Electronic photography member, electronic photography image forming device, and method for manufacturing electronic photography member

Abstract

To provide a electronic photography member using a material not belonging to PFAS and capable of suppressing adhesion to other members.SOLUTION: The electrophotographic member includes a base layer and a surface layer directly contacting the base layer, wherein the surface layer includes a heteroaggregate of first particles and second particles different from the first particles, the first particles are chain-like inorganic oxide particles, the second particles include a conductive metal oxide, and a number-average particle diameter of primary particles is 5 to 40 nm, the surface layer has a convex portion derived from the heteroaggregate on an outer surface opposite to a surface facing the base layer, the outer surface has an arithmetic average height (Sa) of 0.1 to 0.7 μ m, and the base layer includes a specific cation and an anion.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD This disclosure relates to electrophotographic members, electrophotographic image forming apparatus, and methods for manufacturing electrophotographic members. [Background technology]

[0002] In an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, an electrophotographic belt is used as a transport / transfer belt that transports a transfer material and as an electrophotographic member that temporarily transfers and holds a toner image. The electrophotographic belt comes into contact with and slides against other members in the electrophotographic image forming apparatus, and if the surface of the electrophotographic belt is excessively smooth, it may come into close contact with other members.

[0003] For example, if a photosensitive drum or a cleaning blade comes into close contact with the surface of the electrophotographic belt, the stable rotation of the electrophotographic belt may be hindered. A decrease in the stability of the rotation of the electrophotographic belt may result in, for example, an unstable movement speed of the electrophotographic belt, which may cause misalignment when transferring toner images of each color to paper. Therefore, in order to prevent other members from coming into close contact with the outer surface of the electrophotographic belt, the surface of the electrophotographic belt has conventionally been roughened.

[0004] In Patent Document 1, a method for roughening the surface of an electrophotographic belt involves hetero-aggregation of inorganic oxide particles having a particle size of 10 to 30 nm and conductive metal oxide particles having a particle size of 5 to 40 nm in the presence of alkali metal ions. Convex portions resulting from the hetero-aggregation are then formed. Specifically, the base layer of the electrophotographic belt contains an alkali metal salt of perfluoroalkylsulfonic acid or an alkali metal salt of perfluoroalkylsulfonimide. A curable composition containing the inorganic oxide particles, the conductive metal oxide particles, an acrylic monomer, and a solvent is then applied to the base layer. During the process of drying the solvent in the curable composition, the alkali metal ions in the base layer migrate to the surface layer, resulting in hetero-aggregation. The invention of Patent Document 1 uses particles with small particle diameters as the particles used for roughening, thereby preventing the formation of specific large protrusions, and roughens the surface of the surface layer by forming hetero-aggregates of small particle diameter particles. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-146024 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] At least one aspect of the present disclosure is directed to providing an electrophotographic member that uses a material that does not belong to PFAS and that can suppress adhesion with other members. At least one aspect of the present disclosure is directed to providing a method for manufacturing an electrophotographic member that uses a material that does not belong to PFAS and that can suppress adhesion with other members. Furthermore, at least one aspect of the present disclosure is directed to providing an electrophotographic image forming apparatus that can stably form high-quality electrophotographic images. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, Substrate, and a surface layer directly adjacent to the base layer, the surface layer comprises a hetero-aggregate of first particles and second particles different from the first particles; The first particles include: Chain-like inorganic oxide particles, The second particles are a conductive metal oxide; and the number average particle size of the primary particles of the second particles is 5 to 40 nm; the surface layer has convex portions derived from the hetero-aggregate on an outer surface opposite to the surface facing the base layer, The arithmetic mean height (Sa) of the outer surface is 0.1 to 0.7 μm, The base layer is At least one cation selected from the group consisting of cations represented by the following formulas (C1) to (C4): and at least one anion selected from the group consisting of anions represented by the following formulas (A1) to (A4): An electrophotographic member is provided, characterized in that

[0008] Also, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for manufacturing an electrophotographic member having a base layer and a surface layer in direct contact with the base layer, the method comprising: The manufacturing method comprises: providing a base layer containing the following component (e); A step of preparing a curable composition containing the following components (a) to (d): forming a coating of the curable composition on one surface of the base layer and drying the coating; and curing the dried coating; A method for producing an electrophotographic belt, comprising: (a) first particles, which are chain-like inorganic oxide particles; (b) second particles different from the first particles, the primary particles having a number average particle size of 5 to 40 nm, and the second particles containing a conductive metal oxide; (c) (meth)acrylic monomers; (d) at least one solvent selected from the group consisting of 2-butanone and 4-methyl-2-pentanone; (e) a salt containing at least one cation selected from the group consisting of cations represented by the following formulae (C1) to (C4) and at least one anion selected from the group consisting of anions represented by the following formulae (A1) to (A4);

[0009] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, there is also provided an electrophotographic image forming apparatus including the electrophotographic member as an intermediate transfer belt. [ka] [ka] R1~R 12 are each independently a hydrogen atom or a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 14 carbon atoms, provided that at least one selected from the group consisting of R1 and R2, at least one selected from the group consisting of R3 and R4, at least one selected from the group consisting of R5 to R8, and R9 to R 12 At least one selected from the group consisting of is a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 14 carbon atoms. R 13 ~R 16 are each independently a hydrogen atom, a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electrophotographic member can be obtained that uses a material that does not belong to the PFASs and that can suppress adhesion with other members. Also, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for manufacturing an electrophotographic member can be obtained that uses a material that does not belong to the PFASs and that can suppress adhesion with other members. Also, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electrophotographic image forming apparatus can be obtained that can stably form high-quality electrophotographic images. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an electrophotographic belt. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a jig for evaluating the adhesion between an electrophotographic belt and other members. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of the height of the convex portions derived from the base layer particles. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Unless otherwise specified, expressions such as "XX or more and YY or less" or "XX to YY" representing a numerical range mean a numerical range including the lower and upper limits, which are the endpoints. When a numerical range is described in stages, the upper and lower limits of each numerical range can be combined arbitrarily. Furthermore, in this disclosure, expressions such as "at least one selected from the group consisting of XX, YY, and ZZ" mean any of XX, YY, ZZ, a combination of XX and YY, a combination of XX and ZZ, a combination of YY and ZZ, or a combination of XX, YY, and ZZ. Note that when XX is a group, multiple XXs may be selected, and the same applies to YY and ZZ.

[0013] In recent years, restrictions on the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (hereinafter also referred to as "PFAS"), which are considered to have high environmental persistence and bioaccumulation, have been under consideration. Patent Document 1 uses an anion having a C—F bond in the molecule, and it is possible that the salt described in Patent Document 1 will no longer be usable due to future restrictions. Therefore, the present inventors investigated the formation of convex portions on the surface of the surface layer even when the base layer contains a salt of an anion that does not have a C—F bond in the molecule and does not belong to PFAS, and an alkali metal cation.

[0014] The present inventors formed a surface layer by applying the coating material for forming a surface layer according to Patent Document 1 to a base layer containing a salt of an anion not belonging to PFAS (hereinafter also referred to as a "non-PFAS anion") and an alkali metal cation. However, hetero-aggregation of the particles described in Patent Document 1, i.e., inorganic oxide particles with an average primary particle diameter of 10 to 30 nm and conductive metal oxide particles with an average primary particle diameter of 5 to 40 nm, was difficult to occur, making it difficult to form a rough surface on the outer surface of the surface layer with an arithmetic mean height Sa of 0.1 to 0.7 μm.

[0015] The reason why heteroaggregation is less likely to occur when salts of non-PFAS anions and alkali metal cations are included in the base layer is thought to be as follows: Non-PFAS anions have a localized negative charge, which means they bind strongly to alkali metal cations, while salts of non-PFAS anions and alkali metal cations have a low degree of ionic dissociation. Therefore, it is presumed that alkali metal cations do not migrate sufficiently from the base layer to the surface layer, preventing the formation of heteroaggregates.

[0016] Therefore, the present inventors conducted extensive research on the use of salts composed of non-PFAS anions and cations, with the aim of roughening the outer surface of the surface layer using heteroaggregates. Based on the above considerations, the present inventors first considered using specific organic cations larger in size than alkali metal cations as cations to be combined with non-PFAS anions.

[0017] Specifically, we investigated the use of at least one cation selected from the group consisting of the following formulae (C1) to (C4), with the aim of increasing the degree of dissociation of the ionic conductive agent by increasing the distance between the anion and the cation and weakening the Coulomb force. [ka]

[0018] In formulas (C1) to (C4), R1 to R 12 are each independently a hydrogen atom or a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 14 carbon atoms. However, the ability of ionic conductive agents composed of these cations and non-PFAS anions to form heteroaggregates was limited, likely due to the lower surface charge density of these organic cations due to their larger molecular weight compared to alkali metal cations.

[0019] Therefore, the present inventors investigated the optimal combination of first particles and second particles that would enable the formation of heteroaggregates of appropriate size, even when using an ionic conductive agent composed of a non-PFAS anion and the above-mentioned organic cation. As a result, the present inventors discovered that the combination of the following ionic conductive agent, first particles, and second particles allows stable formation of convex portions on the outer surface of the surface layer by heteroaggregates of the first particles and the second particles. As a result, a rough surface with an arithmetic mean height (Sa) of 0.1 to 0.7 μm can be formed on the outer surface of the surface layer.

[0020] <Ionic conductive agent> The ionic conductive agent (salt) contains at least one cation selected from the group consisting of cations represented by the following formulas (C1) to (C4) and at least one anion selected from the group consisting of anions represented by the following formulas (A1) to (A4).

[0021] Anions At least one anion selected from the group consisting of anions represented by the following formulae (A1) to (A4): [ka]

[0022] R 13 ~R 16 are each independently a hydrogen atom, a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms.

[0023] ·Cation At least one cation selected from the group consisting of cations represented by the following formulas (C1) to (C4): [ka]

[0024] R1~R 12are each independently a hydrogen atom or a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 14 carbon atoms, provided that at least one selected from the group consisting of R1 and R2, at least one selected from the group consisting of R3 and R4, at least one selected from the group consisting of R5 to R8, and R9 to R 12 At least one selected from the group consisting of is a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 14 carbon atoms. At least one selected from the group consisting of R1 and R2 is preferably a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms. At least one selected from the group consisting of R3 and R4 is preferably a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms. At least one selected from the group consisting of R5 to R8 and R9 to R 12 At least one selected from the following is preferably a linear or branched alkyl group having 4 to 14 carbon atoms.

[0025] <First particle> The first particles are chain-like inorganic oxide particles.

[0026] <Second particle> The second particles are different from the first particles. The second particles contain a conductive metal oxide, and the number average particle size of the primary particles of the second particles is 5 to 40 nm.

[0027] Hereinafter, an embodiment of an electrophotographic belt will be described in detail as an example of an embodiment of an electrophotographic member. Note that the present disclosure may also be applied to other electrophotographic members such as an electrophotographic roller. It is not limited to the embodiment.

[0028] Surface roughening to an arithmetic mean height (Sa) of 0.1 to 0.7 μm on the outer surface of the surface layer can be achieved, for example, by the following method. An ion conductive agent (salt) composed of the non-PFAS anion and the cation is incorporated into a base layer, and a coating film of a surface layer-forming composition containing the first particles and the second particles is formed on the base layer. A small amount of the cation migrates from the base layer into the coating film of the surface layer-forming composition. Furthermore, the cation concentration in the coating film increases during the drying process, causing the first particles and second particles to aggregate (hetero-aggregate) in the coating film. During the drying process of the coating film, the cation concentration in the coating film increases, causing the charges of the first particles and the second particles in the coating film to become opposite in polarity, forming hetero-aggregates. This allows protrusions derived from the hetero-aggregates to form on the surface of the surface layer, achieving surface roughening with an Sa in the above range.

[0029] Here, the convex portions derived from hetero-aggregates include, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of convex portions formed by exposing at least a portion of the hetero-aggregates on the surface of the surface layer, and convex portions formed by coating the surface of the hetero-aggregates with the matrix resin in the surface layer.

[0030] By roughening the surface to an arithmetic mean height (Sa) in the range of 0.1 to 0.7 μm, adhesion to other members can be suppressed. The arithmetic mean height (Sa) of the surface of the surface layer is preferably 0.1 to 0.6 μm. The arithmetic mean height (Sa) of the surface of the surface layer can be adjusted, for example, by adjusting at least one element selected from the group consisting of the particle size of the first particles, the particle size of the second particles, the amount of the first particles, the amount of the second particles, and the amount of the ionic conductive agent.

[0031] An electrophotographic belt will be described as an example of an electrophotographic member according to the present disclosure. A cross-sectional conceptual diagram of an electrophotographic belt is shown in Figure 1. The electrophotographic belt has an electrophotographic seamless belt base layer a1 and a surface layer a2 that is in direct contact with the base layer. The thickness of the base layer is not particularly limited, but is preferably 10 μm to 500 μm, particularly 30 μm to 150 μm, and further preferably 50 μm to 100 μm.The thickness of the surface layer is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.05 μm to 20 μm, particularly 0.1 μm to 5 μm, and further preferably 1 μm to 3 μm.

[0032] <<Curable composition>> The surface layer may be, for example, a cured product of the following curable composition. <Constituents of the curable composition> The components of the curable composition for forming the surface layer are listed below. The curable composition contains the components (a) and (b), and preferably contains the components (a), (b), (c), and (d).

[0033] (a) Component (first particle) The first particles are chain-like inorganic oxide particles. The chain-like particles are aggregates of particles in which multiple particles are connected in a linear or curved manner. The shape of each particle forming the chain-like particles may be clearly observed, or the particles may be fused together and lose their shape. In the interaction with the second particles described below, spherical particles form point contact, whereas chain-like particles form multi-point contact. This makes it easier for the second particles to interact with the first particles, and convex portions resulting from hetero-aggregates are more likely to form on the surface of the surface layer.

[0034] Chain particles are randomly shaped particles with a short diameter and a long diameter. The short diameter of a chain particle is: The major axis of the chain particles corresponds to the average particle diameter of the primary particles, and the major axis of the chain particles corresponds to the Feret diameter of the secondary particles.

[0035] The number-average major axis length of the first particles is preferably 30 to 100 nm, more preferably 40 to 80 nm, and the number-average ratio of the major axis length to the minor axis length (major axis / minor axis) of the first particles is preferably 3 to 8, more preferably 4 to 7, and even more preferably 4 to 6. By setting the values ​​of the major axis and the major axis / minor axis of the first particles within the above ranges, the dispersion state in the curable composition (liquid) can be stabilized, and even when the curable composition is stored for a long period of time and then used to form a surface layer, a surface layer having sufficient hetero-aggregates on the outer surface can be stably formed. The inorganic oxide particles are preferably silica particles from the viewpoints of being stably dispersed in an organic solvent and being negatively charged.The first particles are preferably chain-like silica particles.

[0036] The first particles can be used without surface treatment, but the first particles may be surface treated with a silane coupling agent or the like. Here, the method for producing the chain particles is not particularly limited, and known methods can be used. For the first particles, for example, commercially available chain silica particles "IPA-ST-UP" (trade name; Nissan Chemical Industries, Ltd.) may be used.

[0037] (b) Component (second particle) The second particles, which are different from the first particles, include conductive metal oxide particles having a number average particle size of primary particles of 5 to 40 nm. When an electrophotographic member is used as, for example, an intermediate transfer belt, the surface layer is required to be semiconductive, and therefore conductive metal oxide particles are used as the second particles.

[0038] The number-average particle size of the primary particles of the second particles is 5 to 40 nm, preferably 5 to 25 nm, and more preferably 15 to 25 nm. By setting the number-average particle size of the primary particles of the second particles within the above range, the formation of singular points (lumps) on the outer surface of the surface layer can be prevented. Furthermore, the dispersion state in the curable composition (liquid) can be stabilized, and even when the curable composition is used to form a surface layer after long-term storage, a surface layer having an outer surface Sa of 0.1 to 0.7 μm can be stably formed. The second particles may be surface-treated to improve dispersion stability in an organic solvent. Furthermore, two or more types of conductive metal oxide particles may be used in combination.

[0039] The second particles preferably include at least one particle selected from the group consisting of zinc antimonate particles and antimony-doped tin oxide particles (ATO particles). Commercially available products may be used as the second particles. For example, commercially available conductive metal oxide particle slurries such as Celnax CX-Z410K (product name) and Celnax CX-Z400K (product name) manufactured by Nissan Chemical Industries, Ltd. may be used. Alternatively, a slurry may be prepared from conductive metal oxide particles manufactured by Ishihara Sangyo Kaisha, Ltd. (product name: SN-100P, manufactured by Ishihara Sangyo Kaisha, Ltd.).

[0040] (c) Component Matrix resin monomers; The surface layer preferably contains a matrix resin, that is, the surface layer preferably contains hetero-aggregates of the first particles and the second particles in a matrix resin.

[0041] The matrix resin is not particularly limited, and any known resin used in the surface layer of an electrophotographic member such as an intermediate transfer belt can be used. The matrix resin preferably contains at least a (meth)acrylic resin, since this provides excellent scratch resistance to the outer surface of the surface layer. In this case, the curable composition used to form the surface layer preferably contains a monomer that forms a matrix resin, such as a (meth)acrylic monomer.

[0042] The (meth)acrylic monomer is not particularly limited, but polyfunctional (meth)acrylic monomers are preferred from the viewpoint of abrasion resistance and hardness. Suitable examples include pentaerythritol tri(meth)acrylate, pentaerythritol tetra(meth)acrylate, trimethylolpropane tri(meth)acrylate, EO-modified trimethylolpropane tri(meth)acrylate, PO-modified trimethylolpropane tri(meth)acrylate, dipentaerythritol penta- and hexa(meth)acrylate, and isocyanuric acid EO-modified di- and tri(meth)acrylate. It is particularly preferred that the acrylic monomer contains dipentaerythritol penta- and hexa(meth)acrylate. It is also possible to use multiple acrylic monomers to adjust cure shrinkage and viscosity. Alternatively, commercially available products such as Aronix M-305 (trade name) manufactured by Toagosei Co., Ltd. may be used.

[0043] The content of the matrix resin in the surface layer is preferably 60.0 to 85.0 mass %, and more preferably 65.0 to 80.0 mass %, based on the mass of the surface layer.

[0044] (d) Ingredients solvent; From the viewpoint of stably dispersing or dissolving the above-described components (a), (b), and (c) as well as the below-described component (e), the curable composition preferably contains a solvent. The solvent preferably contains at least one selected from the group consisting of 2-butanone and 4-methyl-2-pentanone. In order to adjust the evaporation rate and viscosity, it is also possible to add a plurality of solvents other than those mentioned above. Specific examples include the following:

[0045] Alcohols such as methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, butanol, and octanol; ketones such as acetone and cyclohexanone; Esters such as ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, ethyl lactate, γ-butyrolactone, propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate, and propylene glycol monoethyl ether acetate; ethers such as ethylene glycol monomethyl ether and diethylene glycol monobutyl ether, aromatic hydrocarbons such as benzene, toluene, and xylene; Amides such as dimethylformamide, dimethylacetamide, and N-methylpyrrolidone.

[0046] Of these, methyl isobutyl ketone, methyl ethyl ketone, cyclohexanone, propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate, propylene glycol monoethyl ether acetate, toluene, xylene, and the like are preferred.

[0047] The curable composition for forming the surface layer, which contains the above-mentioned components (a) and (b), and preferably contains components (a) to (d), may contain the following component (e) as needed.

[0048] Component (e) (ionic conductive agent) When particles having a relatively large average primary particle diameter capable of forming a rough surface with an Sa of 0.1 to 0.7 μm on the outer surface of the surface layer are contained in the coating material for forming the surface layer, it is difficult to avoid the formation of specific protrusions due to the aggregation of particles in the coating material. The particles are hetero-aggregated with second particles that are too small to achieve the Sa within the above range by the action of an ionic conductive agent. This hetero-aggregation forms convex portions on the surface of the surface layer, preventing the formation of specific protrusions on the outer surface of the surface layer and achieving stable surface roughening.

[0049] Hetero-aggregation of the first particles and the second particles can be achieved, for example, by the action of component (e). For example, a coating film of the curable composition described above is formed on a base layer containing component (e) described below. During the drying process, at least a portion of the cationic components of the ion conductive agent from the base layer migrates into the coating film. As the solvent in the coating film evaporates, the cation concentration in the coating film increases, and the charges of the first particles and the second particles in the coating film become opposite in polarity, resulting in the formation of hetero-aggregates.

[0050] As described above, component (e) can be incorporated into the base layer, and hetero-aggregates can be formed in the coating film by transferring cations from the base layer to the coating film on the base layer, but this is not limitative. Component (e) may be incorporated into the curable composition as one of its components, or component (e) may be incorporated into both the base layer and the curable composition. However, in order to extend the life of the curable composition as a surface layer coating, it is preferable not to incorporate component (e) into the curable composition.

[0051] Component (e) contains at least one cation selected from the group consisting of cations represented by formulas (C1) to (C4) and at least one anion selected from the group consisting of anions represented by formulas (A1) to (A4). Formulas (C1) to (C4) and formulas (A1) to (A4) are as described above.

[0052] To form heteroaggregates, it is preferable for the anions and cations to undergo sufficient ionic dissociation. However, since the anions represented by formulas (A1) to (A4) are non-PFAS anions and have localized negative charges, salts containing the anions represented by formulas (A1) to (A4) are generally less likely to dissociate with the cation than PFAS anions. Examples of cations that undergo ionic dissociation even among non-PFAS anions include the cations represented by formulas (C1) to (C4).

[0053] The cations represented by the formulae (C1) to (C4) will be explained in detail. In formulas (C1) to (C4), R1 to R 12each independently represents a hydrogen atom or a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 14 carbon atoms, provided that at least one selected from the group consisting of R1 and R2, at least one selected from the group consisting of R3 and R4, at least one selected from the group consisting of R5 to R8, and R9 to R 12 At least one selected from the group consisting of is a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 14 carbon atoms. Examples of the hydrocarbon group include linear or branched saturated hydrocarbon groups, linear or branched unsaturated hydrocarbon groups, substituted or unsubstituted saturated alicyclic hydrocarbon groups, substituted or unsubstituted unsaturated alicyclic hydrocarbon groups, and substituted or unsubstituted aromatic hydrocarbon groups.

[0054] Preferred examples of R1 and R2 each independently include a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms (more preferably 1 to 4, and even more preferably 1 to 3). Preferred examples of R3 and R4 are each independently a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms (more preferably 1 to 4 carbon atoms). Preferred examples of R5 to R8 include, independently of each other, a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms. R9~R 12 Preferred examples of the groups are, each independently, a linear or branched alkyl group having 4 to 14 carbon atoms.

[0055] Specific examples of the imidazolium cation represented by formula (C1) are listed below. 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium cation, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium cation, 1-hexyl-3-methylimidazolium cation, 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium cation, 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium cation.

[0056] Specific examples of the pyridinium-based cation represented by formula (C2) are listed below. 1-ethylpyridinium ion, 1-butylpyridinium ion, 1-hexylpyridinium ion, 1-octylpyridinium ion, 1-(tert-butyl)pyridinium ion, 1-octyl-4-methylpyridinium ion, 1-octyl-4-butylpyridinium ion.

[0057] Specific examples of the quaternary ammonium cation represented by formula (C3) are listed below. Ammonium ion, trimethylpropylammonium ion, tributylmethylammonium ion, tetraethylammonium ion, tributylethylammonium ion, methyltrioctylammonium ion, methyltridodecylammonium ion, trihexyltetradecylammonium ion, more preferably tributylmethylammonium ion, tributylethylammonium ion.

[0058] Specific examples of the phosphonium cation represented by formula (C4) are listed below. Phosphonium ion, trimethylpropylphosphonium ion, tributylmethylphosphonium ion, tetraethylphosphonium ion, tributylethylphosphonium ion, methyltrioctylphosphonium ion, methyltridodecylphosphonium ion, trihexyltetradecylphosphonium ion, more preferably trihexyltetradecylphosphonium ion.

[0059] The anion may be a non-PFAS anion that does not contain a C—F bond, and specifically, anions represented by formulae (A1) to (A4) can be used. The anions represented by (A1) to (A4) will be explained in detail. The anion shown in formula (A1) is a fluorosulfonylimide anion that does not have a C—F bond in the molecule and does not belong to PFAS.

[0060] (A2)~(A4) Medium, R 13 ~R 16each independently represents a hydrogen atom, a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms. Examples of the hydrocarbon group include a linear or branched saturated hydrocarbon group, a linear or branched unsaturated hydrocarbon group, a substituted or unsubstituted saturated alicyclic hydrocarbon group, a substituted or unsubstituted unsaturated alicyclic hydrocarbon group, and a substituted or unsubstituted aromatic hydrocarbon group.

[0061] R 13 Preferred examples of include a hydrogen atom, a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms (more preferably 1 to 3 carbon atoms), or a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group (specifically, for example, an unsubstituted phenyl group, or a phenyl group substituted with an alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms (more preferably 1 or 2 carbon atoms)).

[0062] R 14 Preferred examples of the alkyl group include alkyl groups having 3 to 15 carbon atoms (more preferably 6 to 12 carbon atoms). R 15 , and R 16 Preferred examples of the groups are each independently a linear or branched alkyl group having 3 to 15 carbon atoms (more preferably 6 to 12 carbon atoms).

[0063] Specific examples of the anion represented by formula (A2) are listed below. Sulfonate ion, methanesulfonate ion, ethanesulfonate ion, 1-butanesulfonate ion, p-toluenesulfonate ion (tosylate ion), 1-octanesulfonate Sulfonate ion, 1-decanesulfonate ion, 1-tetradecanesulfonate ion, 1-octadecanesulfonate ion, hydrogen sulfate ion, methyl sulfate ion, ethyl sulfate ion, 1-butyl sulfate ion, 1-octyl sulfate ion, 1-decyl sulfate ion, 1-tetradecyl sulfate ion, 1-octadecyl sulfate ion. More preferably, methanesulfonate ion, ethanesulfonate ion, p-toluenesulfonate ion, and hydrogen sulfate ion.

[0064] Specific examples of the anion represented by formula (A3) are listed below. Methanoate ion, ethanoate ion, butanoate ion, hexanoate ion, benzoate ion, octanoate ion, decanoate ion, dodecanoate ion, tetradecanoate ion, hexadecanoate ion, octadecanoate ion, methyl carbonate ion, ethyl carbonate ion, butyl carbonate ion, hexyl carbonate ion, octyl carbonate ion, decyl carbonate ion, tetradecyl carbonate ion, and octadecyl carbonate ion. Decanoate ion is more preferred.

[0065] Specific examples of the anion represented by formula (A4) are listed below. Phosphinate ion, dimethylphosphinate ion, ethylmethylphosphinate ion, diethylphosphinate ion, dibutylphosphinate ion, bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)phosphinate ion, dioctylphosphinate ion, ditetradecylphosphinate ion, dioctadecylphosphinate ion, dimethyl phosphate ion, diethyl phosphate ion, dibutyl phosphate ion, more preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of diethylphosphinate ion and bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)phosphinate ion, and even more preferably bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)phosphinate ion.

[0066] Particularly preferred examples of the anion component include the anions listed in Table 2 below. Furthermore, examples of preferred combinations of cations and anions for component (e) include the combinations shown in Table 2 below.

[0067] Radical polymerization initiators; Examples of the radical polymerization initiator include compounds that generate active radical species thermally (thermal polymerization initiators) and compounds that generate active radical species upon irradiation with radiation (light) (radiation (photo)polymerization initiators). There are no particular limitations on the radiation (photo)polymerization initiator as long as it is decomposed by light irradiation to generate radicals and initiate polymerization, and examples thereof include the following:

[0068] Acetophenone, acetophenone benzyl ketal, 1-hydroxycyclohexyl phenyl ketone, 2,2-dimethoxy-1,2-diphenylethan-1-one, xanthone, fluorenone, benzaldehyde, fluorene, anthraquinone, triphenylamine, carbazole, 3-methylacetophenone, 4-chlorobenzophenone, 4,4'-dimethoxybenzophenone, 4,4'-diaminobenzophenone, benzoin propyl ether, benzoin ethyl ether, benzil dimethyl ketal, 1-(4-isopropylphenyl)-2-hydroxy-2-methylpropan-1-one, 2-hydroxy-2-methyl-1-phenylpropan-1-one, thiamine Examples of suitable thioxanthone include oxanthone, diethylthioxanthone, 2-isopropylthioxanthone, 2-chlorothioxanthone, 2-methyl-1-[4-(methylthio)phenyl]-2-morpholino-propan-1-one, 2-benzyl-2-dimethylamino-1-(4-morpholinophenyl)-butanone-1,4-(2-hydroxyethoxy)phenyl-(2-hydroxy-2-propyl)ketone, 2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyldiphenylphosphine oxide, bis-(2,6-dimethoxybenzoyl)-2,4,4-trimethylpentylphosphine oxide, and oligo(2-hydroxy-2-methyl-1-(4-(1-methylvinyl)phenyl)propanone). This can be done.

[0069] The amount of radical polymerization initiator blended is preferably 0.01 to 10 parts by mass, more preferably 0.1 to 5 parts by mass, per 100 parts by mass of component (c). If the blending amount is 0.01 part by mass or more, the cured product will not have sufficient hardness, while if the blending amount is 10 parts by mass or less, the cured product will not be sufficiently cured to the inside (lower layer).

[0070] ·others If necessary, other components may be added to the curable composition within a range that does not impair the effects of the present disclosure, such as a polymerization inhibitor, a polymerization initiator aid, a leveling agent, a wettability improver, a surfactant, a plasticizer, an ultraviolet absorber, an antioxidant, an antistatic agent, an inorganic filler, or a pigment.

[0071] <Method for producing curable composition> The method for producing the curable composition is not particularly limited. However, since the curable composition contains particulate substances (a) and (b) and often highly viscous component (c), it is preferably produced as follows: A slurry in which component (a) is dispersed in a solvent, a slurry in which component (b) is dispersed in a solvent, and a solution in which component (c) is dissolved in a solvent are prepared in advance. These, along with components (d), (e), a polymerization initiator, and other components are then placed in a container equipped with a stirrer in the formulation described below and stirred for, for example, 30 minutes at room temperature to obtain the curable composition. The concentration of the slurry or solution may be set within a range that allows easy stirring. The total amount of solvent is preferably, for example, 200 to 2,000 parts by mass or 500 to 1,200 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the total of components (a), (b), and (c).

[0072] <Curing method> It is preferable to obtain a surface layer by curing a curable composition. The curable composition can be cured by heat or radiation (light, electron beam, etc.). There are no particular limitations on the actinic radiation as long as it can provide energy that can generate polymerization initiation species, and it broadly includes α-rays, γ-rays, X-rays, ultraviolet (UV), visible light, electron beams, etc. Among these, ultraviolet rays and electron beams are preferred from the viewpoints of curing sensitivity and ease of equipment availability, and ultraviolet rays are particularly preferred.

[0073] <<<Electrophotographic Materials>>> The electrophotographic member will now be described. The electrophotographic member is composed of multiple layers, and the surface layer can be formed using the above-mentioned curable composition. The electrophotographic member may be, for example, in the form of a roller or belt, and is preferably in the form of a belt. In the following, an embodiment of an electrophotographic belt having two layers, consisting of a base layer and a surface layer, will be described, but other layers, such as an inner layer, may also be present.

[0074] (f) Ingredients resin; The base layer can be a molded product of a resin composition for forming the base layer, which contains component (e) and a resin. The resin used to form the base layer can contain component (e) and preferably allows component (e) to migrate to the curable composition. The resin used to form the base layer is not particularly limited, and various resins can be used. Specific examples include resins such as polyimide (PI), polyamideimide (PAI), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyamide (PA), polylactic acid (PLLA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polycarbonate (PC), and fluororesins (PVdF, etc.), as well as blends thereof. In particular, the resin is preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene naphthalate (PEN).

[0075] The resin composition may contain other components as needed, such as ionic conductive agents (e.g., polymeric ionic conductive agents, surfactants), conductive polymers, antioxidants (e.g., hindered phenols, phosphorus, and sulfur-based), ultraviolet absorbers, organic pigments, inorganic pigments, pH adjusters, crosslinking agents, compatibilizers, mold release agents (e.g., silicone-based and fluorine-based), crosslinking agents, coupling agents, lubricants, insulating fillers (e.g., zinc oxide, barium sulfate, calcium sulfate, barium titanate, potassium titanate, strontium titanate, titanium oxide, magnesium oxide, magnesium hydroxide, aluminum hydroxide, talc, mica, clay, kaolin, hydrotalcite, silica, alumina, ferrite, calcium carbonate, barium carbonate, nickel carbonate, glass powder, quartz powder, glass fiber, alumina fiber, potassium titanate fiber, and fine particles of thermosetting resin), conductive fillers (e.g., carbon black, carbon fiber, conductive titanium oxide, conductive tin oxide, and conductive mica), and ionic liquids. These may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0076] The base layer may contain base layer particles, and it is preferable that the surface of the surface layer has convex portions derived from the base layer particles. The convex portions derived from the base layer particles have a height of, for example, 0.1 to 5.0 μm, preferably 0.3 to 2.0 μm, and more preferably 0.4 to 1.5 μm. The convex portions derived from the base layer particles have a width of, for example, 0.5 to 5.0 μm, preferably 1.0 to 4.0 μm, and more preferably 1.0 to 3.0 μm. The average number of the protrusions derived from the base layer particles in an area of ​​256 μm×192 μm is, for example, 1 to 22, preferably 1 to 20, and more preferably 4 to 20. The average number of the protrusions may be 1 to 15. The presence of such a protrusion helps to prevent adhesion with other members.

[0077] The number-average particle size of the base layer particles is preferably 1.5 to 3.5 μm, and more preferably 1.8 to 3.2 μm. By adding particles of this average particle size to the resin composition and forming convex portions derived from the particles added to the resin composition on the outer surface of the surface layer opposite the surface facing the base layer, it is possible to help suppress adhesion with other components. The convex portions derived from the base layer particles may be such that at least a portion of the base layer particles is exposed on the surface of the surface layer, or the surface of the base layer particles may be coated with the matrix resin in the surface layer.

[0078] <Base layer manufacturing method> The method for producing the base layer is not particularly limited, and a molding method suitable for various resins may be used. The base layer can be obtained by heating and molding a resin composition containing components (e) and (f) as necessary. Examples of molding methods include extrusion molding, inflation molding, blow molding, and centrifugal molding. After component (e) and component (f) are melt-kneaded to obtain a resin composition, the resin composition can be extrusion-molded to obtain a cylindrical film-shaped base layer. A known device such as a twin-screw kneading extruder can be used for melt-kneading. In the examples and comparative examples described below, the base layer was obtained by extrusion molding.

[0079] <<Surface layer formation method>> The surface layer has convex portions derived from the hetero-aggregate on the outer surface opposite to the surface facing the base layer. The method for producing the surface layer is not particularly limited, but as described above, it is preferable to have a step of applying a curable composition to the base layer and curing it to obtain the surface layer. The method for manufacturing an electrophotographic belt more preferably comprises: providing a base layer containing the following component (e); A step of preparing a curable composition containing the following components (a) to (d): forming a coating of the curable composition on one surface of the base layer and drying the coating; and curing the dried coating; It has. (a) first particles, which are chain-like inorganic oxide particles; (b) second particles different from the first particles, the primary particles having a number average particle size of 5 to 40 nm, and the second particles containing a conductive metal oxide; (c) (meth)acrylic monomers; (d) at least one solvent selected from the group consisting of 2-butanone and 4-methyl-2-pentanone; (e) a salt containing at least one cation selected from the group consisting of cations represented by the aforementioned formulas (C1) to (C4) and at least one anion selected from the group consisting of anions represented by the aforementioned formulas (A1) to (A4); As described above, this manufacturing method allows a small amount of cations to migrate from the base layer into the coating film of the surface layer-forming composition, and the increase in cation concentration during curing of the coating film causes hetero-aggregates of the first particles and the second particles to form in the coating film, thereby forming convex portions.

[0080] The coating method is not particularly limited, and any known method can be used. In the examples and comparative examples described below, dip coating was used. For example, the base layer is fitted onto the outer periphery of a cylindrical mold, the edges are sealed, and the mold is then immersed in a container filled with the curable composition, and the base layer is pulled up so that the relative speed between the liquid surface of the curable composition and the base layer is constant, thereby forming a coating film of the curable composition on the surface of the base layer. The pulling speed (the relative speed between the liquid surface of the curable composition and the base layer) and the solvent ratio of the curable composition, etc., can be adjusted depending on the desired film thickness. For example, the lifting speed can be set to 10 to 50 mm / sec.

[0081] After the coating film is formed, it is dried and cured. In the step of drying the coating film, the drying temperature, humidity, and drying time may be adjusted appropriately depending on the type of solvent, solvent ratio, film thickness, etc. The drying temperature is preferably 20 to 30°C, for example. The relative humidity during drying is preferably 40 to 70%. The drying time is preferably 30 to 300 seconds. It is also preferable to exhaust air during drying. The exhaust conditions are not particularly limited as long as they are sufficient to remove the solvent, but the exhaust air volume is preferably 10 to 50 m 3 / min is preferable, 30-50m 3The drying described above makes it easier for the cationic component to migrate. The dried coating film is then cured to obtain a surface layer. For example, curing can be performed by UV irradiation. The integrated light dose can be appropriately set depending on the material used. For example, it can be 300 to 2000 mJ / cm. 2 It can be said that:

[0082] The sum of the content of the first particles and the content of the second particles in the surface layer is preferably 4.0 to 37.0 mass%, more preferably 6.0 to 37.0 mass%, and even more preferably 6.0 to 30.0 mass%, based on the mass of the surface layer. The content of the first particles in the surface layer is preferably 0.2 to 27.0 mass %, and more preferably 0.4 to 12.0 mass %, based on the mass of the surface layer. The content of the second particles in the surface layer is preferably 3.8 to 30.0 mass %, more preferably 5.0 to 25.0 mass %, and even more preferably 6.0 to 22.0 mass %, based on the mass of the surface layer.

[0083] Furthermore, the ionic conductive agent in the base layer prevents the coating of the surface layer-forming composition formed on the base layer. When hetero-aggregates of the first particles and the second particles are formed in the film, the sum of the cation and anion contents in the base layer is preferably 0.4 to 3.5 mass%, more preferably 0.7 to 3.0 mass%, and even more preferably 0.8 to 3.0 mass%, based on the mass of the base layer. By setting the content of the ion conductive agent in the base layer within the above range, hetero-aggregates of the first particles and the second particles can be more efficiently formed in the surface layer. As a result, the arithmetic mean height (Sa) of the outer surface of the surface layer can be more easily set to 0.1 to 0.7 μm.

[0084] The thickness of the surface layer is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.05 μm to 20 μm, particularly 0.1 μm to 5 μm, and even more preferably 1 μm to 3 μm. In particular, when particles are added to the base layer to form convex portions derived from the base layer particles on the surface of the surface layer, if the surface layer is thick, convex portions are difficult to form. Therefore, it is preferable to adjust the thickness of the surface layer depending on the particle size of the added particles. For example, when particles with a particle size of 1.5 to 3.5 μm are added to the base layer, the surface layer preferably has a thickness of 1 μm to 3 μm.

[0085] <<Electrophotographic image forming apparatus>> An electrophotographic image forming apparatus (hereinafter also referred to as "electrophotographic apparatus") will be described. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a full-color electrophotographic apparatus. The electrophotographic apparatus preferably comprises an electrophotographic member as an intermediate transfer belt. The electrophotographic member is preferably an intermediate transfer belt. In FIG. 2, the electrophotographic apparatus comprises a cylindrical electrophotographic seamless belt as an intermediate transfer belt 5. The electrophotographic photosensitive member 1 is a drum-shaped electrophotographic photosensitive member (hereinafter referred to as "photosensitive drum") that is repeatedly used as a first image carrier, and is rotationally driven in the direction of the arrow at a predetermined peripheral speed (process speed).

[0086] As the photosensitive drum 1 rotates, it is uniformly charged to a predetermined polarity and potential by a primary charger 2. 32 is a power source. The photosensitive drum is then exposed to image exposure 3 by an exposure means, forming an electrostatic latent image corresponding to a first color component image (e.g., a yellow color component image) of the desired color image. Examples of the exposure means include a color separation / imaging exposure optical system for a color original image, and a scanning exposure system using a laser scanner that outputs a laser beam modulated in accordance with time-series electrical digital pixel signals of image information.

[0087] Next, the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum is developed with yellow toner Y, which is the first color, by the first developing device (yellow developing device 41). At this time, the second to fourth developing devices (magenta developing device 42, cyan developing device 43, black developing device 44) are turned off and do not act on the photosensitive drum 1, so the yellow toner image of the first color is not affected by the second to fourth developing devices. The electrophotographic belt 5 is rotated in the direction of the arrow at the same peripheral speed as the photosensitive drum 1.

[0088] When passing through the nip portion between the photosensitive drum 1 and the intermediate transfer belt 5, the yellow toner image on the photosensitive drum 1 is transferred to the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate transfer belt 5 by an electric field formed by a primary transfer bias applied from a power source 30 to the electrophotographic belt 5 via the primary transfer opposing roller 6 (primary transfer). After the first color yellow toner image has been transferred to the electrophotographic belt 5, the surface of the photosensitive drum 1 is cleaned by a cleaning device 13.

[0089] Similarly, a magenta toner image as a second color, a cyan toner image as a third color, and a black toner image as a fourth color are successively transferred onto the electrophotographic (intermediate transfer) belt 5 in a superimposed manner, thereby forming a composite color toner image corresponding to the target color image. The secondary transfer roller 7 is disposed on the underside of the electrophotographic belt 5 in a manner that allows it to be separated from the drive roller 8 and is supported in parallel therewith.

[0090] During the primary transfer process of the first to third color toner images from the photosensitive drum 1 to the electrophotographic belt 5, the secondary transfer roller 7 can be separated from the electrophotographic belt 5. The composite color toner image transferred onto the electrophotographic belt 5 is transferred to the transfer material P, which is a second image carrier, as follows.

[0091] First, the secondary transfer roller 7 is brought into contact with the electrophotographic belt 5, and the transfer material P is fed at a predetermined timing from the paper feed roller 11 through the transfer material guide 10 to the contact nip between the electrophotographic belt 5 and the secondary transfer roller 7. Then, a secondary transfer bias is applied from a power source 31 to the secondary transfer roller 7. This secondary transfer bias causes the composite color toner image to be transferred (secondary transfer) from the electrophotographic (intermediate transfer) belt 5 to the transfer material P, which is a second image carrier.

[0092] The transfer material P to which the toner image has been transferred is introduced into a fixing device 15 and heated and fixed. After the image transfer onto the transfer material P is completed, a cleaning roller 9 of a cleaning device is brought into contact with the electrophotographic belt 5, and a bias of the opposite polarity to that of the photosensitive drum 1 is applied. As a result, a charge of the opposite polarity to that of the photosensitive drum 1 is imparted to the toner (transfer residual toner) remaining on the electrophotographic belt 5 without being transferred to the transfer material P. 33 is a bias power supply. The transfer residual toner is electrostatically transferred to the photosensitive drum 1 at the nip portion with the photosensitive drum 1 and in the vicinity thereof, thereby cleaning the electrophotographic belt 5.

[0093] <<Evaluation method>> The methods for measuring and evaluating physical properties according to the present disclosure will be described. <Roughness arithmetic mean height Sa> The arithmetic mean height Sa of the surface layer was measured using a scanning white light interference microscope (product name: VertScan, manufactured by Ryoka Systems Co., Ltd.). Observation was performed at 50x magnification, and the obtained image was subjected to fourth-order surface correction, after which Sa was calculated from the corrected image. Images were taken at four points, Sa was measured, and the arithmetic mean value was used.

[0094] <Adhesion to other materials> The adhesion to the photosensitive drum of a full-color electrophotographic device (product name: LBP-5200, manufactured by Canon Inc.) was measured using a jig as shown in Figure 3. The electrophotographic belt b3 is stretched over a drive roller b1 equipped with a motor and torque meter, a driven roller b4, and a tension roller b6 that applies tension to the electrophotographic belt b3 serving as the electrophotographic member. The photosensitive drum b2 and backup roller b5 are the photosensitive drum and transfer roller of the LBP-5200, respectively.

[0095] The electrophotographic belt is rotated at 180 mm / sec without contacting the photosensitive drum, and the torque value at that time is measured. This value is designated "Tq1." Next, the maximum torque is measured when the electrophotographic belt is rotated at 180 mm / sec and the photosensitive drum is brought into contact with it at 700 gf. This value is designated "Tq2." The difference between "Tq2" and "Tq1" is used as an index for evaluating the adhesion between the electrophotographic belt and the photosensitive drum. If the difference is less than 0.10 Nm, the evaluation rank is designated "A," and if it is 0.10 Nm or more, the evaluation rank is designated "B."

[0096] The adhesion was evaluated after a long-term use, and was measured after forming 50,000 electrophotographic images on the full-color electrophotographic apparatus. Furthermore, when the electrophotographic belt and the photosensitive drum are brought into contact with each other, the photosensitive drum is fixed without being rotated, and the contact surface of the photosensitive drum is always in a new condition.

[0097] <Adhesion to other materials (high contact pressure)> In order to evaluate the adhesion with other materials under stricter conditions, the contact pressure with the photosensitive drum was set to 1000 gf, and other conditions were the same as those for the procedure for adhesion with other materials. The adhesion was evaluated.

[0098] <Presence or absence of hetero-aggregates> A sample cut out from the surface layer of the electrophotographic member using a microtome or the like is observed using a TEM (Talos200 manufactured by FEI), and a cross-sectional photograph in the thickness direction of the surface layer is taken. In addition, elemental analysis was performed using a transmission electron microscope (EDX) with the EDX method (energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy). Specifically, analysis was performed using a Talos 200 manufactured by FEI at an acceleration voltage of 200 kV. Each particle in the cross-sectional TEM photograph was clearly distinguished into a first particle and a second particle. If there was an aggregate containing both the first particle and the second particle, it was determined that a hetero-aggregate was present.

[0099] <Presence or absence of convex portions derived from hetero-aggregates> A sample cut out from the surface layer of the electrophotographic member using a microtome or the like is observed using a transmission electron microscope (TEM), and a cross-sectional photograph of the surface layer in the thickness direction is taken. This is done in the same manner as in the case of the presence or absence of hetero-aggregates. At this time, the outermost surface of the surface layer is included in the photograph. Furthermore, elemental analysis is performed by EDX (energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy) in the same manner as in the above procedure for the presence or absence of hetero-aggregates, and each particle in the cross-sectional TEM photograph is clearly distinguished into first particles and second particles. When the surface layer contains aggregates containing first and second particles, i.e., hetero-aggregates, and convex portions reflecting the shape of the hetero-aggregates are formed on the outermost surface of the surface layer, the presence of convex portions derived from the hetero-aggregates is determined. Note that the convex portions are recognized as portions where the hetero-aggregates themselves are exposed on the outer surface of the surface layer and portions where the matrix resin of the surface layer that covers the hetero-aggregates is raised, while other portions are recognized as non-convex portions.

[0100] <Major diameter and minor diameter of first particle> The major axis and minor axis of the first particle were determined by the following method. A sample cut out from the surface layer of the electrophotographic member using a microtome or the like was acid-decomposed and then observed with an SEM (ULTRA 55 manufactured by ZEISS). (Acid decomposition conditions) Acid: nitric acid (68%) 7.5ml + hydrochloric acid (30%) 0.5ml Sample size: 0.2g Acid decomposition equipment: ETHOS PRO (Milestone General) Heating: Heat to 70°C in 2 minutes → Cool to 50°C in 1 minute → Heat to 230°C in 20 minutes → Hold at 230°C for 20 minutes The minor and major diameters can be measured by image processing of SEM images. The image processing method used the image processing software ImageJ (NIH, version 1.51) and was carried out according to the following procedure. In the image area, the Auto button was selected, which automatically sets the threshold level, and binarization was performed to extract the shape of the chain particles. The binary image is then duplicated, and one image is subjected to particle analysis (Analyze Particles) to obtain the Feret diameter and area of ​​each individual particle chain, while the other binary image is subjected to skeletonization (Skeletonize) to obtain the skeleton length of each individual particle chain. The minor axis is calculated by dividing the total area of ​​chain particles by the total skeleton length. The major axis corresponds to the Feret's diameter of each particle. 100 particles are measured and the number average value is calculated.

[0101] <Number average particle size of primary particles of second particles> The number average particle size of the primary particles of the second particles is determined by the following method. A sample cut out from the surface layer of the electrophotographic member using a microtome or the like is photographed in the thickness direction of the surface layer using a TEM (FEI Talos200). Elemental analysis is performed using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) to clearly distinguish the first particles and second particles that make up the hetero-aggregates in the TEM photographs. This is done in the same manner as the procedure for the presence or absence of hetero-aggregates described above. Next, the particle diameter of the second particles is determined by dividing the sum of the maximum length and the minimum length of the projected image of the second particles constituting the hetero-aggregate in the photograph by 2. This operation is performed for 100 second particles constituting the hetero-aggregate, and the arithmetic mean value of the obtained primary particle diameters is determined as the number-average particle diameter of the primary particles of the second particles.

[0102] <Particle content> The contents of the first particles and the second particles in the surface layer can be determined by the following method. The surface layer, peeled off from the electrophotographic member using a razor or similar tool, is measured in air at 400°C using a thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA) to obtain a profile of the weight loss rate versus measurement time. The initial mass is obtained from the profile. The mass at which the slope of the profile becomes constant is taken as the total mass of the particles. The value of [total mass of particles] / [initial mass] x 100 is taken as the sum (mass %) of the contents of the first and second particles in the surface layer.

[0103] Separately, the surface layer whose mass has been measured is heated to 400°C, and the mass of the residue is measured. The residue is then separated into first particles and second particles by centrifugation or other methods, and the mass of each particle is measured after drying. The content (mass%) of the first particles in the surface layer is determined as [mass of first particles] / [mass of surface layer] x 100. The content (mass%) of the second particles in the surface layer is determined as [mass of second particles] / [mass of surface layer] x 100.

[0104] <Sum of cation and anion contents in the base layer> The content of cations and anions in the base layer can be determined by the following method. The base layer is peeled off from the electrophotographic member using a razor or similar tool, and a 200 mg sample is cut from the base layer. It is then immersed in 1 mL of methanol and subjected to 40 kHz ultrasound for 10 minutes to obtain an anion and cation extract. The total amount of cations and anions contained in the 200 mg base layer can be determined by measuring the mass of the dry product obtained by removing the methanol from the extract. The sum of the cation and anion contents (mass %) in the base layer is calculated by dividing [total amount of cations and anions (mg)] by [200 mg] x 100.

[0105] <Presence or absence of convexities derived from base layer particles> The surface shape is observed from the surface layer side of the electrophotographic member using a scanning electron microscope equipped with a focused ion beam function, and convex portions are identified. Specifically, a TESCAN AmberX is used to acquire the secondary electron layer of the surface at an acceleration voltage of 3 kV and identify the convex portions. The observed convex portions are cross-sectioned using a focused ion beam function to create a cross section including the apex of the convex portion. If particles are observed in the cross section and are partially or entirely embedded in the base layer, it is determined that the convex portions originate from base layer particles.

[0106] <Height of the protrusions originating from the base layer particles> Similar to the procedure for determining whether or not protrusions originating from base layer particles are present, a cross section of the protrusions is extracted using the focused ion beam function, and a cross-sectional image including the apex of the protrusion is obtained. As shown in Figure 4, the baseline c4 is a line connecting the center c2 of the base layer particle c1 observed in the cross section to a position c3 three times the particle diameter of the base layer particle. The height of the protrusion is determined by measuring the distance from baseline c4 to the apex of the protrusion. The average value obtained by evaluating 30 protrusions is taken as the height c5 of the protrusions originating from the base layer particles.

[0107] <Width of the protrusions derived from the base layer particles> From the surface layer side of the electrophotographic material, a scanning electron microscope equipped with a focused ion beam function was used. The surface shape is observed and a secondary electron image of the surface is obtained. The width of the convex parts can be measured by image processing of the obtained secondary electron image. The image processing method uses the image processing software ImageJ (NIH, ver. 1.51), which performs binarization to extract the shape of the convex parts, and the diameter of the convex parts is found using the particle size analysis function, and this value is used as the width of the convex parts. The average value of 30 protrusions evaluated is taken as the width of the protrusions derived from the base layer particles. Note that the protrusions extracted by image processing are confirmed to be protrusions derived from the base layer particles by cross-sectioning.

[0108] <Number of protrusions derived from base layer particles> Similar to the procedure for measuring the width of the convex portions derived from the base layer particles, the surface shape is observed using a scanning electron microscope, and the convex portions are extracted and counted by image processing. The average value obtained by evaluating 30 secondary electron images with a field of view of 256 μm × 192 μm is used as the number of convex portions derived from the base layer particles. It is to be noted that the convex portions extracted by image processing are confirmed to be convex portions derived from the base layer particles by cross-sectioning.

[0109] <Particle size of base layer particles> The particle size of the particles in the base layer can be determined by the following method. Samples cut from the base layer of an electrophotographic member using a microtome or similar tool were heated in air at 380° for 4 hours to decompose the resin composition, extracting particles and conducting SEM observations. Particle size can be measured by image processing of secondary electron images acquired with the SEM. The image processing method used was the image processing software ImageJ (NIH, version 1.51), which performs binarization to extract the particle shape, and the particle size can be determined using the particle size analysis function. The average value obtained by evaluating 100 particles was taken as the number-average particle size of the base layer particles.

[0110] <Base layer particle content> The content of particles in the base layer can be determined by the following method. The base layer is peeled off from the electrophotographic member using a razor or similar tool and measured in a thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA) at 380°C in air to obtain a profile of the weight loss rate versus measurement time. The initial mass is obtained from the profile. The mass at which the slope of the profile becomes constant is taken as the total mass of the particles. The particle content (mass %) in the base layer is calculated by dividing [total mass of particles] by [initial mass] x 100. [Example]

[0111] The present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to examples and comparative examples, but the present disclosure is not limited to these.

[0112] (base layer) The compounding ratios of the materials that make up the base layer are shown in Tables 1 and 1-2. The structural formula and name of component (e) in the base layer are as shown in Table 2. First, the materials shown in Tables 1 and 1-2 were melted and mixed in the amounts shown in Tables 1 and 1-2 using a twin-screw kneading extruder (trade name: PCM43, manufactured by Ikegai Corporation) under the following conditions to prepare thermoplastic resin compositions. Output: 6kg / h Screw rotation speed: 225 rpm Barrel temperature control: 270℃

[0113] The obtained thermoplastic resin composition was melt-extruded under the following conditions using a single-screw extruder (manufactured by Plastics Engineering Research Institute Co., Ltd.) equipped with a spiral cylindrical die (inner diameter: 195 mm, slit width: 1.1 mm) at the tip to produce cylindrical films of the following sizes. The cylindrical film thus obtained was used as the base layer. Output: 6kg / h Die temperature: 290℃ Size: Outer diameter 201mm, thickness 70μm

[0114] (Surface layer) Furthermore, the compounding ratios of materials constituting the curable composition for forming the surface layer are shown in Table 3. In Table 3, when the material is a slurry, the solid components were adjusted to the compounding ratio shown in Table 3. The curable composition was prepared as follows. A slurry in which component (a) was dispersed in a solvent, a slurry in which component (b) was dispersed in a solvent, and a solution in which component (c) was dissolved in a solvent were prepared in advance. These, along with component (d), component (e), a polymerization initiator, and other components were placed in a container equipped with a stirrer in the formulations shown in Table 3, and the mixture was stirred at room temperature for 30 minutes to obtain a curable composition.

[0115] The base layer obtained by the above extrusion molding was fitted onto the outer periphery of a cylindrical mold, the ends were sealed, and the mold was then immersed in a container filled with a curable composition and pulled up so that the relative speed between the liquid surface of the curable composition and the base layer was constant, thereby forming a coating film of the curable composition for forming a surface layer on the surface of the base layer. In the examples and comparative examples, the lifting speed was set to 10 to 50 mm / sec, and the thickness of the coating film of the curable composition was adjusted to 2 μm. The curable compositions were mixed according to the formulations shown in Table 3. After forming the coating film of the curable composition, the coating film was heated in an environment of a temperature of 23°C and a relative humidity of 55%, with an exhaust air volume of 40 m 3 The dried coating was then dried for 1 minute under an exhaust gas at a rate of 1 / min. Then, the dried coating was irradiated with a UV irradiator (product name: UE06 / 81-3, manufactured by Eye Graphics Co., Ltd.) with an accumulated light dose of 600 mJ / cm. 2 The coating was cured by irradiating it with ultraviolet light until the thickness reached 100 μm, forming a surface layer. The thickness of the resulting surface layer was 2 μm, as determined by observing the cross section with an electron microscope.

[0116] Tables 4 and 4-1 show the combinations of base layers and curable compositions used in the examples and comparative examples, and Tables 5 and 5-2 show the evaluation results.

[0117] [Table 1] (f) The following resins were used: f-1 Teijin Limited "TN-8065S" (trade name); polyethylene naphthalate, f-2 Teijin Limited "TRN-8550FF" (trade name); polyethylene terephthalate

[0118] [Table 1-2] (g) The particles used were: g-1 "Tospearl 120" (product name) manufactured by Momentive Performance Materials Japan, LLC g-2 "Tospearl 130" (product name) manufactured by Momentive Performance Materials Japan, LLC

[0119] [Table 2]

[0120] [Table 3]

[0121] The materials used are as follows: a-1 "IPA-ST-UP" (trade name) manufactured by Nissan Chemical Industries, Ltd.; silica particle slurry (solid content concentration 15% by mass) a-2 "PL-1" (trade name) manufactured by Fuso Chemical Co., Ltd.; silica particle slurry (solid content: 12% by mass)

[0122] (Preparation of a-3) 100 g of silica sol (JGC Catalysts and Chemicals "Cataloid SI-550" (trade name, solids concentration 20% by mass)) was repeatedly passed through 0.4 L of strongly acidic cation exchange resin SK1BH (Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation) at a space velocity of 3.1 per hour until the pH reached 2.8. Next, this silica sol was passed through 0.4 L of strongly basic ion exchange resin SANUPC (Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation) at a space velocity of 3.1 per hour to adjust the pH to 4.1, and then 5 g of 5% aqueous sodium hydroxide solution was added as an alkaline solution to adjust the pH to 8.5. The pH-adjusted silica sol was heated at 180°C for 2 hours and then concentrated in an evaporator to a silica concentration of 20% by mass to obtain a chain-like silica particle dispersion sol.

[0123] (Preparation of b-1) 12.0 g of antimony-containing tin oxide particles (product name: SN-100P, manufactured by Ishihara Sangyo Kaisha, Ltd.), 0.12 g of acetic acid (manufactured by Kishida Chemical Co., Ltd.) as an organic acid, 0.03 g of trioctylamine (manufactured by Kishida Chemical Co., Ltd.) as an amine compound, and 48.0 g of isopropyl alcohol (manufactured by Kishida Chemical Co., Ltd.) as a solvent were weighed and placed in a 250 mL zirconia container. Furthermore, 108.3 g of zirconia beads with a diameter of 0.5 mm were added to the container. The mixture was then stirred at 400 rpm for 3 hours using a planetary ball mill (Model: P-6, manufactured by Fritsch Japan Co., Ltd.) and the beads were then removed by mesh filtration to obtain dispersion b-1 with a solids concentration of ATO particles (i.e., the content of ATO particles in the dispersion) of 20 mass%.

[0124] (Preparation of b-2) 100 g of antimony-containing tin oxide particles (product name: SN-100P, manufactured by Ishihara Sangyo Kaisha) were placed in a Henschel mixer, and while rotating the mixer, 3.79 g of trimethoxymethylsilane (product name: KBM-13, manufactured by Shin-Etsu Silicones Co., Ltd.) was added dropwise and stirred for 2 hours. The powder was then removed and heated and dried in a drying oven at 100°C for 1 hour to obtain ATO particles with a surface treatment rate of 30%. 12.50 g of these ATO particles with a surface treatment rate of 30%, 0.09 g of trioctylamine (Kishida Chemical Co., Ltd.) as an amine compound, 0.50 g of phosphate polyester (trade name: BYK111, BYK-Chemie GmbH, molecular weight approximately 800 to 1500) as a phosphorus compound, and 18.13 g of 2-butanone (Kishida Chemical Co., Ltd.) as a solvent were weighed and placed in a 250 mL zirconia container. 42.86 g of zirconia beads with a diameter of 0.5 mm were then added to the container. The mixture was then stirred at 400 rpm for 3 hours using a planetary ball mill (Model: P-6, manufactured by Fritsch Japan Co., Ltd.) and the beads were then removed by mesh filtration to obtain dispersion b-2 with a solids concentration of ATO particles (i.e., the content of ATO particles in the dispersion) of 40 mass%.

[0125] b-3 Nissan Chemical Co., Ltd. "Celnax CX-Z400K" (product name) b-4 Nissan Chemical Co., Ltd. "Celnax CX-Z410K" (product name) c-1 "Aronix M-305" (product name) manufactured by Toagosei Co., Ltd.

[0126] In the table, *1 and *2 are as follows: *1 Nissan Chemical Industries, Ltd. "Snowtex MEK-ST" (product name); silica particle slurry *2 BASF "Irgacure 907" (product name)

[0127] [Table 4]

[0128] [Table 4-2]

[0129] In Table 4 and Table 4-2, the primary particle size of the component (b) indicates the number average particle size of the primary particles, and the amount of the component (a) indicates the content [mass %] of the first particles in the surface layer. The amount of component (b) indicates the content [mass %] of the second particles in the surface layer. The sum of the (a) component and the (b) component represents the total content [mass %] of the first particles and the second particles in the surface layer. The amount of component (e) in the base layer indicates the sum [mass %] of the contents of cations and anions in the base layer. Furthermore, the primary particle size of the (g) component indicates the number average particle size of the primary particle size, and the amount of the (g) component indicates the content [mass %] of the particles in the base layer.

[0130] [Table 5]

[0131] [Table 5-2]

[0132] The major axis and major axis / minor axis of the inorganic oxide particles constituting the hetero-aggregates, and the number average particle size of the primary particles of the conductive metal oxide particles were as shown in Tables 4 and 4-2 above. Furthermore, convex portions derived from hetero-aggregates were observed in Examples 1 to 21 and 101 to 104. In Comparative Examples 1 and 2, convex portions derived from hetero-aggregates were not observed. Furthermore, convex portions derived from the base layer particles were confirmed in Examples 101 to 104. In Table 5-2, the number of convex portions derived from the base layer particles indicates the average number of convex portions in an area of ​​256 μm×192 μm.

[0133] The present disclosure relates to the following configurations or methods. (Configuration 1) Substrate, and a surface layer directly adjacent to the base layer, the surface layer comprises a hetero-aggregate of first particles and second particles different from the first particles; The first particles include: Chain-like inorganic oxide particles, The second particles are a conductive metal oxide; and the number average particle size of the primary particles of the second particles is 5 to 40 nm; the surface layer has convex portions derived from the hetero-aggregate on an outer surface opposite to the surface facing the base layer, The arithmetic mean height (Sa) of the outer surface is 0.1 to 0.7 μm, The base layer is At least one cation selected from the group consisting of cations represented by the following formulas (C1) to (C4): and at least one anion selected from the group consisting of anions represented by the following formulas (A1) to (A4): An electrophotographic member characterized in that: TIFF2026025872000015.tif156168 TIFF2026025872000016.tif149168 R1~R 12 are each independently a hydrogen atom or a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 14 carbon atoms, provided that at least one selected from the group consisting of R1 and R2, at least one selected from the group consisting of R3 and R4, at least one selected from the group consisting of R5 to R8, and R9 to R 12 At least one selected from the group consisting of is a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 14 carbon atoms. R 13 ~R 16 are each independently a hydrogen atom, a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms. (Configuration 2) The number average value of the major axis of the first particles is 30 to 100 nm, and 2. The electrophotographic member according to claim 1, wherein the number average value of the ratio of the major axis to the minor axis (major axis / minor axis) of the first particles is 3 to 8. (Configuration 3) 3. The electrophotographic member according to claim 1, wherein the first particles are chain-like silica particles. (Configuration 4) 4. The electrophotographic member according to any one of Configurations 1 to 3, wherein the second particles include at least one particle selected from the group consisting of zinc antimonate particles and antimony-doped tin oxide particles. (Configuration 5) 5. Any of configurations 1 to 4, wherein the total content of the first particles and the second particles in the surface layer is 4.0 to 37.0 mass % based on the mass of the surface layer. 10. The electrophotographic member according to claim 19. (Configuration 6) 6. The electrophotographic member according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein the content of the first particles in the surface layer is 0.2 to 27.0% by mass based on the mass of the surface layer. (Configuration 7) 7. The electrophotographic member according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, wherein the content of the second particles in the surface layer is 3.8 to 30.0% by mass based on the mass of the surface layer. (Configuration 8) 8. The electrophotographic member according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, wherein the total content of the cations and the anions in the base layer is 0.4 to 3.5% by mass based on the mass of the base layer. (Configuration 9) the substrate comprises substrate particles; 9. The electrophotographic member according to any one of Configurations 1 to 8, wherein convex portions derived from the base layer particles are present on the surface of the surface layer, and the convex portions derived from the base layer particles have a height of 0.1 to 5.0 μm and a width of 0.5 to 5.0 μm, and the average number of convex portions in an area of ​​256 μm × 192 μm is 1 to 22. (Configuration 10) 10. The electrophotographic member according to claim 9, wherein the base layer particles have a number average particle size of 1.5 to 3.5 μm. (Configuration 11) 11. An electrophotographic member according to claim 9 or 10, wherein said base layer particles are silicone particles. (Configuration 12) 12. The electrophotographic member according to any one of Configurations 1 to 11, wherein the electrophotographic member is an intermediate transfer belt. (Configuration 13) 13. An electrophotographic image forming apparatus comprising the electrophotographic member according to any one of Configurations 1 to 12 as an intermediate transfer belt. (Method 1) 1. A method of manufacturing an electrophotographic member having a base layer and a surface layer directly in contact with the base layer, comprising: The manufacturing method comprises: providing a base layer containing the following component (e); A step of preparing a curable composition containing the following components (a) to (d): forming a coating of the curable composition on one surface of the base layer and drying the coating; and curing the dried coating; A method for manufacturing an electrophotographic member, comprising: (a) first particles, which are chain-like inorganic oxide particles; (b) second particles different from the first particles, the primary particles having a number average particle size of 5 to 40 nm, and the second particles containing a conductive metal oxide; (c) (meth)acrylic monomers; (d) at least one solvent selected from the group consisting of 2-butanone and 4-methyl-2-pentanone; (e) a salt containing at least one cation selected from the group consisting of cations represented by the following formulae (C1) to (C4) and at least one anion selected from the group consisting of anions represented by the following formulae (A1) to (A4); TIFF2026025872000017.tif156168 TIFF2026025872000018.tif149168 R1~R 12 are each independently a hydrogen atom or a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 14 carbon atoms, provided that at least one selected from the group consisting of R1 and R2, at least one selected from the group consisting of R3 and R4, at least one selected from the group consisting of R5 to R8, and R9 to R 12 At least one selected from the group consisting of is a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 14 carbon atoms; R 13 ~R 16 are each independently a hydrogen atom, a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms. [Explanation of symbols]

[0134] a1 base layer, a2 surface layer, 1 photosensitive drum, 2 primary charger, 3 image exposure, 5 intermediate transfer belt, 6 primary transfer opposing roller, 7 secondary transfer roller, 8 drive roller, 9 intermediate transfer belt cleaning roller, 10 transfer material guide, 11 paper feed roller, 13 cleaning device, 15 fixing unit, 30, 31, 33 power supply, b1 drive roller, b2 photosensitive drum, b3 electrophotographic belt, b4 driven roller, b5 Backup roller, b6 tension roller c1 base particle, c2 center of base particle, c3 position three times the particle diameter of the base particle, c4 baseline, c5 height of the convexity caused by the base particle

Claims

1. Substrate, and a surface layer directly adjacent to the base layer, the surface layer comprises a hetero-aggregate of first particles and second particles different from the first particles; The first particles include: Chain-like inorganic oxide particles, The second particles are a conductive metal oxide; and the number average particle size of the primary particles of the second particles is 5 to 40 nm; the surface layer has convex portions derived from the hetero-aggregate on an outer surface opposite to the surface facing the base layer, The arithmetic mean height (Sa) of the outer surface is 0.1 to 0.7 μm, The base layer is At least one cation selected from the group consisting of cations represented by the following formulas (C1) to (C4): and at least one anion selected from the group consisting of anions represented by the following formulas (A1) to (A4): An electrophotographic member characterized by: R １ ~R １２ are each independently a hydrogen atom or a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 14 carbon atoms, provided that R １ and R ２ At least one selected from the group consisting of R ３ and R ４ At least one selected from the group consisting of R ５ ~R ８ and at least one selected from the group consisting of R ９ ~R １２ At least one selected from the group consisting of is a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 14 carbon atoms. R １３ ~R １６ are each independently a hydrogen atom, a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms.

2. the number average value of the major axis of the first particles is 30 to 100 nm, and 2. The electrophotographic member according to claim 1, wherein the number average value of the ratio of the major axis to the minor axis (major axis / minor axis) of said first particles is 3 to 8.

3. 2. An electrophotographic member according to claim 1, wherein said first particles are chain-like silica particles.

4. 2. The electrophotographic member of claim 1, wherein said second particles comprise at least one particle selected from the group consisting of zinc antimonate particles and antimony-doped tin oxide particles.

5. 2. The electrophotographic member according to claim 1, wherein the total content of the first particles and the second particles in the surface layer is 4.0 to 37.0% by mass based on the mass of the surface layer.

6. 2. The electrophotographic member according to claim 1, wherein the content of the first particles in the surface layer is 0.2 to 27.0% by weight based on the weight of the surface layer.

7. 2. The electrophotographic member according to claim 1, wherein the content of the second particles in the surface layer is 3.8 to 30.0% by weight based on the weight of the surface layer.

8. 2. The electrophotographic member according to claim 1, wherein the sum of the content of said cations and the content of said anions in said base layer is 0.4 to 3.5% by weight based on the weight of said base layer.

9. the substrate comprises substrate particles; 2. The electrophotographic member according to claim 1, wherein convex portions derived from the base layer particles are present on the surface of the surface layer, and the convex portions derived from the base layer particles have a height of 0.1 to 5.0 μm and a width of 0.5 to 5.0 μm, and the average number of convex portions in an area of ​​256 μm × 192 μm is 1 to 22.

10. 10. The electrophotographic member of claim 9, wherein the base layer particles have a number average particle size of 1.5 to 3.5 μm.

11. 10. An electrophotographic member according to claim 9, wherein said base layer particles are silicone particles.

12. 2. The electrophotographic member of claim 1, wherein the electrophotographic member is an intermediate transfer belt.

13. 13. An electrophotographic image forming apparatus comprising the electrophotographic member according to claim 1 as an intermediate transfer belt.

14. 1. A method of manufacturing an electrophotographic member having a base layer and a surface layer directly in contact with the base layer, comprising: The manufacturing method comprises: providing a base layer containing the following component (e); A step of preparing a curable composition containing the following components (a) to (d): forming a coating of the curable composition on one surface of the base layer and drying the coating; and curing the dried coating; A method for producing an electrophotographic member, comprising: (a) first particles which are chain-like inorganic oxide particles; (b) second particles different from the first particles, the primary particles having a number average particle size of 5 to 40 nm, and the second particles containing a conductive metal oxide; (c) (meth)acrylic monomer; (d) at least one solvent selected from the group consisting of 2-butanone and 4-methyl-2-pentanone; (e) a salt containing at least one cation selected from the group consisting of cations represented by the following formulae (C1) to (C4) and at least one anion selected from the group consisting of anions represented by the following formulae (A1) to (A4); R １ ~R １２ are each independently a hydrogen atom or a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 14 carbon atoms, provided that R １ and R ２ At least one selected from the group consisting of R ３ and R ４ At least one selected from the group consisting of R ５ ~R ８ and at least one selected from the group consisting of R ９ ~R １２ At least one selected from the group consisting of is a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 14 carbon atoms; R １３ ~R １６ are each independently a hydrogen atom, a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms.

Images