label

Abstract

The label (3) according to one embodiment of the present invention is printed onto a PET bottle body (2), the label (3) including a foundation layer (4) that is formed on a surface (2a) of the PET bottle body (2), and a display layer (5) that includes ink and is formed on a layer above the foundation layer (4), the foundation layer (4) being a peeling layer that can be peeled from the surface (2a) through a peeling operation.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to labels printed on molded articles. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, containers such as PET bottles have been sold with plastic labels such as shrink labels, wrap labels, or stretch labels attached. These labeled containers can be recycled after the labels are removed. For example, Patent Document 1 proposes a technology in which a welding adjustment layer is inserted between overlapping portions of heat-shrinkable labels (shrink labels) made of plastic film to adjust the welding strength, making the labels easier to peel off. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2008-56247 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, such plastic labels may spin freely on the surface of the container. While it is possible to prevent this by adhering the plastic label to the surface of the container, this method has the drawback of making it difficult to remove the plastic label from the container.

[0005] One aspect of the present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned conventional problems, and its object is to provide a label that has anti-idling properties and recyclability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, a label according to one aspect of the present invention is a label printed on a molded product, including an underlayer formed on the surface of the molded product, and a display layer containing ink formed on an upper layer than the underlayer, wherein the underlayer is a release layer that can be peeled off from the surface by a peeling operation, or a soluble layer having alkali solubility.

Advantages of the Invention

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a label having anti-idling performance and recycling performance.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] [Figure 1] It is a side view showing a PET bottle according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the label shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] It is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the label included in the PET bottle according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] 〔Embodiment 1〕 Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, a configuration example in which the label according to the present invention is applied to a PET bottle will be described. However, the following description is an example of the label according to the present invention, and the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the illustrated example.

[0010] <Overview of PET Bottle> FIG. 1 is a side view showing a PET bottle (label molded product) 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the PET bottle 1 includes a PET bottle body (molded product) 2 and a label 3.

[0011] The PET bottle body 2 is a molded product on which a label 3 is printed. The PET bottle body 2 is a synthetic resin molded container made from saturated polyester, typically polyethylene terephthalate, by blow molding, biaxially stretched blow molding, injection molding, or other methods.

[0012] The molded product on which the label 3 is printed is not limited to the PET bottle body 2. The molded product may be a container made of a synthetic resin molded product such as a polyester resin product, a polyolefin resin product, a vinyl chloride resin product, or a polystyrene resin product, or a container other than a synthetic resin molded product. Also, various molded products other than containers may be used as the molded product.

[0013] The label 3 is printed on the PET bottle body 2. In the illustrated example, the label 3 is printed in a cylindrical shape so as to cover the circumferential direction of the barrel of the PET bottle body 2. However, the label 3 is not limited to being cylindrical, and may be printed so as to cover a portion of the circumferential direction.

[0014] Because the label 3 is printed on the PET bottle body 2, the label 3 does not spin freely on the surface of the PET bottle body 2. The base layer of the label 3 can also be peeled off from the PET bottle body 2 by, for example, manually pulling it off. Therefore, after using the PET bottle 1, the label 3 can be easily separated and removed from the PET bottle body 2, allowing the PET bottle body 2 to be recycled.

[0015] <Label structure> Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the label 3 shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 2, the label 3 according to this embodiment includes a base layer 4, a display layer 5, and a protective layer 6. In other words, the label 3 is a laminated label having a three-layer structure in which the base layer 4, the display layer 5, and the protective layer 6 are laminated in this order on the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2.

[0016] (base layer) The base layer 4 is a primer layer formed on the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2. The base layer 4 is not adhered to the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2, but is a peelable layer that can be peeled off from the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 by a peeling action. Peeling includes manually peeling the base layer 4, for example, by pulling it off with one's hand or by using a tool such as a scraper. Peeling also includes peeling the base layer 4 by mechanical or chemical treatment. In other words, the base layer 4 can be peeled off from the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 by hand, machine, chemicals, or the like. This allows the label 3 to be separated and removed from the PET bottle body 2.

[0017] The material of the base layer 4 is not particularly limited as long as it can form a layer on which the display layer 5 can be printed and which can be peeled off from the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 by a peeling operation. The base layer 4 can be formed, for example, from a latex layer using an aqueous (water-based) material such as latex. A latex layer is a coating of latex. Latex is a dispersion of radically polymerizable polymers such as polyisoprene as latex particles in an aqueous solvent. In particular, the latex layer can be suitably formed by using polyisoprene latex or chlorosulfonated polyethylene latex.

[0018] By configuring the base layer 4 as a latex layer, the label 3 can be peeled off, for example, by pulling it by hand, making it easy to peel the label 3 from the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2. This eliminates the need for mechanical or chemical treatment to peel the label 3, making it possible to apply the PET bottle 1 to recycling processes that assume the label 3 will be peeled off by hand, for example. In addition, the label 3 can be peeled off whenever the consumer wants, whether before or after the PET bottle 1 has been used.

[0019] Table 1 shows an example of the main physical properties of polyisoprene latex used as the material for the underlayer 4.

[0020] [Table 1] Table 2 shows an example of the main physical properties of the underlayer 4 formed using the polyisoprene latex shown in Table 1.

[0021] [Table 2] As the material for the underlayer 4, for example, polyisoprene latex having the physical properties shown in Table 1 can be used. By using such polyisoprene latex, it is possible to form an underlayer 4 having physical properties such as a 300% tensile stress of 0.3 MPa, a breaking tensile stress of 0.4 MPa, and a breaking elongation of 2000%, as shown in Table 2.

[0022] There are no particular restrictions on the method for forming the base layer 4. For example, the base layer 4 can be formed by a coating method using a brush or roller, a printing method using an inkjet or the like, a spraying method using a spray or airbrush, or a dipping method. The spraying method is particularly preferred because it allows the material to be sprayed onto curved surfaces regardless of the shape of the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 and dries quickly.

[0023] (display layer) The display layer 5 is a layer containing ink that displays characters, designs, etc. In this embodiment, the display layer 5 is laminated on the base layer 4. The display layer 5 displays the name, description, or decoration of the product contained in the PET bottle body 2.

[0024] There are no particular restrictions on the type of ink that can be used to form the display layer 5, but for example, aqueous (water-based) ink can be suitably used. There are also no particular restrictions on the method for forming the display layer 5, but for example, an inkjet method is preferred because it can print ink on curved surfaces regardless of the shape of the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2.

[0025] (protective layer) The protective layer 6 is an overcoat layer formed on the top layer of the label 3. In this embodiment, the protective layer 6 is laminated on the display layer 5. By forming the protective layer 6 on the top layer of the label 3, the display layer 5 can be protected. Furthermore, when the base layer 4 is made of a latex layer, there is a tack (stickiness) that is specific to latex, but by forming the protective layer 6 on the top layer of the label 3, the tack can be suppressed.

[0026] The material of the protective layer 6 is not particularly limited as long as it can form a layer that can protect the display layer 5. The protective layer 6 can contain, for example, a water-based acrylic as a main component.

[0027] The underlayer 4 and the protective layer 6 are preferably formed from aqueous materials. This allows the underlayer 4 and the protective layer 6 to be safely formed without using organic solvents. Additives such as lubricants may be added to the protective layer 6 to impart abrasion resistance or slipperiness, as needed. Furthermore, the protective layer 6 may be transparent, colored, or matte. In the case of a matte finish, the protective layer 6 may be formed by adding a matte additive.

[0028] There are no particular limitations on the method for forming the protective layer 6. For example, the protective layer 6 can be formed by coating, printing, spraying, dipping, or the like. The spraying method is particularly preferred because it can spray the material onto curved surfaces regardless of the shape of the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 and dries quickly.

[0029] In this way, in the label 3, the display layer 5 is printed on the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 via the base layer 4, so the label 3 does not spin freely on the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 as in the past.

[0030] Furthermore, the base layer 4 of the label 3 can be peeled off from the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 by a peeling action, such as by manually pulling it off. Therefore, the label 3 can be easily separated and removed from the PET bottle body 2.

[0031] In addition, due to the following reasons, it is preferable to adjust the materials and thicknesses of the base layer 4, the display layer 5, and the protective layer 6 so that the specific gravity of the label 3 is less than 1.0. When the PET bottle 1 after use is crushed and then put into water, the fragments of the crushed label 3 float on the water surface because the specific gravity of the entire label 3 is less than 1.0. Therefore, the PET bottle body 2 and the label 3 can be easily separated.

[0032] Here, due to the difference in the materials used, the specific gravity of the base layer 4 is often less than 1.0, and the specific gravity of the protective layer 6 is often greater than 1.0. Specifically, the latex used as the material for the base layer 4 can be adjusted to have a specific gravity less than 1.0 due to the polymer composition. On the other hand, for example, when the protective layer 6 is mainly composed of an acrylic resin, its specific gravity is often greater than 1.0. Therefore, in the label 3, the thickness T1 of the base layer 4 is adjusted to be greater than the thickness T2 of the protective layer 6. By adjusting the thicknesses of the base layer 4 and the protective layer 6 in this way, the specific gravity of the entire label 3 can be changed. Therefore, by making the thickness of the base layer 4 relatively larger than the thickness of the protective layer 6, it becomes easier to adjust the specific gravity of the entire label to less than 1.0.

[0033] Also, the elongation at break of the base layer 4 is preferably greater than the elongation at break of the protective layer 6. The elongation at break is a value indicating the ductility at the time when the layer surface breaks during tensile stretching. For example, the elongation at break of the base layer 4 is preferably 2500% or less, and more preferably 700% or more and 2000% or less. On the other hand, the elongation at break of the protective layer 6 is preferably 250% or less. Since the elongation at break of the base layer 4 is relatively large, the adhesion of the base layer 4 to the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 can be enhanced while making it easy to peel off the base layer 4 from the surface 2a. On the other hand, since the elongation at break of the protective layer 6 is relatively small, the protective function of the protective layer 6 can be enhanced.

[0034] <Method for manufacturing a PET bottle> Next, a description will be given of a method for manufacturing the PET bottle 1. The method for manufacturing the PET bottle 1 according to this embodiment includes a base layer forming step, a display layer forming step, and a protective layer forming step.

[0035] (Underlying layer formation process) In the base layer forming process, a material for the base layer 4 (e.g., latex) is sprayed onto the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2, for example, by a spraying method. The sprayed material for the base layer 4 is dried and solidified to form the base layer (latex layer) 4.

[0036] Before the base layer forming step, if necessary, a light-shielding layer may be formed on part or all of the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2. This allows the label 3 to be formed on the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 that has been given light-shielding properties.

[0037] (Display layer formation process) Next, in the display layer forming step, ink (e.g., water-based ink) that will be the material for the display layer 5 is printed on the base layer 4 by, for example, inkjet printing. The printed ink is dried to form the display layer 5 that displays characters, designs, etc.

[0038] At this time, the base layer 4 functions as a primer layer for the display layer 5, making it easier to print the display layer 5 on the base layer 4.

[0039] (Protective layer formation process) Next, in the protective layer forming step, a material for the protective layer 6 (for example, aqueous (water-based) acrylic) is sprayed onto the display layer 5, for example, by a spraying method. The sprayed material for the protective layer 6 is dried and solidified, thereby forming a protective layer 60 for protecting the display layer 5 on the outermost layer of the label 3.

[0040] In this way, by laminating the base layer 4, the display layer 5, and the protective layer 6 in this order on the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2, a PET bottle 1 can be manufactured in which a label 3 is formed on the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2.

[0041] <Effect of label> As described above, the label 3 of this embodiment is a label 3 printed on the PET bottle body 2, and includes a base layer 4 formed on the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 and a display layer 5 containing ink formed above the base layer 4, and the base layer 4 is a peel-off layer that can be peeled off from the surface 2a by a peeling operation.

[0042] Since the label 3 is printed on the PET bottle body 2, the label 3 does not spin freely on the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 as in the past.

[0043] Furthermore, the base layer 4 of the label 3 is a peelable layer that can be peeled off by, for example, pulling it by hand, making it possible to remove the label from the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2. This allows the label 3 to be separated and removed from the PET bottle body 2, allowing the PET bottle body 2 to be recycled.

[0044] Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to realize a label 3 that has anti-idling properties and recyclability.

[0045] In addition, the label 3 has the following advantages: Because the label 3 is printed on the PET bottle body 2, the label 3 can be neatly attached to containers with shapes that would be difficult to fit with conventional plastic labels.

[0046] Furthermore, by adjusting the thickness of the base layer 4 and the protective layer 6 to be small, the amount of plastic used to manufacture the label 3 can be reduced. Furthermore, because on-demand printing is possible on molded products such as containers, no excess label 3 is generated. This reduces the amount of plastic used to manufacture the label 3. Furthermore, because the peeled label 3 is less bulky than conventional plastic labels, the volume of the label 3 required to be disposed of can be reduced.

[0047] In this embodiment, an example of a configuration in which the label 3 has a three-layer structure has been described. However, the number of layers in the label 3 is not particularly limited. The label 3 may have another layer inserted between the base layer 4 and the display layer 5, or between the display layer 5 and the protective layer 6. Examples of the other layer include a shielding layer, a reflective layer, a gas barrier layer, and a barrier coat layer. The label 3 may also have a structure that does not include the protective layer 6. In other words, the label 3 may have a two-layer structure in which the base layer 4 and the display layer 5 are formed in this order on the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2.

[0048] [Embodiment 2] Other embodiments of the present invention will be described below. For ease of explanation, the same reference numerals will be used to designate components having the same functions as those described in the previous embodiment, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0049] <Label structure> Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of a label 30 provided on a PET bottle 10 according to this embodiment. The label 30 according to this embodiment differs from the above-described label 3 mainly in that it includes an alkali-soluble base layer 40. As shown in Figure 3, the label 30 according to this embodiment includes a base layer 40, a display layer 5, and a protective layer 60. In other words, the label 30 is a laminated label with a three-layer structure in which the base layer 40, the display layer 5, and the protective layer 60 are laminated in this order on the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2.

[0050] (base layer) The base layer 40 is a primer layer formed on the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2. The base layer 40 is an alkali-soluble layer that dissolves in an alkaline aqueous solution. Therefore, by immersing the PET bottle 10 in an alkaline aqueous solution (alkali treatment), the base layer 40 dissolves, allowing the label 30 to be separated and removed from the PET bottle body 2.

[0051] The material of the base layer 40 is not particularly limited as long as it is capable of printing the display layer 5 and is alkali-soluble. For example, an acrylic emulsion, in which an acrylic resin is emulsified and dispersed in water, can be used as the material of the base layer 40. The acrylic emulsion is an emulsion in which an acrylic resin is dispersed in an aqueous solvent. By using an acrylic emulsion containing an acrylic resin as the main component, an alkali-soluble base layer 40 can be formed.

[0052] Table 3 shows an example of the main physical properties of the acrylic emulsion used as the material for the underlayer 40.

[0053] [Table 3] By using, for example, an acrylic emulsion having the physical properties shown in Table 3 as the material for the base layer 40, it is possible to suitably form a base layer 4 on which the display layer 5 can be printed and which is alkali-soluble.

[0054] Furthermore, for example, a solvent-based clear varnish can be used as the material of the base layer 40. The base layer 40 formed using a solvent-based clear varnish may have the following characteristics (1) to (4), for example.

[0055] (1) The composition contains a first resin, which is an acrylic acid copolymer resin having a first glass transition temperature.

[0056] (2) The second resin is an acrylic acid copolymer resin having a second glass transition temperature lower than the first glass transition temperature.

[0057] (3) The apparent acid value of the underlayer 40 is 40 mgKOH / g or more and 150 mgKOH / g or less.

[0058] (4) The total content of the first resin and the second resin in the underlayer 40 is 50 parts by mass or more and 95 parts by mass or less.

[0059] By providing the above-mentioned features (1) to (4), it is possible to form an underlayer 40 having good alkali solubility.

[0060] Table 4 shows an example of an overview of the components (type, manufacturer, product name, etc.) of a solvent-based clear varnish used as a material for the base layer 40. For components A to G, the acid value and glass transition temperature (Tg) are also shown. For components with a solid content other than 100% by mass, the solid content (%) is also shown. Of the components contained in each resin composition, two types of components A to G are a first resin and a second resin (or substitutes for these).

[0061] [Table 4] Each of the solvent-based clear varnishes No. 1 to No. 7 can be prepared by appropriately combining the specified components from the components (Components A to I) shown in Table 4 and adding solvents (ethyl acetate and n-propyl acetate). The components used, their blending ratios, and content ratios are shown in Tables 5 and 6. In Table 5, the "blending ratio" refers to the proportion (mass%) of each component used when preparing the solvent-based clear varnish, and the "content ratio" refers to the solid content ratio of each component in the base layer 40 prepared using the solvent-based clear varnish. In other words, the "blending ratio" is calculated including the solvents contained in Components A and I, and the "content ratio" is calculated after all solvents have been removed.

[0062] [Table 5] By forming the base layer 40 using a solvent-based transparent varnish prepared in the composition ratio shown in Table 5, it is possible to preferably form a base layer 40 that is alkali-soluble and onto which the display layer 5 can be printed.

[0063] There are no particular restrictions on the method for forming the base layer 40. For example, the base layer 40 can be formed by printing, spraying, transfer, coating with a brush or the like, or dipping. The spraying method is particularly preferred because it allows the material to be sprayed onto curved surfaces regardless of the shape of the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 and dries quickly.

[0064] (protective layer) The protective layer 60 is an overcoat layer formed on the top layer of the label 30. By forming the protective layer 60 on the top layer of the label 30, the display layer 5 can be protected.

[0065] The material of the protective layer 60 is not particularly limited as long as it can form a layer capable of protecting the display layer 5. For example, the protective layer 60 may be alkali-soluble. This allows the base layer 40 and the protective layer 60 to dissolve when the PET bottle 10 is subjected to alkali treatment. This facilitates the separation and removal of the label 30 from the PET bottle body 2. The material of the protective layer 60 may also be primarily composed of acrylic resin. This allows for both high alkali solubility and high abrasion resistance of the protective layer 60. Furthermore, using a water-based material such as an acrylic emulsion as the material for the protective layer 60 reduces the amount of organic solvent used in the manufacturing process, ensuring safety at the manufacturing site and reducing the environmental impact. However, the protective layer 60 can also be formed using a solvent-based material such as a solvent-based clear varnish.

[0066] There are no particular limitations on the method for forming the protective layer 60. For example, the protective layer 60 can be formed by a printing method, a spraying method, a dipping method, or the like. The spraying method is particularly preferred because it can spray the material onto curved surfaces regardless of the shape of the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 and dries quickly.

[0067] In this way, in the label 30, the display layer 5 is printed on the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 via the base layer 40, so the label 30 does not spin freely on the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 as in the past.

[0068] Also, the base layer 40 of the label 30 is alkali-soluble. Therefore, by subjecting the PET bottle 10 to an alkali treatment of immersing it in an aqueous alkali solution, the base layer 40 dissolves, and the label 30 can be separated and removed from the PET bottle body 2.

[0069] <Method for manufacturing a PET bottle> Next, a method for manufacturing the PET bottle 10 will be described. The method for manufacturing the PET bottle 10 according to the present embodiment includes a base layer forming step, a display layer forming step, and a protective layer forming step.

[0070] (Base layer forming step) In the base layer forming step, for example, by a spraying method or the like, a material for the base layer 40 (for example, an acrylic emulsion or the like) is sprayed onto the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2. By drying and solidifying the sprayed material for the base layer 40, a base layer 40 having alkali solubility is formed.

[0071] (Display layer forming step) Next, in the display layer forming step, for example, by inkjet or the like, ink (for example, aqueous ink or the like) that becomes the display layer 5 is printed onto the base layer 40. By drying the printed material for the display layer 5, a display layer 5 that displays characters, patterns, or the like is formed.

[0072] (Protective layer forming step) Next, in the protective layer forming step, for example, by a spraying method or the like, a material for the protective layer 60 (for example, an acrylic emulsion or the like) is sprayed onto the display layer 5. By drying and solidifying the sprayed material for the protective layer 60, a protective layer 60 for protecting the display layer 5 is formed on the outermost layer of the label 30.

[0073] In this way, by laminating the base layer 40, the display layer 5, and the protective layer 60 in this order on the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2, the PET bottle 10 with the label 30 formed on the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 can be manufactured.

[0074] <Effect of label> As described above, the label 30 of this embodiment is a label 30 printed on the PET bottle body 2, and includes a base layer 40 formed on the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 and an ink-containing display layer 5 formed above the base layer 40, and the base layer 40 is a soluble layer that is alkali-soluble.

[0075] Since the label 30 is printed on the PET bottle body 2, the label 30 does not spin freely on the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 as in the past.

[0076] Furthermore, because the base layer 40 of the label 30 is an alkali-soluble layer, the label can be removed from the surface 2a of the PET bottle body 2 by dissolving the base layer 40 through alkali treatment. This allows the label 30 to be separated and removed from the PET bottle body 2, allowing the PET bottle body 2 to be recycled.

[0077] Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to realize a label 30 that has both anti-idling properties and recyclability.

[0078] An example of the present invention will be described below. In this example, different labels were formed on a PET film, and the peelability and removability of each label were verified. Table 6 shows the laminate structures of Comparative Example 1 and Examples 1 to 14 used in this example, and the verification results for each.

[0079] [Table 6] As shown in "Laminate Structure" in Table 6, in Comparative Example 1, no underlayer was formed on the target substrate, a PET film (LX-61S manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation), and the display layer was directly printed using ink (IQ798 manufactured by General Co., Ltd.). On the other hand, in Examples 1 to 14, a underlayer was formed on a PET film using latex, acrylic emulsion, or solvent-based clear varnish, and the display layer was printed on the underlayer.

[0080] Specifically, in Example 1, a base layer (thickness: 18 μm, elongation at break: 2000%) was formed on a PET film using latex, and an indication layer was printed on the base layer. In Example 2, a base layer (thickness: 18 μm, elongation at break: 2000%) was formed on a PET film using latex, and an indication layer was printed on the base layer. An acrylic emulsion was then used to form a protective layer (thickness: 8 μm) on the indication layer. In other words, Example 2 has a laminated structure in which a protective layer is added to the label of Example 1. In Example 3, an acrylic emulsion was used to form a base layer (thickness: 8 μm, elongation at break: 10%) on a PET film, and an indication layer was printed on the base layer.

[0081] In Example 4, an underlayer (thickness: 8 μm, elongation at break: 10%) was formed on a PET film using acrylic emulsion, and after printing a display layer on the underlayer, a protective layer (thickness: 8 μm) was further formed on the display layer using acrylic emulsion. In other words, Example 4 has a laminated structure in which a protective layer is added to the label of Example 3. Furthermore, in Examples 5 to 8, only the thicknesses of the underlayer and protective layer formed using acrylic emulsion were changed from the laminated structure of Example 4. Specifically, the thicknesses of the underlayer and protective layer formed using acrylic emulsion were 4 μm in Example 5, 2 μm in Example 6, 1 μm in Example 7, and 0.5 μm in Example 8.

[0082] In Example 9, a base layer (thickness: 3 μm) was formed on a PET film using a solvent-based clear varnish, and an indication layer was printed on the base layer. In Example 10, a base layer (thickness: 3 μm) was formed on a PET film using a solvent-based clear varnish, and an indication layer was printed on the base layer. A protective layer (thickness: 3 μm) was then formed on the indication layer using a solvent-based clear varnish. In other words, Example 10 has a laminated structure in which a protective layer is added to the label of Example 9. Furthermore, in Examples 11 to 13, only the thicknesses of the base layer and protective layer formed using a solvent-based clear varnish were changed from the laminated structure of Example 10. Specifically, the thicknesses of the base layer and protective layer formed using a solvent-based clear varnish were 2 μm in Example 11, 1 μm in Example 12, and 0.5 μm in Example 13.

[0083] In addition, in Example 14, a base layer (thickness: 3 μm) was formed on a PET film using a solvent-based transparent varnish, a display layer was printed on the base layer, and then a protective layer (thickness: 8 μm) was formed on the display layer using an acrylic emulsion.

[0084] In this example, a #20 bar coater was used to apply synthetic polyisoprene rubber latex, alkali-soluble acrylic emulsion, or alkali-soluble solvent-based transparent varnish to the PET film to form the base layer or protective layer.

[0085] As shown in the "Results" section of Table 6, in Comparative Example 1, the display layer was printed directly on the PET film, making it impossible to peel off the display layer by hand. In contrast, in Examples 1 and 2, the display layer was printed via a base layer formed using latex, making it possible to peel off the label along with the base layer by manually pulling the label. Furthermore, in Example 2, it was confirmed that the tackiness (stickiness) characteristic of latex was suppressed by forming a protective layer on the top layer of the label. In Examples 3 to 8, the display layer was printed via a base layer formed using an alkali-soluble acrylic emulsion, so the base layer dissolved when the PET film on which the label was formed was immersed in an alkaline aqueous solution, allowing the label to be separated and removed. In Examples 9 to 14, the display layer was printed via a base layer formed using an alkali-soluble solvent-based clear varnish, so the base layer dissolved when the PET film on which the label was formed was immersed in an alkaline aqueous solution, allowing the label to be separated and removed. Example 2

[0086] Other examples of the present invention are described below. In these examples, different labels were formed on PET bottles, and the peelability and removability of each label were verified. Table 7 shows the laminate structures of Comparative Example 2 and Examples 15 to 21 used in these examples, as well as the verification results for each.

[0087] [Table 7] As shown in "Laminated Structure" in Table 7, in Comparative Example 2, no base layer was formed on the target substrate, a PET bottle (container), and the display layer was directly printed using ink (IQ798 manufactured by General Co., Ltd.) On the other hand, in Examples 15 to 21, a base layer was formed on the PET bottle using latex, acrylic emulsion, or solvent-based clear varnish, and the display layer was printed on the base layer.

[0088] Specifically, in Example 15, a base layer (thickness: 20 μm, elongation at break: 2000%) was formed on a PET bottle using latex, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. In Example 16, a base layer (thickness: 20 μm, elongation at break: 2000%) was formed on a PET bottle using latex, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. Then, a protective layer (thickness: 10 μm) was formed on the indicator layer using acrylic emulsion. In other words, Example 16 has a laminated structure in which a protective layer is added to the label of Example 15.

[0089] In Example 17, an underlayer (thickness: 10 μm, elongation at break: 10%) was formed on a PET bottle using acrylic emulsion, and an indicator layer was printed on the underlayer. In Example 18, an underlayer (thickness: 10 μm, elongation at break: 10%) was formed on a PET bottle using acrylic emulsion, and an indicator layer was printed on the underlayer. Then, a protective layer (thickness: 10 μm) was formed on the indicator layer using acrylic emulsion. In other words, Example 18 has a laminated structure in which a protective layer is added to the label of Example 17.

[0090] In Example 19, a base layer (thickness: 4 μm) was formed on a PET bottle using a solvent-based clear varnish, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. In Example 20, a base layer (thickness: 4 μm) was formed on a PET bottle using a solvent-based clear varnish, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. A protective layer (thickness: 4 μm) was then formed on the indicator layer using a solvent-based clear varnish. In Example 21, a base layer (thickness: 4 μm) was formed on a PET bottle using a solvent-based clear varnish, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. A protective layer (thickness: 10 μm) was then formed on the indicator layer using an acrylic emulsion. In other words, Example 20 is a laminated structure in which a protective layer formed using a solvent-based clear varnish is added to the label of Example 19, and Example 21 is a laminated structure in which a protective layer formed using an acrylic emulsion is added to the label of Example 19.

[0091] In this example, the base layer or protective layer was formed by rolling the PET bottle in a pallet containing synthetic polyisoprene rubber latex, alkali-soluble acrylic emulsion, or alkali-soluble solvent-based clear varnish, and applying the latex, acrylic emulsion, or solvent-based clear varnish to the PET bottle.

[0092] As shown in the "Results" section of Table 7, in Comparative Example 2, the display layer was printed directly on the PET bottle, so it was impossible to peel off the display layer by hand. On the other hand, in Examples 15 and 16, the display layer was printed via a base layer formed using latex, so the label could be peeled off together with the base layer by pulling the label by hand. Furthermore, in Example 16, it was confirmed that the tackiness (stickiness) characteristic of latex was suppressed by forming a protective layer on the top layer of the label.

[0093] In addition, in Examples 17 and 18, the display layer was printed via a base layer formed using an alkali-soluble acrylic emulsion, so that the base layer dissolved when the PET bottle on which the label was formed was immersed in an alkaline aqueous solution, allowing the label to be separated and removed. Furthermore, in Examples 19 to 21, the display layer was printed via a base layer formed using an alkali-soluble solvent-based transparent varnish, so that the base layer dissolved when the PET bottle on which the label was formed was immersed in an alkaline aqueous solution, allowing the label to be separated and removed. Example 3

[0094] Other examples of the present invention are described below. In these examples, different labels were formed on PP (polypropylene) bottles, and the peelability and removability of each label were verified. Table 8 shows the laminate structures of Comparative Example 3 and Examples 22 to 28 used in these examples, as well as the verification results for each.

[0095] [Table 8] As shown in "Laminated Structure" in Table 8, in Comparative Example 3, no base layer was formed on the target substrate, a PP bottle (container), and the display layer was directly printed using ink (IQ798 manufactured by General Co., Ltd.) On the other hand, in Examples 22 to 28, a base layer was formed on the PP bottle using latex, acrylic emulsion, or solvent-based clear varnish, and the display layer was printed on the base layer.

[0096] Specifically, in Example 22, a base layer (thickness: 20 μm, elongation at break: 2000%) was formed on a PP bottle using latex, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. In Example 23, a base layer (thickness: 20 μm, elongation at break: 2000%) was formed on a PP bottle using latex, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. An acrylic emulsion was then used to form a protective layer on the indicator layer. In other words, Example 23 has a laminated structure in which a protective layer is added to the label of Example 22.

[0097] In Example 24, a base layer (thickness: 8 μm, elongation at break: 10%) was formed on a PP bottle using acrylic emulsion, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. In Example 25, a base layer (thickness: 8 μm, elongation at break: 10%) was formed on a PP bottle using acrylic emulsion, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. Then, a protective layer (thickness: 10 μm) was formed on the indicator layer using acrylic emulsion. In other words, Example 25 has a laminated structure in which a protective layer is added to the label of Example 24.

[0098] In Example 26, a base layer (thickness: 4 μm) was formed on a PP bottle using a solvent-based clear varnish, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. In Example 27, a base layer (thickness: 4 μm) was formed on a PP bottle using a solvent-based clear varnish, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. A protective layer (thickness: 3 μm) was then formed on the indicator layer using a solvent-based clear varnish. In Example 28, a base layer (thickness: 4 μm) was formed on a PP bottle using a solvent-based clear varnish, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. A protective layer (thickness: 10 μm) was then formed on the indicator layer using an acrylic emulsion. In other words, Example 27 is a laminated structure in which a protective layer formed using a solvent-based clear varnish is added to the label of Example 26, and Example 28 is a laminated structure in which a protective layer formed using an acrylic emulsion is added to the label of Example 26.

[0099] In this example, as in the second example described above, the PP bottles were rolled within a pallet and latex, acrylic emulsion, or solvent-based clear varnish was applied to the PP bottles to form a base layer or protective layer.

[0100] As shown in the "Results" section of Table 8, in Comparative Example 3, the display layer was printed directly on the PP bottle, so it could not be peeled off by hand. On the other hand, in Examples 22 and 23, the display layer was printed via a base layer formed using latex, so the label could be peeled off together with the base layer by pulling the label by hand. Furthermore, in Example 23, it was confirmed that the tackiness (stickiness) characteristic of latex was suppressed by forming a protective layer on the top layer of the label.

[0101] In addition, in Examples 24 and 25, the display layer was printed via a base layer formed using an alkali-soluble acrylic emulsion, so that the base layer dissolved when the PP bottle on which the label was formed was immersed in an alkaline aqueous solution, allowing the label to be separated and removed. Furthermore, in Examples 26 to 28, the display layer was printed via a base layer formed using an alkali-soluble solvent-based clear varnish, so that the base layer dissolved when the PP bottle on which the label was formed was immersed in an alkaline aqueous solution, allowing the label to be separated and removed. Example 4

[0102] Other examples of the present invention are described below. In these examples, different labels were formed on HDPE (high-density polyethylene) bottles, and the peelability and removability of each label were verified. Table 9 shows the laminate structures of Comparative Example 4 and Examples 29 to 35 used in these examples, as well as the verification results for each.

[0103] [Table 9] As shown in "Laminated Structure" in Table 9, in Comparative Example 4, no base layer was formed on the target substrate, an HDPE bottle (container), and the display layer was directly printed using ink (IQ798 manufactured by General Co., Ltd.) On the other hand, in Examples 29 to 35, a base layer was formed on an HDPE bottle using latex, acrylic emulsion, or solvent-based clear varnish, and the display layer was printed on the base layer.

[0104] Specifically, in Example 29, a base layer (thickness: 20 μm, elongation at break: 2000%) was formed on an HDPE bottle using latex, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. In Example 30, a base layer (thickness: 20 μm, elongation at break: 2000%) was formed on an HDPE bottle using latex, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. An acrylic emulsion was then used to form a protective layer on the indicator layer. In other words, Example 30 has a laminated structure in which a protective layer is added to the label of Example 29.

[0105] In Example 31, an underlayer (thickness: 8 μm, elongation at break: 10%) was formed on an HDPE bottle using acrylic emulsion, and an indicator layer was printed on the underlayer. In Example 32, an underlayer (thickness: 8 μm, elongation at break: 10%) was formed on an HDPE bottle using acrylic emulsion, and an indicator layer was printed on the underlayer. Then, a protective layer (thickness: 10 μm) was formed on the indicator layer using acrylic emulsion. In other words, Example 32 has a laminated structure in which a protective layer is added to the label of Example 31.

[0106] In Example 33, a base layer (thickness: 4 μm) was formed on an HDPE bottle using a solvent-based clear varnish, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. In Example 34, a base layer (thickness: 4 μm) was formed on an HDPE bottle using a solvent-based clear varnish, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. A protective layer (thickness: 3 μm) was then formed on the indicator layer using a solvent-based clear varnish. In Example 35, a base layer (thickness: 4 μm) was formed on an HDPE bottle using a solvent-based clear varnish, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. A protective layer (thickness: 10 μm) was then formed on the indicator layer using an acrylic emulsion. In other words, Example 34 is a laminated structure in which a protective layer formed using a solvent-based clear varnish is added to the label of Example 33, and Example 35 is a laminated structure in which a protective layer formed using an acrylic emulsion is added to the label of Example 33.

[0107] In this example, as in the second and third examples described above, the HDPE bottles were rolled within a pallet and latex, acrylic emulsion, or solvent-based clear varnish was applied to the HDPE bottles to form a base layer or protective layer.

[0108] As shown in the "Results" section of Table 9, in Comparative Example 4, the display layer was printed directly on the HDPE bottle, so it could not be peeled off by hand. On the other hand, in Examples 29 and 30, the display layer was printed via a base layer formed using latex, so the label could be peeled off together with the base layer by pulling the label by hand. Furthermore, in Example 30, it was confirmed that the tackiness (stickiness) characteristic of latex was suppressed by forming a protective layer on the top layer of the label.

[0109] In addition, in Examples 31 and 32, the display layer was printed via a base layer formed using an alkali-soluble acrylic emulsion, so that the base layer dissolved when the HDPE bottle on which the label was formed was immersed in an alkaline aqueous solution, allowing the label to be separated and removed. Furthermore, in Examples 33 to 35, the display layer was printed via a base layer formed using an alkali-soluble solvent-based clear varnish, so that the base layer dissolved when the HDPE bottle on which the label was formed was immersed in an alkaline aqueous solution, allowing the label to be separated and removed. 5th Example

[0110] Other examples of the present invention are described below. In these examples, different labels were formed on PS (polystyrene) bottles, and the peelability and removability of each label were verified. Table 10 shows the laminate structures of Comparative Example 5 and Examples 36 to 39 used in these examples, as well as the verification results for each.

[0111] [Table 10] As shown in "Laminated Structure" in Table 10, in Comparative Example 5, no base layer was formed on the target substrate, a PS bottle (container), and the display layer was directly printed using ink (IQ798 manufactured by General Co., Ltd.) In contrast, in Examples 36 to 39, a base layer was formed on a PS bottle using latex or acrylic emulsion, and the display layer was printed on the base layer.

[0112] Specifically, in Example 36, a base layer (thickness: 20 μm, elongation at break: 2000%) was formed on a PS bottle using latex, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. In Example 37, a base layer (thickness: 20 μm, elongation at break: 2000%) was formed on a PS bottle using latex, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. An acrylic emulsion was then used to form a protective layer on the indicator layer. In other words, Example 37 has a laminated structure in which a protective layer is added to the label of Example 36.

[0113] In Example 38, a base layer (thickness: 8 μm, elongation at break: 10%) was formed on a PS bottle using acrylic emulsion, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. In Example 39, a base layer (thickness: 8 μm, elongation at break: 10%) was formed on a PS bottle using acrylic emulsion, and an indicator layer was printed on the base layer. Then, a protective layer (thickness: 10 μm) was formed on the indicator layer using acrylic emulsion. In other words, Example 39 has a laminated structure in which a protective layer is added to the label of Example 38.

[0114] In this example, as in the second to fourth examples described above, the base layer or protective layer was formed by rolling the PS bottles on a pallet and applying latex or acrylic emulsion to the PS bottles. PS (polystyrene) has lower solvent resistance than PET (polyethylene terephthalate), PP (polypropylene), and HDPE (high-density polyethylene). Therefore, in this example using PS bottles, the base layer or protective layer was formed using latex or acrylic emulsion instead of a solvent-based clear varnish.

[0115] As shown in the "Results" section of Table 10, in Comparative Example 5, the display layer was printed directly on the PS bottle, making it impossible to peel off the display layer by hand. In contrast, in Examples 36 and 37, the display layer was printed via a base layer formed using latex, making it possible to peel off the label along with the base layer by manually pulling the label. Furthermore, in Example 37, it was confirmed that the tackiness (stickiness) characteristic of latex was suppressed by forming a protective layer on the top layer of the label.

[0116] In addition, in Examples 38 and 39, the display layer was printed via a base layer formed using an alkali-soluble acrylic emulsion, so that the base layer dissolved when the PS bottle on which the label was formed was immersed in an alkaline aqueous solution, allowing the label to be separated and removed.

[0117] 〔summary〕 The label according to aspect 1 of the present invention is a label printed on a molded product, and includes a base layer formed on the surface of the molded product, and an indication layer containing ink formed above the base layer, wherein the base layer is a peelable layer that can be peeled off from the surface by a peeling action, or a soluble layer that is alkali-soluble.

[0118] In the above-described configuration, the label is printed on the molded product, preventing the label from spinning freely on the surface of the molded product as in the past. Furthermore, because the label's base layer is a peelable or soluble layer, the label can be peeled off from the surface of the molded product by, for example, manually pulling it off, or by dissolving the soluble layer through alkali treatment. This allows the label to be separated and removed from the molded product, allowing the molded product to be recycled. Therefore, the above-described configuration allows for the realization of a label that has both spinning prevention and recyclability.

[0119] Furthermore, in the label according to aspect 2 of the present invention, in the label according to aspect 1, the base layer may be the release layer, and the release layer may be made of a latex layer.

[0120] According to the above-mentioned configuration, since the release layer is made of a latex layer, the label can be peeled off by pulling it with hands, for example, and the label can be easily peeled off from the surface of the molded article.

[0121] Furthermore, the label according to aspect 3 of the present invention is the label of aspect 2, further including a protective layer formed on the uppermost layer of the label, and the breaking elongation of the base layer may be greater than the breaking elongation of the protective layer.

[0122] According to the above-mentioned configuration, the protective layer formed on the top layer of the label can protect the display layer formed below the protective layer. Furthermore, according to the above-mentioned configuration, the relatively large breaking elongation of the base layer improves the adhesion of the base layer to the surface of the molded article while facilitating peeling of the base layer from the surface. On the other hand, the relatively small breaking elongation of the protective layer can enhance the protective function of the protective layer.

[0123] Furthermore, in a label according to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the third aspect, the specific gravity of the label may be less than 1.0, and the thickness of the label may be greater than the thickness of the protective layer.

[0124] In the above configuration, the specific gravity of the entire label is less than 1.0, so that when a molded product with a label formed thereon is crushed and then placed in water, the crushed fragments of the label float to the surface of the water. Therefore, with this configuration, the label can be easily separated from a molded product, such as a PET bottle. Furthermore, due to differences in the materials used, the specific gravity of the base layer is often less than 1.0 and the specific gravity of the protective layer is often greater than 1.0. Therefore, the specific gravity of the entire label can be changed by adjusting the thickness of the base layer and the protective layer. With this configuration, the thickness of the base layer is relatively greater than the thickness of the protective layer, making it easier to adjust the specific gravity of the entire label to less than 1.0.

[0125] Furthermore, the label according to aspect 5 of the present invention is the label of aspect 1, wherein the base layer is the soluble layer, and further includes a protective layer formed on the top layer of the label, and the protective layer may be alkali-soluble.

[0126] According to the above-mentioned configuration, the base layer and the protective layer are dissolved by the alkali treatment, and therefore the label can be easily separated and removed from the molded product by the alkali treatment.

[0127] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. Embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0128] 1 PET bottle (label molded product) 2 PET bottle body (molded product) 3. Labels 4. Base layer (peeling layer / latex layer) 5 Display layer 6 Protective layer 10 PET bottles (label molded products) 30 Labels 40 Base layer (soluble layer) 60 protective layer T1 Thickness of the base layer T2 Thickness of the protective layer

Claims

1. A label printed on an article, a base layer formed on the surface of the molded article; a display layer containing ink formed above the base layer; Including, the underlayer is a release layer that can be peeled off from the surface by a peeling action; Further comprising a protective layer formed on the top layer of the label; A label, wherein the elongation at break of the base layer is greater than the elongation at break of the protective layer.

2. A label as described in claim 1, wherein the peelable layer is composed of a latex layer.

3. 3. The label according to claim 1, wherein the specific gravity of the label is less than 1.0, and the thickness of the base layer is greater than the thickness of the protective layer.

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