Dye composition, method for producing dye composition, inkjet ink composition, and method for producing recorded matter

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to provide: a dye composition which has excellent discharge stability and storage stability at high temperatures; a method for producing the dye composition; an inkjet ink composition; and a method for producing a recorded matter. A dye composition comprising a water-insoluble dye, a specific dispersant for dispersing the water-insoluble dye, the specific dispersant comprising a copolymer of a styrene compound and maleic acid or a urethane resin, an alkylene oxide adduct of (poly) glycerol comprising a propylidene oxide group, and water, the ratio (B / A) of the content B of the specific dispersant to the content A of the water-insoluble dye is 0.40-0.75, and the content of the alkylene oxide adduct of the (poly) glycerol is 0.05-1.00 mass% relative to the total amount of the dye composition.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to dye compositions, methods for manufacturing dye compositions, inkjet ink compositions, and methods for producing recordings. Background Technology

[0002] Inkjet recording methods have achieved rapid development in various aspects, enabling the recording of high-resolution images with relatively simple devices. Various studies have been conducted on aspects such as image preservation stability. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an ink composition containing an organic acid with a lactone structure, a colorant, a styrene-(meth)acrylic acid copolymer, or diglycerides.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-150400.

[0006] However, from the viewpoint of improving printing accuracy, inkjet ink compositions are preferably ejected stably from the printhead. Furthermore, depending on the environment of the inkjet printer, the inkjet ink composition may be stored at high temperatures; therefore, it is preferable that the inkjet ink composition does not change its properties even at high temperatures. In other words, the inkjet ink composition preferably exhibits good ejection stability and high-temperature storage stability. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention relates to a dye composition comprising a water-insoluble dye, a specific dispersant for dispersing the water-insoluble dye, an epoxy alkyl adduct of (poly)glycerol, and water. The specific dispersant comprises a copolymer of a styrene compound and maleic acid or a urethane resin. The epoxy alkyl adduct of (poly)glycerol comprises propylene oxide group. The ratio (B / A) of the content B of the specific dispersant to the content A of the water-insoluble dye is 0.40 to 0.75, and the content of the epoxy alkyl adduct of (poly)glycerol is 0.05 to 1.00 by mass relative to the total amount of the dye composition. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the recording device used in this embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a table showing the results of the embodiments.

[0010] Figure 3 This is a table showing the results of the embodiments.

[0011] Symbol Explanation

[0012] 20: Serial printer; 220: Transport section; 230: Recording section; 231: Inkjet head; 234: Carrier; 235: Carrier moving mechanism; F: Recording medium; S1, S2: Main scanning direction; T1, T2: Sub-scanning direction. Detailed Implementation

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as "this embodiment") will be described in detail, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications can be made without departing from its spirit.

[0014] 1. Dye composition

[0015] The dye composition of this embodiment comprises a water-insoluble dye, a specific dispersant for dispersing the water-insoluble dye, an epoxy alkyl adduct of (poly)glycerol, and water. The specific dispersant comprises a copolymer of a styrene compound and maleic acid or a urethane resin. The epoxy alkyl adduct of (poly)glycerol comprises propylene oxide. The ratio (B / A) of the content B of the specific dispersant to the content A of the water-insoluble dye is 0.40 to 0.75, and the content of the epoxy alkyl adduct of (poly)glycerol is 0.05 to 1.00 by mass relative to the total amount of the dye composition.

[0016] In the manufacture of water-based inks by dispersing water-insoluble dyes in water, dispersants are typically used to disperse the dyes. However, water-insoluble dyes dispersed by dispersants (hereinafter also referred to as "water-insoluble dye dispersions") readily dissolve in organic solvents and surfactants that may be contained in water-based inks, especially at high temperatures. Therefore, there is room for improvement in the storage stability of water-based inks containing water-insoluble dye dispersions at high temperatures. Furthermore, since water-insoluble dye dispersions have a large specific surface area, the ejection stability of water-based inks containing water-insoluble dye dispersions can easily deteriorate if air bubbles are introduced. In addition, to prevent water-based inks containing water-insoluble dye dispersions from sticking in the nozzle of the ejected ink, it is preferable that the ink is easily resoluble in a solvent after curing.

[0017] In this regard, the dye composition of this embodiment exhibits excellent storage stability even at high temperatures by using a specific dispersant comprising a copolymer of a styrene compound and maleic acid or a urethane resin in combination with an epoxy alkyl adduct of (poly)glycerol. It should be noted that since the dye composition exhibits excellent storage stability at high temperatures, it can be said that the inkjet ink composition containing this dye composition also exhibits excellent storage stability at high temperatures. Furthermore, by using a specific dispersant and an epoxy alkyl adduct of (poly)glycerol in combination, ejection stability and resolubility can also be improved.

[0018] A specific dispersant comprising a copolymer of styrene compounds and maleic acid or a urethane resin is adsorbed onto the surface of a water-insoluble dye, thereby dispersing the dye in water. In this case, the hydrophilic groups of the specific dispersant are oriented on the solvent side, imparting dispersibility through the resulting steric hindrance and electrostatic repulsion. Furthermore, the specific dispersant used in this embodiment readily adsorbs onto the surface of the water-insoluble dye and has high hydrophilicity; therefore, even at high temperatures, it can prevent the specific dispersant from detaching from the surface of the water-insoluble dye or the water-insoluble dye from dissolving in organic solvents or surfactants, while simultaneously ensuring sufficient dispersion of the water-insoluble dye.

[0019] Furthermore, by setting the ratio (B / A) of the content of a specific dispersant B to the content of the water-insoluble dye A to 0.40–0.75, the water-insoluble dye tends to be more easily dispersed even at high temperatures.

[0020] Furthermore, the predetermined amount of the (poly)glycerol alkyl oxide adduct has a hydrophilic (poly)glycerol structure and a slightly hydrophobic propylene oxide. Therefore, it can be considered that the (poly)glycerol alkyl oxide adduct can improve the water compatibility of specific dispersants, improve the dispersibility of water-insoluble dyes at high temperatures, and enhance storage stability.

[0021] Furthermore, by setting the content of the (poly)glycerol alkyl oxide adduct to 0.05 to 1.00% by mass relative to the total amount of the dye composition, there is a tendency to improve the dispersibility of water-insoluble dyes dispersed by a specific dispersant even at high temperatures.

[0022] Based on the main reasons mentioned above, it is speculated that the dye composition of this embodiment has improved storage stability at high temperatures through the use of specific dispersants and epoxide adducts of (poly)glycerol, but the main reasons are not limited to these.

[0023] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the alkylene oxide adduct of (poly)glycerol has propylene oxide, which has moderate hydrophobicity. Therefore, the alkylene oxide adduct of (poly)glycerol readily permeates into the water-insoluble dye dispersed by the specific dispersant. Consequently, any mixed-in air bubbles are difficult to incorporate into the water-insoluble dye dispersion and are easily removed. As a result, the inkjet ink composition containing the dye composition of this embodiment tends to have improved ejection stability.

[0024] Furthermore, because the specific dispersant has high hydrophilicity, the dye composition of this embodiment is easily redissolved in water after curing. That is, the dye composition of this embodiment, containing the specific dispersant, tends to have high redissolution. It should be noted that because the dye composition has excellent redissolution, it can be said that the inkjet ink composition containing this dye composition also has excellent redissolution.

[0025] Furthermore, since the specific dispersant has low volatility, the inkjet ink composition containing the dye composition of this embodiment tends to have less odor even when heated in the sublimation transfer printing method described later.

[0026] The dye composition of this embodiment is preferably contained in the inkjet ink composition ejected from the inkjet head of the inkjet recording apparatus described later.

[0027] The following describes in detail the components that may be included in the dye composition of this embodiment.

[0028] 1.1.Water-insoluble dyes

[0029] The water-insoluble dye of this embodiment dissolves in 1L of water at 25°C by a mass of 1g or less. Examples of such water-insoluble dyes include disperse dyes and solvent dyes. Disperse dyes and solvent dyes are dyes dispersed in water using dispersants described later. Furthermore, disperse dyes and solvent dyes are dyes soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone. Preferably, the dye composition of this embodiment contains a water-insoluble dye.

[0030] In addition to methods for attaching dye to dyed materials, besides methods for directly attaching dye to dyed materials, another method for attaching dye to an intermediate recording medium, overlapping the dyed intermediate recording medium with the dye attached to the dyed material to obtain a laminate, and sublimating the dye by heating the laminate to thereby attach the dye to the dyed material (hereinafter, this method is also referred to as the "sublimation transfer printing method"). The dye composition in this embodiment is preferably included in an ink composition attached to the intermediate recording medium in the sublimation transfer printing method. In the sublimation transfer printing method, water-insoluble dyes are preferred as they readily sublimate. From this viewpoint, the water-insoluble dye in this embodiment preferably has a molecular weight of 500 or less. Alternatively, disperse dyes or solvent dyes with a molecular weight of 500 or less are preferred. Furthermore, water-insoluble dyes with a molecular weight of 500 or less are generally easily dissolved by organic solvents and surfactants. In this regard, the dye composition of this embodiment contains a specific dispersant and an epoxy alkyl adduct of (poly)glycerol having propylene oxide. Therefore, in this embodiment, water-insoluble dyes with a molecular weight of 500 or less tend to be difficult to dissolve by organic solvents and surfactants.

[0031] The water-insoluble dye in this embodiment is preferably sublimated by heating. The sublimation temperature is preferably 120°C or higher, 140°C or higher, or 160°C or higher. In addition, there is no particular upper limit to the sublimation temperature, for example, it is 220°C or lower, and preferably 200°C or lower.

[0032] As disperse dyes that sublimate through heating, there are no particular limitations. Examples include CI Disperse Yellow 3, 7, 8, 23, 39, 51, 54, 60, 64, 71, 82, 86, 211, and 232; CI Disperse Orange 1, 1:1, 5, 20, 24, 25, 25:1, 33, 56, and 76; CI Disperse Brown 2 and 27; and CI Disperse Red 11, 50, 53, 55, 55:1, 59, 60, 65, and 70. 75, 93, 146, 158, 190, 190:1, 207, 239, 240 and 364; CI Disperse Violet 8, 17, 23, 27, 28, 29, 36 and 57; CI Disperse Blue 14, 19, 26, 26:1, 35, 55, 56, 58, 64, 64:1, 72, 72:1, 81, 81:1, 91, 95, 108, 131, 141, 145, 359 and 360.

[0033] As solvent dyes that sublimate by heating, there are no particular limitations; examples include CI Solvent Blue 36, 63, 94, 105, and 111.

[0034] The content of water-insoluble dye relative to the total amount of the dye composition is preferably 5.0 to 30.0% by mass, 7.5 to 25.0% by mass, and 10.0 to 20.0% by mass. By keeping the content of water-insoluble dye within the above range, there is a tendency to improve the ejection stability of the inkjet ink composition containing the dye composition.

[0035] 1.2. Dispersant

[0036] Dispersants function to disperse water-insoluble dyes in water. The dye composition of this embodiment includes a specific dispersant, which may be a copolymer of a styrene compound and maleic acid or a urethane resin. Other dispersants besides the specific dispersant may also be included, if necessary. Because the specific dispersant is a high-molecular-weight dispersant, it tends to reduce the odor of the dye composition compared to lower-molecular-weight dispersants, such as formalin condensates of sodium naphthalene sulfonate.

[0037] 1.2.1. Specific dispersants

[0038] The copolymer of styrene compounds and maleic acid, used as specific dispersants, has structural units derived from both the styrene compound and maleic acid. Examples of styrene compounds include styrene and modified styrene. Modified styrene is a compound in which hydrogen atoms directly bonded to the carbon atoms of the benzene ring constituting styrene are replaced by other functional groups. Modified styrene is not particularly limited; examples include chlorostyrene, fluorostyrene, phenylstyrene, methylstyrene, ethylstyrene, carboxystyrene, and polyoxyalkylenestyrene. One type of styrene compound can be used alone, or two or more can be used in combination. In addition to maleic acid, maleic anhydride and esters of maleic acid can also be used as maleic acid.

[0039] The copolymer of styrene compound and maleic acid used as a specific dispersant can be a copolymer manufactured by copolymerizing the styrene compound and maleic acid, or a commercially available product. There are no particular limitations on commercially available products; examples include DISPERBYK-190 and DISPERBYK-2015 (manufactured by BYK-Chemie Japan, trade names); TEGO Dispers 750W and TEGO Dispers 755W (manufactured by Evonik Japan, trade names); and NOPCOSPERSE6100 (manufactured by SAN NOPCO, trade name).

[0040] Urea resins used as specific dispersants are resins containing urethane bonds. For example, urethane resins are obtained by copolymerizing polyisocyanates and polyols, and have structural units derived from polyisocyanates and structural units derived from polyols.

[0041] There are no particular limitations on what constitutes a polyvalent isocyanate; for example, aliphatic and aromatic polyvalent isocyanates can be listed. For aliphatic polyvalent isocyanates, there are no particular limitations; for example, polyvalent isocyanates with chain structures such as tetramethylene diisocyanate, dodecamethylene diisocyanate, hexamethylene diisocyanate, 2,2,4-trimethylhexamethylene diisocyanate, 2,4,4-trimethylhexamethylene diisocyanate, lysine diisocyanate, 2-methylpentane-1,5-diisocyanate, and 3-methylpentane-1,5-diisocyanate; and polyvalent isocyanates with cyclic structures such as isophorone diisocyanate, hydrogenated xylene diisocyanate, 4,4'-dicyclohexylmethane diisocyanate, 1,4-cyclohexane diisocyanate, methylcyclohexene diisocyanate, and 1,3-bis(isocyanate methyl)cyclohexane. As an aliphatic polyisocyanate, it can be used alone or in combination with two or more.

[0042] As aromatic polyisocyanates, there are no particular limitations; examples include toluene diisocyanate, 2,2'-diphenylmethane diisocyanate, 2,4'-diphenylmethane diisocyanate, 4,4'-diphenylmethane diisocyanate, 4,4'-dibenzyl diisocyanate, 1,5-naphthylene diisocyanate, xylene diisocyanate, 1,3-phenylene diisocyanate, 1,4-phenylene diisocyanate, dialkyldiphenylmethane diisocyanate, tetraalkyldiphenylmethane diisocyanate, and α,α,α',α'-tetramethylxylene diisocyanate. As aromatic polyisocyanates, one type can be used alone, or two or more types can be used in combination.

[0043] As polyvalent alcohols, there are no particular limitations; examples include ethylene glycol, 1,2-propanediol, 1,3-propanediol, 1,3-propanediol, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, 2-methyl-1,5-pentanediol, neopentanediol, 1,4-cyclohexanediol, terephthalic acid, bisphenol A-ethylene glycol adduct, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, polytetramethylene glycol, polytetrahydrofurandiol, dimethylolpropionic acid, glycerol, trimethylolpropane, sodium dimethylol ethyl sulfonate, potassium dimethylol ethyl sulfonate, and potassium dimethylol propionate. As polyvalent alcohols, one can be used alone, or two or more can be used in combination.

[0044] Urea resins used as specific dispersants can be urethane resins manufactured by copolymerizing polyisocyanates and polyols, or commercially available products. There are no particular limitations on commercially available products; examples include Solsperse J400 (manufactured by LUBRIZOL, Japan, trade name); Borchi Gen 0851; and Borchi Gen SN 95 (manufactured by Borchers, trade names).

[0045] The content of the specific dispersant relative to the total amount of the dye composition is preferably 2.5 to 11.0% by mass, 5.0 to 10.5% by mass, or 6.5 to 10.0% by mass. By keeping the content of the specific dispersant within the above range, there is a tendency to improve the ejection stability of the inkjet ink composition containing the dye composition, the resolubility of the dye composition, and the storage stability at high temperatures.

[0046] The ratio (B / A) of the content of the specific dispersant B to the content of the water-insoluble dye A is 0.40 to 0.75, preferably 0.45 to 0.65. By setting the above ratio (B / A) to 0.40 or higher, the resolubility and storage stability of the dye composition tend to be improved. Furthermore, by setting the above ratio (B / A) to 0.75 or lower, the ejection stability of the inkjet ink composition containing the dye composition tends to be improved.

[0047] 1.2.2. Other dispersants

[0048] From the viewpoint of further improving the dispersibility of water-insoluble dyes in water, the dye composition of this embodiment may also contain dispersants other than the specific dispersant. Examples of other dispersants include surfactant-based dispersants, inorganic dispersants, and resin dispersants other than the specific dispersant.

[0049] As a surfactant-based dispersant, there are no particular limitations. Examples include anionic surfactants such as alkyl sulfonates, α-olefin sulfonates, alkylbenzene sulfonates, alkylnaphthalene sulfonates, naphthalene sulfonates, acylmethyl taurate, dialkyl sulfosuccinate, alkyl sulfate salts, sulfated olefins, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether sulfate salts, alkyl phosphate salts, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether phosphate salts, and monoglyceride phosphate salts; amphoteric surfactants such as alkylpyridinium salts, alkyl amino acid salts, and alkyl dimethyl betaine; and nonionic surfactants such as polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, polyoxyethylene alkylphenyl ethers, polyoxyethylene alkyl esters, polyoxyethylene alkylamides, glyceryl alkyl esters, and dehydrated sorbitol alkyl esters. As a surfactant-based dispersant, one type can be used alone, or two or more types can be used in combination.

[0050] As an inorganic dispersant, there are no particular limitations; examples include tricalcium phosphate, trimagnesium phosphate, basic magnesium carbonate, calcium carbonate, barium sulfate, kaolin, talc, and clay.

[0051] As a resin dispersant other than a specific dispersant, there are no particular limitations. Examples include polyvinyl alcohols, polyvinylpyrrolidones, acrylonitrile, vinyl acetate-acrylate copolymers, acrylate polymers, styrene-(meth)acrylate copolymers, styrene-methacrylate-acrylate copolymers, styrene-α-methylstyrene-acrylate copolymers, styrene-α-methylstyrene-acrylate copolymers, styrene sulfonic acid copolymers, vinylnaphthalene-acrylate copolymers, vinylnaphthalene-maleate copolymers, vinyl acetate-maleate copolymers, and vinyl acetate-crotonate copolymers. As a copolymer form, any of the following can be used: random copolymers, block copolymers, alternating copolymers, and graft copolymers.

[0052] The content of other dispersants is not particularly limited, for example, it is 1.0 to 10.0% by mass or 2.0 to 5.0% by mass relative to the total amount of the dye composition.

[0053] 1.3. Epoxide adducts of (poly)glycerol

[0054] The alkylene oxide adduct of (poly)glycerol in this embodiment is a compound having a structure formed by the dehydration condensation of the hydroxyl groups of (poly)glycerol and the hydroxyl groups of (poly)alkylene glycol. For example, compounds represented by the following formula (1) can be listed. It should be noted that in the following formula (1), it represents a structure in which the hydroxyl groups at positions 1 and 3 of monoglycerol form an ether bond, but it can also be a structure in which the hydroxyl groups at positions 1 or 3 and 2 of monoglycerol form an ether bond.

[0055] In addition, in this embodiment, "(poly)glycerol" refers to the general term for monoglycerol and polyglycerol, "(poly)epoxyalkyl" refers to the general term for monoepoxyalkyl and polyepoxyalkyl, and "(poly)alkylene glycol" refers to the general term for monoalkylene glycol and polyalkylene glycol.

[0056] [Chemical Formula 1]

[0057] In formula (1), each of the plurality of A atoms is independently a monovalent (poly)epoxyalkyl group or a hydrogen atom represented by formula (2) below, and at least one of the plurality of A atoms is a monovalent (poly)epoxyalkyl group represented by formula (2) below. In addition, n is a natural number, preferably 1 to 3.

[0058] [Chemical Formula 2]

[0059] In equation (2), m is an independent natural number from 2 to 4, and l is a natural number from 1 to 30. The m values ​​in multiple A's can also be different from each other. The l values ​​in multiple A's can also be different from each other.

[0060] As a result of C m H 2m The groups represented are not particularly limited. For example, straight-chain hydrocarbon groups such as methylene, ethylene, propane-1,3-diyl (also called propylene in this embodiment), and butane-1,4-diyl (also called butylene in this embodiment) can be listed; and branched hydrocarbon groups such as propane-1,2-diyl and butane-1,2-diyl can be listed.

[0061] Within a molecule, the structure of each A in the (poly)epoxyalkyl group can be different. Furthermore, within the (poly)epoxyalkyl group, each repeating unit (C...) m H 2m O) Its structure can also be different.

[0062] The (poly)glycerol alkyl oxide adduct of this embodiment, as a repeating unit constituting the (poly)alkyl oxide, has at least a propylene oxide (C3H6O). Therefore, for example, compared to the case where it is entirely an ethylene oxide adduct, the occurrence of dispersion destruction can be suppressed.

[0063] In this embodiment, the average molar number of propylene oxide additions in the (poly)glycerol alkyl oxide adduct is preferably 9 or less, and is 1 to 9, 1 to 7, 1 to 5, or 1 to 3. By keeping the average molar number of additions within the above range, there is a tendency to improve the storage stability of the dye composition at high temperatures.

[0064] It should be noted that the number of specific alkyl oxides in the alkyl oxide adducts of (poly)glycerol is also referred to as the molar number of additions. Furthermore, the average molar number of additions in each alkyl oxide adduct of (poly)glycerol is also called the average molar number of additions. That is, the average molar number of additions of specific alkylene oxides in the dye composition is conceptually calculated using the following formula (α). Additionally, such an average molar number of additions can also be determined using NMR, MS, etc.

[0065]

[0066] For example, when an epoxy adduct of glycerol with an addition of 3 moles of propylene oxide and an epoxy adduct of glycerol with an addition of 5 moles of propylene oxide are mixed in a 1:1 (molar ratio), the average addition of propylene oxide in the (poly)glycerol epoxy adduct contained in the dye composition is 4 moles.

[0067] In the above formula (1), n ​​is preferably 1 or 2, more preferably 1. m is preferably 3. l is preferably 1 to 20, 1 to 10, 1 to 5, 1 to 4, 1 to 3, or 1 to 2.

[0068] When the plurality of A in formula (1) are monovalent (poly)epoxyalkyl groups represented by formula (2), the total number of l in formula (1) is preferably 9 or less, and is 1 to 9, 1 to 7, 1 to 5, or 1 to 3.

[0069] When all A in formula (1) is a monovalent (poly)epoxyalkyl group represented by formula (2) with m=3, the compound represented by formula (1) is called a (poly)glycerol propylene oxide adduct. When all A is a monovalent (poly)epoxyalkyl group represented by formula (2) with m=2, the compound represented by formula (1) is called a (poly)glycerol ethylene oxide adduct. In addition, when n=1 in formula (1), the compound represented by formula (1) is called a glycerol alkyl oxide adduct. When n=2, the compound represented by formula (1) is called a diglycerol alkyl oxide adduct.

[0070] The alkylene oxide adduct of (poly)glycerol having propylene oxide in this embodiment is not particularly limited, and examples include propylene oxide adduct of glycerol, propylene oxide adduct of diglycerol, and alkylene oxide adduct of glycerol having propylene oxide.

[0071] As propylene oxide adducts of glycerol, specific examples include SANNIX GP-250 (average molar addition of PO: 3), SANNIX GP-400 (average molar addition of PO: 6), SANNIX GP-600 (average molar addition of PO: 9), SANNIX GP-1000 (average molar addition of PO: 16), SANNIX GP-4000 (average molar addition of PO: 67) (manufactured by Sanyo Chemical Industries, trade names); ADEKANOL TP-6 ​​(average molar addition of PO: 6), ADEKANOL TP-10 (average molar addition of PO: 10), ADEKANOL TP-24 (average molar addition of PO: 24) (manufactured by ADEKA, trade names); UNIOL TG-330 (average molar addition of PO: 4), UNIOL SGP-65 (average molar addition of PO: 8), UNIOL... TG-700 (average molar addition of PO: 10), UNIOL TG-1000R (average molar addition of PO: 16), UNIOL TG-3000 (average molar addition of PO: 50), UNIOL TG-4000 (average molar addition of PO: 70) (the above are trade names manufactured by Nippon Oil Company).

[0072] As diglycerides derived from propylene oxide, specific examples include NIKKOL SG-DG900P (average molar addition of PO: 9) (manufactured by Nikko Chemical Co., Ltd., trade name); SC-P750 (average molar addition of PO: 9), SC-P1000 (average molar addition of PO: 14), SC-P1600 (average molar addition of PO: 24) (manufactured by Sakamoto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., trade name); UNILUBE DGP-700F (average molar addition of PO: 9), UNILUBE DGP-950 (average molar addition of PO: 14) (manufactured by Nippon Oil Co., Ltd., trade name).

[0073] Epoxide adducts of glycerol containing propylene oxide include, specifically, UNILUBE50TG-32 (average molar addition of EO: 24, average molar addition of PO: 24), WILBRIDE S-753 (average molar addition of EO: 8, average molar addition of PO: 5, average molar addition of BO: 3) (manufactured by Nippon Oil Company, trade name); NIKKOLSG-G2424 (average molar addition of EO: 24, average molar addition of PO: 24) (manufactured by Nikko Chemical Co., Ltd., trade name); FROTHMEISTER GC-48 (average molar addition of EO: 24, average molar addition of PO: 24) (manufactured by Sanyo Chemical Co., Ltd., trade name); ADEKANOL TPE-2424 (average molar addition of EO: 24, average molar addition of PO: 24) (manufactured by ADEKA Co., Ltd., trade name), etc.

[0074] It should be noted that the average molar addition of PO represents the average molar addition of propylene oxide, the average molar addition of EO represents the average molar addition of ethylene oxide, and the average molar addition of BO represents the average molar addition of butylene oxide.

[0075] The content of the alkyl oxide adduct of (poly)glycerol relative to the total amount of the dye composition is 0.05 to 1.00% by mass, preferably 0.06 to 0.90% by mass, 0.07 to 0.80% by mass, 0.08 to 0.70% by mass, 0.09 to 0.60% by mass, 0.10 to 0.50% by mass, 0.15 to 0.45% by mass, or 0.20 to 0.40% by mass. By keeping the content of the alkyl oxide adduct of (poly)glycerol within the above range, the water-insoluble dye dispersed by the dispersant of this embodiment is easily dispersed in water, and tends to have improved storage stability of the dye composition at high temperatures.

[0076] The ratio (B / C) of the content of the specific dispersant B to the content of the (poly)glycerol alkyl oxide adduct C is preferably 5.0–50.0, 10.0–40.0, 15.0–30.0, or 17.5–27.5. By keeping the above ratio (B / C) within the above range, the resolubility of the dye composition and its storage stability at high temperatures are further improved, and the inkjet ink composition containing the dye composition tends to have improved ejection stability.

[0077] 1.4. Defoamer

[0078] The dye composition of this embodiment may also contain an antifoaming agent. The antifoaming agent has the function of suppressing the generation of bubbles in the dye composition. Examples of antifoaming agents include specific antifoaming agents containing acetylenic diol-based and / or silicone-based antifoaming agents, as well as other antifoaming agents. Surfactants with an HLB value of 6 or less may also be used as antifoaming agents. Here, the HLB value is a value representing the balance between the hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity of the surfactant; a smaller HLB value indicates greater hydrophobicity, and a larger HLB value indicates greater hydrophilicity. In this invention, the HLB value is calculated, for example, using the Griffin method.

[0079] 1.4.1. Specific defoamers

[0080] The dye composition of this embodiment, by including a specific defoamer, can suppress the generation of bubbles in the dye composition, resulting in a tendency for the inkjet ink composition containing the dye composition to have improved ejection stability.

[0081] There are no particular limitations on acetylenol-based defoamers used as specific defoamers. Examples include SURFYNOLDF110D, SURFYNOL DF37, SURFYNOL 104PG50, SURFYNOL82, EnviroGemAD-01, OLFINE SPC, OLFINE AF-103, OLFINE AF-104, and OLFINE D-10PG (all manufactured by Nissin Chemical Industries Co., Ltd., trade names).

[0082] There are no particular limitations on silicone-based defoamers used as specific defoamers. Examples include KM-89, KM-98, KS-540, and X-50-1176 (manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd., trade names); FC2913, SILFOAM SE47, SILFOAM SD670, and SILFOAM SD850 (manufactured by Asahi Kasei Wacker Chemie, Ltd., trade names); and BYK-015, BYK-019, BYK-025, BYK-1640, and BYK-1770 (manufactured by BYK-Chemie Japan, trade names).

[0083] The content of the specific defoamer relative to the total amount of the dye composition is preferably 0.10% by mass or less, 0.00 to 0.10% by mass, 0.01 to 0.08% by mass, or 0.02 to 0.06% by mass. By keeping the content of the specific defoamer within the above range, there is a tendency to further improve the ejection stability of the inkjet ink composition containing the dye composition.

[0084] 1.4.2. Other defoamers

[0085] From the viewpoint of suppressing the generation of bubbles in the dye composition, the dye composition of this embodiment may also contain defoamers other than the specific defoamer. There are no particular limitations on other defoamers; examples include polyether-based defoamers and fatty acid ester-based defoamers.

[0086] The content of other defoamers is not particularly limited, for example, it is 0.01 to 1.00 by mass relative to the total amount of the dye composition.

[0087] 1.5. Water

[0088] The dye composition of this embodiment contains water. The water is not particularly limited; for example, it can be pure water or ion-exchanged water. The water content relative to the total amount of the dye composition is preferably 60-90% by mass or 65-85% by mass. By keeping the water content within the above range, the inkjet ink composition containing the dye composition tends to have improved ejection stability and improved storage stability at high temperatures.

[0089] 1.6. Method for manufacturing dye compositions

[0090] The method for manufacturing the dye composition of this embodiment includes a dispersion step in which the water-insoluble dye is dispersed in the water by mixing a water-insoluble dye, a specific dispersant for dispersing the water-insoluble dye, an epoxy alkyl adduct of (poly)glycerol, and water.

[0091] There are no particular limitations on the method of mixing the above-mentioned raw materials. For example, methods such as sealing the above-mentioned raw materials in the same container and mixing them using a planetary ball mill, a gyratory mill, a wet ball mill, a dry ball mill, or by manual stirring can be listed.

[0092] Furthermore, in the method for manufacturing the dye composition according to this embodiment, a filtration step for filtering the mixture may be included to remove coarse particles generated after the dispersion step. There are no particular limitations on the method for performing the filtration step; for example, a method of passing the mixture after the dispersion step through a screen filter can be cited.

[0093] 2. Inkjet ink composition

[0094] The inkjet ink composition of this embodiment includes the dye composition described above. Additionally, surfactants and other additives may also be included. The content of the dye composition relative to the total amount of the inkjet ink composition is preferably 20-50% by mass, or 25-45% by mass. By keeping the content of the dye composition within the above range, the color development and ejection stability of the inkjet ink composition tend to be improved. Hereinafter, materials other than the dye composition that may be included in the inkjet ink composition of this embodiment will be described in detail.

[0095] 2.1. Surfactants

[0096] By including a surfactant in the inkjet ink composition of this embodiment, the generation of bubbles in the ink composition can be suppressed, and the ejection stability of the inkjet ink composition tends to be improved. As surfactants, silicone-based surfactants and acetylenic diol-based surfactants are preferred, with silicone-based surfactants being more preferred. It should be noted that silicone-based surfactants tend to produce a lot of foam; therefore, they are preferred to be included in the inkjet ink composition containing the dye composition rather than added to the dye composition.

[0097] As for acetylenol-based surfactants, there are no particular limitations. Examples include epoxide adducts of 2,4,7,9-tetramethyl-5-decyn-4,7-diol and 2,4,7,9-tetramethyl-5-decyn-4,7-diol; and epoxide adducts of 2,4-dimethyl-5-decyn-4-ol and 2,4-dimethyl-5-decyn-4-ol. Commercially available acetylenol-based surfactants are also not particularly limited. Examples include the OLFINE 104 series; the OLFINE E1010 and other E series; and SURFYNOL104, 465, 485, 61, and DF110D (these are trade names, manufactured by Nissin Chemical Industries, Ltd.). As acetylenol-based surfactants, one type can be used alone, or two or more types can be used in combination.

[0098] As for silicone-based surfactants, there are no particular limitations; examples include polysiloxane compounds and polyether-modified silicones. Regarding commercially available silicone-based surfactants, there are no particular limitations, but examples include SILFACE SAG503A (trade name, manufactured by Nissin Chemical Industries, Ltd.); BYK-028, BYK-306, BYK-307, BYK-333, BYK-341, BYK-345, BYK-346, BYK-347, BYK-348, and BYK-349 (trade names, manufactured by BYK-Chemie); KF-351A, etc. KF-352A, KF-353, KF-354L, KF-355A, KF-615A, KF-945, KF-640, KF-642, KF-643, KF-6020, X-22-4515, KF-6011, KF-6012, KF-6015, KF-6017 (these are trade names, manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.), etc. As organosilicon surfactants, they can be used alone or in combination with two or more.

[0099] The surfactant content is preferably 0.05 to 1.00% by mass or 0.10 to 0.50% by mass relative to the total amount of the inkjet ink composition. By keeping the surfactant content within the above range, the inkjet ink composition tends to have improved ejection stability.

[0100] 2.2. (Poly)glycerol epoxide adducts

[0101] In the inkjet ink composition of this embodiment, in addition to the (poly)glycerol epoxy alkyl adduct contained in the dye composition, a further (poly)glycerol epoxy alkyl adduct may be added. In this case, the total amount of (poly)glycerol epoxy alkyl adduct contained in the inkjet ink composition relative to the total amount of the inkjet ink composition is preferably 0.05 to 1.00% by mass, 0.06 to 0.90% by mass, 0.07 to 0.80% by mass, 0.08 to 0.70% by mass, 0.09 to 0.60% by mass, and 0.10 to 0.50% by mass. By keeping the total amount of (poly)glycerol epoxy alkyl adduct within the above range, there is a tendency to further improve the ejection stability of the inkjet ink composition.

[0102] 2.3. Water

[0103] The inkjet ink composition of this embodiment contains water. It may contain not only the water contained in the dye composition, but may also contain additional water. The type of water is not particularly limited; for example, it may be pure water or ion-exchanged water. The water content relative to the total amount of the inkjet ink composition is preferably 60–90% by mass or 65–85% by mass. By keeping the water content within the above range, the inkjet ink composition tends to exhibit improved ejection stability.

[0104] 2.4. Other additives

[0105] The inkjet ink composition of this embodiment may also contain other additives besides the compounds described above. These other additives are not particularly limited, and examples include humectants, pH adjusters, solubilizers, viscosity modifiers, antioxidants, preservatives, corrosion inhibitors, and chelating agents. As humectants, there are no particular limitations, and examples include sorbitol, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, glycerin, and diglycerin. As pH adjusters, there are no particular limitations, and examples include triisopropanolamine, triethanolamine, and diethanolmonoisopropanolamine.

[0106] The content of other additives is not particularly limited, for example, it is 0.1 to 30.0% by mass relative to the total amount of the inkjet ink composition. In addition, the content of humectant is not particularly limited, for example, it is 5.0 to 30.0% by mass relative to the total amount of the inkjet ink composition, or 15.0 to 30.0% by mass.

[0107] 2.5. Method for manufacturing inkjet ink composition

[0108] Inkjet ink compositions can be formulated by mixing the components in any order and removing impurities and foreign matter by filtration as needed. As a method of mixing the components, one can use a container equipped with a stirring device such as a mechanical stirrer or a magnetic stirrer to sequentially add the components and then stir and mix them. As a filtration method, examples include centrifugal filtration and filter filtration.

[0109] 3. Methods for making recordings

[0110] The method for manufacturing a recordable object according to this embodiment includes: an inkjet recording step in which the inkjet ink composition of this embodiment is ejected from an inkjet head and adhered to an intermediate recording medium; a dye attachment step in which the recording surface of the intermediate recording medium is overlapped with a dyed material to obtain a laminate, and the laminate is heated at 150-220°C to sublimate the water-insoluble dye contained in the inkjet ink composition and attach it to the dyed material; and a recordable object acquisition step in which, after the dye attachment step, the intermediate recording medium is removed from the laminate to obtain a recordable object as the dyed material with the water-insoluble dye attached. The inkjet ink composition of this embodiment has excellent ejection stability and high-temperature storage stability, so even if the inkjet ink composition is stored in the inkjet head at a high temperature, it can still eject the recording medium with good accuracy. That is, it tends to record the required image of the dyed material with high accuracy. Hereinafter, each step of the method for manufacturing a recordable object according to this embodiment will be described in detail.

[0111] 3.1 Inkjet Recording Process

[0112] In the inkjet recording process, the inkjet ink composition of this embodiment is ejected from the inkjet head and adheres to an intermediate recording medium. An image that will be transferred to the dyed material described later is printed on the intermediate recording medium.

[0113] There are no particular limitations on intermediate recording media. For example, media that are commercially available as sublimation transfer paper can be listed, such as DS TRANSFER MULTI PURPOSE (manufactured by Seiko Epson).

[0114] Examples of inkjet heads include piezoelectric inkjet heads that utilize piezoelectric elements whose volume changes when a voltage is applied, and thermal inkjet heads that eject ink by generating bubbles within the ink through heating, but piezoelectric inkjet heads are preferred.

[0115] As inkjet heads, we can list line print heads that record in a line format and serial print heads that record in a serial format.

[0116] In a line print configuration using a line printhead, for example, an inkjet head with a width greater than or equal to the recording width of the intermediate recording medium is fixed to a recording device. Then, the intermediate recording medium is moved along the sub-scanning direction (the transport direction of the intermediate recording medium), and ink droplets are ejected from the nozzles of the inkjet head in conjunction with this movement, thereby recording an image on the intermediate recording medium.

[0117] In a serial method using a serial head, for example, the inkjet head is mounted on a carriage that can move in the width direction of the intermediate recording medium. Then, the carriage is moved along the main scanning direction (the width direction of the intermediate recording medium), and ink droplets are ejected from the nozzles of the inkjet head in conjunction with this movement, thereby recording an image on the intermediate recording medium.

[0118] 3.2. Dye application process

[0119] In the dye attachment process, the recording surface of the intermediate recording medium is overlapped with the dyed material to form a laminate. The laminate is heated at 150–220°C, causing the water-insoluble dye contained in the inkjet ink composition to sublimate and adhere to the dyed material. The dye attachment process is performed after the inkjet recording process, and in this process, an image transferred to the dyed material (described later) is printed on the recording surface of the intermediate recording medium.

[0120] When obtaining the laminate, the recording surface of the intermediate recording medium can be pressed against the dyed material. This results in a tendency for water-insoluble dyes to easily adhere to the dyed material upon sublimation. Furthermore, heating of the laminate can be performed after obtaining the laminate, or simultaneously with overlapping the recording surface of the intermediate recording medium with the dyed material. The preferred heating temperature for the laminate is 155–215°C, or 160–210°C.

[0121] The dyed material with sublimated water-insoluble dye attached preferably has a resin layer on its surface, and more preferably has a polyester resin layer on its surface. There are no particular limitations on the dyed material; examples include cloth, paper, and ceramics. It should be noted that even if the dyed material does not have a resin layer on its surface, a resin layer forming process can be performed before the dye attachment process to form a resin layer on the surface of the dyed material. Therefore, the recording method of this embodiment can be appropriately implemented for various dyed materials.

[0122] 3.3. Procedure for Obtaining Records

[0123] In the recording acquisition process, after the dye attachment process, the intermediate recording medium is removed from the laminate to obtain a recording as a dyed material with water-insoluble dye attached. An image recorded on the intermediate recording medium is then transferred onto the resulting recording. The method for removing the intermediate recording medium from the laminate is not particularly limited; for example, methods for peeling the intermediate recording medium off the laminate can be listed.

[0124] 4. Inkjet recording device

[0125] exist Figure 1 The image shows a 3D view of a serial printer as an example of an inkjet unit. (See image for details.) Figure 1 As shown, the serial printer 20 includes a transport section 220 and a recording section 230. The transport section 220 transports the recording medium F supplied to the serial printer to the recording section 230 and discharges the recorded recording medium outside the serial printer. Specifically, the transport section 220 has transport rollers that transport the incoming recording medium F in the sub-scanning directions T1 and T2.

[0126] Additionally, the recording unit 230 includes: a bracket 234 for mounting an inkjet head 231, which has a nozzle for ejecting an ink composition onto the recording medium F conveyed from the transport unit 220; and a bracket moving mechanism 235 for moving the bracket 234 in the main scanning directions S1 and S2 of the recording medium F.

[0127] In the case of a serial printer, the inkjet head 231 has a length smaller than the width of the recording medium, and the printhead moves to record in multiple passes. Furthermore, in a serial printer, the inkjet head 231 is mounted on a carriage 234 that moves in a predetermined direction. The ink composition is ejected onto the recording medium F by moving the printhead along with the carriage. Thus, recording is performed in two or more passes (multipasses). It should be noted that the path is also referred to as the main scan. Sub-scans are performed between paths to transport the recording medium. That is, main scans and sub-scans are performed alternately.

[0128] Furthermore, the inkjet device in this embodiment is not limited to the serial printer described above, but can also be the line printer described above. A line printer is a printer that uses a line printhead with an inkjet head having a length greater than or equal to the recording width of the recording medium, and records on the recording medium in a single scan.

[0129] Example

[0130] The present invention will now be described in more detail using examples and comparative examples. The present invention is not limited to the following examples. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, all operations in the examples were performed at room temperature (25°C) and 1 atmosphere.

[0131] 1. Preparation of dye compositions

[0132] Example 1

[0133] A mixture of 15 parts by weight of Disperse Red 60, 18.75 parts by weight of DISPERBYK-2015 (40% by weight solids), 0.3 parts by weight of SANNIX GP-250, 0.05 parts by weight of BYK-1770, and the remainder of pure water was prepared by mixing and stirring. Zirconia beads (1 mm) and this mixture were placed in a 100 mL container and placed in a gyratory mill RM-05 (manufactured by Seiwa Giken Co., Ltd.). Dispersion was then carried out for 4 hours to obtain a dispersed mixture. A screen filter #100 was installed in the container to filter the dispersed mixture. Then, zirconia beads (0.1 mm) and the filtered mixture were placed in a 100 mL container and placed in a gyratory mill RM-05 (manufactured by Seiwa Giken Co., Ltd.). Dispersion was carried out for 4 hours to obtain a redispersed mixture. A screen filter #400 was installed in the container to filter the redispersed mixture, yielding the dye composition of Example 1 (hereinafter also referred to as "dye composition e1").

[0134] Examples 2-12

[0135] In addition to Figure 2 Except for the changes in composition shown, dye compositions of Examples 2 to 12 (hereinafter also referred to as "dye compositions e2 to e12") were obtained in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0136] Comparative Examples 1-5

[0137] In addition to Figure 2 Except for the changes in composition shown, the dye compositions of Comparative Examples 1 to 5 (hereinafter referred to as "dye compositions c1 to c5") were obtained in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0138] Unless otherwise specified Figure 2 The numerical values ​​for each component shown in the examples represent mass percentages. Additionally, the mass percentages for (poly)glycerol alkyl oxide adducts, specific defoamers, and specific dispersants represent solid component concentrations. Furthermore, the components shown in the figures represent the following components.

[0139] SANNIX GP-250: Manufactured by Sanyo Chemical Industries, Inc., a propylene oxide adduct of glycerol with an average addition molar number of 3 moles of propylene oxide. SANNIX GP-600: A propylene oxide adduct of glycerol with an average addition molar number of 9 moles of propylene oxide, manufactured by Sanyo Chemical Industries, Inc. SC-P750: A propylene oxide adduct of diglycerides with an average addition molar number of 9 moles of propylene oxide, manufactured by Sakamoto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. UNIOX G-450: Manufactured by Kao Corporation, an ethylene oxide adduct of glycerol with an average addition molar number of 8 moles of ethylene oxide. BYK-1770: Manufactured by BYK-Chemie Japan. OLFINE D-10PG: Manufactured by Nissin Chemical Industries, Ltd. DISPERBYK-2015: BYK-Chemie Japan DISPERBYK-190: Made by BYK-Chemie Japan Solsperse J400: Manufactured by LUBRIZOL Corporation, Japan Disperse Red 60: Manufactured by Yuben Chemical Industry Co., Ltd., molecular weight 331 Disperse Yellow 54: Manufactured by Yuben Chemical Industry Co., Ltd., molecular weight 289 2. Preparation of inkjet ink composition According to becoming Figure 3 The composition method described herein involves adding each component to a mixing container made of stainless steel, mixing and stirring at room temperature, and removing impurities and foreign matter by filtration or other methods as needed, thereby obtaining the inkjet ink composition used in each example. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the values ​​of each component shown in the examples represent mass percentages. Furthermore, the mass percentage of surfactants represents the concentration of the solid component. Additionally, the components shown in the figures represent the following components.

[0140] SILFACE SAG503A: Manufactured by Nissin Chemical Industries, Ltd. OLFINE E1010: Manufactured by Nissin Chemical Industries, Ltd. 3. Evaluation Results 3.1. Initial viscosity The dye compositions of Examples 1-12 and Comparative Examples 1-5 were left to stand for 1 day after manufacturing. Then, the shear rate was measured at 200 s using an Anton Paar MCR702 rheometer (trade name). -1 The viscosities of the dye compositions of Examples 1-12 and Comparative Examples 1-5 were evaluated based on the following evaluation criteria. The evaluation results are as follows: Figure 2As shown in the figure. It should be noted that when a dye composition with a good initial viscosity is applied to an inkjet ink composition, the inkjet ink composition tends to have excellent ejection stability.

[0141] Evaluation Criteria

[0142] A: Viscosity less than 5 mPa s.

[0143] B: Viscosity is 5 mPa Above s and below 5.5 mPa s.

[0144] C: Viscosity is 5.5 mPa s or more.

[0145] 3.2. Preservation Stability

[0146] 30g of each of the dye compositions from Examples 1-12 and Comparative Examples 1-5 were placed in a 50cc spiral tube and placed in a 60°C constant temperature bath for 5 days. Then, they were removed and allowed to cool naturally to room temperature. The shear rate at 200 s⁻¹ was measured using an Anton Paar MCR702 rheometer (trade name) for the dye compositions obtained in this way. -1 The viscosity was then determined. The viscosity increase rate compared to the initial viscosity was then calculated, and an evaluation was conducted based on the following evaluation criteria. The evaluation results are in... Figure 2 As shown in the figure. It should be noted that the viscosity increase rate is calculated using the following formula.

[0147]

[0148] Evaluation Criteria

[0149] A: The viscosity increase rate is greater than -3% but less than 3%.

[0150] B: The viscosity increase rate is greater than -5% and less than -3%, or greater than 3% and less than 5%.

[0151] C: The viscosity increase rate is below -5% or above 5%.

[0152] 3.3. Resolubility

[0153] Three drops of the dye compositions of Examples 1-12 and Comparative Examples 1-5 were respectively added to a PET film (Lumirror #75-S10 (trade name), manufactured by Toray). The mixture was then spread on the PET film using a rod coater #3. The resulting PET films were placed in a 40°C constant temperature bath for 5 hours, then immersed in pure water. The dissolution state of the coated film was visually observed, and the results were evaluated based on the following evaluation criteria. The evaluation results are as follows: Figure 2As shown in the image.

[0154] Evaluation Criteria

[0155] A: When the coated film dissolves in pure water, the color on the PET film becomes thinner.

[0156] B: The coated film is peeled off from the PET film but does not dissolve in pure water.

[0157] C: The coated film does not peel off and does not dissolve in pure water.

[0158] 3.4. Odor

[0159] 30g of each of the dye compositions from Examples 1-12 and Comparative Examples 1-5 was added to a 50cc spiral tube. Five people smelled the odor near the opening of the spiral tube to determine the odor. The determination results were evaluated based on the following evaluation criteria. The evaluation results are as follows: Figure 2 As shown in the image.

[0160] Evaluation Criteria

[0161] A: 5 people were judged to have "no odor".

[0162] B: 2-4 people were judged as "odorless".

[0163] C: The number of people judged as "odorless" is less than 1.

[0164] 3.5. Ejection stability

[0165] The inkjet ink compositions of Examples 13-26 and Comparative Examples 6-10 were filled into the printhead of an inkjet printer (PX-G930 (trade name), manufactured by Seiko Epson Corporation), and left for 20 minutes with the printhead cover open. Then, the printhead was cleaned once, 20 full-page patterns were printed, and a nozzle inspection pattern was performed to observe nozzle leakage and distortion. The observation results were then evaluated based on the following evaluation criteria. The evaluation results are as follows: Figure 3 As shown in the figure. It should be noted that the test environment was set at a temperature of 40℃ and a relative humidity of 20%.

[0166] Evaluation Criteria

[0167] A: Among the 180 nozzles, there were no nozzles with leaks or twisting.

[0168] B: Among the 180 nozzles, 1 to 30 nozzles have leaks or twisting.

[0169] C: Of the 180 nozzles, 31 to 180 have leaks or twisting.

Claims

1. A dye composition comprising a water-insoluble dye, a specific dispersant for dispersing the water-insoluble dye, an epoxide adduct of (poly)glycerol, and water. The specific dispersant comprises a copolymer of styrene compound and maleic acid or a urethane resin. The (poly)glycerol alkyl oxide adduct contains propylene oxide. The content B of the specific dispersant, relative to the content A of the water-insoluble dye, is in the ratio B / A of 0.40 to 0.

75. The content of the (poly)glycerol epoxide adduct is 0.05% to 1.00% by mass relative to the total amount of the dye composition.

2. The dye composition according to claim 1, wherein, The (poly)glycerol alkyl oxide adduct comprises a compound represented by the following formula (1), In formula (1), each of the plurality of A atoms is independently a monovalent (poly)epoxyalkyl group or a hydrogen atom represented by formula (2) below, and at least one of the plurality of A atoms is a monovalent (poly)epoxyalkyl group. In addition, n is a natural number. In equation (2), m is a natural number from 2 to 4, l is a natural number from 1 to 30, and m in multiple A can be different from each other, and l in multiple A can also be different from each other.

3. The dye composition according to claim 1, wherein, The water-insoluble dyes include disperse dyes with a molecular weight of less than 500 or solvent dyes with a molecular weight of less than 500.

4. The dye composition according to claim 1, wherein, The average molar number of propylene oxides added to the alkyl oxide adduct of the (poly)glycerol is 9 moles or less.

5. The dye composition according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes specific defoamers, which include acetylsadiol-based defoamers and / or silicone-based defoamers. The content of the specific defoamer is less than 0.10% by mass relative to the total amount of the dye composition.

6. A method for manufacturing the dye composition according to claim 1, The dispersion process includes dispersing the water-insoluble dye in water by mixing a water-insoluble dye, a specific dispersant for dispersing the water-insoluble dye, an epoxide adduct of (poly)glycerol, and water.

7. An inkjet ink composition, The dye composition comprising claim 1.

8. The inkjet ink composition according to claim 7, wherein, It contains silicone-based surfactants.

9. A method for producing a recording, comprising: In the inkjet recording process, the inkjet ink composition of claim 7 is ejected from the inkjet head and adhered to the intermediate recording medium. The dye attachment process involves overlapping the recording surface of the intermediate recording medium with the dyed material to obtain a laminate, and heating the laminate at 150°C to 220°C to sublimate the water-insoluble dye contained in the inkjet ink composition and attach it to the dyed material; and In the recording acquisition process, after the dye attachment process, the intermediate recording medium is removed from the laminate to obtain a recording as the dyed material with the water-insoluble dye attached.

Images