Inkjet treatment ink, inkjet recording method and inkjet recording system

Abstract

To provide an inkjet treatment ink, an inkjet recording method and an inkjet recording system which achieve both dyeability or color developability in a recorded material and ejection properties from an inkjet printhead.SOLUTION: There is provided an inkjet treatment ink which is a water-based inkjet treatment ink for use in combination with a recording ink containing a reactive dye, wherein the inkjet treatment ink contains an alkaline agent and a moisturizer, the alkaline agent is a potassium salt, the solid content concentration in the inkjet treatment ink is 20 mass% or more and the content of water is 55 mass% or more.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an inkjet treatment ink, an inkjet recording method, and an inkjet recording system, and more particularly to an inkjet treatment ink that achieves both dyeability or color development in recorded matter and ejectability from an inkjet head. [Background technology]

[0002] In inkjet recording, pre-treatment and post-treatment are carried out for the purpose of preventing bleeding of the recording ink that has landed on the recording medium and improving the fixation property. As one of the treatments, a method of applying a treatment liquid to the recording medium before the recording ink lands is known.

[0003] In addition to the inkjet method, other conventional methods for applying a treatment liquid include a method of impregnating a recording medium with the treatment liquid. In the method of impregnating a recording medium, the treatment liquid is applied uniformly to the entire recording medium. On the other hand, the inkjet method can apply only the necessary amount of treatment liquid to the necessary area. As a result, the inkjet method can reduce the amount of treatment liquid applied to the recording medium and the amount of solvent remaining in the recording medium.

[0004] However, in order to reduce the residual solvent, if the amount of treatment liquid applied per unit area is reduced in comparison with the method of impregnating a recording medium using the inkjet method, the amount of solid components contained in the treatment liquid applied will also be reduced. Therefore, it is preferable that the treatment liquid used in the inkjet method has a higher solid concentration than the treatment liquid for impregnation.

[0005] Patent Document 1 discloses a technology for a pretreatment liquid that contains a solvent, a paste, a moisturizing agent, a surfactant, an alkaline agent, and purified water and is supplied to a recording medium by an inkjet method. It was found that the pretreatment liquid has a high solid content concentration, and the solid content does not dissolve completely and tends to precipitate.

[0006] Patent Document 2 discloses a technology for a textile printing ink set consisting of a functional ink containing a hydrotropic agent and a recording ink containing a water-soluble resin. The ink set contains a large amount of organic solvent, and it takes a certain amount of time to dry and remove the solvent. Therefore, as a further improvement, a method of increasing the content of water, which is easy to remove by drying, has been considered. However, it has been found that increasing the content of water in the treatment liquid makes it easier to dissolve solids and to remove them by drying, but it also reduces the viscosity of the treatment liquid and makes it more likely to cause ejection defects. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2004 / 085739 [Patent Document 2] JP 2011-084689 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems and circumstances, and the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an inkjet treatment ink, an inkjet recording method, and an inkjet recording system that achieve both dyeability or color development in recorded matter and ejectability from an inkjet head. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present inventors have investigated the causes of the above-mentioned problems, and as a result, have discovered that in a water-based inkjet processing ink used in combination with a recording ink containing a reactive dye, by containing a potassium salt and a humectant and setting the solids concentration and water content within specific ranges, it is possible to achieve both dyeability or color development in the recorded matter and ejectability from an inkjet head, and have arrived at the present invention. That is, the above-mentioned problems of the present invention are solved by the following means.

[0010] 1. A water-based inkjet processing ink for use in combination with a recording ink containing a reactive dye, Contains an alkaline agent and a moisturizing agent, the alkaline agent is a potassium salt, The inkjet treatment ink has a solid content of 20% by mass or more, And the water content is 55% by mass or more. 2. A treatment ink for ink-jet printing.

[0011] 2. The alkaline agent is potassium carbonate or potassium bicarbonate. 2. The inkjet treatment ink according to claim 1,

[0012] 3. The moisturizing agent is urea or 2-imidazolidinone. 2. The inkjet treatment ink according to claim 1,

[0013] 4. Contains water-soluble polymers 2. The inkjet treatment ink according to claim 1,

[0014] 5. The water-soluble polymer is polyethylene glycol. 5. The inkjet treatment ink according to claim 4.

[0015] 6. The viscosity of the inkjet treatment ink at 25°C is 3.5 mPa·s or more. 2. The inkjet treatment ink according to claim 1,

[0016] 7. The solubility of the potassium salt in water at 25°C is 30 g / 100 mL or more. 2. The inkjet treatment ink according to claim 1,

[0017] 8. The content of the potassium salt is within the range of 3 to 10% by mass based on the total mass of the inkjet treatment ink. 2. The inkjet treatment ink according to claim 1,

[0018] 9. The content of the humectant is within a range of 10 to 30% by mass based on the total mass of the inkjet treatment ink. 2. The inkjet treatment ink according to claim 1,

[0019] 10. An ink-jet recording method using an ink-jet treatment ink, comprising: The inkjet treatment ink is the inkjet treatment ink according to any one of items 1 to 9, The inkjet processing ink and the recording ink are applied to the fabric from each inkjet head. 1. An ink-jet recording method comprising:

[0020] 11. Applying the inkjet processing ink and the recording ink to a fabric to which no alkaline agent or moisturizing agent has been applied 11. The ink jet recording method according to item 10,

[0021] 12. The inkjet treatment ink and the recording ink are applied in any order, and the amount of the inkjet treatment ink applied to the fabric is 30 g / m 2 The following 11. The ink jet recording method according to item 10,

[0022] 13. An inkjet recording system using an inkjet treatment ink, comprising: The inkjet treatment ink is the inkjet treatment ink according to any one of items 1 to 9, a first application section that applies the recording ink to a fabric, and a second application section that applies the inkjet treatment ink to the fabric. 1. An inkjet recording system comprising: Effect of the Invention

[0023] According to the above-mentioned means of the present invention, it is possible to provide an inkjet treatment ink, an inkjet recording method, and an inkjet recording system that achieve both dyeability or color development in recorded matter and ejectability from an inkjet head.

[0024] Although the mechanism by which the effects of the present invention are manifested or acted upon has not been clarified, it is presumed as follows: Hereinafter, the "treated ink for inkjet printing" will also be referred to simply as the "treated ink".

[0025] The treatment ink of the present invention contains an alkaline agent and a moisturizing agent, and has a solid content concentration including these of 20 mass% or more. By containing a moisturizing agent at a sufficient concentration, the treatment ink can promote the fixation of the reactive dye in a steam treatment after the ink is applied, and can improve the dyeability or color development of the recorded matter. By containing an alkaline agent at a sufficient concentration, the treatment ink can promote the fixation of the reactive dye and can improve the dyeability or color development of the recorded matter.

[0026] The treatment ink of the present invention has a water content of 55% by mass or more. By increasing the water content, it becomes easier to dissolve the metal salt as an alkaline agent. In addition, by increasing the water content, it becomes easier to remove the solvent by drying, and the dyeability or color development of the recorded matter can be improved.

[0027] The treatment ink of the present invention contains a potassium salt as an alkaline agent. Among metal salts used as alkaline agents, potassium salts have a relatively high solubility and are less likely to precipitate. It is therefore believed that the solubility of the treatment ink can be improved, and the ejection properties from an inkjet head can be improved. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0028] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an inkjet recording apparatus used in the inkjet recording method of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0029] The inkjet treatment ink of the present invention is a water-based inkjet treatment ink used in combination with a recording ink containing a reactive dye, and is characterized in that it contains an alkaline agent and a humectant, the alkaline agent is a potassium salt, the solids concentration in the inkjet treatment ink is 20 mass % or more, and the water content is 55 mass % or more. This feature is a technical feature common to or corresponding to the following embodiments.

[0030] In an embodiment of the present invention, from the viewpoint of achieving both dyeability or color development in the recorded matter and ejectability from an inkjet head, the alkaline agent is preferably potassium carbonate or potassium hydrogen carbonate.

[0031] In an embodiment of the present invention, from the viewpoint of dyeability or color development in a recorded matter, the moisturizing agent is preferably urea or 2-imidazolidinone.

[0032] In an embodiment of the present invention, from the viewpoint of ejection properties from an inkjet head, it is preferable that the ink contains a water-soluble polymer, and among these, it is preferable that the water-soluble polymer is polyethylene glycol.

[0033] In an embodiment of the present invention, from the viewpoint of ejection properties from an inkjet head, the viscosity of the inkjet treatment ink at 25° C. is preferably 3.5 mPa·s or more.

[0034] In an embodiment of the present invention, from the viewpoint of solubility, the solubility of the potassium salt in water at 25° C. is preferably 30 g / 100 mL or more.

[0035] In an embodiment of the present invention, from the viewpoint of dyeability or color development in recorded matter, the content of the potassium salt is preferably within a range of 3 to 10 mass % relative to the total mass of the inkjet treatment ink.

[0036] In an embodiment of the present invention, from the viewpoint of dyeability or color development in recorded matter, the content of the humectant is preferably within a range of 10 to 30% by mass relative to the total mass of the inkjet treatment ink.

[0037] The inkjet recording method of the present invention is an inkjet recording method using an inkjet treatment ink, characterized in that the inkjet treatment ink and the recording ink are applied to a fabric from each inkjet head.

[0038] In an embodiment of the present invention, from the viewpoint of manifesting the effects of the present invention, it is preferable to apply the inkjet treatment ink and the recording ink to a fabric to which no alkaline agent or moisturizing agent has been applied.

[0039] In one embodiment of the present invention, from the viewpoint of suppressing bleeding when ink is landed, the inkjet treatment ink and the recording ink are applied in any order, and the amount of the inkjet treatment ink applied to the fabric is set to 30 g / m 2 It is preferable that:

[0040] The inkjet recording system of the present invention is an inkjet recording system that uses an inkjet treatment ink, and is characterized in that it comprises a first application section that applies the recording ink to a fabric, and a second application section that applies the inkjet treatment ink to the fabric.

[0041] The present invention, its components, and embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail below. In this application, the symbol "to" is used to mean that the numerical values ​​before and after the symbol "to" are included as the lower limit and upper limit.

[0042] 1. Overview of inkjet treatment inks The inkjet treatment ink of the present invention is a water-based inkjet treatment ink used in combination with a recording ink containing a reactive dye, and is characterized in that it contains an alkaline agent and a humectant, the alkaline agent is a potassium salt, the solids concentration in the inkjet treatment ink is 20 mass % or more, and the water content is 55 mass % or more.

[0043] The treatment ink of the present invention, when used in combination with a recording ink, can prevent bleeding of the recording ink and improve the fixability of the recording ink. The treatment ink of the present invention may be a pretreatment ink or a posttreatment ink. The pretreatment ink is caused to land on the recording medium before the recording ink lands, and treatment is performed. The posttreatment ink is caused to land on the recording medium after the recording ink lands, and treatment is performed.

[0044] In the present invention, the pre-treatment or post-treatment is preferably carried out by a "wet-on-wet method." The "wet-on-wet method" refers to combining (mixing) the processing ink and the recording ink while both are in a liquid state.

[0045] In the present invention, "dyeing" refers to the fixation (dyeing) of a pigment to a fabric using a coloring material (dye). "Dyeability" refers to the ability to manifest the fixation (dyeing) of a pigment, or the degree or extent of such fixation. "Color development" refers to the use of a coloring material (dye) to cause a fabric to exhibit a desired color. "Color development" refers to the ability to manifest a desired color, or the degree or extent of color development relative to the desired color.

[0046] By using the inkjet treatment ink of the present invention, the dye contained in the recording ink can be fixed to the recording medium, improving dyeability. Furthermore, by using the inkjet treatment ink of the present invention, it is possible to make the fabric have a color closer to the desired color, i.e., the color development is improved.

[0047] 2. Composition of inkjet treatment ink The treatment ink of the present invention contains an alkaline agent, a moisturizing agent, and water. If necessary, it may contain a water-soluble polymer, a surfactant, a preservative, an organic solvent, etc. These will be explained in order below. In the present invention, the "solid content concentration" refers to the ratio of solid content to the total mass of the treatment ink. For example, among the above components, the alkaline agent, the moisturizing agent, the water-soluble polymer, etc. correspond to the solid content components.

[0048] The ink of the present invention preferably does not contain an anti-reducing agent (sodium m-nitrobenzenesulfonate), which can prevent the anti-reducing agent, which has low solubility, from precipitating, thereby preventing a decrease in the ejectability of the treated ink from an inkjet head.

[0049] (1) Alkaline agents The processing ink of the present invention contains an alkaline agent, which promotes fixation of the reactive dye contained in the recording ink to the recording medium, thereby improving dyeability or color development.

[0050] In the present invention, the alkaline agent is a potassium salt. Among metal salts used as alkaline agents, potassium salts have a relatively high solubility and are less likely to precipitate, so that sufficient ejection properties from an inkjet head can be ensured.

[0051] Examples of potassium salts include potassium carbonate, potassium hydrogen carbonate, potassium dihydrogen phosphate, dipotassium hydrogen phosphate, tripotassium phosphate, etc. From the viewpoint of dyeing property or color development property, the potassium salt is preferably potassium carbonate or potassium hydrogen carbonate.

[0052] From the viewpoint of solubility and ejectability, the solubility of the potassium salt in water at 25° C. is preferably 30 g / 100 mL or more. Examples of potassium salts having a solubility of 30 g / 100 mL or more include potassium carbonate, potassium hydrogen carbonate, dipotassium hydrogen phosphate, and tripotassium phosphate.

[0053] The content of the alkaline agent is preferably within a range of 3 to 10% by mass, more preferably within a range of 4 to 8% by mass, based on the total mass of the treated ink. By being within the above range, sufficient dyeability or color development can be ensured, while also ensuring sufficient ejection properties from an inkjet head.

[0054] (2) Moisturizer In the present invention, the term "humectant" refers to a compound having a function of promoting the reactive dye to adhere to steam and the steam in the color development process by steam treatment after application of the ink.

[0055] The treatment ink of the present invention contains a humectant, which promotes fixation of the reactive dye to the recording medium and improves dyeability or color development. Note that "after application of the ink" refers to the period after the recording ink and the treatment ink have been applied to the recording medium.

[0056] Examples of the moisturizing agent include urea and 2-imidazolidinone (ethylene urea). Among them, the moisturizing agent is preferably 2-imidazolidinone. 2-imidazolidinone is difficult to hydrolyze in alkaline processing ink and has excellent long-term storage properties.

[0057] The content of the humectant is preferably within a range of 10 to 30% by mass, more preferably within a range of 15 to 25% by mass, based on the total mass of the treated ink. By being within the above range, sufficient dyeability or color development can be ensured, while sufficient ejection properties from an inkjet head can be ensured.

[0058] (3) Water-soluble polymer In the present invention, the term "water-soluble" in "water-soluble polymer" means that the amount of the target substance dissolved in 100 parts by mass of water at 25° C. is 5 parts by mass or more. Since the polymer is water-soluble, it can be used in a water-based treatment ink.

[0059] Water-soluble polymers are divided into low-viscosity water-soluble polymers and high-viscosity water-soluble polymers. In the present invention, a "low-viscosity water-soluble polymer" has a viscosity of 4 mPa·s or less in a 1% by mass aqueous solution at 25°C. A "high-viscosity water-soluble polymer" has a viscosity of more than 4 mPa·s in a 1% by mass aqueous solution at 25°C. High-viscosity water-soluble polymers are also called "sizing agents."

[0060] (3.1) Low-viscosity water-soluble polymer The treated ink of the present invention contains a low-viscosity water-soluble polymer, which allows the viscosity to be adjusted and ensures sufficient jettability from an ink-jet head.

[0061] Examples of low-viscosity water-soluble polymers include polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, ethylene oxide-propylene oxide copolymers, polyethylene oxide adducts of glycerin, polypropylene adducts of glycerin, polyethylene oxide adducts of diglycerin, and polypropylene adducts of diglycerin.

[0062] The content of the low-viscosity water-soluble polymer is preferably within a range of 0 to 10% by mass, and more preferably within a range of 2 to 8% by mass, relative to the total mass of the treatment ink.

[0063] (3.2) High-viscosity water-soluble polymer (sizing agent) The processing ink of the present invention contains a high-viscosity water-soluble polymer, which makes it possible to suppress the reactive dye from diffusing and bleeding on the recording medium when the recording ink lands on the recording medium or when steam treatment is performed after application of the ink.

[0064] Examples of high viscosity water-soluble polymers include sodium alginate, carboxymethyl cellulose, and starch.

[0065] The content of the high-viscosity water-soluble polymer is preferably within a range of 0 to 5% by mass, and more preferably within a range of 0 to 3% by mass, relative to the total mass of the treated ink.

[0066] (4) Surfactants The surfactant may be any of cationic, anionic, amphoteric and nonionic.

[0067] Examples of the cationic surfactant include aliphatic amine salts, aliphatic quaternary ammonium salts, benzalkonium salts, benzethonium chloride, pyridinium salts, and imidazolinium salts.

[0068] Examples of anionic surfactants include fatty acid soaps, N-acyl-N-methylglycine salts, N-acyl-N-methyl-β-alanine salts, N-acylglutamates, alkyl ether carboxylates, acylated peptides, alkyl sulfonates, alkylbenzenesulfonates, alkylnaphthalenesulfonates, dialkylsulfosuccinates, alkylsulfoacetates, α-olefinsulfonates, N-acylmethyltaurines, sulfated oils, higher alcohol sulfates, secondary higher alcohol sulfates, alkyl ether sulfates, secondary higher alcohol ethoxy sulfates, polyoxyethylene alkylphenyl ether sulfates, monoglycerates, fatty acid alkylolamide sulfates, alkyl ether phosphates, and alkyl phosphates.

[0069] Examples of amphoteric surfactants include carboxybetaine type, sulfobetaine type, aminocarboxylate, imidazolinium betaine, and the like.

[0070] Examples of nonionic surfactants include polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, polyoxyethylene secondary alcohol ethers, polyoxyethylene alkylphenyl ethers, polyoxyethylene sterol ethers, polyoxyethylene lanolin derivatives, polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene alkyl ethers, polyoxyethylene glycerin fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene castor oil, hydrogenated castor oil, polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene sorbitol fatty acid esters, polyethylene glycol fatty acid esters, fatty acid monoglycerides, polyglycerin fatty acid esters, sorbitan fatty acid esters, propylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, fatty acid alkanolamides, polyoxyethylene fatty acid amides, polyoxyethylene alkylamines, alkylamine oxides, acetylene glycol, and acetylene alcohol.

[0071] The surfactant may be a commercially available product. Examples of commercially available nonionic surfactants include "EMULGEN (registered trademark) 911" (polyoxyethylene alkyl phenyl ether, manufactured by Kao Corporation). Other examples include "NUPOL (registered trademark) PE-62" (polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene alkyl ether, manufactured by Sanyo Chemical Industries, Ltd.).

[0072] The surfactant may be used alone or in combination of two or more kinds. The content of the surfactant is preferably within the range of 0.001 to 1.0% by mass relative to the total mass of the treatment ink.

[0073] (5) Preservatives Examples of preservatives include aromatic halogen compounds, methylene dithiocyanate, halogen-containing nitrogen-sulfur compounds, and 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one.

[0074] The preservative may be a commercially available product. Examples of commercially available preservatives include "Preventol (registered trademark) CMK" (aromatic halogen compound, manufactured by Bayer). Other examples include "PROXEL (registered trademark) GXL" (1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one, manufactured by ICI).

[0075] (6) Solvent The solvent for the treatment ink of the present invention may be water or an organic solvent. Among these, from the viewpoint of solubility, it is preferable that the treatment ink contains a large amount of water.

[0076] (6.1) Water The treatment ink of the present invention has a water content of 55 mass % or more. The relatively high water content allows the solid components to be sufficiently dissolved, improving the solubility of the treatment ink.

[0077] In addition, water has a lower boiling point and dries more easily than many organic solvents, so water is less likely to remain on the recording medium as a residual solvent during the textile printing process, whereas organic solvents are less likely to dry and tend to remain on the recording medium as a residual solvent.

[0078] The organic solvent remaining on the recording medium tends to inhibit the reaction between the reactive dye and the recording medium during steam treatment after application of the ink, and tends to cause inhibition of dyeing or color development. Therefore, by making the water content relatively high, inhibition is less likely to occur and dyeability or color development can be improved.

[0079] Examples of water include pure water such as ion-exchanged water, ultrafiltered water, reverse osmosis water, and distilled water. Examples of water include ultrapure water. Other examples include water sterilized by ultraviolet irradiation or hydrogen peroxide. By using sterilized water, the growth of mold and bacteria can be prevented when the treated ink is stored for a long period of time.

[0080] (6.2) Organic Solvents As the organic solvent, a general water-soluble organic solvent is used. Examples of the organic solvent include alcohols (e.g., methanol, ethanol, propanol, isopropanol, butanol, isobutanol, sec-butanol, t-butanol, etc.), polyhydric alcohols (e.g., ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, butylene glycol, hexanediol, pentanediol, glycerin, hexanetriol, thiodiglycol, etc.), glycol ethers (e.g., ethylene glycol alkyl ether, diethylene glycol alkyl ether, triethylene glycol alkyl ether, propylene glycol alkyl ether, dipropylene glycol alkyl ether, triplyl glycol alkyl ether, etc.), and the like. propylene glycol alkyl ether, etc.), amines (e.g., ethanolamine, diethanolamine, triethanolamine, N-methyldiethanolamine, N-ethyldiethanolamine, morpholine, N-ethylmorpholine, ethylenediamine, diethylenediamine, triethylenetetramine, tetraethylenepentamine, polyethyleneimine, pentamethyldiethylenetriamine, tetramethylpropylenediamine), amides (e.g., formamide, N,N-dimethylformamide, N,N-dimethylacetamide, etc.), heterocycles (e.g., 2-pyrrolidone, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, cyclohexylpyrrolidone, 2-oxazolidone, 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone, etc.), sulfoxides (e.g., dimethyl sulfoxide), etc.

[0081] 3. Physical properties of inkjet processing ink (1) Viscosity The viscosity of the treated ink at 25°C is preferably 3.5 mPa·s (3.5 cP) or more. By keeping the viscosity within the above range, sufficient ejection properties from an inkjet head can be ensured. The viscosity can be adjusted by the content of the low-viscosity water-soluble polymer.

[0082] The viscosity can be measured, for example, using an E-type viscometer "TV-25" (manufactured by Toki Sangyo Co., Ltd.) at a temperature of 25° C. and a rotation speed of 20 rpm.

[0083] (2) Hydrogen ion concentration index (pH) The hydrogen ion concentration index (pH) of the treatment ink at 25° C. is preferably alkaline, being equal to or less than 10, and more preferably within the range of 9 to 10. The hydrogen ion concentration index can be adjusted by the content of an alkaline agent.

[0084] 4. Inkjet recording method The inkjet recording method according to the present invention is an inkjet recording method using the above-mentioned inkjet treatment ink, and is characterized in that the inkjet treatment ink and the recording ink are applied to a recording medium from each inkjet head.

[0085] The order in which the treatment ink and the recording ink are applied to the recording medium is not particularly limited. Specifically, the order may be any of the following 1) to 3). 1) A method in which a processing ink is applied to a recording medium and then a recording ink is applied. 2) A method in which a recording ink is applied to a recording medium and then a processing ink is applied. 3) A method in which the heads arranged in parallel on the carriage are scanned in both directions to randomly apply processing ink and recording ink to the recording medium.

[0086] The inkjet recording method according to the present invention is preferably applied to a fabric to which neither an alkaline agent nor a moisturizing agent has been applied, i.e., a fabric that has not been pretreated. By applying the inkjet recording method to a fabric that has not been pretreated, the remarkable effects of the present invention can be obtained.

[0087] The inkjet recording apparatus for carrying out the inkjet recording method, the recording medium, the recording ink, and the procedure of the inkjet recording method will be described below in that order.

[0088] 5. Inkjet recording device Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an inkjet recording apparatus used in the inkjet recording method of the present invention. The inkjet recording apparatus 1 shown in Fig. 1 includes a belt-conveying medium transport unit 10 and an inkjet-type ink supply unit 20.

[0089] The medium transport unit 10 has an endless belt 13 wound around a plurality of transport rollers 11 and 12. One of the transport rollers 11 and 12 is a drive roller that rotates the endless belt 13. The belt 13 has an adhesive outer circumferential surface and holds a sheet-like recording medium 100 on the upper portion of the outer circumferential surface. This causes the medium transport unit 10 to transport the sheet-like recording medium 100 held by the belt 13 in a transport direction [x] in the rotation direction of the belt 13.

[0090] The ink supply unit 20 includes a plurality of inkjet heads 21. The plurality of inkjet heads 21 eject ink 200 onto the recording medium 100 transported by the medium transport unit 10. Of the plurality of inkjet heads 21, one is a first application unit for applying ink to the recording medium 100. The other is a second application unit for applying ink to the recording medium 100.

[0091] Each inkjet head 21 ejects ink 200 from a plurality of ink ejection openings onto the recording medium 100. Each inkjet head 21 is mounted on a carriage 22 and ejects ink 200 across the transport width direction. The carriage 22 moves back and forth in the transport width direction perpendicular to the transport direction [x] of the recording medium 100. One carriage 22 may carry a plurality of inkjet heads 21.

[0092] The ink 200 ejected from each inkjet head 21 lands on the recording medium 100 being transported by the medium transport unit 10. Of the multiple inkjet heads 21, the one mounted on the upstream carriage 22a arranged on the most upstream side in the transport direction [x] is referred to as the pre-processing head 21a. The pre-processing head 21a filled with the processing ink 200a ejects the processing ink 200a. Of the multiple inkjet heads 21, the one mounted on the downstream carriage 22b arranged on the downstream side in the transport direction [x] is referred to as the recording head 21b. The recording head 21b filled with the recording ink 200b ejects the recording ink 200b.

[0093] Although not shown in the figure, among the multiple inkjet heads 21, the one mounted on the carriage 22 arranged on the most downstream side in the transport direction [x] may be used as the post-processing head. The post-processing head filled with the processing ink ejects the processing ink.

[0094] The inkjet recording apparatus 1 can eject recording ink 200b from the recording head 21b onto the recording medium 100 that has been pre-treated by landing the treatment ink 200a on the recording medium 100.

[0095] 1, only one recording head 21b is shown, but the recording head 21b may be provided corresponding to each color of recording ink. The recording heads 21b corresponding to each color of recording ink are mounted on the same carriage 22.

[0096] The ink ejection method of the inkjet head 21 is not limited. Examples of the ink ejection method include a piezoelectric method, a thermal method, and a continuous method. The piezoelectric method and the continuous method can stably eject ink containing a polymer material. In particular, the piezoelectric method is preferable because it is small and has a high degree of integration.

[0097] Although not shown in the figures, the inkjet recording apparatus 1 may be provided with a drying means between the pre-treatment head 21a and the recording head 21b. By providing the drying means, the processing ink 200a that has landed on the recording medium 100 can be dried before the recording ink 200b lands. It is preferable that the drying means dries and removes as much of the solvent (water and organic solvent) of the processing ink 200a applied to the recording medium 100 as possible. By removing the solvent, bleeding of the subsequent recording ink 200b can be prevented.

[0098] For this reason, the drying means preferably sets the surface temperature of the recording medium 100 to a temperature suitable for each composition of the treated ink 200a within the range of 30 to 80° C. Examples of the drying means include drying means using temperature-controllable wind or hot air, drying means using a hot plate, drying means using visible light or far-infrared light, drying means using a heat roller, drying means using a microwave irradiation means, etc. When a drying means is provided, it is preferable to provide an exhaust pipe or a fan for removing steam generated by drying from the inside of the device.

[0099] The pre-processing head 21a and the recording head 21b may not be mounted on the carriage 22, but may be arranged across the transport width direction perpendicular to the transport direction [x] of the recording medium 100.

[0100] 6. Recording media The recording medium 100 is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include cloth materials such as fabrics, plain paper, thick paper, thin paper, Japanese paper, special paper, resin films, building materials, etc. In the present invention, particularly when the recording medium 100 is fabric, remarkable effects can be obtained.

[0101] The material constituting the fabric is preferably one containing fibers dyeable with reactive dyes. The material constituting the fabric is not particularly limited, and is preferably any of cotton, silk, linen, wool, nylon fiber, rayon fiber, and blends thereof. The fabric may be any of the above-mentioned fibers in the form of woven fabric, knitted fabric, nonwoven fabric, etc. The fabric preferably contains 100% fibers dyeable with reactive dyes, but may be a blended woven fabric or blended nonwoven fabric, etc.

[0102] When using a fabric as the recording medium 100, it is preferable to remove natural impurities (oils, wax, pectin, natural colorings, etc.) attached to the fibers of the fabric, residual chemicals (sizing agents, etc.) used in the manufacturing process of the fabric, dirt, etc., by washing in advance. By removing these, a uniform dyed product using reactive dyes can be obtained. Examples of cleaning agents include alkaline agents (sodium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, etc.), surfactants (anionic surfactants or nonionic surfactants), enzymes, etc.

[0103] 7. Recording ink The recording ink according to the present invention may be any ink of a general color containing a reactive dye. As an example, the recording ink may contain, in addition to the reactive dye, an organic solvent, a surfactant, an inorganic salt, a preservative, etc., in pure water such as ion-exchanged water. Among these, the organic solvent, the surfactant, and the preservative are the same as those used in the above-mentioned processing ink. The reactive dye and the inorganic salt will be described.

[0104] (1) Reactive dyes Examples of reactive dyes include reactive dyes of various general colors. The reactive dyes may be addition reaction dyes or substitution reaction dyes. Among them, reactive dyes having monochlorotriazine groups as reactive groups are preferred. Reactive dyes that are preferably used in the present invention are shown below, but the present invention is not limited to these exemplified compounds.

[0105] Examples of reactive dyes that can be preferably used in the present invention include the following. C.I.Reactive Yellow;2、3、7、15、17、18、22、23、24、25、27、37、39、42、57、69、75、76、81、84、85、86、87、92、95、102、105、111、125、135、136、137、142、143、145、151、160、161、165、167、168、175、176、 C.I.Reactive Orange;1、4、5、7、11、12、13、15、16、20、30、35、56、64、67、69、70、72、74、82、84、86、87、91、92、93、95、107、 C.I.Reactive Red;2、3、3:1、5、8、11、21、22、23、24、24:1、28、29、31、33、35、43、45、49、55、56、58、65、66、78、83、84、106、111、112、113、114、116、120、123、124、128、130、136、141、147、158、159、171、174、180、183、184、187、190、193、194、195、198、218、220、222、223、226、228、235、 C.I.Reactive Violet;1、2、4、5、6、22、23、33、36、38、 C.I.Reactive Blue;2、3、4、7、13、14、15、19、21、25、27、28、29、38、39、41、49、50、52、63、69、71、72、77、79、89、104、109、112、113、114、116、119、120、122、137、140、143、147、160、161、162、163、168、171、176、182、184、191、194、195、198、203、204、207、209、211、214、220、221、222、231、235、236、 C.I.Reactive Green;8、12、15、19、21、 C.I.Reactive Brown;2、7、9、10、11、17、18、19、21、23、31、37、43、46、 CIReactive Black 5, 8, 13, 14, 31, 34, 39

[0106] The content of the reactive dye is preferably within a range of 0.1 to 20% by mass, and more preferably within a range of 0.2 to 13% by mass, based on the total mass of the recording ink.

[0107] (2) Inorganic salts The recording ink according to the present invention may contain an inorganic salt. By containing an inorganic salt, the viscosity of the recording ink and the reactive dye can be kept stable. The inorganic salt is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include sodium chloride, sodium sulfate, magnesium chloride, magnesium sulfate, etc.

[0108] 8. Inkjet recording method procedure The inkjet recording method of the present invention is carried out using the above-mentioned inkjet recording apparatus 1. As a procedure, first, the recording medium 100 is prepared. As an example, the recording medium 100 is a fabric from which residual chemicals (such as glue) used in the manufacturing process, dirt, etc. have been removed by washing in advance, as described above. Next, the conveying rollers 11 and 12 are rotated to move the recording medium 100 in the conveying direction [x].

[0109] As the recording medium moves, the treatment ink 200a is ejected from the pretreatment head 21a in the ink supply unit 20 and made to land on the recording medium 100. As a result, the landing point of the treatment ink 200a on the recording medium 100 is pretreated with the treatment ink 200a. At this time, the amount of treatment ink applied to the fabric (recording medium 100) is set to 30 g / m 2 It is preferable that the ink temperature be set to the following value. This makes it possible to suppress bleeding when the ink 200a lands on the recording medium 100. Thereafter, the treatment ink 200a that has landed on the recording medium 100 may be dried, if necessary.

[0110] Next, the recording ink 200b is ejected from the recording head 21b in the ink supply unit 20 and caused to land on the landing site of the treatment ink 200a. As a result, the reactive dye contained in the recording ink 200b is fixed on the recording medium 100, and an image is recorded.

[0111] After the ink is applied, the recording medium 100 is subjected to a color development process using steam treatment to promote fixation of the reactive dye to the recording medium 100. Thereafter, the recording medium 100 to which the reactive dye has been fixed is subjected to a washing process and a drying process to complete the procedure. EXAMPLES

[0112] The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to examples, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In the examples, the terms "parts" and "%" are used, but they represent "parts by mass" or "% by mass" unless otherwise specified. In the following examples, operations were carried out at room temperature (25° C.) unless otherwise specified.

[0113] 1. Preparation of Treatment Ink Each treatment ink was prepared according to the following procedure. The components shown in Tables I to IV below were added in order to a preparation vessel, mixed, and thoroughly stirred. The resulting solution was filtered through a 1 μm (pore size) filter to obtain each treated ink.

[0114] Details of each component are shown below. The "low-viscosity polymer" and "sizing agent" correspond to the above-mentioned "low-viscosity water-soluble polymer" and "high-viscosity water-soluble polymer", respectively.

[0115] (Low viscosity polymer) PEG2000: Polyethylene glycol (molecular weight 2000) PEG6000: Polyethylene glycol (molecular weight 6000) PEG10000: Polyethylene glycol (molecular weight 10000) (Adhesive) Carboxymethylcellulose: CMC Daicel 1130, manufactured by Daicel Miraize Co., Ltd. Sodium alginate: Argitex LL, manufactured by Kimika Co., Ltd. (Surfactant) Olfine (registered trademark) E1010: acetylene glycol surfactant, manufactured by Nissin Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. (Preservatives) Proxel (registered trademark) GXL: 20% dipropylene glycol solution of 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one, manufactured by Lonza Japan

[0116] In Tables I to IV, "solid content concentration" refers to the ratio of solid content to the total mass of the treated ink. The solid content corresponds to the alkaline agent, the moisturizing agent, and the water-soluble polymer (low viscosity polymer and paste).

[0117] The viscosity was measured at 25° C. using an E-type viscometer “TV-25” (manufactured by Toki Sangyo Co., Ltd.).

[0118] Tables I to IV show the composition, solid content concentration, and viscosity of each treatment ink. In the composition of each treatment ink, the unit for each component is [mass %].

[0119] [Table 1]

[0120] [Table 2]

[0121] [Table 3]

[0122] [Table 4]

[0123] 2. Preparation of recording ink (black ink) The following components were added in order to a preparation vessel, and ion-exchanged water was further added to bring the total to 100%, followed by mixing and thorough stirring. The resulting solution was filtered through a 1 μm (pore size) filter to obtain a black ink.

[0124] Ethylene glycol 20.00% by mass Glycerin 10.00% by mass Reactive Black 5 20.00% by mass "Olfine (registered trademark) E1010" (acetylene glycol surfactant, manufactured by Nissin Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) 0.05% by mass "Proxel (registered trademark) GXL" (20% dipropylene glycol solution of 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one, manufactured by Lonza Japan) 0.10% by mass

[0125] 3. Inkjet recording Using the evaluation printer shown in FIG. 1, inkjet recording was performed on a recording medium to prepare a sample.

[0126] The evaluation printer shown in FIG. 1 was equipped with a first head carriage 1 and a second head carriage 2. Two piezoelectric inkjet heads "KM1024iSAE" (manufactured by Konica Minolta) were mounted on the first head carriage 1. The inkjet heads were loaded with each of the treated inks obtained above. Two piezoelectric inkjet heads "KM1024iSAE" (manufactured by Konica Minolta) were mounted on the second head carriage. The inkjet heads were loaded with the black ink obtained above.

[0127] The recording medium was conveyed in the conveying direction shown in Fig. 1 by conveying rollers 11 and 12. Note that a cloth (white cotton broadcloth) was used as the recording medium.

[0128] First, the two heads of the first head carriage 1 spray a total of 15 mL / m onto the transported fabric. 2The treatment ink was applied uniformly to the entire surface of the fabric. Next, a solid image was formed using black ink from the two heads of the second head carriage 2.

[0129] The fabric was steamed at 103° C. for 12 minutes to develop the color, and then washed with water. The fabric was then washed at 90° C., rinsed with water, and dried to obtain a sample.

[0130] 4. Evaluation (1) Dyeability or color development The reflection density of the recorded surface of the obtained sample was measured using a reflection densitometer (manufactured by X-rite), and the dyeability or color development was evaluated according to the following criteria. A grade of A or higher (A to AAA) was deemed to be satisfactory for practical use.

[0131] AAA: Reflection density is 1.2 or more. AA: Reflection density is 1.1 or more and less than 1.2. A: The reflection density is 0.9 or more and less than 1.1. B: The reflection density is less than 0.9.

[0132] (2)Solubility The treated ink prepared above was stored at 0°C for one week, after which it was visually inspected for the presence of precipitates and its solubility was evaluated according to the following criteria, where A was deemed to be no problem for practical use.

[0133] A: No precipitates were formed. B: Precipitation has occurred.

[0134] (3) Injection properties Using the evaluation printer shown in Figure 1, the treated ink was continuously ejected from the two heads of the first head carriage 1 onto cotton broadcloth for one hour to form a solid image. After that, the treated ink was ejected from the two heads of the first head carriage 1 onto a transparent film to print a nozzle check pattern. The presence or absence of missing nozzles was confirmed, and the ejection performance was evaluated according to the following criteria. A grade of A or higher (A to AA) was deemed to be acceptable for practical use.

[0135] AA: There is 0 or 1 missing nozzle. A: The number of missing nozzles is within the range of 2 to 10. B: 11 or more nozzles are missing.

[0136] The evaluation results are shown in Table V.

[0137] [Table 5]

[0138] From the Examples and Comparative Examples, it is apparent that the treated ink of the present invention is capable of achieving both dyeability or color development and jetting properties.

[0139] From Examples 4, 6, 11 and 12, it can be seen that the dyeability or color development can be improved by using potassium carbonate or potassium bicarbonate as the alkaline agent.

[0140] It is clear from Examples 1 to 3 that the inclusion of a water-soluble polymer can improve the jettisonability, and in particular that the water-soluble polymer being polyethylene glycol can achieve both dyeability or colorability and jettisonability.

[0141] It is clear from Examples 1 to 4 that the ink jet treatment ink has a viscosity of 3.5 mPa·s or more at 25° C., thereby enabling the ejection properties to be improved.

[0142] From Examples 13 to 16, it is clear that dyeability or color development can be improved by setting the potassium salt content within the range of 3 to 10 mass % relative to the total mass of the inkjet treatment ink.

[0143] It can be seen from Examples 13 to 16 that dyeability or color development can be improved by setting the content of the moisturizer within the range of 10 to 30 mass % relative to the total mass of the inkjet treatment ink. [Explanation of symbols]

[0144] 1 Inkjet recording device 10 Media transport section 21 Inkjet head 21a Pretreatment head 21b Recording head 100 Recording media 200a Processing Ink 200b Recording ink

Claims

1. 1. A water-based ink-jet processing ink for use in combination with a recording ink containing a reactive dye, comprising Contains an alkaline agent and a moisturizing agent, the alkaline agent is a potassium salt, The inkjet treatment ink has a solid content of 20% by mass or more, The water content is 55% by mass or more.

2. A treatment ink for ink-jet printing.

2. The alkaline agent is potassium carbonate or potassium bicarbonate.

2. The inkjet treatment ink according to claim 1.

3. The moisturizing agent is urea or 2-imidazolidinone.

2. The inkjet treatment ink according to claim 1.

4. Contains a water-soluble polymer 2. The inkjet treatment ink according to claim 1.

5. The water-soluble polymer is polyethylene glycol.

5. The inkjet treatment ink according to claim 4.

6. The viscosity of the inkjet treatment ink at 25° C. is 3.5 mPa·s or more.

2. The inkjet treatment ink according to claim 1.

7. The solubility of the potassium salt in water at 25° C. is 30 g / 100 mL or more.

2. The inkjet treatment ink according to claim 1.

8. The content of the potassium salt is within a range of 3 to 10% by mass based on the total mass of the inkjet treatment ink.

2. The inkjet treatment ink according to claim 1.

9. The content of the humectant is within a range of 10 to 30% by mass based on the total mass of the inkjet treatment ink.

2. The inkjet treatment ink according to claim 1.

10. An inkjet recording method using an inkjet treatment ink, comprising the steps of: The inkjet treatment ink is the inkjet treatment ink according to any one of claims 1 to 9, The inkjet processing ink and the recording ink are applied to the fabric from each inkjet head.

1. An ink-jet recording method comprising:

11. The inkjet processing ink and the recording ink are applied to a fabric to which no alkaline agent or moisturizing agent has been applied. The inkjet recording method according to claim 10 .

12. The inkjet treatment ink and the recording ink were applied in any order, and the amount of the inkjet treatment ink applied to the fabric was 30 g / m ２ The following The inkjet recording method according to claim 10 .

13. 1. An inkjet recording system using an inkjet treatment ink, comprising: The inkjet treatment ink is the inkjet treatment ink according to any one of claims 1 to 9, a first application section that applies the recording ink to a fabric, and a second application section that applies the inkjet treatment ink to the fabric.

1. An inkjet recording system comprising:

Images