ltd.) is referred to as "vinyl chloride resin," polyurethane resin (the solid component of Takelac W6061 manufactured by Mitsui Chemicals Co., Ltd.) is referred to as "polyurethane resin," propylene glycol, as a water-soluble organic solvent, is referred to as "PG," and Silface SAG503A (manufactured by Nissin Chemical Industries, Ltd.), as a surfactant, is referred to as "SAG503A." Furthermore, the adhesive inks of Preparation Examples B1 to B5 all have an average particle size of resins ranging from 60 nm to 300 nm. Additionally, the adhesive inks of Preparation Examples B1 to B5 all have a surface tension at 25°C ranging from 27 mN / m to 40 mN / m, and a viscosity at 25°C ranging from 3 mPa·s to 8 mPa·s. It should be noted that the surface tension was measured using a surface tension meter (DY-300, manufactured by Kyowa Interface Science Co., Ltd.) and the Wilhelmy method, while the viscosity was measured using a JIS Z8809 viscometer (VM-100, manufactured by Sekonic Corporation).

[0189] [6] Manufacturing of transfer media and recording materials

[0190] Example 1

[0191] First, a transfer sheet (manufactured by Ecofreen, Ecofreenpremium) with an ink-receiving layer on the substrate was prepared.

[0192] Next, the image forming ink obtained in Preparation Example A1, the image forming ink obtained in Preparation Example A2, and the adhesive ink obtained in Preparation Example B1 are filled into an inkjet recording device (manufactured by Seiko Epson, SC-F2150).

[0193] Next, the image forming ink obtained in Preparation Example A1 is ejected from the inkjet head in a predetermined pattern onto the surface of the transfer medium where the ink receiving layer is provided. Furthermore, the first layer of the predetermined pattern formed by the image forming ink obtained in Preparation Example A2 is ejected in a manner that overlaps with the pattern formed using the image forming ink obtained in Preparation Example A1. At this time, the amount of image forming ink adhering to the transfer sheet per unit area, i.e., the total amount of image forming ink obtained in Preparation Example A1 and the image forming ink obtained in Preparation Example A2, is 80 g / m². 2.

[0194] Next, adhesive ink is ejected from the inkjet head to form a second layer, overlapping the first layer with the same pattern. At this point, the amount of adhesive ink adhering to the transfer sheet per unit area is 40 g / m². 2 That is, in this embodiment, the total amount of image forming ink and adhesive ink adhered to the transfer sheet per unit area is 120 g / m². 2 .

[0195] Next, the transfer sheet with the first and second layers is subjected to a drying process under heat treatment at 160°C for 5 minutes to obtain the transfer medium.

[0196] Next, with the surface of the transfer sheet containing the first and second layers facing each other against a fine cotton plain cloth (#4000) manufactured by Nisshinbo Co., Ltd., which serves as the absorbent transfer medium, the transfer sheet is subjected to a heat treatment at 200°C for 40 seconds at a pressure of 4.2 N / cm. 2 The ink receiving layer, including the second layer, the first layer, and the areas where these layers are formed, is thermally transferred onto the transfer medium under pressure. The transfer medium is then removed, resulting in a recording.

[0197] Examples 2-20

[0198] In addition to Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 Except for changes to the type of adhesive ink, the type of transfer sheet, the amount of image forming ink applied to the transfer sheet per unit area, the amount of adhesive ink applied to the transfer sheet per unit area, and the type of the transfer medium, the transfer medium and the recording material were manufactured in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0199] Comparative Example 1

[0200] Except for using kimoto Releasy MAG01 (manufactured by Kimoto Corporation of Japan) as the transfer sheet, the transfer medium and recording material were manufactured in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0201] Comparative Example 2

[0202] Except for using Lumirror S10 (manufactured by Toray Industries, Inc., Japan) as the transfer sheet, the transfer medium and recording material were manufactured in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0203] Comparative Example 3

[0204] In addition to ensuring that the amount of adhesive ink adhering to the transfer sheet per unit area is 20g / m² 2The total amount of ink and adhesive ink adhering to the image forming on the transfer film per unit area is 100 g / m². 2 Except for the above, the transfer medium and recording material were manufactured in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0205] The manufacturing conditions of the transfer media and manufactured products of each embodiment and comparative example are summarized below. Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 It should be noted that, in Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 In this document, Ecofreen premium (manufactured by Ecofreen Corporation) is designated as "Transfer Sheet A"; DTF premium transfer film (DTF-TF12) (manufactured by Europort Corporation) is designated as "Transfer Sheet B"; Kimoto Releasy MAG01 (manufactured by Kimoto Corporation) is designated as "Transfer Sheet C"; Lumirror S10 (manufactured by Toray Industries, Inc.) is designated as "Transfer Sheet D"; cotton plain weave fabric (#4000) manufactured by Nisshinbo Corporation, used as the transfer medium, is designated as "Cotton Plain Weave Fabric"; TC4520 (manufactured by Toyoshima Corporation, a blended fabric of 35% cotton and 65% polyester fiber) used as the transfer medium is designated as "Blended Fabric"; and polyester-cotton twill fabric used as the transfer medium ( The following materials are designated as "Polyester" for the transfer medium: PAREL taffeta N2188 (manufactured by Toray Industries, Inc., Nylon fabric) for the transfer medium is designated as "Nylon"; cowhide (manufactured by Daiki Leather Co., Ltd.) for the transfer medium is designated as "Leather"; PET50A (manufactured by Lintec Corporation) for the transfer medium is designated as "PET film"; and a 50μm thick aluminum plate (the plate obtained by opening two cans) for the transfer medium is designated as "Aluminum plate".

[0206] It should be noted that transfer sheet A has a 10µm thick ink receiving layer on a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate. This ink receiving layer is composed of a material containing acrylic resin and inorganic oxide particles (average particle size 3µm, maximum particle size 5µm) composed of silica and alumina. Transfer sheet B has a 15µm thick ink receiving layer on a PET substrate. This ink receiving layer is composed of a material containing urethane resin and inorganic oxide particles (average particle size 5µm, maximum particle size 10µm) composed of silica and alumina. Transfer sheet C has a 6µm thick ink receiving layer on a PET substrate. This ink receiving layer is composed of a material containing acrylic resin and inorganic oxide particles (average particle size 1µm, maximum particle size less than 5µm) composed of silica. Transfer sheet D does not have an ink receiving layer.

[0207] [7] Evaluation

[0208] [7-1] Ink dripping

[0209] The transfer media supplied to each embodiment and comparative example before the drying process were left to stand with the main surface facing vertically. After 5 minutes, visual observation was performed, and ink dripping was evaluated according to the following criteria. A level of B or above was considered good.

[0210] A: No ink dripping occurs at all.

[0211] B: Almost no ink dripping occurs.

[0212] C: There is obvious ink dripping.

[0213] [7-2] Infiltration

[0214] The bleeding of the recorded objects involved in the various embodiments and comparative examples was evaluated as follows.

[0215] In the evaluation of bleeding, each ink composition was filled into an inkjet recording device (Seiko Epson, SC-F2150) and recorded on a recording medium (Ecofreen premium). Specifically, a full-coverage pattern with a resolution of 1200 dpi horizontally and 600 dpi vertically, capable of recording at 100% duty cycle, was created and used. Full-coverage patterns of each color of the recorded material were printed adjacent to each other, and a drying process (160°C × 5 minutes) was performed. Bleeding at the boundaries was visually observed and evaluated according to the following evaluation criteria. It should be noted that this evaluation was conducted in a laboratory at room temperature (25°C). A level of B or above is considered good.

[0216] A: No bleeding was observed at the boundary.

[0217] B: Some color bleeding was observed at the boundary.

[0218] C: Extensive bleeding was observed at the boundary.

[0219] [7-3] Texture

[0220] The texture of the recordings involved in the various embodiments and comparative examples was evaluated as follows.

[0221] Specifically, for each recorded object, its tactile feel was evaluated using sensory assessment according to the following criteria while the evaluator was blindfolded. A score of B or higher was designated as good.

[0222] A: It's soft; I didn't feel any stiffness.

[0223] B: Slightly hard, feels slightly hard to the touch.

[0224] C: It has a noticeably hard feel.

[0225] [7-4] Wash fastness

[0226] The washing fastness of the recorded objects involved in the various embodiments and comparative examples was evaluated as follows.

[0227] Specifically, a wash fastness test was conducted according to ISO 105 C10 (B2), and the wash fastness was evaluated according to the following standards. A rating of B or above was considered good.

[0228] AA: Wash fastness is grade 3-4 or above.

[0229] A: Wash fastness is grade 3 or higher but less than grade 3-4.

[0230] B: Wash fastness is grade 2 or higher but less than grade 3.

[0231] C: Wash fastness is less than grade 2.

[0232] [7-5] Peelability

[0233] For each of the embodiments and comparative examples, the condition of the transfer medium after the recording unit transferred the material to the transfer medium was observed, and the peelability was evaluated according to the following criteria. A value of B or higher was considered good.

[0234] A: 100% of the image area printed on the transfer medium was transferred.

[0235] B: The image area printed on the transfer medium was transferred to a surface that was more than 80% but less than 100% of its original size.

[0236] C: Less than 80% of the image area printed on the transfer medium has been transferred.

[0237] [7-6] Cracks in the coating

[0238] For the records involved in the various embodiments and comparative examples, the cracking of the coating was evaluated as follows.

[0239] In the evaluation of coating cracks, various ink compositions were filled into an inkjet recording device (Seiko Epson, SC-F2150) and recorded on a recording medium (Ecofreen premium). Specifically, a full-coverage pattern with a resolution of 1200 dpi horizontally and 600 dpi vertically, capable of recording at 100% duty cycle, was created and used. Full-coverage patterns of each color of the recorded material were printed adjacent to each other, and a drying process (160°C × 5 minutes) was performed. The coating cracks were evaluated according to the following criteria. A grade of B or higher was considered good.

[0240] A: No cracks were formed on the coating.

[0241] B: Slight cracks were observed on the coating.

[0242] C: Cracks were clearly observed on the coating.

[0243] [7-7] Whitening after washing

[0244] The whitening of the recorded objects involved in the various embodiments and comparative examples was evaluated as follows.

[0245] A wash fastness test (ISO 105 C10 (B2)) was conducted, and whitening after washing was evaluated according to the following criteria. A rating of B or above is considered good.

[0246] A: No color change was found on the printed surface.

[0247] B: The surface of the printed material has turned slightly white.

[0248] C: There are clearly white areas on the surface of the printed material.

[0249] These results are summarized and presented as follows Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 middle.

[0250] Depend on Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 It is evident that excellent results have been obtained in this invention. In contrast, unsatisfactory results were not obtained in the comparative examples.

[0251] In addition, various modifications were made to the thickness of the ink receiving layer within the range of 20 μm to 70 μm, and the amount of image forming ink adhered to the transfer sheet per unit area was 30 g / m². 2 Above and 200g / m 2 Various modifications are made within the following range to ensure that the amount of adhesive ink adhering to the transfer sheet per unit area is 30 g / m². 2 Above and 500g / m 2 Various modifications are made within the following range to ensure that the total amount of ink and adhesive ink adhering to the image forming on the transfer sheet per unit area is 110 g / m². 2 Above and 700g / m 2 Various modifications were made within the following scope, except that the type of resin contained in the ink receiving layer was changed to vinyl acetate resin. Otherwise, the transfer media and recording materials were manufactured in the same manner as in the embodiments described above, and they were evaluated in the same way as described above, resulting in equally excellent results.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a transfer medium, characterized in that, have: The first layer forming process involves adhering image forming ink to the transfer film to form the first layer; and The second layer forming process involves adhering the adhesive ink in a manner that overlaps with the first layer to form the second layer. The transfer sheet has a substrate and an ink-receiving layer containing resin. The thickness of the ink receiving layer is 7 μm or more. The total amount of the image-forming ink and the adhesive ink adhering to each unit area of ​​the transfer sheet is 110 g / m². 2 above.

2. The method for manufacturing the transfer medium according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ink receiving layer also contains inorganic oxide particles.

3. The method for manufacturing the transfer medium according to claim 2, characterized in that, The maximum particle size of the inorganic oxide particles is greater than 5 μm.

4. The method for manufacturing the transfer medium according to claim 2, characterized in that, The ink receiving layer contains at least one resin selected from the group consisting of acrylic resins, vinyl acetate resins, and urethane resins.

5. The method for manufacturing the transfer medium according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the first layer forming process, colored ink and white ink are used as the inks for image forming. In at least a portion of the area on the transfer sheet, the white ink is applied to the colored ink in an overlapping manner.

6. The method for manufacturing the transfer medium according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the following drying process: heating the transfer sheet on which the first layer and the second layer are formed to above 100°C to dry it.

7. The method for manufacturing the transfer medium according to claim 1, characterized in that, The amount of ink used for image formation adhered to each unit area of ​​the transfer sheet is 30 g / m². 2 Above and 200g / m 2 the following.

8. The method for manufacturing the transfer medium according to claim 1, characterized in that, The amount of adhesive ink adhering to each unit area of ​​the transfer sheet is 30 g / m². 2 Above and 500g / m 2 the following.

9. A method for transferring and recording data, characterized in that, The ink receiving layer, the first layer, and the second layer of the transfer medium manufactured using the method for manufacturing the transfer medium according to any one of claims 1 to 8 are thermally transferred onto the transfer medium.

10. A method for transferring and recording data, characterized in that, have: The first layer forming process involves attaching image forming ink to a transfer sheet to form a first layer. The transfer sheet has a substrate and an ink receiving layer containing resin and inorganic oxide particles with a maximum particle size of 5 μm or more. The second layer forming process involves adhering the adhesive ink in a manner that overlaps with the first layer to form a second layer. In the drying process, the transfer sheet with the first layer and the second layer formed is heated to above 100°C to dry it. as well as The heat transfer process involves heat-transferring the ink receiving layer, the first layer, and the second layer of a transfer medium obtained through a series of processes, including the first layer formation process and the drying process, onto a substrate to be transferred. The ink receiving layer comprises at least one resin selected from the group consisting of acrylic resins, vinyl acetate resins, and urethane resins. The thickness of the ink receiving layer is 7 μm or more. In the first layer forming process, colored ink and white ink are used as the inks for image forming. In at least a portion of the transfer sheet, the white ink is applied over the colored ink in an overlapping manner. The amount of ink used for image formation adhered to each unit area of ​​the transfer sheet is 30 g / m². 2 Above and 200g / m 2 the following, The amount of adhesive ink adhering to each unit area of ​​the transfer sheet is 30 g / m². 2 Above and 500g / m 2 the following, The total amount of the image-forming ink and the adhesive ink adhering to each unit area of ​​the transfer sheet is 110 g / m². 2 above.

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