Thermal transfer recording medium, transferred film, and method for manufacturing transferred film

Abstract

To provide a thermal transfer recording medium by which color of a first ink layer which is made visually recognized through a second ink layer can be made closer to ideal color, and a transferred film, and a method for manufacturing the film.SOLUTION: Provided is a transferred tape 55 in which a first ink layer 36, a second ink layer 37 having light transmissivity through which the first ink layer 36 is made visually recognized, and a transparent printer tape 2 are laminated in this order, where the total light transmissivity of the second ink layer 37 is 16% or more, and the total light transmissivity of the printer tape 2 is 80% or more.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5A

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a thermal transfer recording medium, a transferred film, and a method for producing the same. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a two-color recording heat-sensitive transfer material for performing two-color printing by laminating a first heat-fusible ink layer and a second heat-fusible ink layer, which have different color tones and are difficult to mix with each other when heat is applied, in that order from the support side on the support, bringing the second heat-fusible ink layer into contact with a recordable material, applying heat energy from the support side, and then peeling the support from the recordable material by changing the time from the end of the application of heat energy to the peeling of the support, wherein at least one of the first heat-fusible ink layer and the second heat-fusible ink layer contains silicone oil or a fluorine-based surfactant. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2-5596 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a thermal transfer recording medium, a transferred film, and a manufacturing method thereof, in which a transfer pattern including a laminate of a first ink layer and a second ink layer is visible through a transparent film, and even when the second ink layer is a surface-side ink layer (an ink layer on the observation surface side), the color of the first ink layer viewed through the second ink layer can be made to approach an ideal color. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A thermal transfer recording medium according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a thermal transfer recording medium that is transferred to a transparent film, and includes a base layer, and a first ink layer and a second ink layer that are laminated in that order on the base layer, and the second ink layer has a light transmittance that allows the first ink layer to be visually recognized, and the L value of the color difference of reflected light from the second ink layer is 20 or less. Effect of the Invention

[0006] According to the thermal transfer recording medium according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second ink layer has a translucency that allows the first ink layer to be visible. This allows a film to be formed in which a laminate of the first ink layer and the second ink layer is transferred to a transparent film so that the second ink layer becomes the surface side ink layer (observation side ink layer). Since the second ink layer has a translucency that allows the first ink layer to be visible, the color of the first ink layer can be recognized through the second ink layer in this transferred film. Furthermore, the L value of the color difference of the reflected light from the second ink layer is 20 or less. Therefore, even if the first ink layer is covered with the second ink layer, the color of the first ink layer visible through the second ink layer can be made to approach an ideal color (e.g., black). [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic structure of a printing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the printing device. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a heating process and a cooling process of the printing apparatus. [Figure 4] 4A and 4B are schematic diagrams illustrating the cooling step and the transfer step of the printing device. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a layer configuration of a transferred tape according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the layer configuration of the transferred tape according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5C is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a layer configuration of a transferred tape according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5D] FIG. 5D is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the layer configuration of the transferred tape according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 6A and 6B are diagrams showing an example of a pattern printed by the printing device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] Next, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Overall configuration of printing device 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic structure of a printing device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] 1, the printing device 1 is a thermal transfer type thermal printer that thermally transfers ink from an ink ribbon 3, which is an example of a thermal transfer recording medium, as characters onto a printer tape 2, which is an example of a print medium. In this embodiment, the printer tape 2 is, for example, a transparent base film onto which the ink is directly transferred. Here, the printer tape 2 being "transparent" may be defined as having a degree of transparency that allows the shape and color of the characters transferred onto the printer tape 2 to be recognized from the side opposite the transfer surface (printing surface).

[0010] The characters recorded on the printer tape 2 may include, for example, typical characters, symbols such as barcodes and QR codes (registered trademarks), numbers, figures, patterns, etc. The printing device 1 according to this embodiment can record characters of different colors (for example, two colors, black and red) on the printer tape 2.

[0011] The printing device 1 mainly includes a housing 4, a tape cassette 5 housed inside the housing 4, a thermal head 6, a platen roller 7, a nip roller 71, and a control board 8.

[0012] The housing 4 may be a box-shaped member made of, for example, a plastic case. An outlet 9 is formed on the outer wall of the housing 4 for removing the printer tape 2 after printing. A cutter (not shown) may be provided near the outlet 9. By cutting the printer tape 2 with the cutter, it is possible to separate the printer tape 2 into labels of a size for each unit of use and remove them.

[0013] The tape cassette 5 may be a cartridge that is removable from the housing 4. The tape cassette 5 may house, in order from the upstream side to the downstream side in the tape transport direction D1 (the direction from right to left in FIG. 1), a printer tape roll 10 (or, in other words, may be a label tape roll), an ink ribbon roll 12, an ink ribbon peeling member 13, an ink ribbon take-up roll 14, a laminating roller 72, and a laminating film roll 73. In this embodiment, the printer tape roll 10, the ink ribbon roll 12, the laminating roller 72, and the laminating film roll 73 are of a type that is used while being housed in the tape cassette 5, but may also be of a type that is used by being directly attached to the printing device 1, for example.

[0014] The printer tape roll 10 is produced by winding the printer tape 2 into a cylindrical shape, and is rotatably held in, for example, a tape cassette 5.

[0015] The ink ribbon roll 12 is produced by winding the ink ribbon 3 into a cylindrical shape, and is rotatably held, for example, in a tape cassette 5. A ribbon drive shaft 18 provided in the housing 4 is inserted into the ink ribbon take-up roll 14. A rotational force R1 generated by driving the ribbon drive shaft 18 is transmitted to the ink ribbon take-up roll 14, causing the ink ribbon take-up roll 14 to rotate.

[0016] The ink ribbon peeling member 13 may be a guide member that changes the transport direction D2 of the ink ribbon 3. The ink ribbon peeling member 13 may have a shape that can come into contact with the ink ribbon 3 during transport, for example, a roller-like or blade-like shape. A portion of the ink ribbon 3 is thermally pressed onto the printer tape 2 by the thermal head 6, and is transported together with the printer tape 2 toward the outlet 9. The ink ribbon peeling member 13 comes into contact with the ink ribbon 3 during transport, and changes the transport direction D2 of the ink ribbon 3 at a steep angle with respect to the transport direction D1 of the printer tape 2. This causes the printer tape 2 and the ink ribbon 3 to be separated, and the ink ribbon 3 is peeled off from the printer tape 2.

[0017] For example, a lamination roller drive shaft 75 provided in the housing 4 can be inserted into the lamination roller 72. A rotational force R4 generated by driving the lamination roller drive shaft 75 is transmitted to the lamination roller 72, causing the lamination roller 72 to rotate. The lamination roller 72 is provided inside the tape cassette 5 as shown in FIG. 1, and a portion of the lamination roller 72 is exposed in the transport path of the printer tape 2. This allows the printer tape 2 to be sandwiched between the lamination roller 72 and the nip roller 71 and transported when the tape cassette 5 is installed.

[0018] The laminated film roll 73 is produced by winding a laminated tape 76 into a cylindrical shape, and is rotatably held in, for example, the tape cassette 5.

[0019] The thermal head 6 is disposed between the printer tape roll 10, the ink ribbon roll 12, and the ink ribbon peeling member 13 in the transport direction D1 of the printer tape 2. The thermal head 6 includes a substrate 19 and a heating element 20 (e.g., a heating resistor) formed on the substrate 19. Joule heat generated by energizing the heating element 20 is utilized for thermal transfer of ink on the ink ribbon 3.

[0020] For example, a platen drive shaft 21 provided in the housing 4 is inserted into the platen roller 7. A rotational force R2 generated by driving the platen drive shaft 21 is transmitted to the platen roller 7, causing the platen roller 7 to rotate.

[0021] For example, a nip roller drive shaft 74 provided in the housing 4 is inserted into the nip roller 71. A rotational force R3 generated by driving the nip roller drive shaft 74 is transmitted to the nip roller 71, causing the nip roller 71 to rotate.

[0022] The control board 8 is an electronic device that executes electrical control of the printing device 1, and is installed inside the housing 4.

[0023] [Electrical configuration of printing device 1] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the printing device 1. As shown in FIG.

[0024] 2, a control circuit 22 is provided on the control board 8 of the printing device 1. The control circuit 22 may include a CPU 23, a ROM 24, a memory 25, a RAM 26, and an input / output I / F 27 (interface). These are electrically connected via, for example, a data bus (not shown).

[0025] The ROM 24 stores various programs for driving the printer 1 (for example, control programs for executing the steps shown in FIG. 3 and FIGS. 4A and 4B). The CPU 23 executes signal processing according to the programs stored in the ROM 24 while utilizing the temporary storage function of the RAM 26, and controls the printer 1 as a whole. The memory 25 may be configured, for example, as a part of the storage area of ​​the ROM 24. The memory 25 may previously store a table for displaying the remaining amount (amount consumed) of the ink ribbon 3 on a display unit (not shown) of the housing 4.

[0026] A first drive circuit 28 and a second drive circuit 29 are electrically connected to the input / output I / F 27. The first drive circuit 28 executes energization control of the heating elements 20 of the thermal head 6. The second drive circuit 29 executes drive control to output drive pulses to a drive motor 30 that drives and rotates the ink ribbon take-up roll 14, the platen roller 7, the nip roller 71, and the lamination roller 72.

[0027] [Printing process flow by printing device 1] Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram for explaining the heating process and the cooling process of the printing device 1. Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B are schematic diagrams for explaining the cooling process and the transfer process of the printing device 1. Fig. 4B is an enlarged view of the main part when the transfer pattern is viewed from the direction of the arrow 4B in Fig. 4A. The printing process by the printing device 1 will be specifically explained with reference to Figs. 1, 3, and 4A and B.

[0028] To print characters on the printer tape 2, the printer tape 2 is pulled out from the printer tape roll 10 by the rotational drive of the platen roller 7, and the ink ribbon 3 is pulled out from the ink ribbon roll 12 by the rotational drive of the ink ribbon take-up roll 14. As a result, the printer tape 2 and the ink ribbon 3 are transported downstream while overlapping each other, as shown in Figures 1 and 3. The surface of the printer tape 2 facing the ink ribbon 3 is the printing surface 31 (front surface), and the opposite surface is the back surface 32. The surface of the ink ribbon 3 facing the printer tape 2 is the adhesive surface 33 (front surface), and the opposite surface is the back surface 34.

[0029] 3, the ink ribbon 3 includes a base layer 35, a first ink layer 36, and a second ink layer 37. The first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 are laminated in this order on a front surface 38, which is an example of a first surface, of the base layer 35. The surface of the base layer 35 opposite the front surface 38 is a back surface 39 (back surface 34 of the ink ribbon 3). The first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 contain colorants of different colors. For example, the first ink layer 36 may contain a black colorant, which is an example of a first ink, and the second ink layer 37 may contain a red colorant, which is an example of a second ink.

[0030] The ink ribbon 3 is transported toward the thermal head 6 with the second ink layer 37 and the printer tape 2 in contact with each other. In the thermal head 6, a heating process is carried out as shown in Fig. 3. Specifically, the heating elements 20, which have generated heat by being energized, are pressed against the ink ribbon 3, and the heat is transferred to the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 via the base layer 35. The laminate of the ink ribbon 3 and the printer tape 2 is sandwiched between the thermal head 6 and the platen roller 7, and is transported downstream while being heated by the thermal head 6.

[0031] The heating element 20 may be controlled to the same temperature as a whole, or may be controlled to different temperatures in parts. For example, as shown in Fig. 3, a first portion 40 of the heating element 20 may be controlled to a relatively low first heating temperature, and a second portion 41 of the heating element 20 may be controlled to a second heating temperature higher than the first heating temperature. The first heating temperature may be controlled by applying a relatively low first amount of energy to the thermal head 6, and the second heating temperature may be controlled by applying a relatively higher second amount of energy to the thermal head 6 than the first amount of energy.

[0032] The first heating temperature may be, for example, 60°C or more and 120°C or less, and preferably 70°C or more and 90°C or less. For example, the second heating temperature may be 80°C or more and 180°C or less, and preferably 130°C or more and 150°C or less. The first energy amount and the second energy amount may be set according to the specifications of the printing device 1 so that the thermal head 6 is heated to the first heating temperature and the second heating temperature, respectively. For example, in a printing device 1 whose specifications allow the applied energy amount to be directly set by a voltage value, the voltage value may be set, and in a printing device 1 whose specifications allow the applied energy amount to be increased or decreased by adjusting the energy amount divided into multiple stages, the energy amount of an appropriate stage may be set.

[0033] As a result, the ink ribbon 3 may include a first portion 42 heated to a first heating temperature and a second portion 43 heated to a second heating temperature. In the first portion 42 and the second portion 43 of the ink ribbon 3, at least a part or the whole of the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 melt or soften and come into close contact with the printer tape 2.

[0034] 3 and 4A and 4B, a cooling process is carried out in the section between the thermal head 6 and the ink ribbon peeling member 13. Specifically, the ink ribbon 3 that has been thermocompressed to the printer tape 2 in the heating process is naturally cooled in the section from the thermal head 6 to the ink ribbon peeling member 13, and the temperature drops toward the ambient temperature of the printing device 1.

[0035] Next, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the ink ribbon peeling member 13 selectively changes only the conveying direction D2 of the ink ribbon 3, and an external force F1 is applied to the base layer 35 and the second ink layer 37 in a direction away from each other. This causes the printer tape 2 and the ink ribbon 3 to be separated, and the ink ribbon 3 is taken up by the ink ribbon take-up roll 14. At this time, the first portion 42 and the second portion 43 of the ink ribbon 3 heated by the thermal head 6 selectively remain on the printer tape 2, thereby performing the transfer process. For example, in the first portion 42, peeling may occur between the base layer 35 and the laminate including the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37, and the laminate may be transferred. On the other hand, in the second portion 43, peeling may occur between the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37, and the second ink layer 37 may be selectively transferred.

[0036] 1, a lamination tape 76 is laminated to the printer tape 2 to which the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 have been transferred. The transferred tape 55, which has been formed by laminating the lamination tape 76 to the printer tape 2 and has characters recorded thereon, is taken out from the outlet 9 of the printing device 1. [Layer structure of transferred tape 55] 5A and 5B are schematic cross-sectional views showing a layer structure of a transferred tape 55 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 6A and 6B are diagrams showing an example of a printed pattern 44 by the printing device 1.

[0037] 5A and 5B, the transferred tape 55 includes a printed matter 56 including the printer tape 2 to which a portion of the ink ribbon 3 has been transferred, and a lamination tape 76 laminated to the printed matter 56. The lamination tape 76 may be referred to as a lamination film. FIG. 5A shows a cross section of a portion of the transferred tape 55 to which a laminate of the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 has been transferred as a first transfer layer 57. FIG. 5B shows a cross section of a portion of the transferred tape 55 to which the second ink layer 37 has been selectively transferred as a second transfer layer 58.

[0038] In the transferred tape 55 of this embodiment, the lamination tape 76 is formed as a mount film that supports the first transfer layer 57 and the second transfer layer 58. The printer tape 2 is formed as a transparent cover film that physically protects the first transfer layer 57 and the second transfer layer 58 from the outside. Therefore, in the first transfer layer 57 and the second transfer layer 58, the second ink layer 37 on the side closer to the printer tape 2 is the front side ink layer (observation side ink layer). As shown by the white arrows 59 and 60 in Figures 5A and 5B, a person can recognize the respective colors of the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 by the light that has passed through the printer tape 2 and is reflected by the first ink layer 36 or the second ink layer 37, respectively.

[0039] The first transfer layer 57 and the second transfer layer 58 form a printing pattern 44 of different colors (for example, two colors recognized as black and red) on the transferred tape 55. The printing pattern 44 may have different colors for each independent character, for example, as shown in FIG. 6A. In FIG. 6A, when the printing pattern 44 is viewed from the back surface 32 side of the printer tape 2, a red pattern 45 based on the second ink layer 37 may be recognized on the top surface of the alphabet characters "A" and "C," and a black pattern 46 based on the first ink layer 36 may be recognized on the top surface of "B." On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 6B, the printing pattern 44 may have both a red pattern 45 and a black pattern 46 recognized for each part of each character.

[0040] Next, the layer structure of the transferred tape 55 will be described in more detail.

[0041] As described above, the transferred tape 55 is formed by laminating the printed matter 56 and the laminating tape 76 together.

[0042] The printed matter 56 includes a printer tape 2 and a first transfer layer 57 and a second transfer layer 58 selectively formed on the printing surface 31 of the printer tape 2. The first transfer layer 57 includes a second ink layer 37, an intermediate layer 51, and a first ink layer 36 laminated in that order on the printing surface 31, and the second transfer layer 58 is the second ink layer 37 formed on the printing surface 31. (1) Printer Tape 2 The printer tape 2 is not particularly limited as long as it is a transparent base film to which ink can be directly transferred, and examples of such films include resin films such as polyester, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamide, polyimide, polycarbonate, polystyrene, and fluororesin. Of these, a film of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is a polyester, is preferred from the viewpoints of mechanical strength, dimensional stability, heat treatment resistance, cost, etc. The printer tape 2 may be a single layer of any of the above resin films, or a laminate film formed by laminating a plurality of the above resin films.

[0043] The thickness of the printer tape 2 can be set arbitrarily according to, for example, the specifications of the thermal transfer printer, the characteristics required of the printer tape 2, and the like. For example, the thickness of the printer tape 2 is 1 μm or more, and preferably 10 μm or more. For example, the thickness of the printer tape 2 is 100 μm or less, and preferably 50 μm or less. For example, the thickness of the printer tape 2 is 1 μm or more and 100 μm or less, and preferably 10 μm or more and 50 μm or less. If the thickness of the printer tape 2 is within this range, it is possible to give the transferred tape 55 an appropriate flexibility while exhibiting sufficient mechanical strength and elasticity. If the flexibility of the transferred tape 55 is important, the printer tape 2 may be thinner than the above range. This allows the transferred tape 55 to be well attached to a complex curved surface. On the other hand, if the mechanical strength and elasticity of the transferred tape 55 are important, the printer tape 2 may be thicker than the above range. This makes it possible to suppress the occurrence of wrinkles in the printer tape 2 during transportation in the printing device 1 or when the lamination tape 76 is laminated.

[0044] The printer tape 2 may be a non-stretched film that has not been stretched during the manufacturing process, or may be a stretched film that has been stretched by uniaxial stretching, biaxial stretching, or the like. The surfaces (printing surface 31 and back surface 32) of the printer tape 2 may be finished with a glossy finish, a matte finish, or the like. Furthermore, a primer layer for improving the printability of the printer tape 2, an overcoat layer for adjusting friction, a release layer using silicone for protecting the surface of the printer tape 2 before use, and the like may be separately formed. These layers may conceptually be part of the printer tape 2.

[0045] As a numerical value representing the transparency of the printer tape 2, for example, the total light transmittance measured in accordance with JIS K 7361 may be used. The total light transmittance of the printer tape 2 may be, for example, 80% or more, and preferably 85% or more. The total light transmittance of the printer tape 2 can be measured, for example, using a haze meter. (2) First ink layer 36 The first ink layer 36 can be formed, for example, from any thermoplastic resin. In consideration of improving the affinity and adhesion to the intermediate layer 51, it is preferable that the first ink layer 36 is formed from an epoxy resin as the thermoplastic resin. The first ink layer 36 can be formed from an epoxy resin in a state in which a curing agent is not blended (except for the curing agent) as the thermoplastic resin.

[0046] Examples of epoxy resins include bisphenol A type epoxy resins, bisphenol F type epoxy resins, phenol novolac type epoxy resins, cresol novolac type epoxy resins, alicyclic epoxy resins, hydrogenated bisphenol A type epoxy resins, hydrogenated bisphenol AD ​​type epoxy resins, propylene glycol glycoxyl ether, aliphatic epoxy resins such as pentaerythritol polyglycidyl ether, epoxy resins obtained from aliphatic or aromatic amines and epichlorohydrin, epoxy resins obtained from aliphatic or aromatic carboxylic acids and epichlorohydrin, heterocyclic epoxy resins, spiro ring-containing epoxy resins, epoxy modified resins, brominated epoxy resins, etc. Specific examples of epoxy resins include, but are not limited to, the following various epoxy resins. These epoxy resins can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0047] Among the JER (registered trademark) series epoxy resins manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation, the basic solid types are 1001 [softening point (ring and ball method): 64°C, number average molecular weight Mn: about 900], 1002 [softening point (ring and ball method): 78°C, number average molecular weight Mn: about 1200], 1003 [softening point (ring and ball method): 78°C, number average molecular weight Mn: about 1200], Softening point (ring and ball method): 89°C, number average molecular weight Mn: approximately 1300], 1055 [Softening point (ring and ball method): 93°C, number average molecular weight Mn: approximately 160 0], 1004 [Softening point (ring and ball method): 97°C, number average molecular weight Mn: approximately 1650], 1004AF [Softening point (ring and ball method): 97°C, number average Molecular weight Mn: about 1650], 1007 [softening point (ring and ball method): 128℃, number average molecular weight Mn: about 2900], 1009 [softening point (ring and ball method) method): 144℃, number average molecular weight Mn: approximately 3800], 1010 [number average molecular weight Mn: approximately 5500], 1003F [softening point (ring and ball method): 96℃], 1004F [Softening point (ring and ball method): 103℃], 1005F, 1009F [Softening point (ring and ball method): 144℃], 1004FS [Softening point (ring and ball method): 100℃], 1006FS [Softening point (ring and ball method): 112℃], 1007FS [Softening point (ring and ball method): 124℃].

[0048] The softening point of the epoxy resin used in the first ink layer 36 is, for example, 95° C. or higher, preferably 110° C. or higher, and more preferably 125° C. or higher. If the softening point is within this range, it is possible to prevent high adhesion between the first ink layer 36 and the base layer 35 (see FIG. 3 and FIGS. 4A and 4B) at the relatively low temperatures during low-temperature transfer. Since the low-temperature transfer range of the first ink layer 36 can be sufficiently expanded to the high-temperature side, it is possible to prevent color from becoming cloudy even when thermal transfer recording is performed continuously.

[0049] The first ink layer 36 may contain an adhesive in addition to the epoxy resin. The inclusion of an adhesive can further improve the affinity and adhesion to the intermediate layer 51. Examples of the adhesive include rubber-based adhesives, acrylic-based adhesives, silicone-based adhesives, vinyl alkyl ether-based adhesives, polyvinyl alcohol-based adhesives, polyvinyl pyrrolidone-based adhesives, polyacrylamide-based adhesives, and cellulose-based adhesives.

[0050] Considering the affinity and compatibility with the epoxy resin, and the affinity and adhesion to the intermediate layer 51, an acrylic adhesive is preferable as the adhesive. Specific examples of the acrylic adhesive are not particularly limited, but include the following various acrylic adhesives. These acrylic adhesives can be used alone or in combination of two or more kinds.

[0051] Among the Olivine (registered trademark) BPS (solvent-based) series manufactured by Toyochem Co., Ltd., BPS1109 (non-volatile content: 39.5% by mass), BPS3156D (non-volatile content: 34% by mass), BPS4429-4 (non-volatile content: 45% by mass), BPS4849-40 (non-volatile content: 40% by mass), BPS5160 (non-volatile content: 33% by mass), BPS5213K (non-volatile content: 35% by mass), BPS5215K (non-volatile content: 39% by mass), BPS5227-1 (non-volatile content: 41.5% by mass), BPS5296 (non-volatile content: 37% by mass), BPS5330 (non-volatile content: 40% by mass), BPS5375 (non-volatile content: 45% by mass), BPS5448 (non-volatile content: 40% by mass), BPS5513 (non-volatile content: 44.5% by mass), BPS55 65K (non-volatile content: 45% by mass), BPS5669K (non-volatile content: 46% by mass), BPS5762K (non-volatile content: 45.5% by mass), BPS5896 (non-volatile content: 37% by mass), BPS5978 (non-volatile content: 35% by mass), BPS6074HTF (non-volatile content: 52% by mass), BPS6080TFK (non-volatile content: 45% by mass), BPS6130TF (non-volatile content: 52% by mass), (Non-volatile content: 45.5% by mass), BPS6153K (Non-volatile content: 25% by mass), BPS6163 (Non-volatile content: 37% by mass), BPS6231 (Non-volatile content: 56% by mass), BPS6421 (Non-volatile content: 47% by mass), BPS6430 (Non-volatile content: 33% by mass), BPS6574 (Non-volatile content: 57% by mass), BPS8170 (Non-volatile content: 36.5% by mass), BPS HS-1 (Non-volatile content: 40% by mass).

[0052] Among the solvent-based adhesives (removable type) manufactured by Lion Specialty Chemicals Co., Ltd., the following are used: AS-325 (solid content: 45% by mass), AS-375 (solid content: 45% by mass), AS-409 (solid content: 45% by mass), AS-417 (solid content: 45% by mass), AS-425 (solid content: 45% by mass), AS-455 (solid content: 45% by mass), AS-665 (solid content: 40% by mass), AS-1107 (solid content: 43% by mass), and AS-4005 (solid content: 45% by mass).

[0053] The acrylic adhesive used in the first ink layer 36 may be used in combination with a tackifier. For example, this is because it can increase the sharpness of the first ink layer 36, suppress excess peeling, and improve the clarity of the recorded characters. Examples of tackifiers include ester gum, terpene phenol resin, and rosin ester. Specific examples of the tackifier are not particularly limited, but include the following various tackifiers. These tackifiers can be used alone or in combination of two or more types.

[0054] Among the terpene phenol resins of the YS Polystar series manufactured by Yasuhara Chemical Co., Ltd., U130 (softening point: 130±5°C), U115 (softening point: 115±5°C), T160 (softening point: 160±5°C), T145 (softening point: 145±5°C), T130 (softening point: 130±5°C), T115 (softening point: 115± 5℃), T100 (softening point: 100±5℃), T80 (softening point: 80±5℃), S145 (softening point: 145±5℃), G150 (softening point: 150±5℃) , G125 (softening point: 125±5℃), N125 (softening point: 125±5℃), K125 (softening point: 125±5℃), TH130 (softening point: 130±5℃).

[0055] Among the ester gums manufactured by Arakawa Chemical Co., Ltd., AA-G [softening point (ring and ball method): 82~88℃], AA-L [softening point (ring and ball method): 82~88℃], AA-V [softening point (ring and ball method): 82~95℃] , 105 [Softening point (ring and ball method): 100~110℃], AT [Viscosity: 20000~40000mPa·s], H [Softening point (ring and ball method): 68~75℃], HP [Softening point (ring and ball method): 80℃ or higher].

[0056] Among the rosin esters of the Pencel (registered trademark) series manufactured by Arakawa Chemical Co., Ltd., GA-100 [softening point (ring and ball method): 100~110℃], AZ [softening point (ring and ball method): 950~105℃], C [softening point (ring and ball method): 117~ 127℃], D-125 [Softening point (ring and ball method): 120~130℃], D-135 [Softening point (ring and ball method): 130~ 140℃], D-160 [Softening point (ring and ball method): 150~165℃], KK [Softening point (ring and ball method): 165℃ or higher].

[0057] The softening point of the tackifier used in the first ink layer 36 is, for example, 60° C. or higher, and preferably 120° C. or lower. If the softening point is within this range, the first ink layer 36 and the intermediate layer 51 can be favorably reverse-transferred to the base layer 48 during high-temperature transfer. Since the high-temperature transfer range of the first ink layer 36 can be sufficiently expanded to the low-temperature side, it is possible to suppress the color from becoming cloudy.

[0058] The first ink layer 36 may contain any colorant. As the colorant, one or more of various colorants can be used according to the color of the first ink layer 36. The colorant may be, for example, a pigment or a dye. Considering the concealing property of the base, etc., the colorant used in the first ink layer 36 is preferably a pigment. That is, by suppressing the transmission of light through the first ink layer 36, the black color of the first ink layer 36 can be well recognized through the printer tape 2 and the second ink layer 37. For example, carbon black is preferable as a pigment for coloring the first ink layer 36 black. Specific examples of carbon black are not particularly limited, but include, for example, the following various carbon blacks. These carbon blacks can be used alone or in combination of two or more types.

[0059] Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation's MA77 powder type (LFF, DBP absorption capacity: 68 cm 3 / 100g], MA7 powder [LFF, DBP absorption: 66cm 3 / 100g], MA7 granular [LFF, DBP absorption capacity: 65cm 3 / 100g], MA8 powder [LFF, DBP absorption: 57cm 3 / 100g], MA8 granular [LFF, DBP absorption: 51cm 3 / 100g], MA11 powder [LFF, DBP absorption: 64cm 3 / 100g], MA100 powder [LFF, DBP absorption capacity: 100cm 3 / 100g], MA100 granules [LFF, DBP absorption capacity: 95cm 3 / 100g], MA100R powder [LFF, DBP absorption capacity: 100cm 3 / 100g], MA100R granular [LFF, DBP absorption capacity: 95cm 3 / 100g], MA100S powder [LFF, DBP absorption capacity: 100cm 3 / 100g], MA230 powder [LFF, DBP absorption: 113cm 3 / 100g], MA220 powder [LFF, DBP absorption: 93cm 3 / 100g], MA14 powder [LFF, DBP absorption: 73cm 3 / 100g).

[0060] Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation #3030B (furnace method, DBP absorption: 130 cm 3 / 100g), #3040B (furnace method, DBP absorption: 114cm 3 / 100g), #3050B (furnace method, DBP absorption: 175cm 3 / 100g), #3230B (furnace method, DBP absorption: 140cm 3 / 100g), #3350B (furnace method, DBP absorption: 164cm 3 / 100g), #3400B (furnace method, DBP absorption: 175cm 3 / 100g).

[0061] #5500 (furnace method, DBP absorption: 155 cm) from the Toka Black (registered trademark) series manufactured by Tokai Carbon Co., Ltd. 3 / 100g), #4500 (furnace method, DBP absorption: 168cm 3 / 100g), #4400 (furnace method, DBP absorption: 135cm 3 / 100g), #4300 (furnace method, DBP absorption: 142cm 3 / 100g).

[0062] Orion Engineered Carbons' PRINTEX series (registered trademark) L (furnace method, DBP absorption: 120 cm 3 / 100g), L6 (furnace method, DBP absorption: 126cm 3 / 100g).

[0063] Birla Carbon's CONDUCTEX (registered trademark) series, 975 (furnace method, 170 cm 3 / 100g), SC (furnace method, 115cm 3 / 100g).

[0064] Among the VULCAN (registered trademark) series manufactured by CABOT, XC72 (furnace method, DBP absorption: 174 cm 3 / 100g), 9A32 (furnace method, DBP absorption: 114cm 3 / 100g), and 3700 of the company's BLACK PEARLS series (furnace method, DBP absorption: 111 cm 3 / 100g).

[0065] Among the Denka Black (registered trademark) series manufactured by Denka Co., Ltd., Denka Black Granules (acetylene method, DBP absorption: 160 cm 3 / 100g), FX-35 (acetylene method, DBP absorption: 220cm 3 / 100g), HS-100 (acetylene method, DBP absorption: 140cm 3 / 100g).

[0066] Among the KETJENBLACK (registered trademark) series manufactured by Lion Specialty Chemicals Co., Ltd., EC300J (gasification method, DBP absorption capacity: 360 cm 3 / 100g), EC600DJ (gasification method, DBP absorption: 495cm 3 / 100g).

[0067] The ratio of each component in the first ink layer 36 is not particularly limited. The ratio of the acrylic adhesive to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 30 parts by mass or more, and preferably 40 parts by mass or more. The ratio of the acrylic adhesive to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 150 parts by mass or less, and preferably 100 parts by mass or less. The ratio of the acrylic adhesive to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 30 parts by mass or more and 150 parts by mass or less, and preferably 40 parts by mass or more and 100 parts by mass or less.

[0068] The ratio of the tackifier to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 3 parts by mass or more, and preferably 5 parts by mass or more. The ratio of the tackifier to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 150 parts by mass or less, and preferably 100 parts by mass or less. The ratio of the tackifier to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 3 parts by mass or more and 150 parts by mass or less, and preferably 5 parts by mass or more and 100 parts by mass or less.

[0069] The ratio of the colorant such as carbon black to 100 parts by mass of epoxy resin is, for example, 100 parts by mass or more, preferably 130 parts by mass or more. The ratio of the colorant to 100 parts by mass of epoxy resin is, for example, 230 parts by mass or less, preferably 200 parts by mass or less. The ratio of the colorant to 100 parts by mass of epoxy resin is, for example, 100 parts by mass or more and 230 parts by mass or less, preferably 130 parts by mass or more and 200 parts by mass or less.

[0070] In addition, for the components contained in the first ink layer 36 that are supplied in liquid form dissolved or dispersed in an arbitrary solvent, the amount of each component may be adjusted so that the proportion of the active ingredient falls within the above-mentioned range (the same applies below).

[0071] The first ink layer 36 can be formed, for example, by applying a coating material in which each of the above components is dissolved or dispersed in an arbitrary solvent directly onto the surface 38 of the base layer 35 or via an arbitrary release layer, and then drying the coating material. In the present disclosure, as shown in Figs. 6A and 6B, the characters to be recorded on the printer tape 2 are color-coded. For this color coding, in consideration of adjusting the adhesion between the first ink layer 36 and the base layer 35 and each of the other layers, it is preferable to form the first ink layer 36 directly on the surface 38 of the base layer 35 without using a release layer.

[0072] The thickness of the first ink layer 36 can be set arbitrarily according to, for example, the specifications of the thermal transfer printer, etc. The thickness of the first ink layer 36 can be adjusted by the amount of the first ink layer 36 applied.

[0073] For example, the coating amount of the first ink layer 36 is 0.1 g / m2 in terms of the amount of solids per unit area. 2 or more, preferably 0.5 g / m 2 For example, the coating amount of the first ink layer 36 is 3.0 g / m2 in terms of the amount of solid content per unit area. 2 or less, preferably 2.5 g / m 2 For example, the coating amount of the first ink layer 36 is 0.1 g / m2 in terms of the amount of solids per unit area. 2 More than 3.0g / m 2 or less, preferably 0.5 g / m 2 More than 2.5g / m 2 The following is the result.

[0074] A specific thickness of the first ink layer 36 (before printing) is, for example, 0.05 μm or more, and preferably 0.5 μm or more. The thickness of the first ink layer 36 is, for example, 3.0 μm or less, and preferably 2.5 μm or less. The thickness of the first ink layer 36 may be, for example, 0.05 μm or more and 3.0 μm or less, and preferably 0.5 μm or more and 2.5 μm or less. The thickness of the first ink layer 36 can be confirmed based on, for example, a SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) image, a TEM (Transmission Electron Microscope) image, or the like of the ink ribbon 3. (3) Middle class 51 The intermediate layer 51 contains a thermoplastic elastomer. In particular, the intermediate layer 51 is preferably formed only from a thermoplastic elastomer. The thermoplastic elastomer forming the intermediate layer 51 preferably contains at least one of a styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer and an acetate-based thermoplastic elastomer.

[0075] Examples of styrene-based thermoplastic elastomers include styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer (SBS), styrene-ethylene-butene-styrene block copolymer (SEBS), styrene-ethylene-propylene-styrene block copolymer (SEPS), styrene-ethylene / ethylene-propylene-styrene block copolymer (SEEPS), styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer (SIS), etc. Examples of acetate-based thermoplastic elastomers include ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), etc.

[0076] The styrene content in the thermoplastic elastomer contained in the intermediate layer 51 is, for example, 10% by mass to 70% by mass, and preferably 15% by mass to 50% by mass. If the styrene content is too high, the rubber-like elasticity of the intermediate layer 51 decreases, and the adhesive force to the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 may not be maintained during low-temperature transfer, or the color of the characters may become cloudy. If the styrene content is too low, the rubber-like elasticity of the intermediate layer 51 becomes too high, and the second ink layer 37 may not be peeled off during high-temperature transfer, and the color of the characters may become cloudy.

[0077] The thermoplastic elastomer contained in the intermediate layer 51 has a melt mass flow rate (hereinafter sometimes simply abbreviated as "MFR") of, for example, 1000 g / 10 min or less, and preferably 400 g / 10 min or less. The MFR may be, for example, the MFR at a temperature of 190° C. and a load of 2.16 kg, which is determined by the measurement method specified in ISO 1133-1:2011. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the measurement conditions for the MFR are a temperature of 190° C. and a load of 2.16 kg.

[0078] Thermoplastic elastomers with an MFR of more than 400 g / 10 min tend to have too strong an affinity with the second ink layer 37. As a result, the second ink layer 37 may not be peeled off during high-temperature transfer, causing the color of the characters to become cloudy. In addition, the entire ink ribbon 3, that is, the base layer 35, the first ink layer 36, the intermediate layer 51, and the second ink layer 37, may stick to the printing surface 31 of the printer tape 2. Thermoplastic elastomers with an MFR of more than 400 g / 10 min have low melt viscosity and high fluidity, so that they may not be able to maintain adhesion to the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 during low-temperature transfer, or the color of the characters may become cloudy.

[0079] In contrast, if the thermoplastic elastomer has an MFR of 400 g / 10 min or less, problems that may occur when using a thermoplastic elastomer with an MFR exceeding 400 g / 10 min can be suppressed. Even if thermal transfer recording is performed continuously, the colors on the printing surface 31 of the printer tape 2 are not easily clouded, are clearly separated into two colors, and characters with excellent clarity can be stably recorded without residual peeling. In order to further improve these effects, it is preferable that the MFR of the thermoplastic elastomer is 2.5 g / 10 min or less, especially 2.3 g / 10 min or less, even within the above range.

[0080] There is no particular lower limit for the MFR, and thermoplastic elastomers that show "No Flow" when measured at a temperature of 190°C and a load of 2.16 kg as described above can be used. Specific examples of thermoplastic elastomers include, but are not particularly limited to, the following thermoplastic elastomers. These thermoplastic elastomers can be used alone or in combination of two or more kinds.

[0081] Among the SEBS in the Tuftech (registered trademark) series manufactured by Asahi Kasei Corporation, H1521 (MFR: 2.3 g / 10 min), H1051 (MFR: less than 0.8 g / 10 min), H1052 (MFR: less than 13.0 g / 10 min), H1272 (MFR: No Flow), P1083 (MFR: 3.0 g / 10 min), P1500 (MFR: 4.0 g / 10 min), P5051 (MFR: 3.0 g / 10 min), P2000 (MFR: 3.0 g / 10 min).

[0082] Among the SBS of the Tufprene (registered trademark) series manufactured by Asahi Kasei Corporation, A [MFR: 2.6 g / 10 min], 125 [MFR: 4.5 g / 10 min], and 126S [MFR: 4.5 g / 10 min].

[0083] Among the SBS of Asaprene (registered trademark) T series manufactured by Asahi Kasei Corporation, T-411 [MFR: No Flow], T-432 [MFR: No Flow], T-437 [MFR: No Flow], T-438 [MFR: No Flow], and T-439 [MFR: No Flow].

[0084] Among the SEPS of the Septon (registered trademark) series manufactured by Kuraray Co., Ltd., the following are used: 2002 [MFR: 70g / 10min], 2004F [MFR: 5g / 10min], 2005 [MFR: No Flow], 2006 [MFR: No Flow], 2063 [MFR: 7g / 10min], and 2104 [MFR: 0.4g / 10min]. The measurement conditions for the MFR of these SEPS are a temperature of 230°C and a load of 2.16 kg.

[0085] Among the SEEPS of the Septon (registered trademark) series manufactured by Kuraray Co., Ltd., the following are listed: 4033 [MFR: <0.1g / 10min], 4044 [MFR: No Flow], 4055 [MFR: No Flow], 4077 [MFR: No Flow], and 4099 [MFR: No Flow]. The measurement conditions for the MFR of these SEEPS are a temperature of 230°C and a load of 2.16 kg.

[0086] Among the vinyl SIS of the Hybra (registered trademark) series manufactured by Kuraray Co., Ltd., 5125 [MFR: 4g / 10min] and 5127 [MFR: 5 / 10min].

[0087] Among the Ultrathene (registered trademark) series EVA manufactured by Tosoh Corporation, 514R [MFR: 0.41g / 10min], 515 [MFR: 2.5g / 10min], 510 [MFR: 2.5g / 10min], 510F [MFR: 2.5g / 10min], 520F [MFR: 2.0g / 10min], 540 [MFR: 3.0g / 10min], 540F [MFR: 3.0g / 10min] in], 537 [MFR:8.5g / 10min], 537L [MFR:8.5g / 10min], 537S-2 [MFR:8.5g / 10min], 541 [MFR:9.0g / 10min] , 541L [MFR:9.0g / 10min], 530 [MFR:75g / 10min], 526 [MFR:25g / 10min], 630 [MFR:1.5g / 10min], 631 [MFR :1.5g / 10min〕, 636〔MFR:2.5g / 10min〕, 625〔MFR:14g / 10min〕, 626〔MFR:3.0g / 10min〕, 627〔MFR:0.8g / 1 0min], 633 [MFR:20g / 10min], 635 [MFR:2.4g / 10min], 640 [MFR:2.8g / 10min], 634 [MFR:4.3g / 10min], 68 0 [MFR:160g / 10min], 681 [MFR:350g / 10min], 751 [MFR:5.7g / 10min], 710 [MFR:18g / 10min], 720 [MFR:15] 0g / 10min〕, 722〔MFR:400g / 10min〕, 750〔MFR:30g / 10min〕, 752〔MFR:60g / 10min〕, 760〔MFR:70g / 10min〕.

[0088] The intermediate layer 51 can be formed, for example, by applying a coating material, in which a material for forming the intermediate layer 51 containing at least a thermoplastic elastomer is dissolved or dispersed in an arbitrary solvent, onto the first ink layer 36 and then drying the coating material.

[0089] The thickness of the intermediate layer 51 can be set arbitrarily according to, for example, the specifications of the thermal transfer printer. The thickness of the intermediate layer 51 can be adjusted by the coating amount of the intermediate layer 51. For example, the coating amount of the intermediate layer 51 is 0.1 g / m2 expressed in terms of the amount of solid content per unit area. 2or more, preferably 0.2 g / m 2 For example, the coating amount of the intermediate layer 51 is 2.0 g / m2 in terms of the solid content per unit area. 2 or less, preferably 1.5 g / m 2 For example, the coating amount of the intermediate layer 51 is 0.1 g / m2 or less in terms of the solid content per unit area. 2 More than 2.0g / m 2 or less, preferably 0.2 g / m 2 More than 1.5g / m 2 The following is the result.

[0090] A specific thickness of the intermediate layer 51 (before printing) is, for example, 0.05 μm or more, and preferably 0.2 μm or more. The thickness of the intermediate layer 51 is, for example, 2.0 μm or less, and preferably 1.5 μm or less. The thickness of the intermediate layer 51 may be, for example, 0.05 μm or more and 2.0 μm or less, and preferably 0.2 μm or more and 1.5 μm or less. The thickness of the intermediate layer 51 can be confirmed based on, for example, a SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) image, a TEM (Transmission Electron Microscope) image, or the like of the ink ribbon 3.

[0091] Due to limitations in coating accuracy, the thickness of the intermediate layer 51 may have errors depending on the measurement position. The coating amount and thickness of the intermediate layer 51 may be values ​​that include such errors. For example, 0.2 g / m 2 The intermediate layer 51 formed with a coating amount of 0.1 g / m 2 It may have a region having a thickness when formed with a coating amount of 1000 μm or more. (4) Second ink layer 37 The second ink layer 37 can be formed, for example, from any thermoplastic resin. Examples of the thermoplastic resin used for the second ink layer 37 include epoxy resin, polyester resin, polyolefin resin, and the like. The thermoplastic resin can be appropriately selected depending on the material from which the printer tape 2 is formed, and the like. When the first ink layer 36 is formed from an epoxy resin, it is preferable that the second ink layer 37 is also formed from an epoxy resin.

[0092] By forming the second ink layer 37 from an epoxy resin, the adhesive force of the first ink layer 36 to the base layer 35 and the intermediate layer 51 can be counterbalanced with the adhesive force of the second ink layer 37 to the printer tape 2. This allows the first ink layer 36 and the intermediate layer 51 to be well separated to the base layer 35 side, and the second ink layer 37 to be well separated to the printer tape 2 side during high-temperature transfer. Since the high-temperature transfer range can be expanded to the low-temperature side, the effect of suppressing color turbidity can be further improved. Examples of epoxy resins include various epoxy resins exemplified as the epoxy resin of the first ink layer 36. These epoxy resins can be used alone or in combination of two or more types.

[0093] The second ink layer 37 may contain wax in addition to the thermoplastic resin. By containing wax, the first ink layer 36 and the intermediate layer 51 can be well separated to the base layer 35 side and the second ink layer 37 to the printer tape 2 side during high-temperature transfer. Therefore, the high-temperature transfer range can be expanded to the low-temperature side, and the effect of suppressing color turbidity can be further improved.

[0094] As the wax, any wax having affinity or compatibility with thermoplastic resins such as epoxy resins can be used. For example, natural waxes such as carnauba wax, paraffin wax, and microcrystalline wax, and synthetic waxes such as Fischer-Tropsch wax can be used. Specific examples of waxes are not particularly limited, but include, for example, carnauba wax No. 1 flake, No. 2 flake, No. 3 flake, No. 1 powder, and No. 2 powder (all of which have a melting point of 80 to 86°C) manufactured by Toyochem Co., Ltd., and paraffin waxes EMUSTAR-1155 (melting point: 69°C), EMUSTAR-0135 (melting point: 60°C), EMUSTAR-0136 (melting point: 60°C), and EMUSTAR-0137 (melting point: 60°C) manufactured by Nippon Seiro Co., Ltd. Examples of suitable waxes include microcrystalline waxes manufactured by Nippon Seiro Co., Ltd., such as EMUSTAR-0001 (melting point: 84° C.) and EMUSTAR-042X (melting point: 84° C.), and Fischer-Tropsch waxes manufactured by Nippon Seiro Co., Ltd., such as FNP-0090 (congealing point: 90° C.), SX80 (congealing point: 83° C.), FT-0165 (melting point: 73° C.), and FT-0070 (melting point: 72° C.). These waxes can be used alone or in combination of two or more kinds.

[0095] The second ink layer 37 may contain any colorant. As the colorant, one or more of various colorants may be used depending on the color of the second ink layer 37. The colorant may be, for example, a pigment or a dye. From the viewpoint of ensuring transparency with respect to the first ink layer 36, the second ink layer 37 preferably contains a colorant containing at least a dye. The second ink layer 37 preferably contains only a dye as a colorant, and may contain a dye and a pigment in a proportion less than the dye.

[0096] Here, the second ink layer 37 that ensures transparency with respect to the first ink layer 36 may be defined as having translucency that allows the printed pattern 44 of the first transfer layer 57 to be visually recognized as the color of the first ink layer 36 when the printed pattern 44 is viewed from the second ink layer 37 side. Therefore, when the transferred tape 55 is viewed in the direction indicated by the white arrow 59 in FIG. 5A, the printed pattern 44 is recognized as the color of the first ink layer 36. For example, the total light transmittance measured in accordance with JIS K 7361 may be used as a numerical value representing the transparency of the second ink layer 37. The total light transmittance of the second ink layer 37 may be, for example, 16% or more, and preferably 16.5% or more. The total light transmittance of the second ink layer 37 can be measured, for example, using a haze meter.

[0097] When a dye and a pigment are used in combination, the mixing ratio (mass ratio) of the dye is, for example, more than 70 mass%, preferably 80 mass% or more, and more preferably 90 mass%. The higher the mass ratio of the dye, the more the transparency of the second ink layer 37 relative to the first ink layer 36 can be improved.

[0098] For example, examples of dyes for coloring the second ink layer 37 red include the following various red dyes, such as oil-soluble dyes, acid dyes, basic dyes, metal-containing dyes, and various salt-forming dyes thereof. These red dyes can be used alone or in combination of two or more kinds.

[0099] CI Basic Red 1, 12, 13; CI Acid Red 13, 14, 18, 27, 50, 52; CI Solvent Red 25, 27, 30, 35, 49, 83, 89, 100, 122, 138, 149, 150, 160, 179, 218, 230; CI Direct Red 20, 37, 39, 44; CI Disperse Red 5, 7, 13, 17.

[0100] For example, the following various red pigments can be used as pigments for coloring the second ink layer 37 red. These red pigments can be used alone or in combination of two or more kinds.

[0101] CI Pigment Red 5, 7, 9, 12, 48(Ca), 48(Mn), 49, 52, 53, 53:1, 57(Ca), 57:1, 97, 112, 122, 123, 149, 168, 177, 178, 179, 184, 202, 206, 207, 209, 242, 254, 255.

[0102] Furthermore, the L value of the color difference of the reflected light from the second ink layer 37 having the exemplified composition is not more than 20, preferably not more than 15, more preferably not more than 10, and particularly preferably not more than 5. The L value may be, for example, a reflection density (L value) measured by using a reflection color difference meter to apply a light beam from the second ink layer 37 side of the ink ribbon 3. If the L value of the reflected light from the second ink layer 37 is within the above range, sufficient transparency to the first ink layer 36 can be ensured.

[0103] The ratio of each component in the second ink layer 37 is not particularly limited. The ratio of wax to 100 parts by mass of epoxy resin is, for example, 3 parts by mass or more, and preferably 5 parts by mass or more. The ratio of wax to 100 parts by mass of epoxy resin is, for example, 11 parts by mass or less, and preferably 9 parts by mass or less. The ratio of wax to 100 parts by mass of epoxy resin is, for example, 3 parts by mass or more and 11 parts by mass or less, and preferably 5 parts by mass or more and 9 parts by mass or less.

[0104] The ratio of the colorant such as a red dye to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin (total amount of colorant) is, for example, 70 parts by mass or more, preferably 80 parts by mass or more. The ratio of the colorant such as a red dye to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 140 parts by mass or less, preferably 120 parts by mass or less. The ratio of the colorant such as a red dye to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 70 parts by mass or more and 140 parts by mass or less, preferably 80 parts by mass or more and 120 parts by mass or less.

[0105] The second ink layer 37 can be formed, for example, by applying a coating material in which the above-mentioned components are dissolved or dispersed in an arbitrary solvent onto the intermediate layer 51, and then drying the coating material.

[0106] The thickness of the second ink layer 37 can be set arbitrarily according to, for example, the specifications of the thermal transfer printer. The thickness of the second ink layer 37 can be adjusted by the coating amount of the second ink layer 37. For example, the coating amount of the second ink layer 37 is 0.2 g / m2 expressed in terms of the amount of solids per unit area. 2 or more, preferably 1.0 g / m 2 For example, the coating amount of the second ink layer 37 is 7.0 g / m2 in terms of the amount of solid content per unit area. 2 or less, preferably 5.0 g / m 2 For example, the coating amount of the second ink layer 37 is 0.2 g / m2 in terms of the amount of solid content per unit area. 2 More than 7.0g / m 2 or less, preferably 1.0 g / m 2 More than 5.0g / m 2 The following is the result.

[0107] A specific thickness of the second ink layer 37 (before printing) is, for example, 0.05 μm or more, and preferably 1.0 μm or more. The thickness of the second ink layer 37 is, for example, 7.0 μm or less, and preferably 5.0 μm or less. The thickness of the second ink layer 37 may be, for example, 0.05 μm or more and 7.0 μm or less, and preferably 1.0 μm or more and 5.0 μm or less. The thickness of the second ink layer 37 can be confirmed based on, for example, a SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) image, a TEM (Transmission Electron Microscope) image, or the like of the ink ribbon 3.

[0108] The laminating tape 76 includes a base layer 61, a first adhesive layer 62, a second adhesive layer 63, and a release layer 64. The first adhesive layer 62 is formed on an adhesive surface 65 of the base layer 61, and the second adhesive layer 63 is formed on a release surface 66 opposite the adhesive surface 65. The laminating tape 76 is attached to the printed matter 56 via the first adhesive layer 62. (5) Base material layer 61 Examples of the substrate layer 61 include films of resins such as polysulfone, polystyrene, polyamide, polyimide, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyester, and triacetate, thin paper such as condenser paper and glassine paper, and cellophane. Among these, polyester films such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene naphthalate are preferred in terms of mechanical strength, dimensional stability, heat treatment resistance, and price. The thickness of the substrate layer 61 can be set arbitrarily according to, for example, the specifications of the thermal transfer printer. For example, the thickness of the substrate layer 61 is 1 μm or more, and preferably 10 μm or more. For example, the thickness of the substrate layer 61 is 100 μm or less, and preferably 50 μm or less. For example, the thickness of the substrate layer 61 is 1 μm or more and 100 μm or less, and preferably 10 μm or more and 50 μm or less. For example, the thickness of the substrate layer 61 is 1 μm or more and 100 μm or less, and preferably 10 μm or more and 50 μm or less. (6) First adhesive layer 62 The first adhesive layer 62 is not particularly limited as long as it is an adhesive layer used to bond films together, and examples thereof include acrylic adhesives, rubber adhesives, and the like. The thickness of the first adhesive layer 62 is, for example, 1 μm or more, and preferably 10 μm or more. For example, the thickness of the first adhesive layer 62 is 100 μm or less, and preferably 50 μm or less. For example, the thickness of the first adhesive layer 62 is 1 μm or more and 100 μm or less, and preferably 10 μm or more and 50 μm or less. (7) Second adhesive layer 63 The second adhesive layer 63 is not particularly limited as long as it is an adhesive layer used to bond films together, and for example, the adhesive material used for the first adhesive layer 62 can be used. The thickness of the second adhesive layer 63 is, for example, 1 μm or more, and preferably 10 μm or more. For example, the thickness of the second adhesive layer 63 is 100 μm or less, and preferably 50 μm or less. For example, the thickness of the second adhesive layer 63 is 1 μm or more and 100 μm or less, and preferably 10 μm or more and 50 μm or less. (8) Release layer 64 The release layer 64 is peeled off from the laminating tape 76 when the transferred tape 55 is attached to an object, exposing the second adhesive layer 63. The transferred tape 55 can be attached to the object via the exposed second adhesive layer 63. An example of the release layer 64 is release paper coated with a release agent such as silicone.

[0109] As shown in FIGS. 5C and 5D, the laminating tape 76 does not necessarily have to include the base layer 61.

[0110] According to the transferred tape 55 having the above-mentioned layer configuration, the second ink layer 37 has a translucency that allows the first ink layer 36 to be seen. This allows a film to be formed in which the laminate of the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 is transferred to the transparent printer tape 2 so that the second ink layer 37 becomes the front side ink layer (observation side ink layer). Since the second ink layer 37 has a translucency that allows the first ink layer 36 to be seen, the color of the first ink layer 36 can be recognized through the second ink layer 37 in this transferred tape 55. Furthermore, the L value of the color difference of the reflected light from the second ink layer 37 is 20 or less. Therefore, even if the first ink layer 36 is covered with the second ink layer 37, the color of the first ink layer 36 seen through the second ink layer 37 can be made close to an ideal color (black in this embodiment).

[0111] The embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrative in all respects and should not be construed as limiting, and are intended to include modifications in all respects.

[0112] The following characteristics can be extracted from the description of this specification and the drawings.

[0113] [Appendix 1-1] A thermal transfer recording medium to be transferred onto a transparent film, A base layer; a first ink layer and a second ink layer laminated in this order on the base layer, A thermal transfer recording medium, wherein the second ink layer has a light transmittance that allows the first ink layer to be visually recognized, and an L value of a color difference of light reflected from the second ink layer is 20 or less.

[0114] [Appendix 1-2] a first energy having a relatively low energy level is applied to the thermal transfer recording medium while the second ink layer is in contact with the transparent film, and the thermal transfer recording medium is then cooled. When an external force is applied to the base layer and the second ink layer in a direction away from each other, a laminate of the first ink layer and the second ink layer is transferred to the transparent film; The thermal transfer recording medium described in Appendix 1-1, wherein, with the second ink layer in contact with the transparent film, the thermal transfer recording medium is heated by applying a second energy relatively higher than the first energy and then cooled, and when an external force is applied to the base layer and the second ink layer in a direction moving them away from each other, the second ink layer is selectively transferred to the transparent film.

[0115] [Appendix 1-3] The thermal transfer recording medium according to claim 1-1 or 1-2, wherein the second ink layer contains 80% by mass or more of a dye as a coloring material.

[0116] [Appendix 1-4] The thermal transfer recording medium according to any one of claims 1-1 to 1-3, wherein the first ink layer contains a thermoplastic resin and an adhesive.

[0117] [Appendix 1-5] The thermal transfer recording medium according to any one of claims 1-1 to 1-4, wherein the second ink layer contains a thermoplastic resin and a wax.

[0118] [Appendix 1-6] The thermal transfer recording medium according to any one of claims 1-1 to 1-5, further comprising an intermediate layer formed between the first ink layer and the second ink layer.

[0119] [Appendix 1-7] The thermal transfer recording medium according to claim 1, wherein the intermediate layer contains a styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer.

[0120] [Appendix 1-8] A transferred film in which a first ink layer, a second ink layer having a light-transmitting property that allows the first ink layer to be visually recognized, and a transparent film are laminated in this order, The second ink layer has a total light transmittance of 16% or more, A transferred film, wherein the transparent film has a total light transmittance of 80% or more.

[0121] [Appendix 1-9] a printed matter comprising a laminate of the transparent film, the first ink layer, and the second ink layer; A transferred film described in Appendix 1-8, comprising a first adhesive layer laminated to the printed matter on the side of the first ink layer, and an attachment layer including the base material layer attached to the printed matter via the first adhesive layer.

[0122] [Appendix 1-10] The transferred film described in Appendix 1-9, wherein the bonding layer further includes a second adhesive layer laminated to the base layer on the opposite side of the first adhesive layer, and a release layer laminated to the base layer via the second adhesive layer.

[0123] [Appendix 1-11] a heating step of heating the thermal transfer recording medium having a base layer and a laminate of a first ink layer and a second ink layer laminated in this order on the base layer, the second ink layer having a light transmittance that allows the first ink layer to be visually recognized and an L value of a color difference of reflected light from the second ink layer being 20 or less, while the second ink layer is in contact with the transparent film; a cooling step of cooling the thermal transfer recording medium heated in the heating step; a transfer step of transferring a transfer layer including at least a laminate of the first ink layer and the second ink layer to the transparent film by applying an external force to the base layer and the first ink layer of the thermal transfer recording medium cooled by the cooling step in a direction away from each other.

[0124] [Appendix 1-12] In the heating step, a first portion of the thermal transfer recording medium is heated by applying a relatively low first energy, and a second portion of the thermal transfer recording medium is heated by applying a relatively higher second energy than the first energy, The method for producing a transferred film described in Appendix 1-11, wherein in the transfer step, a laminate of the first ink layer and the second ink layer is transferred to the transparent film in a first portion of the thermal transfer recording medium, and the second ink layer is selectively transferred to the transparent film in the second portion of the thermal transfer recording medium. EXAMPLES

[0125] The present disclosure will be further described below based on experimental examples, but the configuration of the present disclosure is not limited to these examples.

[0126] [Black coloring layer coating material (1)] Each component shown in Table 1 below was dissolved in a mixed solvent of toluene and methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) in a mass ratio of 1 / 4 to prepare a coating material (1) for black colored layer with a solid content concentration of 22.5 mass%. The ratio of the active ingredient in the acrylic adhesive was 80 mass parts per 100 mass parts of epoxy resin.

[0127] [Table 1] The components in the table are as follows:

[0128] Epoxy resin: JER1007 manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation [basic solid type, softening point (ring and ball method): 128°C, number average molecular weight Mn: approximately 2900] Acrylic adhesive: AS-665 manufactured by Lion Specialty Chemicals Co., Ltd. [Solid content: 40% by mass] Tackifier: Terpene phenol resin, YS Polystar T80 (softening point: 80±5°C) manufactured by Yasuhara Chemical Co., Ltd. Carbon black: MA100 powder manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation (LFF, DBP absorption capacity: 100 cm 3 / 100g] [Black coloring layer coating material (2)] A coating material (2) for a black colored layer was prepared in the same manner as the coating material (1) for a black colored layer, except that the acrylic adhesive and tackifier were not blended.

[0129] [Coating material for intermediate layer (1)] A thermoplastic elastomer (Tuftec H1521, SEBS, MFR: 12.3 g / 10 min, styrene content 18% by mass, manufactured by Asahi Kasei Corporation) was dissolved in a mixed solvent of toluene and hexane in a mass ratio of 1 / 1 to prepare a coating material (1) for the intermediate layer with a solid content concentration of 10% by mass.

[0130] [Coating material for intermediate layer (2)] Intermediate layer coating material (2) was prepared in the same manner as intermediate layer coating material (1), except that the same amount of Tuftec H1517 (SEBS, MFR: less than 3.0 g / 10 min, styrene content 43% by mass) manufactured by Asahi Kasei Corporation was used as the thermoplastic elastomer. The solid content was 10% by mass.

[0131] [Coating material for intermediate layer (3)] Intermediate layer coating material (3) was prepared in the same manner as intermediate layer coating material (1), except that the same amount of Tuftec H1272 (SEBS, MFR: No Flow, styrene content 35% by mass) manufactured by Asahi Kasei Corporation was used as the thermoplastic elastomer. The solid content was 10% by mass.

[0132] [Coating material for intermediate layer (4)] The intermediate layer coating material (4) was prepared in the same manner as the intermediate layer coating material (1), except that the same amount of Tufprene A (SBS, MFR: 2.6 g / 10 min, styrene content 40% by mass) manufactured by Asahi Kasei Corporation was used as the thermoplastic elastomer. The solid content was 10% by mass.

[0133] [Coating material for intermediate layer (5)] An intermediate layer coating material (5) was prepared in the same manner as the intermediate layer coating material (1), except that the same amount of Ultrathene 634 (EVA, MFR: 4.3 g / 10 min) manufactured by Tosoh Corporation was used as the thermoplastic elastomer. The solid content was 10% by mass.

[0134] [Coating material for intermediate layer (6)] An intermediate layer coating material (6) was prepared in the same manner as the intermediate layer coating material (1), except that the same amount of Ultrathene 722 (EVA, MFR: 400 g / 10 min) manufactured by Tosoh Corporation was used as the thermoplastic elastomer. The solid content was 10% by mass.

[0135] [Coating material for intermediate layer (7)] Intermediate layer coating material (7) was prepared in the same manner as intermediate layer coating material (1), except that the same amount of Ultrathene 725 (EVA, MFR: 1000g / 10min) manufactured by Tosoh Corporation was used as the thermoplastic elastomer. The solid content was 10% by mass.

[0136] [Coating material for intermediate layer (8)] Instead of the thermoplastic elastomer, the same amount of amorphous polyester resin (Vylon (registered trademark) 200 manufactured by Toyobo Co., Ltd.) was used, and the same procedure as for the intermediate layer coating material (1) was used to prepare intermediate layer coating material (8). The solid content was 10% by mass.

[0137] The material names, MFR, and styrene content of intermediate layer coating materials (1) to (8) are summarized in Table 2 below. The mixing ratio of the components is omitted because the solid content / toluene / hexane = 10 / 45 / 45 for all intermediate layer coating materials (1) to (8).

[0138] [Table 2] [Coating material for red colored layer (1)] 100 parts by mass of epoxy resin [JER1004 manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation [basic solid type, softening point (ring and ball method): 97°C, number average molecular weight Mn: approximately 1650]], 7.1 parts by mass of low melting point wax [Carnauba wax No. 2 powder manufactured by Toyochem Co., Ltd. (melting point: 80 to 86°C)], and 92.9 parts by mass of red colorant [red dye VALIFAST RED1320 manufactured by Orient Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. (CI BASIC RED 1 and onium salt of azo dye)] were dissolved in a mixed solvent of toluene and MEK in a mass ratio of 1 / 4 to prepare a red color layer coating material (1) with a solid content concentration of 28% by mass.

[0139] [Coating material for red colored layer (2)] A red coloring layer coating material (2) was prepared in the same manner as the red coloring layer coating material (1), except that a mixture of a red dye [VALIFAST RED1320 (CI BASIC RED 1 and an onium salt of an azo dye manufactured by Orient Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.)] and a red pigment [SYMULER (registered trademark) LAKE RED C CONC210 (CI Pigment Red 53:1 manufactured by DIC Corporation)] (mixture ratio = red dye 9: red pigment 1) was used as the red coloring agent. The solid content was 28% by mass.

[0140] [Coating material for red colored layer (3)] A red coloring layer coating material (3) was prepared in the same manner as the red coloring layer coating material (1), except that a mixture of a red dye [VALIFAST RED1320 (CI BASIC RED 1 and an onium salt of an azo dye manufactured by Orient Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.)] and a red pigment [SYMULER (registered trademark) LAKE RED C CONC210 (CI Pigment Red 53:1 manufactured by DIC Corporation)] was used as the red coloring agent (mixture ratio = red dye 8: red pigment 2). The solid content concentration was 28% by mass.

[0141] [Coating material for red colored layer (4)] A red coloring layer coating material (4) was prepared in the same manner as the red coloring layer coating material (1), except that a mixture of a red dye [VALIFAST RED1320 (CI BASIC RED 1 and an onium salt of an azo dye manufactured by Orient Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.)] and a red pigment [SYMULER (registered trademark) LAKE RED C CONC210 (CI Pigment Red 53:1 manufactured by DIC Corporation)] (mixture ratio = red dye 7: red pigment 3) was mixed as a red coloring agent. The solid content concentration was 28% by mass.

[0142] The names and mixing ratios of the red color layer coating materials (1) to (4) are summarized in Table 3 below.

[0143] [Table 3] [Experimental Examples 1-15] (1) Manufacture of ink ribbons (thermal transfer recording media) First, a PET film having a thickness of 4.5 μm was prepared as a substrate layer. Next, a silicone resin having a solid content per unit area of ​​0.1 g / m was applied to the surface (back side) of the substrate layer opposite to the surface on which the transfer layer was to be formed. 2 Next, one of the previously prepared black colored layer coating materials was applied to the surface of the base layer and then dried to form a back layer having a solid content of 1.5 g / m2 per unit area. 2 Next, one of the intermediate layer coating materials prepared above was applied onto the black colored layer and then dried to form a black colored layer having a solid content of 1 g / m2 per unit area. 2 Next, one of the previously prepared red colored layer coating materials was applied onto the intermediate layer and then dried to form an intermediate layer having a solid content of 2.5 g / m2 per unit area. 2 The composition of each layer of the ink ribbons obtained in Experimental Examples 1 to 15 is as shown in Tables 4 to 6 below. (2) Evaluation (2-1) Transmittance of the base film First, the total light transmittance of the transparent substrate film used to prepare the transferred film was measured. Two types of substrate films were used. One was a transparent PET film with a glossy finish [Lumirror (registered trademark) #50-S10 manufactured by Toray Industries, Inc.], and the other was a transparent PET film with a matte finish [Lumirror (registered trademark) #50-S10 manufactured by Toray Industries, Inc., sandblasted]. In Tables 4 to 6, the former is indicated as "PET" and the latter as "matte PET".

[0144] The transmittance of each substrate film was measured by cutting the film into a 30 mm square to prepare an evaluation sample, and using a haze meter (NDH7000 manufactured by Nippon Denshoku Industries Co., Ltd.). The results are shown in Tables 4 to 6. (2-2) Reflection density A white PET sheet with a thickness of 330 μm was laid down, and the ink ribbon manufactured in each experimental example was placed on top of it with the base layer facing down. Next, a light beam was irradiated from the side of the red colored layer, and the reflection density (L value) was measured. The reflection density was measured using a reflection color difference meter (Spectro Photometer NF777 manufactured by Nippon Denshoku Industries Co., Ltd.). The results are shown in Tables 4 to 6. (2-3) Print transparency The ink ribbon produced in each experimental example was slit into ribbons of a specified width, wound into a roll, and set in a thermal transfer printer (a prototype printer manufactured by Brother Industries, Ltd.). The main specifications of the thermal transfer printer are as follows: <Resolution> 300dpi line thermal head <Resistance of heating element> 1830Ω <Transfer load> 30N / 2inch <Transport speed> 20mm / sec <Peeling distance> 110mm Next, in an environment with an outside temperature of 25°C, the energy value applied to the thermal head, which was preset in the thermal transfer printer, was set to 100 (low temperature, black). Then, a 70 mm square solid image was thermally transferred onto the surface of a transparent base film shown in Tables 4 to 6 at a printing speed of 5 inch / sec. This resulted in a transferred film in which a laminate of a red colored layer and a black colored layer was formed as a transfer layer, with the red colored layer facing the base film.

[0145] Next, the print transparency of the transferred film was evaluated. The print transparency is an index for comparing the light transparency of the red colored layer covering the black colored layer. The better the print transparency evaluation, the more the black colored layer can be recognized as black when viewed through the transparent base film and the red colored layer. Specifically, a white PET sheet with a thickness of 330 μm was laid, and the transferred film was placed on top of it with the transparent base film facing up. Next, a light beam was incident from the transparent base film side, and the reflection density (L value, a value, and b value) was measured. The reflection density was measured using a reflection color difference meter (Spectro Photometer NF777 manufactured by Nippon Denshoku Kogyo Co., Ltd.). The print transparency was evaluated according to the following criteria. The target values ​​of each numerical value of the reflection density that can be recognized as black are L value ≦ 25, a value ≦ 17, and b value ≦ 7. The results are shown in Tables 4 to 6. ◯: Black (L value, a value, and b value are all within the target range). △: Reddish in color but can be recognized as black (one or less of the L, a, and b values ​​is outside the target range). ×: Brown (two or more of the L value, a value, and b value are outside the target range). (2-4) Printing stability The ink ribbon produced in each experimental example was slit into ribbons of a specified width, wound into a roll, and set in a thermal transfer printer of the same specifications as (2-3). Next, in an environment with an outside temperature of 25°C, the energy value to be applied to the thermal head, which was preset in the thermal transfer printer, was set to three levels of energy on the low and high sides. Then, a 70 mm square solid image was thermally transferred onto the surface of a transparent base film shown in Tables 4 to 6 at a printing speed of 5 inches / sec.

[0146] Regarding the energy value applied to the thermal head, the low temperature side had a total of three stages, including a reference value of 100 and the surrounding values ​​of 90 and 110. As a result, a transferred film was obtained in which a laminate of a red colored layer and a black colored layer was formed as a transfer layer so that the red colored layer was on the substrate film side. On the other hand, the high temperature side had a total of three stages, including a reference value of 170 and the surrounding values ​​of 160 and 180. As a result, a transferred film was obtained in which the red colored layer was selectively peeled off from the substrate layer and formed as a transfer layer on the transparent substrate film.

[0147] Next, the printing stability of each transferred film was evaluated. Printing stability is an index for comparing the width of the energy range required to form the desired transfer layer. The wider the energy range, the more stable the desired transfer layer can be realized, and therefore the higher the printing stability. Specifically, solid images transferred at three levels of energy on the low and high temperature sides were compared, and the printing stability was evaluated according to the following criteria. The results are shown in Tables 4 to 6. 4: There is no change in any of the three steps, and the printable energy range is wide. 3: Opacity or unprintability exists within one energy step around the baseline. 2: Opacity or unprintability exists within two energy steps around the reference value. 1: Opacity or unprintability exists within any of the three energy steps around the baseline. 0: Cloudiness or unprintable at either the reference energy of 100 or 170 exists. (2-5) Transmittance of red colored layer The ink ribbon produced in each experimental example was slit into a ribbon of a predetermined width, wound into a roll, and set in a thermal transfer printer of the same specifications as (2-3). Next, in an environment of an outside temperature of 25°C, the energy value applied to the thermal head, which was preset in the thermal transfer printer, was set to 170 (high temperature, red). Then, a 70 mm square solid image was thermally transferred onto the surface of a transparent base film shown in Tables 4 to 6 at a printing speed of 5 inches / sec. As a result, a transferred film was obtained in which the red colored layer was selectively peeled off from the base layer and formed as a transfer layer on the transparent base film.

[0148] Next, each solid image was cut into a 30 mm square to prepare an evaluation sample, and the transmittance of the red colored layer was measured. The transmittance was measured using a haze meter (NDH7000 manufactured by Nippon Denshoku Industries Co., Ltd.). Specifically, first, the total light transmittance (%) of the evaluation sample was measured. Similarly, the total light transmittance (%) of the blank (non-printed portion of the transferred film) was measured. Then, the total light transmittance (%) of only the red colored layer was calculated by the formula: total light transmittance (%) of evaluation sample / total light transmittance (%) of blank×100. The results are shown in Tables 4 to 6.

[0149] [Table 4]

[0150] [Table 5]

[0151] [Table 6] From a comparison between the L value of the ink ribbon used in Experimental Examples 1 to 6 and Experimental Examples 8 to 15 and the L value of the ink ribbon used in Experimental Example 7, it was found that if the L value of the color difference of the reflected light from the red colored layer side of the ink ribbon (ink ribbon) is 20 or less, good print transparency can be expressed in the transferred film. In other words, in the transferred films of Experimental Examples 1 to 6 and Experimental Examples 8 to 15, when the black colored layer is seen through the transparent base film and the red colored layer, it can be recognized as black. Also, from a comparison between Experimental Examples 1 and 3 and Experimental Example 4, it was found that, particularly, if the L value is 15 or less, it is possible to approach black more favorably. On the other hand, from a comparison between Experimental Examples 4 and 6, it was found that even if the L value is the same, if a transparent PET film with a matte finish is used as the base film, the print transparency can be improved.

[0152] It was also found that the print transmittance could be improved by increasing the ratio of red dye in the red colored layer. Comparing the transmittance of the red colored layers of Experimental Example 1 (red dye:red pigment = 10:0), Experimental Example 3 (red dye:red pigment = 9:1), Experimental Example 4 (red dye:red pigment = 8:2) and Experimental Example 7 (red dye:red pigment = 7:3), it was found that the transmittance could be improved as the ratio of red dye increased. In particular, the transmittance of the red colored layers of Experimental Examples 1 and 3 was excellent.

[0153] Next, from a comparison between Experimental Example 1 and Experimental Example 2, it was found that interposing an intermediate layer between the black colored layer and the red colored layer provides better print stability. In other words, it was found that by interposing an intermediate layer, it is difficult for residual peeling to occur, and characters with excellent clarity can be recorded. In addition, from the viewpoint of print stability, from a comparison between Experimental Examples 1 and 9 to 11 and Experimental Examples 12 to 15, it was found that styrene-based thermoplastic elastomers (SEBS, SBS) are preferable as the intermediate layer, and SEBS is particularly preferable. Furthermore, from a comparison between Experimental Example 1 and Experimental Example 8, it was found that it is preferable to include an acrylic adhesive and a tackifier in the black colored layer in order to improve print stability. [Explanation of symbols]

[0154] 2: Printer tape 3: Ink ribbon 35: Base material layer 36: First ink layer 37: Second ink layer 42 :1st part 43:Second part 44: Printing pattern 45: Red pattern 46: Black pattern 51: Middle class 55: Transferred tape 56: Printed matter 57: First transfer layer 58: Second transfer layer 61: Base material layer 62: 1st adhesive layer 63:Second adhesive layer 64: Peeling layer 76: Laminating tape

Claims

1. A thermal transfer recording medium to be transferred onto a transparent film, A base layer; a first ink layer and a second ink layer laminated in order on the base layer, A thermal transfer recording medium, wherein the second ink layer has a light transmittance that allows the first ink layer to be visually recognized, and an L value of a color difference of light reflected from the second ink layer is 20 or less.

2. a first energy having a relatively low energy level is applied to the thermal transfer recording medium while the second ink layer is in contact with the transparent film, and the thermal transfer recording medium is then cooled. When an external force is applied to the base layer and the second ink layer in a direction away from each other, a laminate of the first ink layer and the second ink layer is transferred to the transparent film; The thermal transfer recording medium of claim 1, wherein, with the second ink layer in contact with the transparent film, the thermal transfer recording medium is heated by applying a second energy relatively higher than the first energy and then cooled, and when an external force is applied to the base layer and the second ink layer in a direction away from each other, the second ink layer is selectively transferred to the transparent film.

3. The thermal transfer recording medium according to claim 1 , wherein the second ink layer contains 80% by mass or more of a dye as a coloring material.

4. The thermal transfer recording medium according to claim 1 , wherein the first ink layer contains a thermoplastic resin and an adhesive.

5. The thermal transfer recording medium according to claim 1 , wherein the second ink layer comprises a thermoplastic resin and a wax.

6. 6. The thermal transfer recording medium according to claim 1, further comprising an intermediate layer formed between the first ink layer and the second ink layer.

7. The thermal transfer recording medium according to claim 6 , wherein the intermediate layer contains a styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer.

8. A transferred film in which a first ink layer, a second ink layer having a light-transmitting property that allows the first ink layer to be visually recognized, and a transparent film are laminated in this order, The second ink layer has a total light transmittance of 16% or more, The transferred film has a total light transmittance of 80% or more for the transparent film.

9. a printed matter including a laminate of the transparent film, the first ink layer, and the second ink layer; The transferred film according to claim 8 , comprising: a first adhesive layer laminated to the printed matter on the first ink layer side; and an attachment layer including the base material layer attached to the printed matter via the first adhesive layer.

10. The transferred film of claim 9, wherein the bonding layer further includes a second adhesive layer laminated to the base layer on the opposite side of the first adhesive layer, and a release layer laminated to the base layer via the second adhesive layer.

11. a heating step of heating the thermal transfer recording medium having a base layer and a laminate of a first ink layer and a second ink layer laminated in this order on the base layer, the second ink layer having a light transmittance that allows the first ink layer to be visually recognized and an L value of a color difference of reflected light from the second ink layer being 20 or less, while the second ink layer is in contact with the transparent film; a cooling step of cooling the thermal transfer recording medium heated in the heating step; A method for manufacturing a transferred film, comprising: a transfer step of transferring a transfer layer including at least a laminate of the first ink layer and the second ink layer to the transparent film by applying an external force in a direction away from each other to the base layer and the first ink layer of the thermal transfer recording medium cooled by the cooling step.

12. In the heating step, a first portion of the thermal transfer recording medium is heated by applying a relatively low first energy, and a second portion of the thermal transfer recording medium is heated by applying a relatively higher second energy than the first energy, The method for producing a transferred film according to claim 11, wherein in the transfer step, a laminate of the first ink layer and the second ink layer is transferred to the transparent film in a first portion of the thermal transfer recording medium, and the second ink layer is selectively transferred to the transparent film in the second portion of the thermal transfer recording medium.

Images