Inkjet printing recording apparatus and inkjet printing recording method

Abstract

An inkjet printing recording apparatus and method are provided, which can reduce contamination of the annular belt, maintain good conveyability of the annular belt, and suppress uneven density during image formation. The inkjet printing recording apparatus comprises: an ink composition; an inkjet head for spraying the ink composition onto a fabric as a recording medium; an annular belt for carrying and conveying the fabric; a cleaning unit for cleaning the annular belt; and a cleaning liquid. The annular belt has an adhesive layer on its surface. The cleaning unit has a cleaning tank for storing the cleaning liquid and a sliding friction member for rubbing the adhesive layer within the cleaning tank. The cleaning liquid contains water and a cleaning agent comprising a polyoxyalkylene ether compound.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an inkjet printing and dyeing recording device and an inkjet printing and dyeing recording method. Background Technology

[0002] Inkjet printing is not only used for recording images on paper and other materials, but also explored for printing and dyeing fabrics, with various inkjet printing techniques being studied. Furthermore, various inkjet printing recording devices and methods for use on fabrics have also been discussed.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 describes an inkjet printing and recording apparatus equipped with a cleaning section for cleaning a conveyor belt used for fabric transport. The cleaning solution described in this document can be water or a water-soluble solvent (such as an aqueous alcohol solution).

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-143429 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] However, in inkjet printing and recording devices, a belt is sometimes used as a mechanism for conveying the fabric. In this case, with the fabric placed on the belt, ink is ejected from the inkjet head and adhered to it. Various studies have been conducted on such belts; for example, a method has been proposed to form an adhesive layer by coating the surface of the belt with an adhesive (primer material) and conveying the fabric by adhesive force.

[0009] When an adhesive layer is formed on the surface of the tape, the fabric adheres to the tape due to its adhesive force, thus improving the stability of the fabric during transport. Conversely, when the adhesive force on the adhesive layer surface decreases, it can be difficult to maintain stable fabric transport. It is known that this decrease in adhesive force on the adhesive layer surface is caused by threads and lint detached from the fabric, coloring and fixing materials contained in the ink adhering through the fabric, and various functional materials being fixed to the adhesive layer surface. Furthermore, when the fabric transport becomes unstable due to decreased adhesive force on the adhesive layer surface, uneven density can sometimes occur during image formation. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain the adhesive force by continuously and stably keeping the adhesive layer surface clean, thereby preventing uneven density during image formation.

[0010] Technical solutions for solving technical problems

[0011] One aspect of the inkjet printing and recording apparatus involved in this invention is as follows: Inkjet printing and recording devices have the following features: Ink composition; The inkjet head sprays the ink composition onto the fabric, which is the recording medium. A ring belt is used to carry and transport the fabric. The cleaning section cleans the annular belt; and Cleaning solution, The annular belt has an adhesive layer on its surface. The cleaning unit includes a cleaning tank for storing the cleaning fluid and a sliding friction component for rubbing the adhesive layer within the cleaning tank. The cleaning solution contains water and a cleaning agent comprising a polyoxyalkylene ether compound.

[0012] One aspect of the inkjet printing and recording method involved in this invention is as follows: It possesses: The ink adhesion process involves ejecting an ink composition from the inkjet head and adhering it to the fabric that is being recorded. The conveying process involves placing the fabric on a circular belt for transport; and The cleaning process involves cleaning the annular belt. The annular belt has an adhesive layer on its surface. The cleaning section has a cleaning tank for storing cleaning fluid. The cleaning section has a sliding friction component that rubs the adhesive layer within the cleaning tank. The cleaning solution contains water and a cleaning agent comprising a polyoxyalkylene ether compound. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a recording device equipped with the cleaning mechanism according to the embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a table (Table 1) showing the composition of the cleaning solution in the embodiments and the evaluation results.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a table (Table 2) showing the composition of the cleaning solution in the embodiments and the evaluation results.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a table showing the composition of the cleaning solution for the comparative examples and the evaluation results (Table 3).

[0017] Figure 5 This is a table (Table 4) showing the composition of the first ink involved in the embodiments and comparative examples.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a table (Table 5) showing the composition of the second ink involved in the embodiments and comparative examples.

[0019] Figure 7This is a table (Table 6) showing the composition of the third ink involved in the embodiments and comparative examples.

[0020] Figure 8 This is a table (Table 7) showing the combination of ink groups, printing conditions, and evaluation results involved in the embodiments and comparative examples.

[0021] Symbol Explanation

[0022] 11: Recording device; 12: Recording section; 13: Nozzle; 14: Nozzle surface; 15: Recording control section; 21: Conveying section; 22: First conveying roller; 23: Second conveying roller; 24: Drive source; 25: Circular belt; 26: Inner circumferential surface; 27: Outer circumferential surface; 28: Pressing section (pressure roller); 29: Drying section; 31: Cleaning mechanism; 32: Cleaning section; 33: Cleaning roller; 34a: Cleaning scraper; 34b: Dewatering roller; 35: Storage section; 36: Cleaning tank; 37: Immersion tank; 38: Support groove; 39: Receiving groove; 40: First connecting flow path; 41: Second connecting flow path; 45: Reflective sheet; 46: Light absorbing sheet; 47: Supply flow path; 48: Discharge flow path; 49: Pump; 50: Flow meter; 51: Constant flow valve; 52: First on / off valve; 53: Second on / off valve; 54: Third on / off valve; 55: Liquid volume sensor; 56: Cleaning filter (filtration section); 57: Receiving filter (filtration section); 99: Fabric; A1: Conveying direction; A2: Opposite direction. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The embodiments of the present invention will be described below. The embodiments described below are examples illustrating the present invention. The present invention is not limited to the following embodiments, and includes various modifications implemented without changing the spirit of the invention. It should be noted that all structures described below are not necessarily essential structures of the present invention.

[0024] In this specification, the range of values ​​represented by "~" refers to the range including the values ​​before and after "~" as the lower and upper limits.

[0025] In this specification, "inkjet method" refers to the method of ejecting droplets using inkjet technology.

[0026] In this specification, the term "white" as used in references to white pigments, white inks, etc., refers not only to pure white, but also to any range that can be visually perceived as white, including slightly tinted colors, achromatic colors, and glossy colors. For example, in CIELAB, L is preferred. For 80 or above, L is preferred. It is above 85.

[0027] 1. Inkjet printing and recording device

[0028] The inkjet printing and recording apparatus according to this embodiment includes: an ink composition; an inkjet head for spraying the ink composition onto a fabric that is the recording medium; an annular belt for carrying and conveying the fabric; a cleaning unit for cleaning the annular belt; and a cleaning fluid.

[0029] 1.1. Ink Composition

[0030] The ink composition included in the inkjet printing and recording apparatus of this embodiment is not particularly limited, as long as it is a composition or liquid applicable to inkjet printing on fabrics. The ink composition may be, for example, a colored ink composition containing a colorant, or a functional liquid that substantially does not contain a colorant. Examples of functional liquids include transparent inks, reactive liquids, and softening liquids. The ink composition may contain the following components.

[0031] <Resin Particles>

[0032] The ink composition may also contain resin particles. Resin particles can improve the adhesion and abrasion resistance of the image based on the composition adhered to the fabric. Examples of resin particles include, for instance, polyurethane resins, acrylic resins (including styrene-acrylic resins), fluorene resins, polyolefin resins, rosin-modified resins, terpene resins, polyester resins, polyamide resins, epoxy resins, vinyl chloride resins, vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate copolymers, ethylene vinyl acetate resins, and silicone resins. Resin particles composed of acrylic resins, etc.

[0033] Alternatively, the ink composition may also contain particles containing organopolysiloxane as resin particles. The presence of organopolysiloxane particles is not particularly limited; for example, it can be the organopolysiloxane particles themselves or particles dispersed by an emulsifier or the like. The organopolysiloxane in these particles can be solid or liquid. For example, when an oily organopolysiloxane is dispersed in water in particulate form by an emulsifier, the dispersed particles are equivalent to particles containing organopolysiloxane.

[0034] Resin particles can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0035] Polyurethane resins are a general term for resins containing urethane bonds. In addition to urethane bonds, polyether-type polyurethane resins containing ether bonds in the main chain, polyester-type polyurethane resins containing ester bonds in the main chain, and polycarbonate-type polyurethane resins containing carbonate bonds in the main chain can be used. In addition, commercially available products can also be used as polyurethane resins, such as SUPER FLEX460, 460s, 840, E-4000 (trade name, manufactured by Daiichi Kogyo Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.), RESAMINE D-1060, D-2020, D-4080, D-4200, D-6300, D-6455 (trade name, manufactured by Daiichi Seika Kogyo Co., Ltd.), TAKELAC WS-6021, W-512-A-6 (trade name, manufactured by Mitsui Chemicals Polyurethane Co., Ltd.), SANCURE 2710 (trade name, manufactured by LUBRIZOL Co., Ltd.), PERMARIN UA-150 (trade name, manufactured by Sanyo Chemical Co., Ltd.), and ETERNACOLL UW series, such as UW-1527 (manufactured by Ube Industries, Ltd.), etc.

[0036] Acrylic resins are a general term for polymers obtained by polymerizing acrylic monomers such as (meth)acrylic acid and (meth)acrylate as at least one component. Examples include resins obtained from acrylic monomers and copolymers of acrylic monomers with other monomers. For example, acrylic-vinyl resins, which are copolymers of acrylic monomers and vinyl monomers, can be listed. In addition, styrene can be listed as a vinyl monomer.

[0037] Acrylamide and acrylonitrile can also be used as acrylic monomers. In resin emulsions made from acrylic resins, commercially available products can be used, such as FK-854 (trade name, manufactured by Chuo Riko Kogyo Co., Ltd.), Movinyl 952B, 718A, 6760 (trade name, manufactured by Nippon Synthetic Chemical Co., Ltd.), Nipol LX852, LX874 (trade name, manufactured by ZEON Corporation of Japan), etc.

[0038] It should be noted that, in this specification, acrylic resin can also be styrene-acrylic resin. Furthermore, in this specification, the term (meth)acrylic acid refers to acrylic acid or methacrylic acid.

[0039] Styrene-acrylic resins are copolymers obtained from styrene monomers and (meth)acrylic monomers. Examples include styrene-acrylic acid copolymers, styrene-methacrylic acid copolymers, styrene-methacrylic acid-acrylate copolymers, styrene-α-methylstyrene-acrylic acid copolymers, and styrene-α-methylstyrene-acrylic acid-acrylate copolymers. Styrene-acrylic resins can be commercially available, such as JONCRYL 62J, 7100, 390, 711, 511, 7001, 632, 741, 450, 840, 74J, HRC-1645J, 734, 852, 7600, 775, 537J, 1535, PDX-7630A, 352J, 352D, PDX-7145, 538J, 7640, 7641, 631, 790, 780, 7610 (trade names, manufactured by BASF), Movinyl 966A, 975N (trade names, manufactured by Nippon Synthetic Chemicals Co., Ltd.), VINYBLAN2586 (manufactured by Nissin Chemical Co., Ltd.), etc.

[0040] Silicone-acrylic copolymer resins can be commercially available. For example, Nissin Chemical Industries' CHALINE series includes FE-230N, FE-502, E-370, RU-911, R-170, R170S, LC-190, and R-170BX; Toa Synthetic Industries' SYMAC US-380, SYMAC US-450, and SYMAC US-480; Toray-Dow Corning's IE-7170, SE1980CLEAR, BY22-826EX, and Acrylonitrile-oxygenated LON-MF-40; SABIC Innovative Plastics Japan's LEXAN EXL; Idemitsu Kosan's TARFLON NEO; SAIDEN Chemicals' BANSTAR-S-806; Nippon Synthetic Industries' Movinyl; Toray Industries' COATAX; and Daito Chemical Industries' DAITOSOL. 5000SJ, NSC Corporation's "YODOSOL GH41", Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.'s acrylate / ethylhexyl acrylate / polydimethylsiloxane methacrylate copolymer (trade name: KP578), DIC Corporation's VONCOAT and CERANATE, JSR's acrylic silicone emulsions "SIFCLEAR S101" and "SIFCLEAR S102", etc.

[0041] Polyolefin resins are resins that contain olefins such as ethylene, propylene, and butene in their structural backbone. Well-known resins can be appropriately selected and used. Commercially available products can be used as olefin resins, such as Arrowbase CB-1200 and CD-1200 (trade name, manufactured by UNITIKA Co., Ltd.).

[0042] In addition, resin particles can also be supplied in the form of emulsions. Examples of commercially available such resin emulsions include MICROGEL E-1002, E-5002 (trade name of Nippon Paint Co., Ltd., styrene-acrylic resin emulsion), VONCOAT4001 (trade name of DIC Co., Ltd., acrylic resin emulsion), VONCOAT5454 (trade name of DIC Co., Ltd., styrene-acrylic resin emulsion), POLYSOL AM-710, AM-920, AM-2300, AP-4735, AT-860, PSASE-4210E (acrylic resin emulsion), POLYSOL AP-7020 (styrene-acrylic resin emulsion), POLYSOL SH-502 (vinyl acetate resin emulsion), POLYSOL AD-13, AD-2, AD-10, AD-96, AD-17, AD-70 (ethylene-vinyl acetate resin emulsion), and POLYSOL... PSASE-6010 (Ethylene-vinyl acetate resin emulsion) (trade name manufactured by Showa Denko Corporation), POLYSOL SAE1014 (trade name, styrene-acrylic resin emulsion, manufactured by ZEON Corporation of Japan), SAIVINOLSK-200 (trade name, acrylic resin emulsion, manufactured by SAIDEN Chemical Co., Ltd.), AE-120A (trade name manufactured by JSR Corporation, acrylic resin emulsion), AE373D (trade name manufactured by E-TEC Corporation, carboxyl-modified styrene-acrylic resin emulsion), SEIKADYNE 1900W (trade name manufactured by Dainippon Seika Kogyo Co., Ltd., ethylene-vinyl acetate resin emulsion), VINYBLAN2682 (acrylic resin emulsion), VINYBLAN2886 (vinyl acetate-acrylic resin emulsion), VINYBLAN 5202 (acrylic acetate-acrylic resin emulsion) (trade name manufactured by Nissin Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.), ELITEL KA-5071S, KT-8803, KT-9204, KT-8701, KT-8904, KT-0507 (trade name manufactured by UNITICA, polyester resin emulsion), HITECH SN-2002 (trade name manufactured by Toho Chemical, polyester resin emulsion), TAKELAC W-6020, W-635, W-6061, W-605, W-635, W-6021, WS-5100 (trade name manufactured by Mitsui Chemicals Polyurethanes, polyurethane resin emulsion), SUPER FLEX 870, 800, 150, 420, 460, 470, 610, 700 (trade name manufactured by Daiichi Kogyo Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., polyurethane resin emulsion), PERMARINUA-150 (manufactured by Sanyo Chemical Industries, Ltd., polyurethane resin emulsion), SANCURE 2710 (manufactured by LUBRIZOL Corporation, Japan)Polyurethane resin emulsions), NeoRez R-9660, R-9637, R-940 (manufactured by Kusunoki Chemical Co., Ltd., polyurethane resin emulsions), ADEKA BONTIGHTER HUX-380, 290K (manufactured by ADEKA Co., Ltd., polyurethane resin emulsions), Movinyl 966A, Movinyl 7320 (manufactured by Nippon Synthetic Chemicals Co., Ltd.), JONCRYL 7100, 390, 711, 511, 7001, 632, 741, 450, 840, 74J, HRC-1645J, 734, 852, 7600, 775, 537J, 1535, PDX-7630A, 352J, 352D, PDX-7145, 538J, 7640, 7641, 631, 790, 780, 7610 (the above, manufactured by BASF), NK adhesive R-5HN (manufactured by Shin-Nakamura Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.), HYDRAN WLS-210 (non-crosslinked polyurethane: manufactured by DIC Corporation), JONCRYL 7610 (manufactured by BASF), etc., can be selected for use.

[0043] Alternatively, particles (emulsions) of cationic resins (cationic polymers) can also be used as resin particles. Examples of such resin particles include particles of cationic polyurethane resins, cationic olefin resins, and cationic amine resins.

[0044] As cationic polyurethane resins, commercially available products can be used, such as HYDRAN CP-7010, CP-7020, CP-7030, CP-7040, CP-7050, CP-7060, CP-7610 (trade name, manufactured by Dai Nippon Ink Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.), SUPERFLEX 600, 610, 620, 630, 640, 650 (trade name, manufactured by Daiichi Kogyo Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.), polyurethane emulsions WBR-2120C, WBR-2122C (trade name, manufactured by Taisei Fine Chemicals Co., Ltd.), and Movinyl 7820 (trade name: manufactured by Nippon Paint Resin Co., Ltd.), etc.

[0045] Cationic olefin resins are resins containing olefins such as ethylene and propylene in their structural backbone, and known resins can be appropriately selected and used. Furthermore, cationic olefin resins can also be in an emulsion state dispersed in a solvent containing water and an organic solvent. Commercially available products can be used as cationic olefin resins, such as Arrowbase CB-1200 and CD-1200 (trade name, manufactured by UNITIKA Co., Ltd.).

[0046] As cationic amine resins (cationic polymers), any resin containing amino groups in its structure can be appropriately selected from known resins. Examples include polyamine resins, polyamide resins, and polyallylamine resins. Polyamine resins are resins containing amino groups in their main structure. Polyamide resins are resins containing amide groups in their main structure. Polyallylamine resins are resins with a structure derived from allyl groups in their main structure.

[0047] In addition, as a cationic polyamine resin, UNISENCEKHE103L (hexamethylenediamine / epicochlorohydrin resin) manufactured by SENKA Corporation can be cited as an example. Its pH in a 1% aqueous solution is approximately 5.0, and its viscosity is 20-50 mPa. (s), an aqueous solution with a solid component concentration of 50% by mass), UNISENCE KHE104L (dimethylamine / epicochlorohydrin resin, 1% aqueous solution with a pH of approximately 7.0 and a viscosity of 1~10 (mPa) (s), an aqueous solution with a solid component concentration of 20% by mass, etc. In addition, specific examples of commercially available cationic polyamine resins include FL-14 (manufactured by SNF Corporation), ARAKIX 100, 251S, 255, 255LOX (manufactured by Arakawa Chemical Co., Ltd.), DK-6810, 6853, 6885; WS-4010, 4011, 4020, 4024, 4027, 4030 (manufactured by Hoshikō PMC Co., Ltd.), PAPIOGEN P-105 (manufactured by SENKA Corporation), SUMIREZ RESIN 650(30), 675A, 6615, SLX-1 (manufactured by Taoka Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.), CATIO MASTER (registered trademark) PD-1, 7, 30, A, PDT-2, PE-10, PE-30, DT-EH, EPA-SK01, TMHMDA-E (manufactured by Yokkaichi Synthetic Co., Ltd.), JETFIX 36N, 38A, 5052 (manufactured by Satoda Chemical Company).

[0048] As a polyamine resin, polyallylamine resin can also be listed. Examples of polyallylamine resins include polyallylamine hydrochloride, polyallylamine amide sulfate, allylamine hydrochloride-diallylamine hydrochloride copolymer, allylamine acetate-diallylamine acetate copolymer, allylamine acetate-diallylamine acetate copolymer, allylamine hydrochloride-dimethyl-allylamine hydrochloride copolymer, allylamine-dimethyl-allylamine copolymer, polydiallylamine hydrochloride, polymethyldiallylamine hydrochloride, polymethyldiallylamine amide sulfate, polymethyldiallylamine acetate, polydiallyldimethylammonium chloride, diallylamine acetate-sulfur dioxide copolymer, diallylmethylethylammonium sulfate-sulfur dioxide copolymer, methyldiallylamine hydrochloride-sulfur dioxide copolymer, diallyldimethylammonium chloride-sulfur dioxide copolymer, and diallyldimethylammonium chloride-acrylamide copolymer, etc.

[0049] The ink composition may also contain organopolysiloxanes as resin particles. Alternatively, the ink composition may be a functional liquid containing organopolysiloxanes. By including organopolysiloxanes in the ink composition, it can function as a softener, easily improving the hand feel and color development of printed materials.

[0050] Organopolysiloxanes are based on the siloxane bond "-SI(R) 1 R 2 The skeleton is '-O-', and methyl, phenyl, vinyl, amino, etc. are bonded to this skeleton as organic groups R. 1 R 2 The term "silicone" refers to a general category of organosilicon compounds. Based on their chemical composition and molecular weight, organopolysiloxanes can be oily, rubbery, or resinous, and are sometimes referred to as silicone oil, silicone rubber, or silicone resin, respectively.

[0051] In the case where organopolysiloxanes are used as resin particles in the ink composition of this embodiment, the organopolysiloxanes are more preferably oily compounds. If the organopolysiloxane is an oily compound, it can be easily dispersed stably into particles in an aqueous matrix by emulsification treatment.

[0052] The molecular structure of organopolysiloxanes is not particularly limited, and examples include linear, branched, cyclic, mesh-like, and cage-like structures. When the molecular structure of an organopolysiloxane is non-cyclic, one or more groups selected from hydrocarbon groups, alkoxy groups, hydroxyl groups, hydrogen atoms, and halogens that can have substituents are usually bonded to the Si atom at the end of the molecule.

[0053] There are no particular limitations on organopolysiloxanes. Examples include dimethyl silicone, alkyl-modified silicone, amino-modified silicone, epoxy-modified silicone, cyclic silicone, and methylphenyl silicone. They can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0054] In addition, organopolysiloxanes can also be used as commercially available silicone oils. Examples include dimethyl silicone, methylphenyl silicone oil, methylhydrosilicone oil, polyether-modified silicone oil, aralkyl-modified silicone oil, fluoroalkyl-modified silicone oil, long-chain alkyl-modified silicone oil, higher aliphatic ester-modified silicone oil, higher aliphatic acid amide-modified silicone oil, polyether / long-chain alkyl / aralkyl-modified silicone oil, long-chain alkyl / aralkyl-modified silicone oil, phenyl-modified silicone oil, and polyether / methoxy-modified silicone oil.

[0055] Furthermore, among the organopolysiloxanes exemplified above, nonionic silicones are more preferred. Moreover, among the organopolysiloxanes exemplified above, unmodified silicones are more preferred. Such organopolysiloxanes are chemically more stable and less prone to causing yellowing or other issues with the resulting images.

[0056] Furthermore, the organopolysiloxane is more preferably selected from one or more of dimethylsiloxane, methylphenylsiloxane, and methylhydrosiloxane.

[0057] Commercially available silicone oils include dimethyl silicone (Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.: KF-96 series), methyl hydrogen polysiloxane (Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.: KF-99 series, KF-9901, etc.), methyl phenyl silicone (Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.: KF-50 series, etc.), amino-modified silicone (Shin-Etsu Silicone Co., Ltd., KF-868, etc.), and branched silicone treatment agents (Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.: KF-9908, KF-9909, etc.).

[0058] The viscosity of silicone at 25°C is not particularly limited, but is preferably 1000 mPa. Below s, and preferably 50 mPa. s or more, preferably 500 mPa s or above and 900mPa Below s, more preferably 600 mPa s or more and 700 mPa Below s. Furthermore, there is no particular limitation on the viscosity of the base oil when silicone is emulsified and dispersed, but an upper limit of 1,000,000 mm is preferably specified. 2 / s or less, more preferably 100000 mm 2 For speeds below / s, the lower limit is preferably 10mm. 2 / s or higher, more preferably 100mm 2 / s or higher. It should be noted that base oil viscosity indicates the viscosity of the base oil, and is a value obtained by measuring the internal resistance of the base oil. Therefore, the higher the base oil viscosity value, the higher the viscosity, and the lower the value, the lower the viscosity.

[0059] Organopolysiloxanes can also be emulsified using various surfactants as emulsifiers to form particles for blending. Examples of emulsifiers that can be used in this process include nonionic surfactants, anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, and phospholipids.

[0060] Examples of nonionic surfactants include glycerol aliphatic esters, polyglycerol aliphatic esters, propylene glycol aliphatic esters, dehydrated sorbitol aliphatic esters, and aliphatic esters of sorbitol, as well as their alkylene glycol adducts, polyalkylene glycol aliphatic esters, sucrose aliphatic esters, polysorbate 20, polysorbate 60, polysorbate 80, polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, polyoxyethylene alkylphenyl ethers, etc.

[0061] In addition, as nonionic surfactants, polyoxyethylene glycerol aliphatic esters, polyglycerol aliphatic ester dehydrated sorbitol aliphatic esters, polyoxyethylene sorbitan aliphatic esters, polyoxyethylene sorbitol aliphatic esters, polyethylene glycol aliphatic esters, polyoxyethylene castor oil, polyoxyethylene cured castor oil, polyoxyethylene phytosterols, polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene alkyl ethers, polyoxyethylene lanolin, polyoxyethylene lanolin alcohol, polyoxyethylene beeswax derivatives, polyoxyethylene alkylamines, polyoxyethylene aliphatic acid amides, polyoxyethylene alkylbenzene formaldehyde condensates, and polyoxyethylene alkyl ether phosphates (salts) are preferred nonionic surfactants.

[0062] Examples of anionic surfactants include alkyl sulfate salts, polyoxyethylene alkyl sulfate salts, alkylbenzene sulfonates, and α-olefin sulfonates. Examples of cationic surfactants include alkyltrimethylammonium chloride, dialkyldimethylammonium chloride, and benzalkonium chloride. Examples of amphoteric surfactants include alkyldimethylaminoacetic acid betaine and alkylamide dimethylaminoacetic acid betaine. Naturally derived surfactants can also be used, such as lecithin, lanolin, cholesterol, and saponins.

[0063] The amount of emulsifier added when emulsifying organopolysiloxane is preferably less than 20% by mass of the total emulsion composition, more preferably 15% by mass or less, and particularly preferably 10% by mass or less.

[0064] In addition, the average particle size of the emulsified particulate organopolysiloxane is 2 μm or less, preferably 1 μm or less, and more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.5 μm.

[0065] The total content of resin particles in the ink composition is preferably 1% by mass or more and 15% by mass or less relative to the total amount of the ink composition, more preferably 2% by mass or more and 10% by mass or less, and even more preferably 2.5% by mass or more and 8% by mass or less. By keeping the content of resin particles within the above range, the color development, fixing, and abrasion resistance of the ink composition adhered to the recording medium tend to be improved.

[0066] Furthermore, when the ink composition contains organopolysiloxanes as resin particles, it can function as a softening liquid. That is, when the ink composition contains organopolysiloxanes as resin particles, it can become a functional liquid that imparts softness to the recorded material and image. This facilitates better feel and color development (high concentration) of the recorded material. On the other hand, it can easily cause technical problems related to ring-shaped staining, but good cleaning properties can be achieved with a cleaning solution.

[0067] <Water>

[0068] The ink composition described in this embodiment may also contain water. Examples of water include pure water such as ion-exchanged water, ultrafiltration water, reverse osmosis water, and distilled water, as well as ultrapure water, which has had ionic impurities extensively removed. Furthermore, when water that has been sterilized by ultraviolet irradiation or the addition of hydrogen peroxide is used, the generation of bacteria and fungi can be reduced during long-term storage of the composition.

[0069] The water content relative to the total amount of the ink composition is 30% by mass or more, preferably 40% by mass or more, more preferably 45% by mass or more, and even more preferably 50% by mass or more. By making the water content 30% by mass or more, the ink composition can achieve a relatively low viscosity. Furthermore, the upper limit of the water content relative to the total amount of the ink composition is preferably 90% by mass or less, more preferably 85% by mass or less, and even more preferably 80% by mass or less. It should be noted that, in this specification, when referred to as an "aqueous composition," it refers to a composition containing 30% by mass or more of water relative to the total mass (100% by mass) of the composition.

[0070] <Coloring agent>

[0071] Ink compositions can also contain pigments as colorants, forming so-called pigment-colored inks. Pigments contained in ink compositions can be, for example, cyan, yellow, magenta, black, and other colored pigments, as well as special colors such as white and pearl.

[0072] Pigments can be mixtures. Pigments exhibit excellent lightfastness, weather resistance, and gas resistance, thus organic pigments are preferred from this perspective.

[0073] Specifically, pigments can include insoluble azo pigments, condensed azo pigments, azo lakes, chelated azo pigments, and other azo pigments; polycyclic pigments such as phthalocyanine pigments, perylene pigments, as well as violet ketone pigments, anthraquinone pigments, quinacridone pigments, dioxane pigments, thioindolinone pigments, isoindolinone pigments, and quinophthalone pigments; dye chelates, dyeing lakes, nitro pigments, nitroso pigments, aniline black, daylight fluorescent pigments, and carbon black. These pigments can be used individually or in combination of two or more. Furthermore, white pigments and glossy pigments can also be used as pigments.

[0074] As specific examples of pigments, there is no particular limitation; for example, the following pigments can be listed.

[0075] Examples of black pigments include No. 2300, No. 900, MCF88, No. 33, No. 40, No. 45, No. 52, MA7, MA8, MA100, and No. 2200B (manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation); Raven 5750, Raven 5250, Raven 5000, Raven 3500, Raven 1255, and Raven 700 (manufactured by Carbon Columbia); Regal 400R, Regal 330R, Regal 660R, Mogul L, Monarch 700, Monarch 800, Monarch 880, Monarch 900, Monarch 1000, Monarch 1100, Monarch 1300, and Monarch 1400 (manufactured by Cabot Corporation). (Made by KK), Color Black FW1, Color Black FW2, Color Black FW2V, Color Black FW18, Color Black FW200, Color Black S150, Color Black S160, Color Black S170, Printex 35, PrintexU, Printex V, Printex 140U, Special Black 6, Special Black 5, Special Black 4A, Special Black 4 (all made by Degussa).

[0076] As yellow pigments, examples of CI pigments yellow include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 24, 34, 35, 37, 53, 55, 65, 73, 74, 75, 81, 83, 93, 94, 95, 97, 98, 99, 108, 109, 110, 113, 114, 117, 120, 124, 128, 129, 133, 138, 139, 147, 151, 153, 154, 167, 172, and 180.

[0077] Examples of magenta pigments include CI pigments Red 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 30, 31, 32, 37, 38, 40, 41, 42, 48 (Ca), 48 (Mn), 57 (Ca), 57:1, 88, 112, 114, 122, 123, 144, 146, 149, 150, 166, 168, 170, 171, 175, 176, 177, 178, 179, 184, 185, 187, 202, 209, 219, 224, 245, or CI pigment Violet 19, 23, 32, 33, 36, 38, 43, 50.

[0078] As cyan pigments, examples include CI Pigment Blue 1, 2, 3, 15, 15:1, 15:2, 15:3, 15:34, 15:4, 16, 18, 22, 25, 60, 65, 66, CI Vapor Blue 4, and 60.

[0079] In addition, there are no special restrictions on pigments other than magenta, cyan, and yellow. For example, CI pigments green 7 and 10, CI pigments brown 3, 5, 25, and 26, and CI pigments orange 1, 2, 5, 7, 13, 14, 15, 16, 24, 34, 36, 38, 40, 43, and 63 can be listed.

[0080] As for pearl pigments, there are no particular limitations. For example, pigments with pearl luster and interference luster such as titanium dioxide covering mica, fish scale foil, and bismuth oxychloride can be listed.

[0081] As a metallic pigment, there are no particular limitations; for example, particles composed of monomers or alloys of aluminum, silver, gold, platinum, nickel, chromium, tin, zinc, indium, titanium, copper, etc., can be listed.

[0082] Examples of white pigments include metal oxides, barium sulfate, and calcium carbonate. Examples of metal oxides include titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, silicon dioxide, aluminum oxide, and magnesium oxide. Furthermore, white pigments can use particles with a hollow structure; known particles can be used as hollow-structured particles.

[0083] Pigments are preferably stable and can be dispersed in a dispersion medium; therefore, a dispersant can also be used to disperse them. Examples of dispersants include resin dispersants, and a dispersant that provides good dispersion stability of the pigment in the ink composition can be selected. Alternatively, pigments can be used as self-dispersing pigments by modifying the surface of the pigment particles through oxidation or sulfonation, for example, using ozone, hypochlorous acid, or fuming sulfuric acid.

[0084] As resin dispersants (dispersant resins), examples include poly(meth)acrylic acid, (meth)acrylic acid-acrylonitrile copolymer, (meth)acrylic acid-(meth)acrylate copolymer, vinyl acetate-(meth)acrylate copolymer, vinyl acetate-(meth)acrylic acid copolymer, vinylnaphthalene-(meth)acrylic acid copolymer, and other (meth)acrylic acid resins and their salts; styrene-(meth)acrylic acid copolymer, styrene-(meth)acrylic acid-(meth)acrylate copolymer, styrene-α-methylstyrene-(meth)acrylic acid copolymer, styrene-α-methylstyrene-(meth)acrylic acid-(meth)acrylate copolymer, styrene-maleic acid copolymer, styrene-maleic anhydride copolymer, and other styrene-based resins and their salts; polymeric compounds (resins) containing urethane bonds formed by the reaction of isocyanate groups and hydroxyl groups, which can be linear and / or branched, regardless of whether they have cross-linked structures, such as polyurethane resins and their salts; polyvinyl alcohols; vinylnaphthalene-maleic acid copolymers and their salts; vinyl acetate-maleic acid ester copolymers and their salts; and vinyl acetate-crotonic acid copolymers and their salts, etc., which are water-soluble resins. Preferably, the copolymers are those of monomers having hydrophobic functional groups and monomers having hydrophilic functional groups, or polymers composed of monomers having both hydrophobic and hydrophilic functional groups. As the form of the copolymer, any one of random copolymers, block copolymers, alternating copolymers, and graft copolymers can be used.

[0085] Commercially available dispersants for styrene-based resins include, for example, X-200, X-1, X-205, X-220, X-228 (manufactured by Starlight PMC), NOPCOSPERSE (registered trademark) 6100, 6110 (manufactured by SAN NOPCO), JONCRYL 67, 586, 611, 678, 680, 682, 819 (manufactured by BASF), DISPERBYK-190 (manufactured by BYK-Chemie Japan), N-EA137, N-EA157, N-EA167, N-EA177, N-EA197D, N-EA207D, E-EN10 (manufactured by Daiichi Kogyo Pharmaceutical), etc.

[0086] In addition, commercially available dispersants for acrylic resins include BYK-187, BYK-190, BYK-191, BYK-194N, BYK-199 (manufactured by BYK-Chemie Co., Ltd.), Aron A-210, A6114, AS-1100, AS-1800, A-30SL, A-7250, and CL-2 (manufactured by Toa Synthetic Co., Ltd.).

[0087] In addition, commercially available dispersants for polyurethane resins include BYK-182, BYK-183, BYK-184, BYK-185 (manufactured by BYK-Chemie Co., Ltd.), TEGO Disperse 710 (manufactured by Evonic Tego Chemi Co., Ltd.), Borchi (registered trademark), and Gen1350 (manufactured by OMG Borschers Co., Ltd.).

[0088] The dispersant can be used alone or in combination with two or more. The total content of the dispersant relative to 50 parts by weight of the pigment is preferably 0.1 parts by weight or more and 30 parts by weight or less, more preferably 0.5 parts by weight or more and 25 parts by weight or less, even more preferably 1 part by weight or more and 20 parts by weight or less, and even more preferably 1.5 parts by weight or more and 15 parts by weight or less. By making the content of the dispersant relative to 50 parts by weight of the pigment 0.1 parts by weight or more, the dispersion stability of the pigment can be further improved. Furthermore, if the content of the dispersant relative to 50 parts by weight of the pigment is 30 parts by weight or less, the viscosity of the resulting dispersion can be kept relatively low.

[0089] By using such a resin dispersant as a dispersant, the dispersion and coagulation of pigments become better, resulting in better dispersion stability and higher image quality.

[0090] The dispersant resin preferably has an acid value of 5 mg KOH / g or higher, more preferably 10-200 mg KOH / g, and even more preferably 15-150 mg KOH / g. More preferably 20-100 mg KOH / g, and even more preferably 25-70 mg KOH / g.

[0091] The acid value can be determined by neutralization potentiometric titration according to JIS K0070. For example, the "AT610" manufactured by Kyoto Electronics Industry Co., Ltd. can be used as the titration apparatus.

[0092] When the ink composition contains pigment, the pigment content relative to the total mass of the ink composition is preferably 0.3% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less, more preferably 0.5% by mass or more and 15% by mass or less. Furthermore, it is preferably 1% by mass or more and 10% by mass or less, more preferably 2% by mass or more and 7% by mass or less.

[0093] When the ink composition contains pigment, it becomes a colored ink composition. When an ink composition is made into a colored ink composition, the solid components (resin, pigment) are relatively high, which can easily reduce the adhesion of the adhesive layer (bonding layer) of fabric conveying components such as annular belts. However, by using the cleaning solution of this embodiment, even with such a colored ink composition, the conveying performance of the fabric conveying component can be well maintained. Furthermore, when the ink composition contains pigment, a colored ink composition can be made, and the solid components such as resin and pigment in this colored ink composition become relatively high. Therefore, the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer of the annular belt becomes more easily reduced. However, according to this inkjet printing and recording apparatus, not only can the reduction in adhesive strength be reduced, but since the colored ink composition is a pigment ink, the post-printing cleaning process can be omitted or simplified.

[0094] On the other hand, when the ink composition contains the aforementioned organopolysiloxane compound, it is possible to make the ink composition substantially free of colorants. Therefore, the ink composition can function as a transparent ink and a softener. This facilitates obtaining a better feel and color development (high concentration) of the recorded material. However, it can also lead to technical problems with contamination of fabric conveyor components, although good cleanability can be achieved with a cleaning solution. Thus, the ink composition can be formulated into functional liquids such as softeners and coating liquids, facilitating a better feel of the recorded material. However, it can also lead to technical problems with contamination of fabric conveyor components such as annular belts, although good cleanability can be achieved with a cleaning solution.

[0095] When the inkjet composition is a functional liquid containing the aforementioned organopolysiloxane compound, the content of organopolysiloxane particles is preferably 90.0% by mass or more relative to the total solids content of the functional liquid. That is, among the solids remaining after the functional liquid dries, it is preferable that 90.0% by mass or more is organopolysiloxane. The content of organopolysiloxane particles is more preferably 95.0% by mass or more relative to the total solids content in the functional liquid, further preferably 98% by mass or more, and particularly preferably 99.0% by mass or more.

[0096] If the content of organopolysiloxane particles is 90% or more by mass relative to the total solids content of the functional liquid, it is easier to form a coating film with a more sufficient low refractive index, and there is a tendency to form images with better color development. In addition, the feel of the recorded material can be improved. Furthermore, there is a tendency to improve the ejection stability when the processing liquid composition is ejected using inkjet technology.

[0097] It should be noted that, in this specification, the term "substantially does not contain a certain ingredient" means that the content of the ingredient relative to the total amount of the composition is 0.1% by mass or less, preferably 0.01% by mass or less, more preferably 0.001% by mass or less, and even more preferably does not contain the ingredient.

[0098] <Organic Solvents>

[0099] The ink composition may also contain organic solvents. Water-soluble organic solvents are preferred. One function of organic solvents can be listed as improving the wettability of the ink composition relative to fabric and enhancing its moisture retention. Additionally, organic solvents can also function as penetrants.

[0100] Examples of organic solvents include esters, alkylene glycol ethers, cyclic esters, nitrogen-containing solvents, and polyols. Examples of nitrogen-containing solvents include cyclic amides and non-cyclic amides. Examples of non-cyclic amides include alkoxyalkylamides.

[0101] As esters, examples include glycol monomethyl ether acetate, glycol monoethyl ether acetate, glycol monobutyl ether acetate, and other glycol monoacetates, as well as glycol diacetates, diethylene glycol diacetate, propylene glycol diacetate, and other glycol diesters.

[0102] Examples of cyclic esters include β-propiolactone, γ-butyrolactone, δ-valerolactone, ε-caprolactone, β-butyrolactone, and their compounds in which the hydrogen atom of the methylene group adjacent to the carbonyl group is replaced by an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

[0103] Examples of alkoxyalkylamides include 3-methoxy-N,N-dimethylpropionamide, 3-methoxy-N,N-diethylpropionamide, 3-methoxy-N,N-methylethylpropionamide, 3-ethoxy-N,N-dimethylpropionamide, 3-ethoxy-N,N-diethylpropionamide, 3-ethoxy-N,N-methylethylpropionamide, 3-n-butoxy-N,N-dimethylpropionamide, 3-n-butoxy-N,N-diethylpropionamide, and 3-n-butoxy-N,N-methylethylpropionamide.

[0104] As cyclic amides, examples include lactams, such as 2-pyrrolidone, 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, 1-ethyl-2-pyrrolidone, 1-propyl-2-pyrrolidone, 1-butyl-2-pyrrolidone, and other pyrrolidones.

[0105] In addition, as an alkoxyalkylamide, a compound represented by the following general formula (1) is preferred.

[0106] R 1 -O-CH2CH2-(C=O)-NR 2 R 3 (1)

[0107] In equation (1) above, R 1 R represents an alkyl group having 1 or more but less than 4 carbon atoms. 2 and R 3 Each can be represented independently as methyl or ethyl. "Alkyl group having 1 or more carbon atoms or less" can be a straight-chain or branched alkyl group, for example, it can be methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, sec-butyl, isobutyl, tert-butyl. The compound represented by the above formula (1) can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0108] Examples of polyols include 1,2-alkanediols (e.g., ethylene glycol, propylene glycol (also known as propane-1,2-diol), 1,2-butanediol, 1,2-pentanediol, 1,2-hexanediol, 1,2-heptanediol, 1,2-octanediol, etc.) and polyols other than 1,2-alkanediols (e.g., diethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, 1,3-butanediol). 1,4-Butanediol, 1,5-Pentanediol, 1,6-Hexanediol, 2-Ethyl-2-methyl-1,3-propanediol, 2-Methyl-2-propyl-1,3-propanediol, 2-Methyl-1,3-propanediol, 2,2-Dimethyl-1,3-propanediol, 3-Methyl-1,3-Butanediol, 2-Ethyl-1,3-Hexanediol, 3-Methyl-1,5-Pentanediol, 2-Methylpentane-2,4-diol, Trimethylolpropane, Glycerol, etc.

[0109] Polyols can include alkanediols and polyols. Alkanediols are diols of alkanes having 5 or more carbon atoms. The number of carbon atoms in the alkanes is preferably 5 to 15, more preferably 6 to 10, and even more preferably 6 to 8. 1,2-Alkanediols are preferred.

[0110] Polyols are intermolecular condensates of hydroxyl groups of alkanes having 4 or fewer carbon atoms, or polyols of alkanes having 4 or fewer carbon atoms. The alkanes preferably have 2 to 3 carbon atoms. The polyol molecule has 2 or more hydroxyl groups, preferably 5 or less, more preferably 3 or less. When the polyol is an intermolecular condensate as described above, the intermolecular condensation number is 2 or more, preferably 4 or less, more preferably 3 or less. A single polyol can be used, or two or more can be used in combination.

[0111] Alkanediols and polyols primarily function as penetrating and / or moisturizing solvents. However, alkanediols tend to be more effective as penetrating solvents, while polyols tend to be more effective as moisturizing solvents.

[0112] Organic solvents can be used alone or in combination with two or more. When an organic solvent is present in the ink composition, its content relative to the total amount of the ink composition can be 1% by mass or more and 50% by mass or less, preferably 3% by mass or more and 40% by mass or less, more preferably 5% by mass or more and 30% by mass or less.

[0113] <surfactants>

[0114] The ink composition described in this embodiment may also contain a surfactant. Surfactants have the function of adjusting the surface tension of the composition, such as adjusting its wettability with fabric. Among surfactants, acetylenic diol surfactants, silicone surfactants, and fluorinated surfactants are preferred, for example.

[0115] As an alkynyl diol surfactant, there are no particular limitations. Examples include Surfynol 104, 104E, 104H, 104A, 104BC, 104DPM, 104PA, 104PG-50, 104S, 420, 440, 465, 485, SE, SE-F, 504, 61, DF37, CT111, CT121, CT131, CT136, TG, GA, and DF110D (all trade names, manufactured by Air Products & Chemicals, OLFINE). B, Y, P, A, STG, SPC, E1004, E1010, PD-001, PD-002W, PD-003, PD-004, EXP.4001, EXP.4036, EXP.4051, AF-103, AF-104, AK-02, SK-14, AE-3 (all trade names, manufactured by Nissin Chemical Industries Co., Ltd.), Acetylenol E00, E00P, E40, E100 (all trade names, manufactured by Kawaken Fine Chemicals Co., Ltd.).

[0116] As a silicone-based surfactant, there are no particular limitations, but polysiloxane compounds are preferred examples. As for this polysiloxane compound, there are no particular limitations; for example, polyether-modified organosiloxanes can be listed. Commercially available products of this polyether-modified organosiloxane include, for example, BYK-306, BYK-307, BYK-333, BYK-341, BYK-345, BYK-346, BYK-348 (trade names, manufactured by BYK-Chemie Japan), KF-351A, 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 (trade names, manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.), SILFACE. SAG002, 005, 503A, 008 (the above are product names, manufactured by Nisshin Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.), etc.

[0117] As a fluorinated surfactant, fluorinated modified polymers are preferred. Specific examples include BYK-3440 (manufactured by BYK-Chemie Japan), SURFLON S-241, S-242, and S-243 (trade names, manufactured by AGC SeimiChemical), and FTERGENT 215M (manufactured by NEOS).

[0118] When the ink composition contains surfactants, it may contain a variety of surfactants. The content of surfactants in the ink composition, relative to the total mass of the ink composition, can be 0.1% by mass or more and 2% by mass or less, preferably 0.3% by mass or more and 1.5% by mass or less, more preferably 0.4% by mass or more and 1.0% by mass or less.

[0119] <Flocculant>

[0120] Ink compositions may also contain coagulants. When an ink composition contains a coagulant, the ink composition can utilize a functional liquid (reaction liquid) that reacts with components such as pigments and resin particles contained in other ink compositions used together, causing the pigments and resin particles to agglomerate. The coagulant has the function of agglomerating pigments and resin particles by reacting with components such as pigments and resin particles contained in the ink composition or other ink compositions used together. Through such agglomeration, for example, it is possible to improve the color rendering of pigments, improve the fixation of resin particles, and / or increase the viscosity of the composition.

[0121] When the inkjet composition is a composition containing a coagulant (hereinafter also referred to as a reaction solution), the reaction solution preferably does not contain pigment. Furthermore, the reaction solution preferably does not contain resin particles that react with the coagulant. Examples of resin particles that react with the coagulant include, for instance, anionic resin particles.

[0122] There are no particular limitations on what constitutes a coagulant; examples include metal salts, inorganic acids, organic acids, and cationic compounds. Among these, cationic resins (cationic polymers), as cationic compounds, have particles that are equivalent to the resin particles mentioned above.

[0123] When the ink composition contains a coagulant to form a functional liquid, the total content is not limited. For example, it is 0.1% by mass or more and 15% by mass or less relative to the total mass of the composition, preferably 1% by mass or more and 10% by mass or less, and more preferably 2% by mass or more and 10% by mass or less.

[0124] <Other Ingredients>

[0125] In addition to the components mentioned above, the ink composition may also contain the following components.

[0126] (pH adjuster)

[0127] The ink composition according to this embodiment may further contain a pH adjuster. There are no particular limitations on the pH adjuster; suitable combinations of acids, bases, weak acids, and weak bases can be listed. Examples of acids and bases used in such combinations include, as inorganic acids, sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, and nitric acid; as inorganic bases, lithium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, potassium dihydrogen phosphate, disodium hydrogen phosphate, potassium carbonate, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, and ammonia; as organic bases, triethanolamine, tripropanolamine, diethanolamine, monoethanolamine, triisopropanolamine, diisopropanolamine, and tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (THAM) can be used; and as organic acids, adipic acid and citric acid can be used. Good's buffers, phosphate buffers, citrate buffers, Tris buffers, etc., containing citric acid, succinic acid, lactic acid, N,N-bis(2-hydroxyethyl)-2-aminoethanesulfonic acid (BES), 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazine ethanesulfonic acid (HEPES), morpholinoethanesulfonic acid (MES), morpholinopropanesulfonic acid (MOPS), carbamoylmethyliminodiacetic acid (ADA), piperazine-1,4-bis(2-ethanesulfonic acid) (PIPES), N-(2-acetamide)-2-aminoethanesulfonic acid (ACES), choline chloride, N-tris(hydroxymethyl)methyl-2-aminoethanesulfonic acid (TES), acetamide glycine, N-tris(hydroxymethyl)methylglycine (tricine), glycineamide, N-di(hydroxyethyl)glycine (bicine), etc.

[0128] (Fatty acid esters)

[0129] The ink composition according to this embodiment may further contain fatty acid esters. Examples of fatty acid esters include polyoxyethylene monodecanoate, polyoxyethylene monooctanoate, polyoxyethylene monolaurate, polyoxyethylene monomyristate, polyoxyethylene monopalmitate, polyoxyethylene monostearate, polyoxyethylene monooleate, polyoxyethylene monoisostearate, polyoxyethylene monobehenate, polyoxyethylene didecanoate, polyoxyethylene dioctanoate, polyoxyethylene dilaurate, polyoxyethylene dimyristate, polyoxyethylene dipalmitate, polyoxyethylene distearate, polyoxyethylene dioleate, polyoxyethylene diisostearate, and polyoxyethylene dibehenate.

[0130] (Dialkyldimethylammonium salt)

[0131] The ink composition described in this embodiment may further contain a dialkyl dimethyl ammonium salt. Examples of dialkyl dimethyl ammonium salts include dioleoyloxypropyltrimethylammonium chloride (DOTAP), diolenoyltrimethylammonium chloride (DOTMA), dicedyldimethylammonium chloride, dicedyldimethylammonium bromide, diccocoyldimethylammonium chloride, diccocoyldimethylammonium bromide, diclauryldimethylammonium chloride, dicetyldimethylammonium chloride, dicetyldimethylammonium bromide, dicetyldimethylammonium chloride, dicetyldimethylammonium bromide, dicetyldimethylammonium chloride, dicetyldimethylammonium bromide, dicetyldimethylammonium chloride, dicetyldimethylammonium chloride, dicetyldimethylammonium bromide, dialkyl dimethylammonium chloride, dialkyl dimethylammonium bromide, dicetylethylhydroxyethylmethylammonium sulfate, dicetylethylhydroxyethylmethylammonium sulfate, and dicetylethylhydroxyethylmethylammonium sulfate.

[0132] (Imidazolino-type surfactants)

[0133] The ink composition described in this embodiment may further contain imidazoline-type surfactants. Examples of imidazoline-type surfactants include 1-hydroxyethyl-2-lauryl imidazoline, 1-aminoethyl-2-lauryl imidazoline, 1-hydroxyethyl-2-myristyl imidazoline, 1-aminoethyl-2-myristyl imidazoline, 1-hydroxyethyl-2-palmityl imidazoline, 1-aminoethyl-2-palmityl imidazoline, 1-hydroxyethyl-2-oleylenyl imidazoline, 1-aminoethyl-2-oleylenyl imidazoline, 1-hydroxyethyl-2-stearyl imidazoline, 1-aminoethyl-2-stearyl imidazoline, 2-alkyl-N-carboxymethyl imidazoline betaine, 2-alkyl-N-carboxyethyl imidazoline betaine, and 2-alkyl-N-carboxymethyl-N-hydroxyethyl imidazoline betaine.

[0134] (Amphoteric surfactants)

[0135] The ink composition described in this embodiment may further contain an amphoteric surfactant. Examples of amphoteric surfactants include alkyl carboxybetaine, alkyl sulfonate betaine, alkyl hydroxy sulfonate betaine, alkyl amide betaine, lauryl dimethylamine oxide, lauramide propyl dimethylamine oxide, etc.

[0136] (Water-soluble resin)

[0137] The ink composition according to this embodiment may further contain a water-soluble resin. The water-soluble resin is not particularly limited, and examples include carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, polyvinylpyrrolidone, and polyethylene oxide. More preferably, a nonionic resin, such as polyvinylpyrrolidone, is preferred. Polyvinylpyrrolidone is not limited to homopolymers; vinylpyrrolidone may also be used in copolymers with other monomers. Commercially available products of polyvinylpyrrolidone include, for example, polyvinylpyrrolidone K-30, K-30W (the above are product names, manufactured by Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd.), PITZCOL (registered trademark) K-17L, K-30, K-30L, K-30AL, K-60L, K-30, K-50, K-90CREEJUS (registered trademark) K-30, AIPHTACT (registered trademark) K-30PH (the above are product names, manufactured by Daiichi Kogyo Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.), PVPK-30, PVPK-25, PVPK-17 (the above are product names, manufactured by Ashland Co., Ltd.).

[0138] (Moisturizer)

[0139] The ink composition according to this embodiment may further contain a humectant. There are no particular limitations on the humectant; examples include glycerin, 2-pyrrolidone, urea, triethanolamine, propylene glycol, 1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2-pyrrolidone, trimethylolpropane, triethylene glycol, 1,5-pentanediol, triethylene glycol monomethyl ether, and amino coatings. One humectant can be used alone, or two or more can be used in combination.

[0140] (additive)

[0141] The ink composition described in this embodiment may further contain additives. Examples of additives include sugars, chelating agents, preservatives / mildew inhibitors, rust inhibitors, and others.

[0142] Specific examples of sugars include glucose, mannose, fructose, ribose, xylose, arabinose, galactose, aldonic acid, glucosyl alcohol (sorbitol), maltose, cellobiose, lactose, sucrose, trehalose, and maltotriose.

[0143] Examples of chelating agents include ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and its salts (EDTA disodium dihydrogen EDTA, or ethylenediamine triacetate, hexametaphosphate, pyrophosphate, or metaphosphate, etc.).

[0144] Examples of preservatives and fungicides include sodium benzoate, sodium pentachlorophenolate, sodium 2-pyridinethiol-1-oxide, sodium sorbate, sodium dehydroacetate, Proxel CRL, Proxel BDN, Proxel GXL, Proxel XL-2, Proxel IB, and Proxel TN (all manufactured by LONZA Japan, trade names), and 4-chloro-3-methylphenol (such as Bayer's Preventol CMK).

[0145] Examples of rust inhibitors include benzotriazole, acidic sulfites, sodium thiosulfate, ammonium mercaptoacetate, diisopropylammonium nitrite, pentaerythritol tetranitrate, and dicyclohexylammonium nitrite. Among these, benzotriazole is particularly preferred.

[0146] 1.2. Structure of the device

[0147] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a recording apparatus comprising an inkjet head, an annular belt, a cleaning section, and a cleaning fluid will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The recording apparatus is an inkjet printer that records images such as text and photographs by spraying at least one of the aforementioned ink compositions onto fabric or paper. The cleaning fluid will be described below.

[0148] <Recording device>

[0149] like Figure 1 As shown, the recording device 11 includes a recording unit 12. The recording unit 12 is configured to eject an ink composition onto the fabric 99. Thus, the recording unit 12 records an image on the fabric 99. The recording unit 12 is an inkjet head. The recording unit 12 has a nozzle surface 14 with one or more nozzles 13 opening. The recording unit 12 ejects pigment ink from the nozzles 13. The recording unit 12 can also be a serial head for scanning the fabric 99. The recording unit 12 can also be a line head capable of ejecting the ink composition simultaneously across the width of the fabric 99.

[0150] The recording device 11 includes a recording control unit 15. The recording control unit 15 controls the recording unit 12. The recording control unit 15 can also control the delivery unit 21, the cleaning agent supply unit, and the water supply unit, which will be described later.

[0151] The recording control unit 15 may also be composed of one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program. The recording control unit 15 may also be composed of one or more dedicated hardware circuits, such as integrated circuits for a specific purpose, that execute at least a portion of the various processes. The recording control unit 15 may also be composed of a circuit that includes a processor and a combination of hardware circuits. The processor includes a CPU, and memories such as RAM and ROM. The memories store program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute processes. Memory, i.e., computer-readable media, includes all readable media that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0152] The recording device 11 includes a conveying section 21. The conveying section 21 is configured to convey fabric 99. During the conveying process of the fabric 99 by the conveying section 21, an ink composition is ejected from the recording section 12 onto the fabric 99.

[0153] The conveying unit 21 is configured to convey fabric 99 in the conveying direction A1. The conveying unit 21 has a plurality of conveying rollers. In one example, the conveying unit 21 has a first conveying roller 22 and a second conveying roller 23. The first conveying roller 22 is located upstream of the recording unit 12 in the conveying direction A1. The second conveying roller 23 is located downstream of the recording unit 12 in the conveying direction A1.

[0154] The conveying unit 21 has a drive source 24. The drive source 24 is, for example, an electric motor. The drive source 24 is connected to at least one of a plurality of conveying rollers. In one example, the drive source 24 is connected to a first conveying roller 22. The first conveying roller 22 is rotated by the drive source 24.

[0155] The conveying section 21 has an annular belt 25. The annular belt 25 is wound around a plurality of conveying rollers. In one example, the annular belt 25 is wound around a first conveying roller 22 and a second conveying roller 23. The first conveying roller 22 is rotated by a drive source 24, and the annular belt 25 rotates along the first conveying roller 22 and the second conveying roller 23. Figure 1 In the middle, the annular belt 25 rotates counterclockwise. Thus, the annular belt 25 conveys the fabric 99. The annular belt 25 supports the fabric 99 on which the recording unit 12 records images.

[0156] The annular belt 25 includes a portion that moves in the conveying direction A1 and a portion that moves in the opposite direction A2. The annular belt 25 conveys fabric 99 through the portion that moves in the conveying direction A1. The portion that moves in the opposite direction A2 is cleaned by a cleaning mechanism 31, described later.

[0157] The annular belt 25 has an inner circumferential surface 26 and an outer circumferential surface 27. The inner circumferential surface 26 is the surface that contacts a plurality of conveying rollers. In one example, the inner circumferential surface 26 contacts a first conveying roller 22 and a second conveying roller 23. The outer circumferential surface 27 is the surface that contacts the fabric 99. Therefore, the outer circumferential surface 27 is the surface that supports the fabric 99. The outer circumferential surface 27 is opposite to the nozzle surface 14. The annular belt 25 carries and conveys the fabric 99.

[0158] The annular belt 25 is configured to adhere fabric 99. The annular belt 25 has an adhesive layer on its surface. Specifically, fabric 99 is adhered to the outer peripheral surface 27. Thus, fabric 99 is conveyed in a stable posture. The annular belt 25 has an adhesive layer coated with an adhesive on its outer peripheral surface. The adhesive is applied to the outer peripheral surface 27. In this case, fabric 99 is adhered to the adhesive layer on the outer peripheral surface 27 by the adhesive. Not limited to adhesives, fabric 99 can also be adhered to the outer peripheral surface 27 by attraction, electrostatic force, intermolecular forces, etc. After an image is recorded by the recording unit 12, fabric 99 is peeled off from the outer peripheral surface 27, for example, by being stretched by another device. The conveying unit 21 may also have a peeling section for peeling fabric 99 off the outer peripheral surface 27. In this case, the peeling section is, for example, a roller wound with fabric 99.

[0159] The conveying section 21 may also have a pressing section 28. The pressing section 28 is configured to press the fabric 99 onto the annular belt 25. In one example, the pressing section 28 is a pressure roller. By pressing the fabric 99 onto the annular belt 25 with the pressure roller, the fabric 99 is adhered to the outer peripheral surface 27. In other words, the pressure roller brings the conveying section 21 into contact with the fabric 99. The pressure applied by the pressure roller can also be variable. By adjusting the pressure applied by the pressure roller, the adhesion of the fabric 99 to the annular belt 25 can be easily adjusted.

[0160] In the annular belt 25, as the recording unit 12 records an image on the fabric 99, ink composition may sometimes adhere to the outer peripheral surface 27. If the annular belt 25 continues to transport the fabric 99 with ink composition adhering to the outer peripheral surface 27, the fabric 99 may become dirty.

[0161] The recording device 11 includes a cleaning mechanism 31. The cleaning mechanism 31 is configured to clean the annular belt 25 with a cleaning fluid. Specifically, the cleaning mechanism 31 cleans the outer peripheral surface 27 with the cleaning fluid. The cleaning mechanism 31 removes the ink composition adhering to the outer peripheral surface 27 using the cleaning fluid. The ink composition is easily detached from the annular belt 25 by the cleaning fluid. The cleaning fluid will be described below.

[0162] <Cleaning Agency>

[0163] The cleaning mechanism 31 includes a cleaning section 32. The cleaning section 32 cleans the annular belt 25 using a cleaning fluid. The cleaning section 32 cleans the annular belt 25 by contacting it. Specifically, the cleaning section 32 contacts the outer peripheral surface 27 where the adhesive layer is formed. The cleaning section 32 contacts the portion of the annular belt 25 located in the opposite direction A2. That is, the cleaning section 32 contacts the annular belt 25 after the fabric 99 has been peeled off.

[0164] The cleaning section 32 has a cleaning tank 36 for storing cleaning fluid and a sliding friction member for rubbing the adhesive layer within the cleaning tank 36. The cleaning section 32 has one or more cleaning rollers 33. In one example, the cleaning section 32 has three cleaning rollers 33. The cleaning rollers 33 are examples of sliding friction members. The cleaning rollers 33 rotate while contacting the annular belt 25. The cleaning rollers 33 can also rotate passively relative to the annular belt 25. That is, the cleaning rollers 33 can also... Figure 1 The cleaning roller 33 can also be driven to rotate clockwise, resisting the rotation of the annular belt 25. That is, the cleaning roller 33 can also be driven to rotate clockwise. Figure 1 The roller rotates counterclockwise. In this case, the ink composition is easily removed from the annular belt 25 because the contact resistance between the cleaning roller 33 and the annular belt 25 increases.

[0165] The cleaning roller 33 contacts the annular belt 25 while it is wetted with cleaning fluid. Therefore, since the annular belt 25 is wetted with cleaning fluid, the ink composition is easily removed from the annular belt 25. The cleaning roller 33 is, for example, a brush roller. The cleaning roller 33 can also be a sponge roller.

[0166] The cleaning section 32 has one or more cleaning scrapers 34a. In one example, the cleaning section 32 has one cleaning scraper 34a. The cleaning scraper 34a is an example of a scraper component. The cleaning scraper 34a contacts the annular belt 25 wetted by the cleaning liquid. The cleaning scraper 34a contacts the outer peripheral surface 27 wetted by the cleaning liquid. The cleaning scraper 34a scrapes off the ink composition and its dried product together with the cleaning liquid adhering to the annular belt 25, and more specifically scrapes off the resin and pigment contained in the ink composition. The cleaning scraper 34a contacts the annular belt 25 after the cleaning roller 33 contacts the annular belt 25. Therefore, the cleaning scraper 34a is located at a position A2 in the opposite direction to the cleaning roller 33.

[0167] The cleaning section 32 has one or more dewatering rollers 34b. In one example, the cleaning section 32 has one dewatering roller 34b. The dewatering roller 34b contacts the annular belt 25 wetted by the cleaning liquid. The dewatering roller 34b contacts the outer peripheral surface 27 wetted by the cleaning liquid. The dewatering roller 34b wipes away the ink composition along with the cleaning liquid adhering to the annular belt 25. The dewatering roller 34b contacts the annular belt 25 after the cleaning roller 33 has contacted it. Therefore, the dewatering roller 34b is located in the opposite direction A2 to the cleaning roller 33. The positional relationship between the dewatering roller 34b and the cleaning scraper 34a is not particularly limited.

[0168] The cleaning mechanism 31 includes a storage section 35. The storage section 35 is configured to store cleaning fluid. The storage section 35 holds the cleaning section 32. The cleaning section 32 uses the cleaning fluid stored in the storage section 35 to clean the annular belt 25. The cleaning fluid stored in the storage section 35 gradually becomes dirty as the cleaning section 32 cleans the annular belt 25. Therefore, the cleaning mechanism 31 can also be configured to allow for appropriate replacement of the cleaning fluid stored in the storage section 35.

[0169] The storage section 35 includes a cleaning tank 36. The cleaning tank 36 is a tank for storing the cleaning fluid used by the cleaning section 32. The cleaning tank 36 is located opposite the outer peripheral surface 27. The cleaning tank 36 holds the cleaning section 32.

[0170] The cleaning tank 36 has an immersion tank 37. The immersion tank 37 is a tank for storing a predetermined amount of cleaning liquid. The immersion tank 37 holds the cleaning roller 33. The immersion tank 37 holds the cleaning roller 33 so that the cleaning roller 33 is immersed in the stored cleaning liquid. As the cleaning roller 33 cleans the annular belt 25, the ink composition flows into the immersion tank 37.

[0171] The cleaning tank 36 has a support tank 38. The support tank 38 supports the immersion tank 37. More specifically, the support tank 38 contains the immersion tank 37. The support tank 38 receives cleaning fluid overflowing from the immersion tank 37.

[0172] The support groove 38 supports the cleaning scraper 34a and the dewatering roller 34b. The support groove 38 receives the cleaning liquid flowing down along the cleaning scraper 34a and the dewatering roller 34b. As the cleaning scraper 34 cleans the annular belt 25, the ink composition, its dried components, fiber debris, etc., flow into the support groove 38.

[0173] The storage section 35 has a receiving tank 39. The receiving tank 39 is a tank connected to the cleaning tank 36. The receiving tank 39 stores the cleaning fluid after the cleaning section 32 has been used and the cleaning fluid before the cleaning section 32 has been used.

[0174] The storage unit 35 has multiple connecting flow paths. In one example, the storage unit 35 has a first connecting flow path 40 and a second connecting flow path 41. These connecting flow paths are connected to the cleaning tank 36 and the receiving tank 39. Specifically, the first connecting flow path 40 is connected to the support tank 38 and the receiving tank 39. The second connecting flow path 41 is connected to the immersion tank 37 and the receiving tank 39. The cleaning solution flows from the cleaning tank 36 to the receiving tank 39 through the first connecting flow path 40. The cleaning solution flows from the receiving tank 39 to the cleaning tank 36 through the second connecting flow path 41. Thus, the cleaning solution circulates within the storage unit 35 in both the cleaning tank 36 and the receiving tank 39. Consequently, the concentration of the cleaning solution easily becomes uniform.

[0175] like Figure 1 As shown, the cleaning mechanism 31 includes a supply flow path 47. The supply flow path 47 is a path for supplying cleaning fluid. New cleaning fluid is supplied to the cleaning mechanism 31 through the supply flow path 47. The supply flow path 47 is connected to a storage section 35. In one example, the supply flow path 47 is connected to a receiving tank 39. The supply flow path 47 is connected, for example, to a tap water pipe. When the cleaning fluid in the storage section 35 decreases due to evaporation, discharge, etc., cleaning fluid is supplied to the storage section 35 from the supply flow path 47.

[0176] Alternatively, although not shown, the system may include a cleaning agent supply unit that supplies cleaning agent to the cleaning tank 36 via a supply flow path 47, and a water supply unit that supplies water to the cleaning tank 36. Furthermore, a control unit may be included to control the amount of cleaning agent, such as a polyoxyalkylene ether compound, supplied from the cleaning agent supply unit. Additionally, a control unit may be included to control the amount of water supplied from the water supply unit.

[0177] This allows for control over the supply of cleaning agent and water to the cleaning tank 36, enabling variable concentration of the cleaning agent in the cleaning solution. Consequently, the cleaning intensity of the annular belt 27 can be adjusted, as can the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer on the outer circumferential surface 27 of the annular belt 25. Furthermore, this allows for better adhesion and peelability of a wider range of fabrics. For fabrics with high adhesion (e.g., plain-weave cotton fabric made of untwisted yarn), good peelability can be achieved by suppressing the degree of cleaning to prevent excessive adhesive strength. For fabrics with low adhesion (e.g., fabrics made of highly twisted yarn), good adhesion can be achieved by increasing the degree of cleaning.

[0178] The cleaning mechanism 31 includes a discharge path 48. The discharge path 48 is a path for discharging cleaning fluid. Cleaning fluid is discharged from the cleaning mechanism 31 through the discharge path 48. In one example, the discharge path 48 is connected to a receiving tank 39. The discharge path 48 is connected, for example, to a waste liquid treatment device or a waste liquid storage tank. In the event that the cleaning fluid is contaminated by the ink composition, the cleaning fluid is discharged from the storage section 35 through the discharge path 48.

[0179] The cleaning mechanism 31 includes a pump 49. The pump 49 circulates the cleaning fluid in the storage section 35. The pump 49 also circulates the cleaning fluid through a first connecting flow path 40 and a second connecting flow path 41 in the cleaning tank 36 and the receiving tank 39. In one example, the pump 49 is located in the second connecting flow path 41. The pump 49 may also be located in the first connecting flow path 40.

[0180] The cleaning mechanism 31 includes a flow meter 50. The flow meter 50 measures the flow rate of the cleaning fluid flowing in the storage section 35. The flow meter 50 also measures the flow rate of the cleaning fluid circulating in the cleaning tank 36 and the receiving tank 39. The cleaning mechanism 31 controls the pump 49 based on the measurements taken by the flow meter 50. In one example, the flow meter 50 is located in the second connecting flow path 41. Specifically, the flow meter 50 is located in the second connecting flow path 41 between the pump 49 and the receiving tank 39. The flow meter 50 may also be located in the first connecting flow path 40.

[0181] The cleaning mechanism 31 includes a constant flow valve 51. The constant flow valve 51 is configured to maintain a constant flow rate of the cleaning fluid flowing in the storage section 35. The constant flow valve 51 is a so-called throttle valve. The constant flow valve 51 maintains a constant flow rate of the cleaning fluid circulating in the cleaning tank 36 and the receiving tank 39. In one example, the constant flow valve 51 is located in the second connecting flow path 41. Specifically, the constant flow valve 51 is located in the second connecting flow path 41 between the pump 49 and the cleaning tank 36. The constant flow valve 51 may also be located in the first connecting flow path 40.

[0182] The cleaning mechanism 31 has one or more on / off valves. In one example, the cleaning mechanism 31 includes a first on / off valve 52, a second on / off valve 53, and a third on / off valve 54. The on / off valves are, for example, solenoid valves. The first on / off valve 52 is located in the first connecting flow path 40. By opening the first on / off valve 52, the cleaning fluid can flow from the cleaning tank 36 to the receiving tank 39. The second on / off valve 53 is located in the supply flow path 47. By opening the second on / off valve 53, the cleaning fluid is supplied to the storage section 35. The third on / off valve 54 is located in the discharge flow path 48. By opening the third on / off valve 54, the cleaning fluid is discharged from the storage section 35.

[0183] The cleaning mechanism 31 may also include a liquid volume sensor 55. The liquid volume sensor 55 is a sensor that measures the amount of cleaning fluid stored in the storage section 35. In one example, the liquid volume sensor 55 measures the amount of cleaning fluid contained in the receiving tank 39. The cleaning mechanism 31 can maintain the amount of cleaning fluid stored in the storage section 35 at a constant level using the liquid volume sensor 55. For example, if the amount of cleaning fluid stored in the receiving tank 39 is large, the cleaning mechanism 31 discharges the cleaning fluid through the discharge flow path 48. If the amount of cleaning fluid stored in the receiving tank 39 is small, the cleaning mechanism 31 supplies cleaning fluid through the supply flow path 47.

[0184] The cleaning mechanism 31, serving as a filter unit for filtering the cleaning fluid within the cleaning tank 36, may include one or more filters. The cleaning mechanism 31 includes a cleaning filter 56 and a containment filter 57. The filters capture and collect dust, lint, and other particles from the cleaning fluid. The cleaning filter 56 is installed on the first connecting flow path 40. Specifically, the cleaning filter 56 is located at the end of the first connecting flow path 40 that is connected to the cleaning tank 36. The cleaning filter 56 captures and collects foreign matter from the cleaning fluid flowing from the cleaning tank 36 to the containment tank 39. The containment filter 57 is installed on the first connecting flow path 40. Specifically, the containment filter 57 is located at the end of the first connecting flow path 40 that is connected to the containment tank 39. The containment filter 57 captures and collects foreign matter from the cleaning fluid flowing from the cleaning tank 36 to the containment tank 39. Because the filtering unit can filter solid components and redispersed solid components from the cleaning fluid, contamination of the cleaning fluid can be suppressed. This makes it easier to maintain the adhesion of the adhesive layer for a longer period. Furthermore, the frequency of maintenance requiring replacement of the cleaning fluid stored in the cleaning tank 36 can be reduced.

[0185] The filter can be one or more selected from activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis membrane filters. This makes it easier to remove solid components and redispersed solid components from the cleaning solution through the filtration section, and makes it easier to maintain the cleanliness of the cleaning solution.

[0186] The recording device 11 has a drying section 29, which dries the annular belt 25 after it has been cleaned by the cleaning section 32. The drying section 29 can be selected from one or more of the following: a water-absorbing mechanism that absorbs liquid residue on the annular belt 25; an air-blowing mechanism that blows air onto the annular belt 25; and a heating mechanism that heats the annular belt. By having the drying section 29, the influence of the cleaning fluid on the adhesion of the fabric 99 to the annular belt 25 can be further reduced.

[0187] 1.3 Cleaning fluid

[0188] The cleaning solution contains water and a cleaning agent containing polyoxyalkylene ether compounds.

[0189] 1.3.1. Water

[0190] The cleaning solution contains water. Since its content is the same as that of the ink composition described above, further details regarding water are omitted.

[0191] 1.3.2. Polyoxyalkylene ether compounds

[0192] The cleaning solution involved in this embodiment contains a polyoxyalkylene ether compound. By containing a polyoxyalkylene ether compound in the cleaning solution, it is possible to prevent the solid components contained in the ink composition layer that have detached from the ring belt due to the aforementioned glycol ether compound from re-adhering to the ring belt.

[0193] The polyoxyalkylene ether compound is not limited to the following compounds; for example, compounds represented by the following formula (P) can be listed. By using such polyoxyalkylene ether compounds, it is easier to reduce the re-adhesion of solid and oily components to the ring band, and the storage stability of the cleaning solution is improved.

[0194] R 6 O(C2H4O) w (C3H6O) x (C2H4O) y (C3H6O) z H (P)

[0195] (In the above formula (P), R) 6 The alkyl group represents an alkyl group with 1 to 20 carbon atoms, preferably an alkyl group with 5 to 15 carbon atoms, and more preferably an alkyl group with 10 to 15 carbon atoms. Furthermore, w is a value of 1 to 20, and x, y, and z are independently 0 or values ​​of 1 to 20. Additionally, w, x, y, and z satisfy 5 ≤ w + x + y + z ≤ 30, preferably 5 ≤ w + x + y + z ≤ 25.

[0196] As a polyoxyalkylene ether compound, there are no particular limitations; specifically, C can be listed. 12 H 25 O(C2H4O)6(C3H6O)2(C2H4O)6(C3H6O)8H, C 13 H 27 O(C2H4O)6(C3H6O)2(C2H4O)6(C3H6O)8H, C 12 H 25 O(C2H4O) w (C3H6O) x (C2H4O) y (C3H6O) z H (here, w + y = 15, x + z = 4)C 13 H 27 O(C2H4O) w (C3H6O) x (C2H4O) y (C3H6O) z H (here, w + y = 15, x + z = 4), C 12 H 25 O(C2H4O)8(C3H6O)2(C2H4O)6H, C 13 H 27 O(C2H4O)8(C3H6O)2(C2H4O)6H, C 12 H 25 O(C2H4O)12 (C3H6O)2(C2H4O) 12 H, C 13 H 27 O(C2H4O) 12 (C3H6O)2(C2H4O) 12 H. CH3(CH2)9(CH3)CHO(C2H4O)7(C3H6O) 4.5 H, CH3(CH2) 11 (CH3)CHO(C2H4O)7(C3H6O) 4.5 H. CH3(CH2)9(CH3)CHO(C2H4O)5(C3H6O) 3.5 H, CH3(CH2) 11 (CH3)CHO(C2H4O)5(C3H6O) 3.5 H, C 14 H 29 O(C2H4O) 14 (C3H6O)2H, C 11 H 23 O(C2H4O)8H, C 10 H 21 O(C2H4O) 11 H and C 12 H 25 O(C2H4O) 15 H, etc. Among these polyoxyalkylene ether compounds, polyethylene glycol mono-2-ethylhexyl ether is more preferred. Therefore, since the solid components of the ink composition layer adhering to the adhesive layer of the ring band are more easily swollen, the adhering solid components are more easily detached.

[0197] There are no particular limitations on commercially available polyoxyalkylene ether compounds. Specifically, examples include NOIGEN DL-0415, NOIGEN ET-116B, NOIGEN ET-106A, NOIGEN DH-0300, NOIGEN YX-400, NOIGEN EA-160 (all manufactured by Daiichi Kogyo Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.), EMULGEN 1108 (a trade name manufactured by Kao Corporation), and NEWCOL1006 (manufactured by Nippon Emulsifier Co., Ltd.).

[0198] Polyoxyalkylene ether compounds can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0199] The total content of polyoxyalkylene ether compounds in the cleaning solution is preferably 0.5% by mass or more and 80% by mass or less relative to the total amount of the cleaning solution, more preferably 1% by mass or more and 50% by mass or less, even more preferably 1.5% by mass or more and 30% by mass or less, even more preferably 3% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less, and particularly preferably 4% by mass or more and 10% by mass or less.

[0200] Furthermore, the content of the polyoxyalkylene ether compound relative to the content of the glycol ether compound described later is preferably 0.1 to 5 by mass, more preferably 0.1 to 3, and even more preferably 0.3 to 3. By increasing the content of the polyoxyalkylene ether compound, the cleaning effect can be further improved.

[0201] 1.3.3. Other compounds

[0202] (1) Diol ether compounds

[0203] The cleaning solution may also contain glycol ether compounds. When the cleaning solution contains glycol ether compounds, it can cause the solid and oily components contained in the ink composition layer that has adhered to the annular tape and dried to swell and / or dissolve, thereby making it easier for these components to detach from the annular tape. In addition, because the cleaning solution can more easily penetrate between the adhesive layer of the annular tape and the layer of the adhered ink composition, it can easily cause the solid components of the ink composition layer to swell, thus making it easier for the adhered solid components to detach.

[0204] As a glycol ether compound, there are no particular limitations. Examples include ethylene glycol monomethyl ether, ethylene glycol monoethyl ether, ethylene glycol monopropyl ether, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether, ethylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate, diethylene glycol monomethyl ether, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, diethylene glycol monopropyl ether, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether, diethylene glycol monotert-butyl ether, triethylene glycol monobutyl ether, 1-methyl-1-methoxybutanol, propylene glycol monomethyl ether, propylene glycol monoethyl ether, propylene glycol monopropyl ether, propylene glycol monobutyl ether, dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether, dipropylene glycol monoethyl ether, dipropylene glycol monopropyl ether, propylene glycol monobutyl ether, dipropylene glycol monobutyl ether, 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol, ethylene glycol dimethyl ether, ethylene glycol diethyl ether, ethylene glycol dibutyl ether, diethylene glycol dimethyl ether, diethylene glycol diethyl ether, etc.

[0205] In the compounds exemplified above, the glycol ether compound contained in the cleaning solution is preferably selected from compounds with a surface tension of 40 mN / m or less at 25°C. This makes it easy to adjust the surface tension of the cleaning solution at 25°C to 40 mN / m or less. Furthermore, the surface tension of the glycol ether compound contained in the cleaning solution at 25°C is more preferably 38 mN / m or less, even more preferably 35 mN / m or less, and still more preferably 33 mN / m or less. The lower limit of the surface tension of the glycol ether compound contained in the cleaning solution at 25°C is not particularly limited, but it is preferably 10 mN / m or more, more preferably 15 mN / m or more.

[0206] Surface tension can be measured by using an automated surface tension meter CBVP-Z (manufactured by Kyowa Interface Science Co., Ltd.) to confirm the surface tension when a platinum plate is wetted with a glycol ether compound at 25°C.

[0207] Furthermore, when selecting a glycol ether compound containing a surface tension of 40 mN / m or less at 25°C, it is more preferable to select one or more selected from triethylene glycol monobutyl ether and 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol. This allows it to penetrate between the fabric transport component and the attached inkjet composition layer, causing the solid components of the inkjet composition layer to swell and making it easier for the solid components to detach. Additionally, using 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol can further reduce the odor of the cleaning solution.

[0208] The total content of glycol ether compounds contained in the cleaning solution is preferably 1% by mass or more and 50% by mass or less relative to the total amount of the cleaning solution, more preferably 2% by mass or more and 40% by mass or less, even more preferably 3% by mass or more and 35% by mass or less, even more preferably 6% by mass or more and 30% by mass or less, and particularly preferably 10% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less.

[0209] (2) Defoamer

[0210] The cleaning fluid may further contain an antifoaming agent. When the cleaning fluid is prone to foaming due to the movement of sliding friction parts, the presence of an antifoaming agent can further suppress foaming.

[0211] There are no particular limitations on what constitutes a defoamer; examples include silicone-based defoamers, polyether-based defoamers, aliphatic ester-based defoamers, and acetylenic diol-based defoamers. Commercially available defoamers include BYK-011, BYK-012, BYK-017, BYK-018, BYK-019, BYK-020, BYK-021, BYK-022, BYK-023, BYK-024, BYK-025, BYK-028, BYK-038, BYK-044, BYK-080A, BYK-094, BYK-1610, BYK-1615, BYK-1650, BYK-1730, BYK-1770 (manufactured by BYK-Chemie Japan Co., Ltd.), Surfynol DF37, DF110D, DF58, DF75, DF220, MD-20 (Envirogem AD01 (Evonik)). (Made by Industries). Defoamers can be used alone or in combination with two or more. Silicone-based defoamers are preferred.

[0212] When the cleaning solution contains a defoamer, its content relative to the total amount of the cleaning solution is not particularly limited, for example, it is 0.01% by mass or more and 1.0% by mass or less, preferably 0.05% by mass or more and 0.5% by mass or less, and more preferably 0.1% by mass or more and 0.2% by mass or less. With such a content, foaming of the cleaning solution can be appropriately suppressed, while also easily preventing the defoamer itself from adhering to the fabric conveying parts and reducing the adhesion of the adhesive layer (adhesive layer).

[0213] (3) Other ingredients

[0214] The cleaning solution may further contain the organic solvents, surfactants, and other ingredients described in section 1.1. Ink Composition above. In the description of these ingredients in section 1.1. Ink Composition, "ink composition" will be replaced with "cleaning solution".

[0215] 1.3.4. Surface tension

[0216] The surface tension of the cleaning fluid involved in this embodiment is preferably 40 mN / m or less at 25°C. More preferably, the surface tension of the cleaning fluid at 25°C is 38 mN / m or less, even more preferably 35 mN / m or less, and still more preferably 33 mN / m or less. The lower limit of the surface tension of the cleaning fluid at 25°C is not particularly limited, but is preferably 10 mN / m or more, more preferably 15 mN / m or more. In this way, since the cleaning fluid can more easily penetrate between the adhesive layer of the annular belt and the layer of the attached ink composition, it is easier to remove the attached solid components.

[0217] The surface tension of the cleaning fluid can be adjusted by the selection and / or blending amount of polyoxyalkylene ether compounds, glycol ether compounds, etc., the water content, the selection and addition amount of other components.

[0218] It should be noted that the surface tension can be measured by using an automated surface tension meter CBVP-Z (manufactured by Kyowa Interface Science Co., Ltd.) to confirm the surface tension when the platinum plate is wetted with cleaning solution at 25°C.

[0219] 1.4. Effects, etc.

[0220] According to the inkjet printing and recording apparatus of this embodiment, each time the adhesive layer on the surface of the annular belt passes through the cleaning section, the dirt (originating from coloring and fixing materials of the ink composition, various functional materials, and threads from the fabric) attached to and fixed to the adhesive layer is scraped off and detached by friction from the sliding friction member. As a result, the cleaning fluid stored in the cleaning tank gradually becomes contaminated, and the dirt easily re-adheres to the adhesive layer. However, according to the inkjet printing and recording apparatus of this embodiment, since the cleaning fluid contains polyoxyalkylene ether compounds, it can promote the detachment of dirt originating from the ink composition from the adhesive layer, and the detached solid components are dissolved / redispersed in water, thereby inhibiting the re-adhesion of solid components to the adhesive layer. Thus, during continuous printing and dyeing operations, contamination of the annular belt can be suppressed.

[0221] Furthermore, according to the inkjet printing and recording apparatus of this embodiment, since the cleaning solution contains a polyoxyalkylene ether compound, damage to the annular belt and the adhesive layer (such as detachment of the adhesive layer) can be suppressed. Therefore, the transportability of the annular belt (adhesive force of the adhesive layer) can be well maintained, and uneven density during image formation can be suppressed.

[0222] 2. Inkjet printing recording method

[0223] The inkjet printing and recording method according to this embodiment includes: an ink adhesion step in which an ink composition is ejected from an inkjet head and adhered to a fabric as a recording medium; a conveying step in which the fabric is placed on a ring belt for conveying; and a cleaning step in which the ring belt has an adhesive layer on its surface, the cleaning section has a cleaning tank for storing cleaning fluid, the cleaning section has a sliding friction member for rubbing the adhesive layer in the cleaning tank, and the cleaning fluid contains water and a cleaning agent containing a polyoxyalkylene ether compound.

[0224] The inkjet printing and recording method described in this embodiment can be implemented using the ink composition, inkjet printing and recording device, and cleaning solution described above.

[0225] According to the inkjet printing and dyeing recording method of this embodiment, each time the adhesive layer on the surface of the annular belt passes through the cleaning section, the dirt (originating from the coloring and fixing materials of the ink composition, various functional materials, and threads from the fabric) attached to and fixed to the adhesive layer is scraped off and detached by friction with a sliding friction member. As a result, the cleaning solution stored in the cleaning tank gradually becomes contaminated, and the dirt easily re-adheres to the adhesive layer. However, according to the inkjet printing and dyeing recording method of this embodiment, since the cleaning solution contains polyoxyalkylene ether compounds, it can promote the detachment of dirt originating from the ink composition from the adhesive layer, and the detached solid components dissolve / redisperse in water, thereby inhibiting the re-adhesion of solid components to the adhesive layer. Thus, during continuous printing and dyeing operations, contamination of the annular belt can be suppressed.

[0226] Furthermore, according to the inkjet printing recording method of this embodiment, since the cleaning solution contains a polyoxyalkylene ether compound, damage to the annular belt and the adhesive layer (such as detachment of the adhesive layer) can be suppressed. Therefore, the transportability of the annular belt (adhesive force of the adhesive layer) can be well maintained, and uneven concentration during image formation can be suppressed.

[0227] 3. Examples and Comparative Examples

[0228] The present invention will now be specifically described through examples, but the present invention is not limited to these examples. Hereinafter, "parts" and "%" refer to mass unless otherwise specified. It should be noted that, unless otherwise stated, evaluations are conducted at a temperature of 25°C and a relative humidity of 40.0%.

[0229] 3.1. Preparation of each composition

[0230] (1) Preparation of cleaning solution

[0231] Cleaning solutions were prepared according to the compositions and dosages shown in Tables 1-3. The materials were mixed according to the compositions shown in the tables and stirred thoroughly to obtain the cleaning solutions. It should be noted that the values ​​are concentrations of the active ingredients, and the units are mass%, totaling 100.0% by mass.

[0232] (2) Preparation of ink composition

[0233] Ink compositions were prepared according to the compositions and dosages shown in Tables 4 to 6. The first ink shown in Table 4 is an ink composition equivalent to a reaction liquid containing cationic acrylic resin as a coagulant. The second ink shown in Table 5 is a colored ink composition containing a resin emulsion (i.e., polycarbonate-based polyurethane) as resin particles and pigments. The third ink shown in Table 6 is an ink composition equivalent to a softener containing a cationic silicone oil emulsion containing organopolysiloxanes as resin particles. The materials were mixed according to the compositions shown in the tables and stirred thoroughly to obtain the ink compositions. It should be noted that the values ​​are solid component concentrations, and the units are mass%, totaling 100.0% by mass.

[0234] (3) Ink group

[0235] Table 7 shows the ink groups of ink compositions used in the evaluation of the examples and comparative examples.

[0236] Please provide supplementary explanations for the abbreviations and product names shown in Tables 1 to 6.

[0237] NEWCOL 1006: Polyoxyalkylene ether (manufactured by Japan Emulsifier Co., Ltd.)

[0238] BYK-028: Defoamer (manufactured by BYK-Chemie Japan Co., Ltd.)

[0239] OLFINE E1010: Alkyne diol-based surfactant (manufactured by Nikshin Chemical Industries, Ltd.)

[0240] Anionic self-dispersible pigments: manufactured as described below.

[0241] 500g of carbon black raw material powder (primary particle size = 18nm, BET specific surface area = 180m²) prepared by furnace method. 2The solution (containing zirconia beads with a DBP absorption capacity of 186 mL / 100 g) was added to 3750 g of ion-exchange water and heated to 45°C while stirring in a dissolver. Then, using a sand mill with 0.8 mm diameter zirconia beads, 30000 g of sodium hypochlorite (available chlorine concentration = 12%) aqueous solution was added dropwise over 3.5 hours at 45°C. The mixture was then further milled for 30 minutes to obtain a reaction solution containing self-dispersible carbon black. This reaction solution was filtered through a 400-mesh metal mesh to separate the zirconia beads and unreacted carbon black from the reaction solution. A 5% potassium hydroxide aqueous solution was added to the separated reaction solution to adjust the pH to 7.5. The solution was then desalted and purified using an ultrafiltration membrane until the conductivity reached 1.5 mS / cm. Further desalting and purification were performed using an electrodialysis apparatus until the conductivity reached 1.0 mS / cm. The solution was then concentrated to a self-dispersible carbon black concentration of 17% by mass. The concentrate was centrifuged to remove coarse particles and then filtered through a 0.6 μm filter. Ion-exchanged water was added to the filtrate to dilute it to a concentration of 15% by mass of self-dispersible carbon black, thus dispersing it and obtaining a self-dispersible pigment dispersion.

[0242] It should be noted that ink 3 in Table 6 is prepared as follows.

[0243] 90g of amino-modified silicone oil (Shin-Etsu Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. "KF-868", functional group equivalent: 8,800 g / mol), 173.2g of deionized water, 5.1g of polyoxyethylene tridecyl ether (Japanese emulsifier, NEWCOL 1310), 25.7g of 1,2-hexanediol, and 6g of lactic acid were placed in a beaker. The contents of the beaker were stirred for 30 minutes at 2000 rpm and 50°C using a homogenizer (PRIMIX, MARKII 2.5 model) and then allowed to stand for 30 minutes. Next, the contents of the beaker were filtered through a 10μm membrane filter to obtain 300g of an emulsion containing oil particles containing amino-modified silicone oil. Then, deionized water and glycerin were added and stirred to prepare ink 3.

[0244] Tables 1-3 record the individual surface tensions of the glycol ether compounds, polyoxyalkylene ether compounds, and water in the cleaning solution, as well as the surface tension of the cleaning solution itself. It should be noted that the surface tension was measured using an automated surface tension meter CBVP-Z (manufactured by Kyowa Interface Science Co., Ltd.) at 25°C using the Wilhelmy method with a platinum plate. Furthermore, triethanolamine was incorporated into the cleaning solutions for each example, with a pH of 10-11. Table 7 also records the evaluation results for color development, bleeding, yellowing, abrasion resistance (dry), abrasion resistance (wet), and hand feel (shear hardness G) for each ink group.

[0245] 3.2. Evaluation Methods

[0246] 3.2.1. With cleaning test

[0247] In a cleaning tank equipped with two brush units and a scraper unit (two scrapers and one soft scraper), a specified amount (60L) of cleaning fluid is added. The printing action of the printer section synchronously drives the brush units in the cleaning tank to continuously perform a circular surface cleaning operation. The device uses a modified Seiko Epson Evo Tre16 machine. This device has… Figure 1 The structure shown.

[0248] Using ink groups 1 and 2 as described in Tables 1-3, a modified Evo Tre16 (manufactured by Seiko Epson Corporation) was used to print on the recording medium (pigment pretreated) under the conditions described in Table 7. Multiple main scans were performed on the same scanning area to form a 20cm x 5cm solid pattern image (black pigment ink, Duty 100%) on the recording medium. Next, a 5cm section of cloth was fed in the sub-scanning direction, and the same scanning area was printed again, forming a 20cm x 10cm solid pattern image on the recording medium through two printing passes. The ink injection rate was 30g / m². 2 The resolution is 600×600dpi.

[0249] The printing process is performed continuously. During this time, the cleaning solution for each example is introduced into the cleaning unit of the device, and the adhesive layer passing through the cleaning solution is cleaned by printing. It should be noted that 800g of ATR1946 (adhesive, manufactured by ATR Corporation) and 800g of ATR1947 (adhesive, manufactured by ATR Corporation) are mixed and used as the tape adhesive. Following the steps in the user manual, the mixed tape adhesive is applied to the tape to form an adhesive layer.

[0250] Tables 1 to 3 record the surface tension values ​​(mN / m) of the cleaning fluid for each example. The presence (Y) and absence (N) of the sliding friction components (cleaning brush), filtration unit (activated carbon filter), and (cleaning agent supply unit / water supply unit) for each example are also recorded.

[0251] Regarding the type of fabric used, "cuproximate twill" R10175, 100% cupro (Akabori Sangyo Co., Ltd.), was used as an easy-to-bond fabric. However, only in Example 11, "polyester blended twill" TR-3903, 65% polyester / 35% rayon (Masuda Co., Ltd.), was used as a difficult-to-bond fabric.

[0252] 3.2.2. Evaluation of Odor

[0253] A sensory evaluation of odor was conducted in a 1m radius around the cleaning area. Specifically, as a sensory test performed by 10 evaluators, odor assessment was carried out in six stages, and the average value was used for the assessment. The results are recorded in Tables 1 to 3.

[0254] (Odor assessment score: Functionality test)

[0255] 0: Odorless

[0256] 1: A slight odor can be detected.

[0257] 2: A faint odor (not unpleasant) can be detected.

[0258] 3: A moderate level of foul odor can be detected (a slightly unpleasant level).

[0259] 4: A strong, unpleasant odor that can be detected.

[0260] 5: Strong odor (very unpleasant level)

[0261] (Odor assessment results)

[0262] A: Average value less than 2 (the level at which the odor is not noticeable).

[0263] B: Average value above 2 and below 3 (smelling odor but at an acceptable level)

[0264] C: Average value above 3 (strongly noticeable odor and unpleasant level)

[0265] 3.2.3. Removal of lint and dirt

[0266] Close-up photographs were taken of the amount of loose threads and lint on the adhesive layer surface of the annular belt, and the average value was calculated by visually counting the obtained photographs. As the photographing sites, one of the most heavily contaminated areas was selected from five regions divided relative to the belt width, and a 1-inch square area was photographed at close range. The number of loose threads and lint present in the 1-inch square area was visually counted from the close-up photographs, and the average value of the five sites was calculated. The evaluation criteria are as follows, and the evaluation results are recorded in Tables 1 to 3.

[0267] A: No loose threads. On average, there is less than one lint (extremely good level).

[0268] B: No loose threads. On average, there are between 1 and 5 loose threads (good level).

[0269] C: No loose threads. On average, there are more than 5 loose fibers (slightly insufficient level).

[0270] D: On average, there are more than 0.2 loose threads. On average, there are more than 5 loose fibers (insufficient level).

[0271] 3.2.4. Removal of pigment / resin contamination

[0272] The adhesive strength of the adhesive layer was measured using a push-pull force gauge (FGP-1, manufactured by Nidec Drive Technology Co., Ltd.). As the test sites, one of the most heavily contaminated areas was selected from each of the three regions divided relative to the width of the strip, and the adhesive strength of the three sites was measured. The adhesive strength was measured by pasting short strips (50×200mm) of the following kapok fabric according to the steps in the user manual, monitoring the tension during peeling in the vertical direction, and calculating the average value of the three sites. Kapok fabric: A. FERRARIO Co., Ltd., Taffetas, 100% COTTON (124-132g / m²). 2 )

[0273] The evaluation criteria are as follows, and the results are recorded in Tables 1 to 3.

[0274] A: Average adhesion strength is above 3N / 50mm (extremely good level)

[0275] B: Average adhesion strength is above 2N / 50mm and less than 3N / 50mm (good level)

[0276] C: Average adhesion force is above 1N / 50mm and less than 2N / 50mm (slightly insufficient level).

[0277] D: Average adhesion force less than 1N / 50mm (insufficient level)

[0278] 3.2.5. Uneven concentration of floating color

[0279] After cleaning the adhesive layer, the specified fabric (CM80 satin) was adhered to the circular belt, and continuous printing and dyeing operations were performed again according to the user manual. By repeating the printing and dyeing operations, it was confirmed that contaminants (ink and lint, etc.) gradually accumulated on the adhesive layer on the circular belt, resulting in a decrease in adhesive strength. Whether fabric lifting occurred was checked until the adhesive strength decreased to below 0.2 N / 50 mm. The evaluation criteria are as follows, and the results are recorded in the table.

[0280] A: No fabric floated up (good level).

[0281] B: Fabric lifting only occurs at the ends (outside the image area) in the width direction of the fabric (at an acceptable level).

[0282] C: Fabric floats up within the image area (insufficient level).

[0283] D: Fabric floats up in multiple locations, making it difficult to secure the fabric relative to the loop belt (level of difficulty in fabric transport).

[0284] Furthermore, when no fabric floats up within the image area, no uneven density occurs on the image during image formation. When fabric floats up within the image area, visual inspection confirms that uneven density occurs on the image during image formation.

[0285] 3.2.6. Other

[0286] Visually inspect the liquid level in the cleaning tank after the printing operation. In Example 6, bubbling was observed in the cleaning tank. In embodiments other than Example 6, no bubbling was observed.

[0287] 3.3. Evaluation of the Ink Group

[0288] Using a modified Evo Tre16 (manufactured by Seiko Epson Corporation) apparatus, printing was performed on a recording medium of 100% white cotton wide fabric (#4000, manufactured by Nisshinbo Corporation) under the conditions described in Table 7. Multiple main scans were performed on the same scanning area to form a 20cm x 5cm solid pattern image on the fabric. Next, a 5cm section of fabric was fed in the sub-scanning direction, and the same scanning area was printed again in the same manner, forming a 20cm x 10cm solid pattern image on the fabric through two printings.

[0289] After the image is formed, it is left to stand for 3 minutes, and then heated in an oven at 160°C for 3 minutes to dry it, thereby producing the printed materials of each ink group. It should be noted that "solid pattern image" refers to an image in which the amount of each ink is applied as recorded in Table 7, and dots are uniformly formed on the entire surface of the recording area (main scanning direction × sub-scanning direction: 20cm × 10cm).

[0290] <Evaluation of color rendering (black)>

[0291] For the printed materials obtained by the above printing method, the optical density (OD value, Status E) of the black in the printed image was measured on the surface of the printed image using a colorimeter (FD-7, manufactured by Konica Minolta), and the determination was made according to the following criteria.

[0292] Judgment Criteria

[0293] SS: OD value above 1.60

[0294] S: OD value greater than 1.51 and less than 1.60

[0295] A: OD value is above 1.46 and below 1.51

[0296] B: OD value is 1.43 or higher and less than 1.46.

[0297] C: OD value greater than 1.35 and less than 1.43

[0298] <Evaluation of color bleeding>

[0299] In the above printing method, a printed material was prepared that had been left to dry in an oven at 160°C for 3 minutes after the image was formed, after being left to stand for 60 minutes. Furthermore, a printed material that had been dried after printing with the first ink (reaction solution) and the second ink (ink composition) was prepared as a reference. The boundary between the printed image area and the unprinted non-printed area was observed, and the difference in length (mm) in the sub-scanning direction of the printed image left to stand for 60 minutes relative to the reference was determined according to the following criteria.

[0300] Judgment Criteria

[0301] S: The length difference is less than 1mm.

[0302] A: The length difference is greater than 1mm but less than 3mm

[0303] B: The length difference is more than 3mm but less than 7mm

[0304] C: The length difference exceeds 7mm but is less than 12mm

[0305] <Evaluation of Yellowing>

[0306] In the above printing method, the third ink (softening liquid) is prepared to be applied at 30g / m³. 2 The printed fabric, created by recording on a recording cloth and drying it using the above method, has its surface L measured using a colorimeter (FD-7, Konica Minolta). a b As a sample, a fabric that had not been printed with a printer but dried in an oven at 160°C for 3 minutes was prepared, and L was similarly measured. a b This serves as a benchmark. For this benchmark, the color difference ΔE00 (ΔE2000) of the sample was calculated and determined according to the benchmark described below. It should be noted that since ink group 2 does not use a third ink, no color difference is generated in this evaluation.

[0307] Judgment Criteria

[0308] A: Color difference ΔE00 is less than 2.

[0309] B: Color difference ΔE00 exceeds 2 but is less than 7

[0310] <Evaluation of abrasion resistance (dry)>

[0311] For printed materials produced using the above printing method, a clock timer (FI-306, manufactured by TESTER Industries) was used, and a rag (white cotton cloth) was used to rub the image on the printed material 10 times with a load of 9N. Then, a colorimeter (FD-7, manufactured by Konica Minolta) was used to measure the optical density (OD, Status E) of the black in the printed image on the ink-stained area of ​​the rubbed rag, and the determination was made according to the following criteria.

[0312] Judgment Criteria

[0313] S: Black has an OD value below 0.15.

[0314] A: Black has an OD value exceeding 0.15 but below 0.19.

[0315] B: Black has an OD value exceeding 0.19 but below 0.23.

[0316] C: Black has an OD value exceeding 0.23 but below 0.33.

[0317] <Evaluation of abrasion resistance (wet)>

[0318] For printed materials produced using the above printing method, a clock gauge (FI-306, manufactured by TESTER Industries) was used. A cloth (white cotton) moistened with water equal to the weight of the cloth was rubbed 10 times on the image of the printed material under a load of 9N. Then, a colorimeter (FD-7, manufactured by Konica Minolta) was used to measure the optical density (OD, Status E) of the black in the printed image on the ink-stained area of ​​the rubbed cloth, and the determination was made according to the following criteria.

[0319] Judgment Criteria

[0320] S: Black has an OD of less than 0.26.

[0321] A: The OD of black is greater than 0.26 and less than 0.31.

[0322] B: Black has an OD greater than 0.31 and less than 0.45.

[0323] C: The OD of black exceeds 0.45.

[0324] <Evaluation of feel (shear hardness G)>

[0325] For the printed and dyed materials produced using the above printing method, the feel was evaluated through sensory evaluation. Specifically, any five judges were asked to answer either "not inferior to the original feel of the fabric" or "the printed and dyed fabric is stiff, and the original feel of the fabric is damaged," and the evaluation was conducted according to the following criteria.

[0326] Judgment Criteria

[0327] A: There are at least 3 judges who answered "It is no less than the original feel of the fabric".

[0328] B: There are fewer than two judges who answered "not inferior to the original feel of the fabric".

[0329] 3.4. Evaluation Results

[0330] As can be seen from Tables 1 to 3, an inkjet printing and recording apparatus comprises: an ink composition; an inkjet head for spraying the ink composition onto a fabric as the recording medium; an annular belt having an adhesive layer on its surface for carrying and conveying the fabric; a cleaning tank for storing a cleaning solution; a cleaning section for cleaning the annular belt, the annular belt having a sliding friction member that rubs against the adhesive layer within the cleaning tank; and a cleaning solution containing water and a cleaning agent containing a polyoxyalkylene ether compound. In the inkjet printing and recording apparatuses of various embodiments, the conveying properties of the annular belt (adhesive force of the adhesive layer) can be well maintained, and uneven concentration during image formation can be suppressed.

[0331] This invention includes structures that are substantially the same as those described in the embodiments, such as structures with the same function, method, and result, or structures with the same purpose and effect. Additionally, this invention includes structures that replace non-essential parts of the structures described in the embodiments. Furthermore, this invention includes structures that perform the same function or effect as those described in the embodiments, or structures capable of achieving the same purpose. Additionally, this invention includes structures incorporating known techniques into the structures described in the embodiments.

[0332] The following can be derived from the above implementation methods and variations.

[0333] Inkjet printing and recording devices have the following features: Ink composition; The inkjet head sprays the ink composition onto the fabric, which is the recording medium. A ring belt is used to carry and transport the fabric. The cleaning section cleans the annular belt; and Cleaning solution, The annular belt has an adhesive layer on its surface. The cleaning unit includes a cleaning tank for storing the cleaning fluid and a sliding friction component for rubbing the adhesive layer within the cleaning tank. The cleaning solution contains water and a cleaning agent comprising a polyoxyalkylene ether compound.

[0334] According to this inkjet printing and recording apparatus, each time the adhesive layer on the surface of the annular belt passes through the cleaning section, the dirt (originating from coloring and fixing materials of the ink composition, various functional materials, and threads from the fabric) attached to and fixed to the adhesive layer is scraped off and detached by friction using a sliding friction component. As a result, the cleaning solution stored in the cleaning tank gradually becomes contaminated, and the dirt easily re-adheres to the adhesive layer. However, according to this inkjet printing and recording apparatus, since the cleaning solution contains polyoxyalkylene ether compounds, it can promote the detachment of dirt originating from the ink composition from the adhesive layer, and the detached solid components dissolve / redisperse in water, thereby inhibiting the re-adhesion of solid components to the adhesive layer. Thus, during continuous printing and dyeing operations, contamination of the annular belt can be suppressed.

[0335] Furthermore, according to this inkjet printing and recording apparatus, since the cleaning solution contains polyoxyalkylene ether compounds, damage to the annular belt and adhesive layer (such as adhesive layer detachment) can be suppressed. Therefore, the transportability of the annular belt (adhesive layer adhesion) can be well maintained, and uneven density during image formation can be suppressed.

[0336] Alternatively, in the aforementioned inkjet printing and recording device, The content of the polyoxyalkylene ether compound in the cleaning solution is less than 80% by mass relative to the total amount of the cleaning solution.

[0337] According to this inkjet printing and recording device, it is possible to further suppress contamination of the annular zone.

[0338] Alternatively, in the aforementioned inkjet printing and recording device, The cleaning agent contains glycol ether compounds.

[0339] According to this inkjet printing and recording device, since the cleaning liquid can more easily penetrate into the space between the adhesive layer of the annular belt and the layer of the attached ink composition, it can easily cause the solid components of the ink composition layer to swell, thus making it easier for the attached solid components to fall off.

[0340] Alternatively, in the aforementioned inkjet printing and recording device, The glycol ether compound includes glycol ether compounds with a surface tension of less than 40 mN / m at 25°C.

[0341] According to this inkjet printing and recording device, since the cleaning liquid can more easily penetrate between the adhesive layer of the annular belt and the layer of the attached ink composition, it is easier to remove the attached solid components.

[0342] Alternatively, in the aforementioned inkjet printing and recording device, The glycol ether compound with a surface tension of less than 40 mN / m includes one or more selected from triethylene glycol monobutyl ether and 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol.

[0343] According to this inkjet printing and recording device, the cleaning solution has less odor and can more easily penetrate between the adhesive layer of the annular belt and the layer of the attached ink composition, thus making it easier for the attached solid components to detach.

[0344] Alternatively, in the aforementioned inkjet printing and recording device, The surface tension of the cleaning fluid at 25°C is below 40 mN / m.

[0345] According to this inkjet printing and recording device, since the cleaning liquid can more easily penetrate between the adhesive layer of the annular belt and the layer of the attached ink composition, it is easier to remove the attached solid components.

[0346] Alternatively, in the aforementioned inkjet printing and recording device, The polyoxyalkylene ether compound is polyethylene glycol mono-2-ethylhexyl ether.

[0347] According to this inkjet printing and recording device, since the solid components of the ink composition layer attached to the adhesive layer of the annular belt are more likely to swell, the attached solid components are more likely to detach.

[0348] Alternatively, in the aforementioned inkjet printing and recording device, The cleaning solution further contains an antifoaming agent.

[0349] According to this inkjet printing and recording device, although the cleaning fluid is prone to foaming due to the movement of the sliding friction parts, foaming can be suppressed by containing an antifoaming agent.

[0350] Alternatively, in the aforementioned inkjet printing and recording device, The cleaning section includes a filter section for filtering the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank.

[0351] According to this inkjet printing and recording apparatus, since the solid components and redispersed solid components in the cleaning solution can be filtered through the filtration section, contamination of the cleaning solution can be suppressed. This makes it easier to maintain the adhesion of the adhesive layer for a longer period. Furthermore, the frequency of maintenance requiring replacement of the cleaning solution stored in the cleaning tank can be reduced.

[0352] Alternatively, in the aforementioned inkjet printing and recording device, The filtration section has one or more options selected from activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis membrane filters.

[0353] According to this inkjet printing and recording device, the solid components and redispersed solid components in the cleaning solution are more easily removed through the filtration section, thereby making it easier to keep the cleaning solution clean.

[0354] Alternatively, in the aforementioned inkjet printing and recording device, It includes a cleaning agent supply unit that supplies the cleaning agent to the cleaning tank and a water supply unit that supplies water to the cleaning tank.

[0355] According to this inkjet printing and recording device, the supply of cleaning agent and water to the cleaning tank can be controlled, thereby allowing for variable concentration of the cleaning agent in the cleaning solution. This enables adjustment of the cleaning degree of the annular belt and the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer of the annular belt. Furthermore, this allows for better adhesion and peelability of a wider range of fabrics.

[0356] Alternatively, in the aforementioned inkjet printing and recording device, It has a control unit that controls the supply amount of the polyoxyalkylene ether compound supplied from the cleaning agent supply unit.

[0357] Alternatively, in the aforementioned inkjet printing and recording device, It has a control unit that controls the amount of water supplied from the water supply unit.

[0358] Alternatively, in the aforementioned inkjet printing and recording device, The device includes a pressure roller that adheres the conveying section to the fabric, and the pressure applied by the pressure roller is variable.

[0359] According to this inkjet printing and recording device, the pressure of the pressure roller can be adjusted, thereby easily adjusting the adhesion of the fabric to the annular belt.

[0360] Alternatively, in the aforementioned inkjet printing and recording device, The cleaning section has a scraper component that rubs against the adhesive layer.

[0361] According to this inkjet printing and recording device, liquid adhering to the annular belt can be scraped off.

[0362] Alternatively, in the aforementioned inkjet printing and recording device, The device includes a drying section for drying the annular belt after it has been cleaned by the cleaning section, and the drying section includes one or more selected from a water absorption mechanism, an air supply mechanism, and a heating mechanism.

[0363] According to this inkjet printing and recording device, the influence of the cleaning solution on the adhesion of the fabric when the ring-shaped tape is attached can be further reduced.

[0364] Alternatively, in the aforementioned inkjet printing and recording device, The ink composition is a coloring ink composition containing pigments.

[0365] When the ink composition contains pigments, the solid components of the coloring ink composition, such as resin and pigments, become more abundant. Therefore, the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer of the annular belt becomes more easily reduced. However, according to this inkjet printing and recording apparatus, not only can the reduction in adhesive strength be reduced, but also, since the coloring ink composition is a pigment ink, the post-printing cleaning process can be omitted or simplified.

[0366] Alternatively, in the aforementioned inkjet printing and recording device, The ink composition is a functional liquid containing organopolysiloxanes as resin particles.

[0367] According to this inkjet printing and recording device, it is easy to make the printed and dyed materials have a better feel and color development.

[0368] Alternatively, in the aforementioned inkjet printing and recording device, The ink composition does not contain colorants.

[0369] Inkjet printing recording methods include: The ink adhesion process involves ejecting an ink composition from the inkjet head and adhering it to the fabric that is being recorded. The conveying process involves placing the fabric on a circular belt for transport; and The cleaning process involves cleaning the annular belt. The annular belt has an adhesive layer on its surface. The cleaning section has a cleaning tank for storing cleaning fluid. The cleaning section has a sliding friction component that rubs the adhesive layer within the cleaning tank. The cleaning solution contains water and a cleaning agent comprising a polyoxyalkylene ether compound.

[0370] According to this inkjet printing recording method, each time the adhesive layer on the surface of the annular belt passes through the cleaning section, the dirt (originating from coloring and fixing materials of the ink composition, various functional materials, and threads from the fabric) attached to and fixed to the adhesive layer is scraped off and detached by friction using a sliding friction component. As a result, the contamination of the cleaning solution stored in the cleaning tank gradually intensifies, and dirt easily re-adheres to the adhesive layer. However, according to this inkjet printing recording method, since the cleaning solution contains polyoxyalkylene ether compounds, it can promote the detachment of dirt originating from the ink composition from the adhesive layer, and the detached solid components dissolve / redisperse in water, thereby inhibiting the re-adhesion of solid components to the adhesive layer. Thus, during continuous printing operations, contamination of the annular belt can be suppressed.

[0371] Furthermore, according to this inkjet printing recording method, since the cleaning solution contains polyoxyalkylene ether compounds, damage to the ring belt and adhesive layer (such as adhesive layer detachment) can be suppressed. Therefore, the transportability of the ring belt (adhesive layer adhesion) can be well maintained, and uneven concentration during image formation can be suppressed.

Claims

1. An inkjet printing and recording device, comprising: Ink composition; The inkjet head sprays the ink composition onto the fabric, which is the recording medium. A ring belt is used to carry and transport the fabric. The cleaning section cleans the annular belt; as well as Cleaning solution, The annular belt has an adhesive layer on its surface. The cleaning unit includes a cleaning tank for storing the cleaning fluid and a sliding friction component for rubbing the adhesive layer within the cleaning tank. The cleaning solution contains water and a cleaning agent comprising a polyoxyalkylene ether compound.

2. The inkjet printing and recording device according to claim 1, wherein, The content of the polyoxyalkylene ether compound in the cleaning solution is less than 80% by mass relative to the total amount of the cleaning solution.

3. The inkjet printing and recording device according to claim 1, wherein, The cleaning agent contains glycol ether compounds.

4. The inkjet printing and recording device according to claim 3, wherein, The glycol ether compound includes glycol ether compounds with a surface tension of less than 40 mN / m at 25°C.

5. The inkjet printing and recording apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The glycol ether compound with a surface tension of less than 40 mN / m includes one or more selected from triethylene glycol monobutyl ether and 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol.

6. The inkjet printing and recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The surface tension of the cleaning fluid at 25°C is below 40 mN / m.

7. The inkjet printing and recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The polyoxyalkylene ether compound is polyethylene glycol mono-2-ethylhexyl ether.

8. The inkjet printing and recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The cleaning solution further contains an antifoaming agent.

9. The inkjet printing and recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The cleaning section includes a filter section for filtering the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank.

10. The inkjet printing and recording apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, The filtration section has one or more options selected from activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis membrane filters.

11. The inkjet printing and recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, It includes a cleaning agent supply unit that supplies the cleaning agent to the cleaning tank and a water supply unit that supplies water to the cleaning tank.

12. The inkjet printing and recording apparatus according to claim 11, wherein, It has a control unit that controls the supply amount of the polyoxyalkylene ether compound supplied from the cleaning agent supply unit.

13. The inkjet printing and recording apparatus according to claim 11, wherein, It has a control unit that controls the amount of water supplied from the water supply unit.

14. The inkjet printing and recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The device includes a pressure roller that brings the conveying section into contact with the fabric, and the pressure applied by the pressure roller is variable.

15. The inkjet printing and recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The cleaning section has a scraper component that rubs against the adhesive layer.

16. The inkjet printing and recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The device includes a drying section for drying the annular belt after it has been cleaned by the cleaning section, and the drying section includes one or more selected from a water absorption mechanism, an air supply mechanism, and a heating mechanism.

17. The inkjet printing and recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The ink composition is a coloring ink composition containing pigments.

18. The inkjet printing and recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The ink composition is a functional liquid containing organopolysiloxanes as resin particles.

19. The inkjet printing and recording apparatus according to claim 18, wherein, The ink composition does not contain colorants.

20. An inkjet printing recording method, comprising: The ink adhesion process involves ejecting an ink composition from the inkjet head and adhering it to the fabric that is being recorded. The conveying process involves placing the fabric on a circular belt for transport; and The cleaning process involves cleaning the annular belt. The annular belt has an adhesive layer on its surface. The cleaning section has a cleaning tank for storing cleaning fluid. The cleaning section has a sliding friction component that rubs the adhesive layer within the cleaning tank. The cleaning solution contains water and a cleaning agent comprising a polyoxyalkylene ether compound.

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