Inkjet ink formulations and uses thereof

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a composition comprising a solvent comprising water, at least one colorant, and a colorant represented by formula (I): [Formula 1] TIFF2023536482000059.tif28162 (in the formula, R is a C1-C5 alkyl group; wherein M1, M2, and M3 are each, independently of one another, selected from hydrogen or an alkali metal cation, and wherein at least one of M1, M2, and M3 is an alkali metal cation. The water-based inkjet ink formulations are used in methods to prevent or minimize printhead degradation. The present disclosure further relates to printing methods that utilize the water-based inkjet ink formulations and printing systems that include the formulations.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to inkjet ink formulations and their use in preventing or minimizing degradation of print heads.

Background Art

[0002] In a printing system, a print head plate is used to inject ink onto a substrate. The print head plate can be damaged by being used intermittently under severe operating conditions such as high ink ejection frequency, high pressure, and high temperature.

[0003] In some cases, the contents of the inkjet ink alone or together with the operating conditions can cause degradation of the print head, such as damage to the structure and / or chemical properties of the print head.

[0004] Additives such as silicic acid, inorganic silicates, and colloidal silica are used in inkjet ink compositions to suppress degradation of the print head plate [1] - [5].

[0005] Cited References U.S. Patent No. 8,419,164 U.S. Patent No. 8,662,638 U.S. Patent No. 8,425,005 U.S. Patent No. 8,657,428 U.S. Patent No. 8,430,493

[0006] The following patent applications / published documents to the applicant provide potentially relevant background information and are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. International Publication No. 2013 / 132439 (PCT / IB2013 / 51755). International Publication No. 2015 / 036865 (PCT / IB2014 / 02395). International Publication No. 2017 / 208152 (PCT / IB2017 / 053177). International Publication No. 2013 / 132418 (PCT / IB2013 / 051716). International Publication No. 2019 / 012456 (PCT / IB2018 / 055126). International Publication No. 2020 / 003088 (PCT / IB2019 / 055288). International Publication No. 2013 / 132420 (PCT / IB2013 / 051718). International Publication No. 2015 / 036906 (PCT / IB2014 / 064277). International Publication No. 2020 / 136517 (PCT / IB2019 / 061081).

[0007] The recognition of the above-mentioned cited documents in this specification should not be inferred to mean that they are in any way related to the patentability of the subject matter currently disclosed. [Overview of the project]

[0008] The inventors of the present invention have developed an aqueous inkjet ink formulation containing at least one water-soluble alkali metal organosiliconate. Surprisingly, the inventors discovered that the presence of an alkali metal organosiliconate compound in the aqueous inkjet ink formulation of the present invention provides long-term protection of the printhead used in the printing process without causing a decrease in print quality or affecting the jetting characteristics. Furthermore, the inventors discovered that using an inorganic silicate (known for its ability to suppress printhead plate degradation) in the ink formulation at a concentration similar to that used with alkali metal organosiliconate, instead of the alkali metal organosiliconate, is insufficient to suppress printhead plate degradation, especially when using a white pigment such as titanium dioxide (TiO2).

[0009] The inkjet ink compositions of the present invention suppress the degradation of printhead plates, as demonstrated with both white and colored pigments, and therefore, it is possible to print in a wide variety of colors on various printing substrates, such as plastics (e.g., widely used with white pigments), textile substrates (e.g., coated and / or uncoated), and various intermediate transfer members (used in indirect printing methods, as detailed below herein).

[0010] Therefore, according to one embodiment, the present invention provides an aqueous inkjet ink formulation comprising: (a) A solvent containing water; (b) at least one coloring agent; (c) At least one alkali metal organosiliconate of formula (I) [ka] (In the formula, R is a C1-C5 alkyl group; M1, M2, and M3 are each independently selected from hydrogen or alkali metal cations, where at least one of M1, M2, and M3 is an alkali metal cation. At will, (d) at least one binder (e.g., an organic polymer resin).

[0011] In another embodiment, the present invention provides an aqueous inkjet ink formulation comprising: (a) A solvent containing water; (b) at least one colorant; and (c) At least one alkali metal organosiliconate of formula (I) [ka] (In the formula, R is a C1-C5 alkyl group; M1, M2, and M3 are each independently selected from hydrogen or alkali metal cations, where at least one of M1, M2, and M3 is an alkali metal cation.

[0012] In some embodiments, for example, when the aqueous inkjet ink formulation is used in an indirect printing process or system, the aqueous inkjet ink formulation may further include at least one binder (e.g., an organic polymer resin).

[0013] In one further embodiment, the present invention provides a method for preventing or minimizing the degradation of a printhead (for example, a printhead used in an inkjet printing process and forming part of a printing system), the method comprising utilizing a water-based inkjet ink formulation (for example, in a printing process), the formulation comprising at least one alkali metal organosiliconate of formula (I), [ka] (In the formula, R is a C1-C5 alkyl group; M1, M2, and M3 are each independently selected from hydrogen or alkali metal cations, where at least one of M1, M2, and M3 is an alkali metal cation), thereby preventing or minimizing printhead degradation. The water-based inkjet ink formulation further comprises a water-containing solvent, at least one colorant, and optionally at least one binder (e.g., an organic polymer resin).

[0014] In one further embodiment, the present invention provides a method for preventing or minimizing the degradation of a printhead (for example, a printhead used in an inkjet printing process and forming part of a printing system), the method comprising utilizing a water-based inkjet ink formulation (for example, in a printing process), the formulation comprising at least one alkali metal organosiliconate of formula (I), [ka] (In the formula, R is a C1-C5 alkyl group; M1, M2, and M3 are each independently selected from hydrogen or alkali metal cations, where at least one of M1, M2, and M3 is an alkali metal cation, thereby preventing or minimizing printhead degradation. The water-based inkjet ink formulation further comprises a water-containing solvent and at least one colorant.

[0015] In some embodiments, for example, when a water-based inkjet ink formulation is used in an indirect printing process or system, the water-based inkjet ink formulation used in a manner to prevent or minimize printhead degradation may further include at least one binder (e.g., an organic polymer resin).

[0016] In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides a method for preventing or minimizing the degradation of a printhead (e.g., a printhead used in an inkjet printing process and forming part of a printing system) using an aqueous inkjet ink formulation comprising a solvent comprising water, at least one colorant, and optionally at least one binder, the method comprising adding a sufficient amount of at least one alkali metal organosiliconate of formula (I) to the aqueous inkjet ink formulation: [ka] (In the formula, R is a C1-C5 alkyl group; M1, M2, and M3 are each independently selected from hydrogen or alkali metal cations, where at least one of M1, M2, and M3 is an alkali metal cation, thereby preventing or minimizing printhead degradation.

[0017] In one further aspect of the present invention, the present invention provides a method for preventing or minimizing the degradation of a printhead (for example, a printhead used in an inkjet printing process and forming part of a printing system), the method comprising using (for example, in a printing process) an aqueous inkjet ink formulation disclosed herein.

[0018] In one further embodiment, the present invention provides an aqueous inkjet ink formulation disclosed herein for use in a method for preventing or minimizing printhead degradation.

[0019] In one further embodiment, the present invention provides an aqueous inkjet ink formulation disclosed herein for use in preventing or minimizing printhead degradation.

[0020] Furthermore, in one further embodiment, the present invention provides an aqueous inkjet ink formulation comprising at least one alkali metal organosiliconate of formula (I) disclosed herein for use in preventing or minimizing printhead degradation.

[0021] In one further embodiment, the present invention provides an aqueous inkjet ink formulation comprising at least one alkali metal organosiliconate of formula (I) disclosed herein for use in a manner that prevents or minimizes printhead degradation.

[0022] In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides aqueous inkjet ink formulations disclosed herein for use in, for example, the printing processes described herein.

[0023] In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides an aqueous inkjet ink formulation disclosed herein, which forms, for example, part of a printing system described herein.

[0024] In one further embodiment, the present invention provides a printing method utilizing an aqueous inkjet ink formulation disclosed herein.

[0025] In one further embodiment, the present invention provides a printing system comprising an aqueous inkjet ink formulation disclosed herein.

[0026] In one further aspect of the present invention, the present invention provides a printing system comprising an image forming station including one or more print bars, each of which is configured to hold an ink formulation, and includes one or more print heads, each of which is configured to spray an ink formulation onto a printing substrate to form an ink image on the substrate, wherein at least one of the one or more print bars is configured to hold a water-based inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention.

[0027] Furthermore, in one of its embodiments, the present invention is An intermediate transfer member including the surface of the release layer; An image forming station comprising one or more print bars, each print bar configured to hold an ink formulation, and comprising one or more print heads, each of which is configured to spray an ink formulation onto a release layer surface to form an ink image thereon, wherein at least one of the print bars is configured to hold a water-based inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention; The present invention provides a printing system comprising a transfer station for transferring an ink image from an intermediate transfer member to a printing substrate;

[0028] Furthermore, in one further embodiment, the present invention provides a printing system and printing process substantially as described herein.

[0029] To better understand the subject matter disclosed herein and to illustrate how it can actually be carried out, embodiments are described here only as non-limiting examples with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0030] [Figure 1] This is a schematic side view of a printing system (e.g., a digital printing system) according to some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 2] The image shows a top view of a scanning electron microscope (SEM) image of a coupon simulating a nozzle plate according to several embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 3] A schematic side view of a coupon simulating a silicon nozzle plate according to several embodiments of the present invention is shown. [Figure 4A-G] This image shows a top view of a coupon simulating a nozzle plate, treated with an inkjet ink formulation containing a white coloring agent, as seen in the SEM image. [Figure 5A-C] This image shows a top view of a coupon simulating a nozzle plate, treated with an inkjet ink formulation containing magenta colorant, as seen in the SEM image. Detailed description of the invention

[0031] This invention is based on a novel concept that utilizes alkali metal organosiliconates in aqueous inkjet ink formulations to suppress the deterioration of printheads, which form part of a printing system.

[0032] Alkali metal organosiliconates help improve the lifespan of printheads used with ink formulations in the printing process, which may be directly or indirectly related to the printing process.

[0033] The improvement in printhead lifespan is directly related to the ability of the inkjet ink composition of the present invention to suppress printhead degradation. A non-limiting example is the ability to suppress the degradation of the liquid-repellent properties of a printhead, for example, a silicon printhead whose surface is coated with a liquid-repellent film containing a fluoroalkylsilane portion.

[0034] While we do not wish to be bound by theory, the inventors of this invention believe that alkali metal organosiliconates can impart to ink formulations the ability to protect the printhead surface from chemical damage.

[0035] Therefore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the present invention provides an aqueous inkjet ink formulation comprising the following: (a) A solvent containing water; (b) at least one colorant; and (c) At least one alkali metal organosiliconate of formula (I) [ka] (In the formula, R is a C1-C5 alkyl group; M1, M2, and M3 are each independently selected from hydrogen or alkali metal cations, where at least one of M1, M2, and M3 is an alkali metal cation.

[0036] This specification details various embodiments in relation to the aforementioned aspects. It should be noted that one or more embodiments detailed in relation to the aqueous inkjet ink formulations of the present invention are also applicable to other aspects of the present invention, such as methods, processes, uses, and systems, with necessary modifications.

[0037] In some embodiments, the aqueous inkjet ink formulation of the present invention may further include at least one binder (e.g., an organic polymer resin).

[0038] In some embodiments, the inkjet ink formulation is (a) A solvent containing water; (b) at least one coloring agent; (c) At least one alkali metal organosiliconate of formula (I) [ka] (In the formula, R is a C1-C5 alkyl group; M1, M2, and M3 are each independently selected from hydrogen or alkali metal cations, where at least one of M1, M2, and M3 is an alkali metal cation. At will, (d) comprising at least one binder (e.g., an organic polymer resin).

[0039] The inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention is configured for use in preventing or minimizing the degradation of a printhead, for example, a printhead used in an inkjet printing process and forming part of a printing system.

[0040] The present invention further provides a method for preventing or minimizing the degradation of a printhead as disclosed herein.

[0041] The alkali metal organosiliconates of the present invention can be obtained by procedures known in the art.

[0042] In some embodiments, the alkali metal organosiliconates of the present invention are available from Wacker Silicones, Dow Chemical, and Gelest.

[0043] As used herein, the group "C1-C5 alkyl" is an alkyl group containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms (including 1 and 5), which may be linear or branched and / or substituted at any position. In some embodiments, the number of carbon atoms in the alkyl chain may be selected from 1-2, 1-3, 1-4, or 1-5. Thus, a group designated as C1-C5 alkyl may contain 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 carbon atoms.

[0044] Examples of alkyl groups, though not limited to these, include methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, isobutyl, tert-butyl, and n-pentyl. As used herein, the term "substituted" in relation to "C1-C5 alkyl" refers to a hydrocarbon group containing one or more heteroatoms of oxygen (e.g., OH), nitrogen (e.g., NH2), sulfur, phosphorus, or halogen (e.g., F, Cl, Br, or I). The presence of heteroatoms can help solubilize alkali metal organosiliconates in aqueous inkjet formulations, for example, when the alkyl group has 3-5 or 4-5 carbon atoms.

[0045] In some embodiments of the present invention, R is a linear or branched C1-C5 alkyl group.

[0046] In some embodiments of the present invention, R is a substituted or unsubstituted C1-C5 alkyl group.

[0047] In some embodiments of the present invention, R is a substituted C1-C5 alkyl group.

[0048] In some embodiments of the present invention, R is a substituted C1-C5 alkyl group, and the substituent is a polar group selected to improve the solubility of the alkali metal organosiliconate in water.

[0049] In some embodiments of the present invention, the polar substituent is a hydroxyl group.

[0050] In some embodiments according to the present invention, R is a C1-C3 alkyl group.

[0051] In some embodiments according to the present invention, R is selected from methyl, ethyl, propyl or isopropyl.

[0052] In some embodiments according to the present invention, R is methyl.

[0053] In some embodiments according to the present invention, R is ethyl.

[0054] In some embodiments according to the present invention, R is propyl.

[0055] In some embodiments according to the present invention, R is isopropyl.

[0056] As used herein, the term "alkali metal" refers to any one of the chemical elements lithium (Li), sodium (Na), potassium (K), rubidium (Rb), cesium (Cs), and francium (Fr).

[0057] In the alkali metal organosilicate of the present invention, at least one of the groups O is negatively charged (i.e., anionic), and is charge-balanced by an alkali metal cation, such as Li + , Na + , K + , Rb + , Cs + or Fr + .

[0058] In some embodiments according to the present invention, two of the groups O in the alkali metal organosilicate are negatively charged, and are charge-balanced by an alkali metal cation, such as Li + , Na + , K + , Rb + , Cs + or Fr +The charge is balanced by these forces, which may be the same or different.

[0059] In some embodiments of the present invention, the three oxygen groups in the alkali metal organosiliconate are negatively charged, and the alkali metal cation, for example Li, is present. + kaNa + , K + , Rb + , Cs + or Fr + The charge is balanced by these forces, which may be the same or different.

[0060] In some embodiments of the present invention, the three oxygen groups in the alkali metal organosiliconate are negatively charged, and the alkali metal cation, for example Li, is present. + kaNa + , K + , Rb + , Cs + or Fr + They are in charge equilibrium, and these are the same alkali metal cations.

[0061] In some embodiments of the present invention, the charge equilibrium of one or more O groups in the alkali metal organosiliconate according to the present invention is Li + It could be due to this.

[0062] In some embodiments of the present invention, the charge equilibrium of one or more O groups in the alkali metal organosiliconate according to the present invention is Na + It could be due to this.

[0063] In some embodiments of the present invention, the charge equilibrium of one or more O groups of the alkali metal organosiliconate according to the present invention is K + It could be due to this.

[0064] In some embodiments of the present invention, the charge equilibrium of one or more O groups in the alkali metal organosiliconate according to the present invention is Rb + It could be due to this.

[0065] In some embodiments of the present invention, the charge equilibrium of one or more O groups in the alkali metal organosiliconate according to the present invention is Cs + It could be due to this.

[0066] In some embodiments of the present invention, in the alkali metal organosiliconate of the present invention, when M1, M2, and M3 are independently different from hydrogen, the bond between the oxygen atom and M1, M2, and M3 is an ionic bond.

[0067] In some embodiments of the present invention, two of M1, M2, and M3 in the alkali metal organosiliconate are hydrogen, and the third is an alkali metal cation.

[0068] In some embodiments of the present invention, the alkali metal cation is Li + kaNa + , K + , Rb + , Cs + , or any combination thereof.

[0069] In some embodiments of the present invention, the alkali metal cation is Li + kaNa + , K + , or any combination thereof.

[0070] In some embodiments of the present invention, the alkali metal cation is Na + That is the case.

[0071] In some embodiments of the present invention, the alkali metal cation is K + That is the case. In some embodiments of the present invention, the alkali metal cation is Li + That is the case.

[0072] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is selected from the group consisting of: [ka]

[0073] In some embodiments of the present invention, R is methyl, and at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is selected from the group consisting of: [ka]

[0074] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is selected from the group consisting of: [ka]

[0075] In some embodiments of the present invention, R is methyl, and at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is selected from the group consisting of: [ka]

[0076] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is selected from the group consisting of: [ka]

[0077] In some embodiments of the present invention, R is methyl, and at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is selected from the group consisting of: [ka]

[0078] In some embodiments of the present invention, the alkali metal organosiliconate is selected from the group consisting of: [ka] and any combination thereof.

[0079] In some embodiments of the present invention, R is methyl, and the alkali metal organosiliconate is selected from the group consisting of: [ka] and any combination thereof.

[0080] In some embodiments of the present invention, the alkali metal organosiliconate is selected from the group consisting of: [ka] and any combination thereof.

[0081] In some embodiments of the present invention, R is methyl, and the alkali metal organosiliconate is selected from the group consisting of: [ka] and any combination thereof.

[0082] In some embodiments of the present invention, the alkali metal organosiliconate is selected from the group consisting of: [ka] and combinations thereof.

[0083] In some embodiments of the present invention, R is methyl, and the alkali metal organosiliconate is selected from the group consisting of: [ka] and combinations thereof.

[0084] In some embodiments of the present invention, the alkali metal organosiliconate is selected from the group consisting of: [ka] and combinations thereof.

[0085] In some embodiments of the present invention, the alkali metal organosiliconate is selected from the group consisting of: [ka] and combinations thereof.

[0086] In some embodiments of the present invention, R is methyl, and the alkali metal organosiliconate is selected from the group consisting of: [ka] and combinations thereof.

[0087] In some embodiments of the present invention, R is methyl, and the alkali metal organosiliconate is selected from the group consisting of: [ka] and combinations thereof.

[0088] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is [ka] That is the case.

[0089] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is [ka] That is the case.

[0090] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is sodium methylsiliconate, which may sometimes be called the sodium salt of methylsilanetriol or sodium methylsilantriolate.

[0091] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is sodium methyl siliconate with CAS number 16589-43-8.

[0092] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is sodium methyl siliconate having the chemical formula CH5NaO3Si.

[0093] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is sodium methyl siliconate having the chemical formula CH3Na3O3Si.

[0094] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is [ka] That is the case.

[0095] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is [ka] That is the case.

[0096] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is potassium methylsiliconate, which may sometimes be called the potassium salt of methylsilanetriol or potassium methylsilantriolate.

[0097] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is potassium methyl siliconate with CAS number 31795-24-1.

[0098] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is potassium methyl siliconate having the chemical formula CH5KO3Si.

[0099] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is potassium methyl siliconate having the chemical formula CH3K3O3Si.

[0100] In some embodiments, the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention does not contain one or more inorganic silicates.

[0101] In some embodiments, the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention may further contain one or more inorganic silicates.

[0102] In some embodiments, the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention may further contain one or more inorganic silicates as a dispersant.

[0103] In some embodiments, the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention may further contain one or more inorganic silicates, for example, if the ink formulation contains colored ink, which can prevent or minimize printhead degradation. For this purpose, the effects of one or more inorganic silicates and at least one alkali metal organosiliconate of the present invention may provide an additive effect. In some cases, this effect may be synergistic.

[0104] In some embodiments, the aqueous inkjet ink formulations according to the present invention do not contain colloidal silica.

[0105] In some embodiments, the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention may further contain one or more colloidal silica particles.

[0106] In some embodiments, one or more colloidal silicas can prevent or minimize printhead degradation, for example, when the ink formulation contains colored inks. For this purpose, the effects of one or more colloidal silicas and at least one alkali metal organosiliconate of the present invention may provide an additive effect. In some cases, this effect may be synergistic.

[0107] The term "approximately" as used above and below in this specification means ±10% of the indicated value.

[0108] In some embodiments, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is present in the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention at a concentration of at least about 0.01 w / w%, sometimes at least about 0.05 w / w%, and sometimes at least about 0.1 w / w%.

[0109] In some embodiments, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is present in the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention at a concentration of at least about 0.1 w / w%.

[0110] In some embodiments, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is present in the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention at a concentration of about 0.1 w / w%.

[0111] In some embodiments, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is present in the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention at a concentration of about 0.01 w / w% to about 1.0 w / w% (including 0.01 w / w% and 1.0 w / w%). Any value within the above concentration range, for example, 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, 0.09, 0.10, 0.11, 0.12, 0.13, 0.14, 0.15, 0.16, 0.17, 0.18, 0.19, 0.20, 0.21, 0.22, 0.23, 0.24, 0.25, 0.26, 0.27, 0.28, 0.29, 0.30, 0.31, 0.32, 0.33, 0.34, 0.35, 0.36, 0.37, 0.38, 0.39, 0.40, 0.41, 0.42, 0.43, 0.44, 0.45, 0.46, 0.47, 0.48, 0.49, 0.50 , 0.51, 0.52, 0.53, 0.54, 0.55, 0.56, 0.57, 0.58, 0.59, 0.60, 0.61, 0.62, 0.63, 0.64, 0.65, 0.66, 0.67, 0.68, 0.69, 0.70, 0.71, 0.72, 0.73, 0.74, 0.75, 0.76, 0. 77, 0.78, 0.79, 0.80, 0.81, 0.82, 0.83, 0.84, 0.85, 0.86, 0.87, 0.88, 0.89, 0.90, 0.91, 0.92, 0.93, 0.94, 0.95, 0.96, 0.97, 0.98, 0.99, and 1.00 w / w% are within the scope of the present invention.

[0112] In some embodiments, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is present in the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention at a concentration of about 0.05 w / w% to about 0.5 w / w% (including 0.05 w / w% and 0.5 w / w%). Any value within the above concentration range, for example, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, 0.09, 0.10, 0.11, 0.12, 0.13, 0.14, 0.15, 0.16, 0.17, 0.18, 0.19, 0.20, 0.21, 0.22, 0.23, 0.24, 0.25, 0.26, 0.27 0.28, 0.29, 0.30, 0.31, 0.32, 0.33, 0.34, 0.35, 0.36, 0.37, 0.38, 0.39, 0.40, 0.41, 0.42, 0.43, 0.44, 0.45, 0.46, 0.47, 0.48, 0.49, and 0.50 w / w% are within the scope of the present invention.

[0113] In some embodiments, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is present in the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention at a concentration of about 0.1 w / w% to about 0.5 w / w% (including 0.1 w / w% and 0.5 w / w%). Any value within the above concentration range, for example, 0.10, 0.11, 0.12, 0.13, 0.14, 0.15, 0.16, 0.17, 0.18, 0.19, 0.20, 0.21, 0.22, 0.23, 0.24, 0.25, 0.26, 0.27, 0.28, 0.29, 0.30, 0.31, 0.32, 0.33, 0.34, 0.35, 0.36, 0.37, 0.38, 0.39, 0.40, 0.41, 0.42, 0.43, 0.44, 0.45, 0.46, 0.47, 0.48, 0.49, and 0.50 are within the scope of the present invention. In some cases, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is present in the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention at a concentration of about 0.15, 0.20, 0.25, 0.30, 0.35, 0.40, or 0.45 w / w%.

[0114] Unless otherwise specified, "concentration" refers to w / w, that is, the weight of the components of the water-based inkjet ink formulation per unit weight of the total formulation.

[0115] The alkali metal organosiliconates according to the present invention can be added to or form part of inkjet ink formulations known in the art. Non-limiting examples of ink formulations that can be used in the present invention are those disclosed in the applicant's patent publications WO2013 / 132439 (PCT / IB2013 / 51755)[6], WO2015 / 036865 (PCT / IB2014 / 02395)[7], and WO2017 / 208152 (PCT / IB2017 / 053177)[8], the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0116] The aqueous inkjet ink formulation of the present invention is an aqueous ink. In some embodiments, water constitutes at least about 30 w / w%, and sometimes about 50 w / w or more, of the formulation.

[0117] In some embodiments of the present invention, water constitutes about 30 w / w% to about 65 w / w% (including 30 w / w% and 65 w / w%). Any value within the above concentration range, for example, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, and 65 w / w%, is within the scope of the present invention.

[0118] In some embodiments, the aqueous inkjet ink formulation of the present invention may further contain at least one cosolvent.

[0119] In some embodiments, the aqueous inkjet ink formulation of the present invention may optionally further contain one or more water-miscible cosolvents.

[0120] In some embodiments of the present invention, the aqueous ink formulation may further include at least one binder.

[0121] In some embodiments, at least one binder can be dispersed in water and any cosolvent, or at least partially dissolved.

[0122] In some embodiments, at least one binder is dispersed in water and any cosolvent, or at least partially dissolved.

[0123] In some embodiments, at least one binder is an organic polymer resin binder.

[0124] In some embodiments, at least one binder is an organic polymer resin binder, which is dispersed or at least partially dissolved in water and any cosolvent.

[0125] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one binder in the ink formulation is an anionic binder, such as an acrylic binder and / or a sulfonic acid binder. Similar anionic binders are within the scope of the present invention.

[0126] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one binder in the ink formulation is a negatively charged organic polymer resin.

[0127] In some embodiments of the present invention, the average molecular weight of the negatively charged organic polymer resin is at least 8,000.

[0128] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one binder in the ink formulation is an acrylic polymer and / or an acrylic-styrene copolymer (for example, having an average molecular weight of about 60,000 g / mol).

[0129] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one binder is present in the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention at a concentration of about 5.0 w / w% to about 15.0 w / w% (including 5.0 w / w% and 15.0 w / w%). Any value within the above concentration range, for example, 5.0, 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, 7.0, 7.5, 8.0, 8.5, 9.0, 9.5, 10.0, 10.5, 11.0, 11.5, 12.0, 12.5, 13.0, 13.5, 14.0, 14.5, and 15.0 w / w%, is within the scope of the present invention.

[0130] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one binder is present in the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention at a concentration of about 6.0 w / w% to about 12.0 w / w% (including 6.0 w / w% and 12.0 w / w%). Any value within the above concentration range, for example, 6.0, 6.5, 7.0, 7.5, 8.0, 8.5, 9.0, 9.5, 10.0, 10.5, 11.0, 11.5, and 12.0 w / w%, is within the scope of the present invention.

[0131] In some embodiments of the present invention, the aqueous ink formulation may further include at least one binder and be used in an indirect printing process. For this purpose, at least one binder is present in the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention at a concentration of about 5.0 w / w% to about 15.0 w / w% (including 5.0 w / w% and 15.0 w / w%) (sometimes about 6.0 w / w% to about 12.0 w / w%). Any value within the above concentration range, for example, 5.0, 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, 7.0, 7.5, 8.0, 8.5, 9.0, 9.5, 10.0, 10.5, 11.0, 11.5, 12.0, 12.5, 13.0, 13.5, 14.0, 14.5, and 15.0 w / w%, is within the scope of the present invention.

[0132] Non-limiting examples of binders include polystyrene-acrylate copolymers, polyacrylate polymers, polyurethanes (e.g., aliphatic polyurethanes such as anionic aliphatic polyurethanes), urethane-acrylate copolymers, and polyesters (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate).

[0133] Examples of styrene-acrylic (or polystyrene-acrylate) copolymers include Joncryl® 77E, Joncryl® 586, Joncryl® 90, Joncryl® 8085, and Joncryl® ECO2177.

[0134] An example of polyurethane is NeoRez® R-563, an anionic aliphatic polyurethane from DSM-PUD.

[0135] An example of an acrylic or polyacrylic binder is Joncryl® 538 acrylic polymer emulsion.

[0136] Examples of polyesters include Plascoat Z-105, Plascoat Z-730, and Plascoat Z-750 (all from GOO Chemicals).

[0137] The binder can be supplied in various forms, such as dispersions or emulsions, where water is typically the primary carrier liquid.

[0138] In some embodiments, the binder is a styrene-acrylic emulsion.

[0139] In some embodiments, the ink formulation according to the present invention may further contain at least one plasticizer.

[0140] Non-limiting examples of the plasticizer family include urea derivatives and sorbitan derivatives. Such sorbitan derivatives may include derivatives of sorbitan esters (e.g., SPAN20, SPAN40, SPAN60, and SPAN80) and polyethoxylated sorbitan esters (e.g., polyethoxylated sorbitan monoesters such as TWEEN20, TWEEN40, TWEEN60, and TWEEN80).

[0141] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one plasticizer is present in the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention at a concentration of about 2.0 w / w% to about 6.0 w / w% (including 2.0 w / w% and 6.0 w / w%). Any value within the above concentration range, for example, 2.0, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3.0, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 4.0, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9, 5.0, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, 2.8, 5.9, and 6.0 w / w%, is within the scope of the present invention.

[0142] In some embodiments, the plasticizer is TWEEN20.

[0143] In some embodiments, the ink formulation according to the present invention may further include at least one dispersant.

[0144] Non-limiting examples of applicable dispersants include polyanionic and polymer dispersants.

[0145] In some embodiments, the dispersant is Dispex® Ultra PX4575.

[0146] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one dispersant is present in the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention at a concentration of about 1.0 w / w% to about 2.5 w / w% (including 1.0 w / w% and 2.5 w / w%). Any value within the above concentration range, for example, 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2.0, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, and 2.5 w / w%, is within the scope of the present invention.

[0147] In some embodiments, the ink formulation according to the present invention may further include at least one additive.

[0148] Non-limiting examples of such additives are surfactants such as siloxanes and siloxane copolymers, e.g., polyethersiloxane copolymers (used, for example, to reduce the surface tension of a formulation and / or to improve its wetting properties). Such surfactants are commercially available, for example, as Tego® Wet240, Tego® Wet280, Tego® Twin4100, Byk® 348, Byk® 349, and Byk® 3455.

[0149] Further non-exclusive exemplary additives include surface energy modifiers (e.g., used to reduce the surface energy of a formulation), such as silicone-based surfactants including polysiloxane-polyoxyalkylene copolymers. Such surface energy modifiers are commercially available, for example, as Byk® 307, Byk® 333, and Byk® 378.

[0150] In some embodiments, the additive is Tego® Wet240.

[0151] In some embodiments, the additive is Byk® 333.

[0152] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one additive is present in the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention at a concentration of about 1.5 w / w% to about 3.0 w / w% (including 1.5 w / w% and 3.0 w / w%). Any value within the above concentration range, for example, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2.0, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, and 3.0 w / w%, is within the scope of the present invention.

[0153] In some embodiments, the surfactant is a nonionic surfactant.

[0154] In some embodiments, the surfactant is an anionic surfactant.

[0155] In some embodiments, the ink formulation according to the present invention may further contain at least one cosolvent. In some embodiments, the cosolvent is miscible with water. In some embodiments, the cosolvent is miscible with water at at least one specific temperature in the range of 20°C to 60°C, thereby the solvent is a single-phase solvent. In some embodiments, the cosolvent is selected to provide a single-phase solvent having a reduced vapor pressure relative to water at at least one specific temperature in the range of 20°C to 60°C. In some embodiments, the cosolvent is selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerol, PEG400, N-methylpyrrolidone, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the cosolvent is selected from the group consisting of dipropylene glycol, tripylene glycol methyl ether, DMSO, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the cosolvent constitutes at least 5 w / w%, at least 10 w / w%, at least 15 w / w%, at least 20 w / w%, at least 25 w / w%, at least 30 w / w%, at least 35 w / w%, or at least 40 w / w% of the weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the cosolvent constitutes 40% or less, 35 w / w% or less, 30 w / w% or less, 25 w / w% or less, 20 w / w% or less, 15 w / w% or less, 10 w / w% or less, or 5 w / w% or less of the weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the cosolvent-to-water ratio is in the range of 0.1:1 to 1:1 on a weight-to-weight basis.

[0156] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one cosolvent is present in the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention at a concentration of about 12.0 w / w% to about 25.0 w / w% (including 12.0 w / w% and 25.0 w / w%). Any value within the above concentration range, for example, 12.0, 12.5, 13.0, 13.5, 14.0, 14.5, 15.0, 15.5, 16.0, 16.5, 17.0, 17.5, 18.0, 18.5, 19.0, 19.5, 20.0, 20.5, 21.0, 21.5, 22.0, 22.5, 23.0, 23.5, 24.0, 24.5, and 25.0 w / w%, is within the scope of the present invention.

[0157] In some embodiments, the cosolvent is propylene glycol.

[0158] The terms “colorant” and “coloring agent” as used herein, or any linguistic variations thereof, are interchangeable.

[0159] In some embodiments, the colorant comprises a pigment or a mixture of pigments.

[0160] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one pigment is present in the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention at a concentration of about 8.0 w / w% to about 18.0 w / w% (including 8.0 w / w% and 18.0 w / w%). Any value within the above concentration range, for example, 8.0, 8.5, 9.0, 9.5, 10.0, 10.5, 11.0, 11.5, 12.0, 12.5, 13.0, 13.5, 14.0, 14.5, 15.0, 15.5, 16.0, 16.5, 17.0, 17.5 and 18.0 w / w%, is within the scope of the present invention.

[0161] In some embodiments, the colorant constitutes at least about 1.0 w / w% of the formulation.

[0162] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one colorant is present in the aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention at a concentration of about 1.0 w / w% to about 5.0 w / w% (including 1.0 w / w% and 5.0 w / w%). Any value within the above concentration range, for example, 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2.0, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3.0, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 4.0, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9, and 5.0 w / w% are within the scope of the present invention.

[0163] In some embodiments, the colorant contains less than 5% pigment.

[0164] In some embodiments of the present invention, the colorant comprises at least one white pigment.

[0165] In some embodiments, the white pigment is TiO2.

[0166] In some embodiments, at least one colorant is dispersed or at least partially dissolved in water and any at least one cosolvent.

[0167] In some embodiments, the various components of the ink formulation according to the present invention are as disclosed and illustrated herein.

[0168] As described above, the inventors of the present invention have found that the presence of the alkali metal organosiliconate of the present invention in the disclosed ink formulation provides a beneficial effect of suppressing one or more degradation effects of print heads used in inkjet systems.

[0169] Therefore, in one further embodiment, the present invention provides the aqueous inkjet ink formulations herein for use in preventing or minimizing printhead degradation.

[0170] In one further aspect of the present invention, the present invention provides a method for preventing or minimizing the degradation of a printhead used in an inkjet printing process (and forming part of a printing system), the method comprising utilizing the aqueous inkjet ink formulation of the present invention in the printing process, thereby preventing or minimizing the degradation of the printhead.

[0171] In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides a method for preventing or minimizing the degradation of a printhead, wherein the printhead is, for example, used in an inkjet printing process and forms part of a printing system utilizing an aqueous inkjet ink formulation comprising water, at least one colorant, and optionally at least one binder, and the method comprises adding a sufficient amount of at least one alkali metal organosiliconate of formula (I) to the aqueous inkjet ink formulation: [ka] (In the formula, R is a C1-C5 alkyl group; M1, M2, and M3 are each independently selected from hydrogen or alkali metal cations, where at least one of M1, M2, and M3 is an alkali metal cation, thereby preventing or minimizing printhead degradation.

[0172] In some embodiments of the method of the present invention, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is added to the ink formulation to yield a concentration of at least about 0.01 w / w% in the formulation.

[0173] In some embodiments of the method of the present invention, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is added to the ink formulation to yield a concentration of at least about 0.05 w / w% in the formulation.

[0174] In some embodiments of the method of the present invention, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is added to the ink formulation to result in a concentration of about 0.01 w / w% to about 1.0 w / w%, and sometimes about 0.1 w / w% to about 0.5 w / w%, in the formulation.

[0175] In one further embodiment, the present invention provides a method for preventing or minimizing printhead degradation, the method utilizing an aqueous inkjet ink formulation comprising at least one alkali metal organosiliconate of formula (I) [ka] (In the formula, R is a C1-C5 alkyl group; M1, M2, and M3 are each independently selected from hydrogen or alkali metal cations, where at least one of M1, M2, and M3 is an alkali metal cation), thereby preventing or minimizing printhead degradation, and the water-based inkjet ink formulation further comprises a water-containing solvent, at least one colorant, and optionally at least one binder.

[0176] In some embodiments, the printhead is used in the inkjet printing process.

[0177] In some embodiments, the print head forms part of the printing system.

[0178] Various embodiments described herein in relation to the inkjet ink formulations of the present invention are applicable to the methods of the present invention with necessary modifications.

[0179] In some embodiments of the present invention, for example, in the methods disclosed herein, at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is present in the aqueous inkjet ink formulation of the present invention in an amount sufficient to prevent or minimize printhead degradation. In some embodiments, a sufficient amount is at least about 0.01 w / w%, and sometimes at least about 0.05 w / w%. In some embodiments, a sufficient amount is about 0.01 w / w% to about 1.0 w / w%. Any value within the above concentration range, for example, 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, 0.09, 0.10, 0.11, 0.12, 0.13, 0.14, 0.15, 0.16, 0.17, 0.18, 0.19, 0.20, 0.21, 0.22, 0.23, 0.24, 0.25, 0.26, 0.27, 0.28, 0.29, 0.30, 0.31, 0.32, 0.33, 0.34, 0.35, 0.36, 0.37, 0.38, 0.39, 0.40, 0.41, 0.42, 0.43, 0.44, 0.45, 0.46, 0.47, 0.48, 0.49, 0.50 , 0.51, 0.52, 0.53, 0.54, 0.55, 0.56, 0.57, 0.58, 0.59, 0.60, 0.61, 0.62, 0.63, 0.64, 0.65, 0.66, 0.67, 0.68, 0.69, 0.70, 0.71, 0.72, 0.73, 0.74, 0.75, 0.76, 0. 77, 0.78, 0.79, 0.80, 0.81, 0.82, 0.83, 0.84, 0.85, 0.86, 0.87, 0.88, 0.89, 0.90, 0.91, 0.92, 0.93, 0.94, 0.95, 0.96, 0.97, 0.98, 0.99, and 1.00 w / w% are within the scope of the present invention. In some embodiments, a sufficient amount is about 0.05 w / w% to about 1.0 w / w%, and sometimes about 0.1 w / w% to about 0.5 w / w%.

[0180] In some embodiments, preventing or minimizing printhead degradation is assumed to mean preventing or minimizing degradation of at least a part of the printhead, for example, the nozzle plate.

[0181] In some embodiments, preventing or minimizing printhead degradation is assumed to mean preventing or minimizing degradation of at least a portion of the printhead nozzle plate.

[0182] In some embodiments of the present invention, preventing or minimizing printhead degradation is assumed to mean suppressing the degradation of the printhead (or at least a part of the printhead), and sometimes suppressing the degradation of the printhead's liquid-repellent properties.

[0183] In some embodiments of the present invention, it is assumed that preventing or minimizing printhead degradation will result in improved compatibility between the inkjet ink formulation used in the inkjet printing process and the printhead.

[0184] In some embodiments of the present invention, preventing or minimizing printhead degradation is assumed to mean suppressing the degradation of the printhead (or at least a portion of the printhead), and sometimes suppressing the degradation of the printhead's liquid-repellent properties (or at least a portion of the printhead's liquid-repellent properties), thereby improving the compatibility between the inkjet ink formulation used in the inkjet printing process and the printhead.

[0185] In some embodiments of the present invention, the degradation of the print head may be due to corrosion caused by, for example, inkjet ink.

[0186] In some embodiments of the present invention, printhead degradation may be due to the fundamental properties of the inkjet ink. While we do not wish to be bound by theory, sometimes, for example, if the printhead is a silicon-based printhead whose surface is coated with a liquid-repellent film containing a fluoroalkylsilane portion, the fundamental inkjet ink may hydrolyze the Si-O-Si bonds between the fluoroalkylsilane portion of the liquid-repellent film and the nozzle plate of the printhead, thereby wetting the nozzle plate (with the ink) and reducing the printhead's jetting performance. Prolonged contact between the ink and the nozzle plate (which is no longer protected by hydrolysis) may even cause corrosion of the silicon oxide on the nozzle plate.

[0187] In some embodiments of the present invention, printhead degradation may be due to chemical damage, for example, by inkjet ink and / or printing conditions such as pressure and / or temperature. In some embodiments, the chemical damage may be due to a side reaction that forms at least one chemical substance that may harm the printhead.

[0188] The presence of alkali metal organosiliconates in the ink formulation provides an effect of preventing or minimizing printhead degradation. In some embodiments, the effect may be due to the alkali metal organosiliconate alone, or sometimes to a combination of the alkali metal organosiliconate and one or more other components of the ink formulation. The combined effect may result in an additive or synergistic effect.

[0189] By preventing or minimizing printhead degradation according to the present invention, the lifespan of printheads (e.g., printhead nozzle plates) used in printing processes can be extended. For this purpose, it is envisioned that printhead degradation should be prevented or minimized in order to improve the lifespan of printheads used in printing processes.

[0190] In some embodiments of the present invention, improvements in the lifespan of a printhead (e.g., a printhead nozzle plate) used in a printing process can be achieved by extending the lifespan of the printhead by at least 10 times, and sometimes by 100 times. For example, the lifespan of the printhead can be extended from one month to two months, or from one month to five months.

[0191] In some cases, and sometimes at times, compared to the inks of the present invention that contain alkali metal organosiliconates, which can provide protection to the printhead (such as the printhead nozzles) for a long period of time, for example, at least one month, at least two months, at least three months, at least four months, at least five months, at least six months, at least seven months, at least eight months, or at least nine months, without showing any degradation of the printhead (such as the printhead nozzles), the ink formulations of the present invention that do not contain alkali metal organosiliconates may damage the printhead in a few days. The protective effect may last for a year, and sometimes for several years. The times detailed herein are considered to be the time during which the printhead, for example, the printhead nozzles, are in close contact with the ink formulation.

[0192] In some embodiments, the protective effect can be extended for six months.

[0193] The effects associated with preventing or minimizing printhead degradation can be reflected in maintaining print quality over a long period of time. For example, print quality may not be compromised.

[0194] It should be noted that the term "prevent or minimize printhead degradation" or its linguistic variations may be interpreted as one or more of the printhead degradation prevention or minimization described in detail above and below in this specification (but not limited to these).

[0195] It should be noted that the term "printhead degradation" or its linguistic variations may refer to (but not limited to) one or more of the printhead degradations detailed above and below in this specification.

[0196] As described above, the inkjet ink formulations of the present invention can be used in direct or indirect printing processes utilizing direct and indirect printing systems, respectively.

[0197] In some embodiments, the printing process is a direct printing process, where the ink mixture is sprayed directly onto the substrate to be ultimately printed.

[0198] In some embodiments, the printing process is an indirect printing process in which the release surface of an intermediate transfer member (ITM) is pre-treated (e.g., coated) with a treatment formulation (e.g., an aqueous treatment formulation) before the ink image is deposited. The treatment formulation is applied to the surface of the ITM to form a thin wet treatment layer, which is then subjected to a drying process on the ITM release surface, leaving a thin, substantially dry treatment film on the ITM release surface. Then, droplets of the aqueous ink formulation are deposited on the thin, substantially dry treatment film by inkjet to form an ink image thereon. Next, the formed ink image is subjected to a drying process, leaving an ink residue on the substantially dry treatment film. Next, the substantially dry ink image, along with the thin, substantially dry treatment film, is transferred from the ITM surface to a final printing substrate (e.g., a foil base, paper base, or plastic base).

[0199] Examples of such printing processes and systems are disclosed in the applicant's patent publications WO2017 / 208152 (PCT / IB2017 / 053177)[8] and WO2013 / 132418 (PCT / IB2013 / 051716)[9], which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0200] Briefly speaking, FIG. 1 provides a diagram of an exemplary indirect printing system. Specifically, FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a digital printing system 10 according to some embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, the system 10 includes a rotatable flexible blanket 12 that circulates through an image forming station 14, a drying station 16, a pressing station 18, and a blanket processing station 20.

[0201] As used herein, the term "blanket" refers to a flexible transfer member that can be attached within a printing device to form a belt-like structure on two or more rollers, and at least one of the rollers rotates the blanket to move it (e.g., by moving its belt) and can move around the roller.

[0202] As used herein, the terms "blanket" and "intermediate transfer member" (ITM) are used synonymously and refer to a flexible member that at least includes a release layer configured to receive an ink image and transfer the ink image to a target substrate.

[0203] In the operating mode, the image forming station 14 is configured to form a mirror ink image of a digital image (also referred to herein as an "ink image" (not shown)) on the upper run of the surface of the blanket 12. Subsequently, the ink image is transferred to a target substrate (e.g., paper, folded carton, or any suitable flexible package in the form of a sheet or continuous web) located below the lower run of the blanket 12.

[0204] As used herein, the terms "ink image" and "image" are interchangeable. In some cases, these terms refer to an image formed on the blanket 12 and transferred to a target substrate. Sometimes, they refer to an image printed on the substrate itself (e.g., paper, folded carton, or any suitable flexible package in the form of a sheet or continuous web). Therefore, these terms need to be interpreted in the context of the text being used.

[0205] As used herein, the term “run” refers to any length or segment of the blanket 12 between any two given rollers on which the blanket 12 is guided.

[0206] In some embodiments, during installation, the blankets 12 can be bonded (e.g., joined) from end to end to form a continuous blanket loop (not shown). Examples of methods and systems for installing seams are described in detail in the applicant's patent publication WO2019 / 012456 (PCT / IB2018 / 055126)

[10] , the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0207] In some embodiments, the image forming station 14 typically comprises a plurality of print bars 22, each mounted (e.g., using sliders) on a frame (not shown) positioned at a certain height above the surface of the upper run of the blanket 12. In some embodiments, each print bar 22 comprises a strip of printheads the same width as the printing area on the blanket 12 and individually controllable print nozzles.

[0208] In some embodiments, the image forming station 14 may comprise any preferred number of bars 22, each bar 22 containing a printing fluid such as a water-based ink formulation of a different color. The inks typically have visible colors such as cyan, magenta, red, green, blue, yellow, black, and white, but are not limited to these. In the example in Figure 1, the image forming station 14 comprises seven print bars 22, but it may comprise four print bars 22 having any selected colors, such as cyan, magenta, yellow, and black.

[0209] In some embodiments, one or more print bars may contain the aqueous inkjet ink formulation of the present invention, i.e., the alkali metal organosiliconate of the present invention. In some cases, all print bars used in the printing method / system may contain the aqueous inkjet ink formulation of the present invention, i.e., the alkali metal organosiliconate of the present invention. In some cases, only print bars containing white may contain the aqueous inkjet ink formulation of the present invention, i.e., the alkali metal organosiliconate of the present invention.

[0210] In some embodiments, the print head is configured to spray droplets of different colored inks onto the surface of the blanket 12 in order to form an ink image (not shown) on the surface of the blanket 12.

[0211] In some embodiments, different print bars 22 are spaced apart from each other along the movement axis of the blanket 12, represented by arrows 24. In this configuration, precise spacing between the bars 22 and synchronization of the orientation of ink droplets on each bar 22 with the movement of the blanket 12 are essential to enable precise placement of the image pattern.

[0212] In some embodiments, the system 10 includes a heating device, such as a high-temperature gas or blower 26, positioned between the print bars 22 and configured to partially dry the ink droplets deposited on the surface of the blanket 12.

[0213] This hot airflow between the print bars can help, for example, reduce condensation on the surface of the print head and / or deal with satellites (e.g., residue or small droplets distributed around the main ink droplet) and / or prevent blockage of the inkjet nozzles of the print head and / or prevent droplets of different colored inks on the blanket 12 from undesirably fusing together. In some embodiments, the system 10 includes a drying station 16 configured to blow hot air (or another gas) onto the surface of the blanket 12. In some embodiments, the drying station includes a blower or any other suitable dryer.

[0214] In the drying station 16, the ink image formed on the blanket 12 is exposed to radiation and / or hot air to dry the ink more completely, heating it until most or all of the liquid carrier evaporates, leaving only layers of resin and colorant, and forming a sticky ink film.

[0215] In some embodiments, the system 10 includes a blanket transport assembly 26' configured to move a rotating ITM such as a blanket 12. In some embodiments, the blanket transport / guide assembly 26' includes one or more rollers 28, at least one of which has an encoder (not shown) configured to record the position of the blanket 12 in order to control the position of the section of the blanket 12 relative to each print bar 22. In some embodiments, the encoder of the roller 28 typically has a rotary encoder configured to generate a rotation-based position signal indicating the angular displacement of each roller.

[0216] Additionally or alternatively, the blanket 12 may have an integrated encoder (not shown) for controlling the operation of various modules of the system 10. An integrated encoder is described in detail, for example, in the applicant's patent publication WO2020 / 003088 (PCT / IB2019 / 055288)

[11] , the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0217] In some embodiments, the system 10 includes a printing station 18 through which a blanket 12 passes between a printing cylinder 30 and a pressure cylinder 32, which are configured to carry a compression blanket.

[0218] In some embodiments, the system 10 includes a control console (not shown) configured to control multiple modules and assemblies of the system 10.

[0219] In some embodiments, the blanket processing station 20, which may also function as a cooling and / or washing station, is configured to process the blanket, for example, by cooling the blanket 12 and / or by applying a processing fluid to the outer surface of the blanket 12 and / or by washing the outer surface of the blanket 12. Processing may be carried out by passing the blanket 12 over one or more rollers or blades configured to apply a cooling and / or washing and / or processing fluid to the outer surface of the blanket.

[0220] In the example shown in Figure 1, the station 20 is mounted between two specific rollers 28, but the station 20 may be mounted adjacent to the blanket 12 at any other suitable location between the printing station 18 and the image forming station 14.

[0221] In some embodiments, the printing cylinder 30 of the printing station 18 is configured to print an ink image onto target substrates, such as individual sheets 34, which are transported by a substrate transport module 36 (figurely shown) from an input stack 38 to an output stack 40, via the printing cylinder 30. In some embodiments, the target substrates may include any suitable substrate, but are not limited to, flexible substrates, partially flexible substrates (e.g., having flexible and rigid portions), or rigid substrates.

[0222] In some embodiments, system 10 includes an additional printing station (not shown) to enable double-sided printing (i.e., printing on both sides of sheet 34).

[0223] In an alternative embodiment, for example, as disclosed in PCT International Publication WO2020 / 136517 (PCT / IB2019 / 061081)

[14] , a substrate transport unit 36 with a different configuration may be used to print on a continuous web substrate. Detailed descriptions and various configurations of sheet-fed single-sided printing systems, double-sided printing systems, and systems for printing on continuous web substrates are described in, for example, PCT International Publication WO2013 / 132420 (PCT / IB2013 / 051718)

[12] and PCT International Publication WO2015 / 036906 (PCT / IB2014 / 064277)

[13] , and the respective disclosures are incorporated herein by reference.

[0224] A specific configuration of system 10 is shown as an example. However, embodiments of the present invention are in no way limited to this specific type of exemplary system, and the principles described herein can equally apply to any other type of printing system. Thus, in another aspect thereof, the present invention provides an indirect printing system and an indirect printing process that utilize the inkjet ink formulation of the present invention, as described in, for example, [8] and / or [9].

[0225] In a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printing system comprising an image forming station including one or more print bars, each print bar being configured to hold an ink formulation and including one or more print heads, each of the one or more print heads being configured to eject the ink formulation onto a printing substrate to form an ink image on the substrate, wherein at least one of the one or more print bars is configured to hold an aqueous inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention.

[0226] In some embodiments, the printing substrate is substantially as disclosed herein.

[0227] In some embodiments, one or more printheads are substantially as disclosed herein.

[0228] Furthermore, in one of its embodiments, the present invention is An intermediate transfer member including the surface of the release layer; An image forming station comprising one or more print bars, each print bar configured to hold an ink formulation, and comprising one or more print heads, each of which is configured to spray an ink formulation onto a release layer surface to form an ink image thereon, wherein at least one of the print bars is configured to hold a water-based inkjet ink formulation according to the present invention; The present invention provides a printing system comprising a transfer station for transferring an ink image from an intermediate transfer member to a printing substrate;

[0229] In some embodiments, the system of the present invention may further include a drying station configured to substantially (sometimes partially) dry an ink image formed on an intermediate transfer member, wherein the transfer station is configured to transfer the substantially dried (sometimes partially dried) ink image from the intermediate transfer member to a printing substrate.

[0230] Where used above and below in this specification, the term “substantially dry” or its linguistic variations may mean partially dry, sometimes to the extent that trace amounts of the solvent and / or co-solvent and / or water and / or any volatile components are present (e.g., not interfering with one or more of the system’s performance, printing process, and print quality), or sometimes completely dry.

[0231] In some embodiments, the intermediate transfer member is substantially as disclosed herein.

[0232] In some embodiments, one or more printheads are substantially as disclosed herein.

[0233] In some embodiments, the transfer station is substantially as disclosed herein.

[0234] In some embodiments, the drying station is substantially as disclosed herein.

[0235] In some embodiments, the printing substrate is substantially as disclosed herein. In another embodiment, the present invention relates to an aqueous inkjet ink formulation disclosed herein for use in preventing or minimizing printhead degradation, wherein the printhead is used in a direct or indirect printing process. The printing system used is either direct or indirect.

[0236] In some embodiments, the printhead of the present invention forms part of a direct printing system.

[0237] In some embodiments, the print head of the present invention is an inkjet print head.

[0238] In some embodiments, the printhead of the present invention forms part of an indirect direct printing system.

[0239] In some embodiments, the print head of the present invention includes a print head nozzle plate.

[0240] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the printhead of the present invention is formed of a metal oxide, such as silicon oxide.

[0241] In some embodiments, the metal oxide is at least one selected from silicon oxide, titanium oxide, and chromium oxide.

[0242] In some embodiments, the metal nitride is at least one selected from the group consisting of titanium nitride and silicon nitride.

[0243] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the nozzle plate is coated with a film containing SiO2 or tantalum oxide.

[0244] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the printhead of the present invention is formed of silicon, for example, silicon oxide.

[0245] In some embodiments, the entire printhead nozzle is formed of silicon, for example, silicon oxide.

[0246] In some embodiments, silicon is single-crystal silicon.

[0247] In some embodiments, silicon is polysilicon.

[0248] In some embodiments, the printhead of the present invention (at least partially or entirely) is formed from silicon coated with a liquid-repellent film containing a fluoroalkylsilane moiety.

[0249] In some embodiments of the present invention, the liquid-repellent film is a single layer film.

[0250] In some embodiments, the print head of the present invention is made of thermally grown silicon oxide (SiO2). x For example, it is formed from silicon coated with SiO2.

[0251] In some embodiments, the printhead of the present invention (at least part or all of it) is made of thermally grown silicon oxide (SiO2). xFor example, it is formed of silicon coated with SiO2 (which may be in the form of a film), and further coated with a liquid-repellent film containing a fluoroalkylsilane moiety.

[0252] In some embodiments, the printhead of the present invention comprises a nozzle plate selected from the group consisting of (i) a silicon plate having a thermally oxidized SiO2 layer and (ii) a self-assembled monolayer plate, wherein the fluorinated alkylsilane compound is formed on the oxidized SiO2 layer provided on the silicon plate.

[0253] In some embodiments, the liquid-repellent film containing the fluoroalkylsilane moiety is of formula C n F 2n+1 -C m H 2m It is formed by using a compound represented as -Si-X3 (wherein n is an integer of 1 or more; m is an integer of 0 or more; X is an alkoxy group, an amino group, or a halogen atom; some of X may be substituted with an alkyl group).

[0254] In some embodiments of the present invention, formula C n F 2n+1 -C m H 2m -Si-X3 compounds are C8F 17 It is C2H4SiCl3.

[0255] In some embodiments of the present invention, the liquid-repellent film containing the fluoroalkylsilane moiety is provided in the form of a single layer protecting the Si and SiOx layers.

[0256] In some embodiments of the present invention, the liquid-repellent film is provided on the surface of the inkjet printhead nozzle, particularly on the surface facing the ink ejection direction of the nozzle.

[0257] In some embodiments of the present invention, the inkjet ink formulation is ejected from a recording head having a surface coating layer containing a fluoropolymer on the surface of a nozzle plate.

[0258] The printhead of the present invention, for example, a printhead plate, is available, for example, from Dimatix, FUJIFILM Corporation (Tokyo, Japan). Such printheads are disclosed in [1] to [5], which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0259] Please note that the term “printhead” may be interpreted herein as referring to one or more printheads, but not limited to, those detailed above and below.

[0260] Detailed description of the embodiment The following embodiments are not intended in any way to limit the scope of the claimed invention.

[0261] Example 1: Compatibility test of ink formulation and print head (nozzle plate) We tested the impact of nozzle plate damage on spray stability and print quality.

[0262] Immersion testing was applied to predict the durability of the nozzle plate. Silicon coupons, purchased from Dimatix to simulate nozzle plates, were immersed in a test ink formulation, with half of the coupon submerged in the test solution and the remaining half uncovered. These were then stored at 50°C for a set period, up to 9 months. Following the manufacturer's instructions, a 50°C test was performed to intensify the process and stimulate the lifespan of the printhead.

[0263] The contact angle (CA) was measured periodically, and the effect of the ink formulation on the coupon was investigated using a scanning electron microscope (SEM).

[0264] Table 1 details the components of the ink formulations tested, including the white pigment titanium dioxide (TiO2) (rutile).

[0265] The ink formulation was prepared by mixing various components in specific proportions. [Table 1]

[0266] The following various alkali metal organosiliconate materials were used. ·SILRES BS 16-Wacker Silicones XIAMETER OFS-0777 Silicone - Dow Chemical Potassium methyl silicone, 40% in water - Gelest Sodium methyl siliconate, 30% aqueous solution - Gelest

[0267] The following sodium silicate materials were used. Sodium silicate solution - Sigma Aldrich. Sodium metasilicate pentahydrate - Sigma Aldrich.

[0268] Two types of TiO2 pigments were used. All TiO2 grades were rutile. Table 2 details the TiO2 pigments used in the chloride process. Table 3 details the TiO2 pigments used in the sulfuric acid process. [Table 2] [Table 3]

[0269] All test ink formulations containing TiO2 white pigment damaged the nozzle plate in the absence of organosiliconates. No damage to the nozzle plate was observed when alkali metal organosiliconates were present in the ink formulation at a concentration of 0.1%.

[0270] Figure 2 shows a top view of the SEM image of coupon (100) at a contact angle of 110–117°.

[0271] Figure 3 shows a silicon (SiO) layer (202) with thermally grown silicon oxide (SiO) on top of it. x This is a schematic side view of a coupon (200) containing a layer (204) and a liquid-repellent film (206) containing a fluoroalkylsilane moiety. The liquid-repellent film is a single layer chemically attached to the SiO2 surface. Figure 3 further shows the contact angle of a 0.5 μl drop of DIW (deionized water) (208, contact angle = 110°~117°).

[0272] Figures 4A to 4G show top views of SEM images of coupons simulating nozzle plates, treated with an inkjet ink formulation containing a white colorant.

[0273] Figures 4A and 4B show coupons treated with an inkjet ink formulation free of alkali metal organosiliconate or sodium silicate (white reference) for 7 days at 50°C. Figure 4A is shown at 50x magnification, and Figure 4B is shown at 200x magnification.

[0274] Figure 4C shows a coupon treated at 50°C for two months with an inkjet ink formulation containing 0.1% alkali metal organosiliconate.

[0275] Figure 4D shows a coupon treated at 50°C for 9 months with an inkjet ink formulation containing 0.1% alkali metal organosiliconate.

[0276] Figure 4E shows coupons treated at 50°C for one month with an inkjet ink formulation containing 0.05% alkali metal organosiliconate (similar results were obtained with 0.01% alkali metal organosiliconate - data not shown).

[0277] Figures 4F and 4G show coupons treated with an inkjet ink formulation containing 0.5% sodium silicate for 15 days at 50°C (similar results were obtained with 0.1% and 0.3% sodium silicate for 10 days at 50°C with a contact angle of 101° - data not shown). Figure 4F is shown at 50x magnification, and Figure 4G is shown at 200x magnification.

[0278] Figures 5A to 5C show top views of SEM images of coupons simulating nozzle plates, treated with an inkjet ink formulation containing magenta colorant.

[0279] Figure 5A shows a coupon treated with an inkjet ink formulation that does not contain alkali metal organosiliconate or sodium silicate (see magenta) for 3 days at 50°C.

[0280] Figure 5B shows a coupon treated at 50°C for 8 months with an inkjet ink formulation containing 0.5% alkali metal organosiliconate.

[0281] Figure 5C shows a coupon treated at 50°C for 8 months with an inkjet ink formulation containing 0.5% sodium silicate.

[0282] Table 4 below summarizes the test results. [Table 4]

[0283] Exemplary Embodiments

[0284] The following embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the subject matter claimed.

[0285] Embodiment 1: A water-based inkjet ink formulation comprising the following: (a) A solvent containing water; (b) at least one colorant; and (c) At least one alkali metal organosiliconate of formula (I) [ka] (In the formula, R is a C1-C5 alkyl group; M1, M2, and M3 are each independently selected from hydrogen or alkali metal cations, where at least one of M1, M2, and M3 is an alkali metal cation.

[0286] Embodiment 2 The inkjet ink formulation according to Embodiment 1, further comprising at least one binder.

[0287] Embodiment 3 The inkjet ink formulation according to Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2, wherein R is a linear or branched C1-C5 alkyl group.

[0288] Embodiment 4 An inkjet ink formulation according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 3, wherein R is a substituted or unsubstituted C1-C5 alkyl group.

[0289] Embodiment 5 An inkjet ink formulation according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 4, wherein R is a substituted C1-C5 alkyl group.

[0290] Embodiment 6 The inkjet ink formulation according to Embodiment 5, wherein R is a substituted C1-C5 alkyl group, and the substituent is a polar group selected to improve the solubility of the alkali metal organosiliconate in water.

[0291] Embodiment 7 The inkjet ink formulation according to Embodiment 6, wherein the polar substituent is a hydroxyl group.

[0292] Embodiment 8 An inkjet ink formulation according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 7, wherein R is a C1-C3 alkyl group.

[0293] Embodiment 9 The inkjet ink formulation according to Embodiment 8, wherein R is selected from methyl, ethyl, propyl, or isopropyl.

[0294] Embodiment 10 The inkjet ink formulation according to Embodiment 9, wherein R is methyl.

[0295] Embodiment 11 An inkjet ink formulation according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 10, wherein two of M1, M2, and M3 are hydrogen, and the third is an alkali metal cation.

[0296] Embodiment 12 Alkali metal cations, Li + kaNa + , K + , Rb + , Cs + An inkjet ink formulation according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11, selected from any combination thereof.

[0297] Embodiment 13 Alkali metal cations, Li + kaNa + , K + An inkjet ink formulation according to any one of embodiments 1 to 12, selected from any combination thereof.

[0298] Embodiment 14 Alkali metal cations, Na + The inkjet ink formulation according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 13.

[0299] Embodiment 15 Alkali metal cations, +The inkjet ink formulation according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 13.

[0300] Embodiment 16 Alkali metal cations, Li + The inkjet ink formulation according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 13.

[0301] Embodiment 17 R is methyl, and at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is present. [ka] An inkjet ink formulation according to any one of embodiments 1 to 16, selected from the group consisting of the above.

[0302] Embodiment 18 At least one alkali metal organosiliconate, [ka] The inkjet ink formulation described in Embodiment 17.

[0303] Embodiment 19 At least one alkali metal organosiliconate, [ka] The inkjet ink formulation described in Embodiment 17.

[0304] Embodiment 20 At least one alkali metal organosiliconate, [ka] The inkjet ink formulation described in Embodiment 17.

[0305] Embodiment 21 At least one alkali metal organosiliconate, [ka] The inkjet ink formulation described in Embodiment 17.

[0306] Embodiment 22 An inkjet ink formulation according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 21, which does not contain one or more inorganic silicates.

[0307] Embodiment 23 An inkjet ink formulation according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 22, which does not contain colloidal silica.

[0308] Embodiment 24 An inkjet ink formulation according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 23, wherein at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is present in the formulation at a concentration of at least about 0.01 w / w%.

[0309] Embodiment 25 An inkjet ink formulation according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 24, wherein at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is present in the formulation at a concentration of about 0.1 w / w% or at least about 0.1 w / w%.

[0310] Embodiment 26 An inkjet ink formulation according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 24, wherein at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is present in the formulation at a concentration of about 0.01 w / w% to about 1.0 w / w%.

[0311] Embodiment 27 An inkjet ink formulation according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 26, wherein at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is present in the formulation at a concentration of at least about 0.1 w / w% to about 0.5 w / w%.

[0312] Embodiment 28 An inkjet ink formulation according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 27, wherein the colorant comprises at least one white pigment.

[0313] Embodiment 29 The inkjet ink formulation according to Embodiment 28, wherein at least one white pigment is TiO2.

[0314] Embodiment 30 An inkjet ink formulation according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 29, wherein the colorant constitutes at least about 1.0 w / w% of the formulation.

[0315] Embodiment 31 An inkjet ink formulation according to any one of embodiments 2 to 30, wherein at least one binder is an anionic binder.

[0316] Embodiment 32 The inkjet ink formulation according to Embodiment 31, wherein the anionic binder is an acrylic binder and / or a sulfonic acid binder.

[0317] Embodiment 33 An inkjet ink formulation according to any one of embodiments 2 to 32, wherein at least one binder is an organic polymer resin.

[0318] Embodiment 34 The inkjet ink formulation according to Embodiment 33, wherein at least one binder in the ink formulation is a negatively charged organic polymer resin.

[0319] Embodiment 35 An inkjet ink formulation according to any one of Embodiments 2 to 34, wherein at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is present in the formulation at a concentration of at least about 5.0 w / w% to about 15.0 w / w%.

[0320] Embodiment 36 A method for preventing or minimizing printhead degradation, wherein the method utilizes an aqueous inkjet ink formulation comprising at least one alkali metal organosiliconate of formula (I). [ka] (In the formula, R is a C1-C5 alkyl group; A method comprising preventing or minimizing printhead degradation, wherein M1, M2, and M3 are each independently selected from hydrogen or alkali metal cations, where at least one of M1, M2, and M3 is an alkali metal cation, and the water-based inkjet ink formulation further comprises a water-containing solvent and at least one colorant.

[0321] Embodiment 37 The method according to Embodiment 36, wherein the water-based inkjet ink formulation further comprises at least one binder.

[0322] Embodiment 38 The method according to Embodiment 36 or 37, wherein R is a linear or branched C1-C5 alkyl group.

[0323] Embodiment 39 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 38, wherein R is a substituted or unsubstituted C1-C5 alkyl group.

[0324] Embodiment 40 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 39, wherein R is a substituted C1-C5 alkyl group.

[0325] Embodiment 41 The method according to Embodiment 40, wherein R is a substituted C1-C5 alkyl group, and the substituent is a polar group selected to improve the solubility of the alkali metal organosiliconate in water.

[0326] Embodiment 42 The method according to Embodiment 41, wherein the polar substituent is a hydroxyl group.

[0327] Embodiment 43 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 42, wherein R is a C1-C3 alkyl group.

[0328] Embodiment 44 The method according to Embodiment 43, wherein R is selected from methyl, ethyl, propyl, or isopropyl.

[0329] Embodiment 45 The method according to Embodiment 44, wherein R is methyl.

[0330] Embodiment 46 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 45, wherein two of M1, M2, and M3 are hydrogen, and the third is an alkali metal cation.

[0331] Embodiment 47 Alkali metal cations, Li + kaNa + , K + , Rb + , Cs + The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 46, or any combination thereof.

[0332] Embodiment 48 Alkali metal cations, Li + kaNa + , K + The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 47, or any combination thereof.

[0333] Embodiment 49 Alkali metal cations, Na + The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 48.

[0334] Embodiment 50 Alkali metal cations,+ The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 48.

[0335] Embodiment 51 Alkali metal cations, Li + The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 48.

[0336] Embodiment 52 R is methyl, and at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is present. [ka] A method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 51, selected from the group consisting of the following.

[0337] Embodiment 53 At least one alkali metal organosiliconate, [ka] The method according to embodiment 52.

[0338] Embodiment 54 At least one alkali metal organosiliconate, [ka] The method according to embodiment 52.

[0339] Embodiment 55 At least one alkali metal organosiliconate, [ka] The method according to embodiment 52.

[0340] Embodiment 56 At least one alkali metal organosiliconate, [ka] The method according to embodiment 52.

[0341] Embodiment 57 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 56, wherein the formulation does not contain one or more inorganic silicates.

[0342] Embodiment 58 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 57, wherein the formulation does not contain colloidal silica.

[0343] Embodiment 59 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 58, wherein at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is present in the formulation at a concentration of at least about 0.01 w / w%.

[0344] Embodiment 60 The method according to any one of Embodiments 36 to 59, wherein at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is present in the formulation at a concentration of about 0.1 w / w% or at least about 0.1 w / w%.

[0345] Embodiment 61 The method according to any one of Embodiments 36 to 58, wherein at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is present in the formulation at a concentration of about 0.01 w / w% to about 1.0 w / w%.

[0346] Embodiment 62 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 58, wherein at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is present in the formulation at a concentration of at least about 0.1 w / w% to about 0.5 w / w%.

[0347] Embodiment 63 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 62, wherein the coloring agent comprises at least one white pigment.

[0348] Embodiment 64 The method according to Embodiment 63, wherein at least one pigment is TiO2.

[0349] Embodiment 65 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 64, wherein the coloring agent constitutes at least about 1.0% w / w of the formulation.

[0350] Embodiment 66 The method according to any one of embodiments 37 to 65, wherein at least one binder is an anionic binder.

[0351] Embodiment 67 The method according to Embodiment 66, wherein the anionic binder is an acrylic binder and / or a sulfonic acid binder.

[0352] Embodiment 68 The method according to any one of embodiments 37 to 67, wherein at least one binder is an organic polymer resin.

[0353] Embodiment 69 The method according to Embodiment 68, wherein the organic polymer resin is a negatively charged organic polymer resin.

[0354] Embodiment 70 The method according to any one of Embodiments 37 to 69, wherein at least one binder is present in the formulation at a concentration of about 5.0 w / w% to about 15.0 w / w%.

[0355] Embodiment 71 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 70, wherein preventing or minimizing the degradation of the print head is to prevent or minimize the degradation of at least a portion of the print head.

[0356] Embodiment 72 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 71, wherein preventing or minimizing printhead degradation is equivalent to preventing or minimizing degradation of at least a portion of the printhead nozzle plate.

[0357] Embodiment 73 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 72, wherein preventing or minimizing printhead degradation is equivalent to suppressing printhead degradation.

[0358] Embodiment 74 The method according to Embodiment 73, wherein suppressing the degradation of the print head is equivalent to suppressing the degradation of the liquid-repellent properties of the print head.

[0359] Embodiment 75 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 74, which improves the compatibility between the inkjet ink formulation and the print head by preventing or minimizing print head degradation.

[0360] Embodiment 76 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 75, wherein the degradation of the print head is corrosion.

[0361] Embodiment 77 The method according to Embodiment 76, wherein the corrosion is caused by the inkjet ink formulation.

[0362] Embodiment 78 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 77, wherein the degradation of the print head may be due to chemical damage.

[0363] Embodiment 79 A method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 78, which improves the lifespan of a print head by preventing or minimizing print head degradation.

[0364] Embodiment 80 The method of embodiment 79, which extends the lifespan of the print head by at least 10 times.

[0365] Embodiment 81 The method of embodiment 79, which extends the lifespan of the print head by 100 times.

[0366] Embodiment 82 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 81, wherein the printhead is used in an inkjet printing process, and the process is either a direct printing process or an indirect printing process.

[0367] Embodiment 83 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 82, wherein print quality is maintained for a long period of time.

[0368] Embodiment 84 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 83, wherein the print head forms part of the printing system.

[0369] Embodiment 85 The method according to embodiment 84, wherein the system is a direct or indirect printing system.

[0370] Embodiment 86 The method according to any one of embodiments 36 to 85, wherein at least a portion of the print head is formed of a metal oxide.

[0371] Embodiment 87 The method according to Embodiment 86, wherein the metal oxide is silicon oxide.

[0372] Embodiment 88 The method of Embodiment 87, wherein the silicon dioxide is thermally grown silicon dioxide.

[0373] Embodiment 89 The method according to Embodiment 88, wherein thermally grown silicon dioxide is coated with a liquid-repellent film containing a fluoroalkylsilane moiety.

[0374] Embodiment 90 A liquid-repellent film containing a fluoroalkylsilane moiety is formed by formula C n F 2n+1 -C m H 2m The method according to Embodiment 89, formed by using a compound represented by -Si-X3 (wherein n is an integer of 1 or more; m is an integer of 0 or more; X is an alkoxy group, an amino group, or a halogen atom; part of X may be substituted with an alkyl group).

[0375] Embodiment 91 The compound is C8F 17 The method according to embodiment 90, wherein the material is C2H4SiCl3.

[0376] Embodiment 92 The method according to embodiment 90 or 91, wherein a liquid-repellent film is provided on the surface of an inkjet printhead nozzle.

[0377] Embodiment 93 The method of Embodiment 92, wherein a liquid-repellent film is provided on the surface of the inkjet printhead nozzle on the side of the nozzle facing the ink ejection direction.

[0378] Embodiment 94 A water-based inkjet ink formulation according to any one of embodiments 1 to 35, for use in preventing or minimizing printhead degradation.

[0379] Embodiment 95 A water-based inkjet ink formulation according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 35, for use in a printing process.

[0380] Embodiment 96 A water-based inkjet ink formulation according to any one of embodiments 1 to 35, which forms part of a printing system.

[0381] Embodiment 97 A printing method utilizing the aqueous inkjet ink formulation described in any one of Embodiments 1 to 35.

[0382] Embodiment 98 A printing system comprising a water-based inkjet ink formulation according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 35.

[0383] Embodiment 99 A printing system comprising an image forming station including one or more print bars, each of which is configured to hold an ink formulation and includes one or more print heads, each of which is configured to spray an ink formulation onto a printing substrate to form an ink image on the substrate, wherein at least one of the one or more print bars is configured to hold a water-based inkjet ink formulation as described in any one of embodiments 1 to 35.

[0384] Embodiment 100 An intermediate transfer member including the surface of the release layer; An image forming station comprising one or more print bars, each print bar configured to hold an ink formulation and comprising one or more print heads, each of which is configured to spray an ink formulation onto a release layer surface to form an ink image thereon, wherein at least one of the one or more print bars is configured to hold a water-based inkjet ink formulation as described in any one of embodiments 1 to 35; A printing system comprising a transfer station for transferring an ink image from an intermediate transfer member to a printing substrate;

[0385] Embodiment 101 The system according to embodiment 100, further comprising a drying station configured to substantially dry an ink image formed on an intermediate transfer member, wherein the transfer station is configured to transfer the substantially dried ink image from the intermediate transfer member to a printing substrate.

[0386] Embodiment 102 A system according to any one of embodiments 99 to 101 substantially disclosed herein.

[0387] Embodiment 103 The system according to any one of embodiments 99 to 101, wherein at least a portion of one or more print heads is formed of a metal oxide.

[0388] Embodiment 104 The system according to embodiment 103, wherein the metal oxide is silicon oxide.

[0389] Embodiment 105 A system of Embodiment 104, wherein silicon dioxide is thermally grown silicon dioxide.

[0390] Embodiment 106 The system according to Embodiment 105, wherein thermally grown silicon dioxide is coated with a liquid-repellent film containing a fluoroalkylsilane moiety.

[0391] Embodiment 107 A liquid-repellent film containing a fluoroalkylsilane moiety is formed by formula C n F 2n+1 -C m H 2m The system according to Embodiment 106, formed by using a compound represented by -Si-X3 (wherein n is an integer of 1 or more; m is an integer of 0 or more; X is an alkoxy group, an amino group, or a halogen atom; part of X may be substituted with an alkyl group).

[0392] Embodiment 108 The compound is C8F 17 The method according to Embodiment 107, wherein the material is C2H4SiCl3.

[0393] Embodiment 109 The system according to any one of embodiments 99 to 108, wherein a liquid-repellent film is provided on the surface of one or more printhead nozzles.

[0394] Embodiment 110 The system according to embodiment 109, wherein a liquid-repellent film is provided on the surface of one or more inkjet printhead nozzles on the side facing the ink ejection direction of the nozzle.

[0395] Embodiment 111 The system according to any one of embodiments 100 to 110, wherein the intermediate transfer member is substantially as disclosed herein.

[0396] Embodiment 112 The system according to any one of embodiments 100 to 111, wherein the transfer station is substantially as disclosed herein.

[0397] Embodiment 113 The system according to any one of embodiments 101 to 112, wherein the drying station is substantially as disclosed herein.

[0398] Embodiment 114 A system according to any one of embodiments 99 to 113, wherein the printing substrate is substantially as disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A water-based inkjet ink formulation comprising: (a) a solvent comprising water; (b) at least one colorant; and (c) at least one alkali metal organosiliconate of formula (I): 【Chemistry 1】 (In the formula, R is a replaceable C １ ~C ５ is an alkyl group; M １ , M. ２ , and M ３ are each independently selected from hydrogen or an alkali metal cation, where M １ , M. ２ , and M ３ at least one of which is an alkali metal cation).

2. The ink-jet ink formulation of claim 1 further comprising at least one binder.

3. 3. The ink-jet ink formulation of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein R is selected from a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, or an isopropyl group.

4. Said M １ , M. ２ , and M ３ An ink-jet ink formulation according to any preceding claim, wherein two of are hydrogen and the third is a cation of an alkali metal.

5. R is methyl and the at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is 【Chemistry 2】 The ink-jet ink formulation of any one of claims 1 to 4, selected from the group consisting of:

6. An ink-jet ink formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 5, which is free of one or more inorganic silicates and / or is free of colloidal silica.

7. An ink-jet ink formulation as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the colorant comprises at least one white pigment.

8. A method for preventing or minimizing printhead degradation, said method utilizing an aqueous ink-jet ink formulation comprising at least one alkali metal organosiliconate of formula (I): 【Chemistry 3】 (In the formula, R is a replaceable C １ ~C ５ is an alkyl group; M １ , M. ２ , and M ３ are each independently selected from hydrogen or an alkali metal cation, where M １ , M. ２ , and M ３ is a cation of an alkali metal), thereby preventing or minimizing degradation of the printhead, and wherein the water-based ink-jet ink formulation further comprises a solvent comprising water, and at least one colorant.

9. The method of claim 8 , wherein the water-based ink-jet ink formulation further comprises at least one binder.

10. 10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein R is selected from a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group or an isopropyl group.

11. Said M １ , M. ２ , and M ３ The method of any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein two of are hydrogen and the third is a cation of an alkali metal.

12. R is methyl and the at least one alkali metal organosiliconate is 【Chemistry 4】 The method according to any one of claims 8 to 11, selected from the group consisting of:

13. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the formulation is free of one or more inorganic silicates and / or free of colloidal silica.

14. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein the colorant comprises at least one white pigment.

15. Preventing or minimizing deterioration of the print head means inhibiting deterioration of the print head; The method according to any one of claims 8 to 14, wherein inhibiting deterioration of the print head comprises inhibiting deterioration of liquid repellency characteristics of the print head.

16. A method according to any one of claims 8 to 15, wherein the printhead forms part of a printing system, the printing system being a direct or indirect printing system.

17. The method of any one of claims 8 to 16, wherein at least a portion of the printhead is formed from a metal oxide.

18. the metal oxide is a thermally grown silicon oxide coated with a liquid repellent film containing fluoroalkylsilane moieties; 20. The method of claim 17, wherein the liquid repellent coating is provided on the surface of an inkjet printhead nozzle facing the ink ejection direction of the nozzle.

19. A printing method utilizing a water-based inkjet ink formulation according to any one of claims 8 to 16.

20. A printing system comprising the water-based inkjet ink formulation of any one of claims 8 to 16.

Images