Plumbing fixtures

Abstract

To provide a plumbing component having both good antiviral property and durability.SOLUTION: A plumbing component includes a base material, and a surface layer provided on the base material, wherein the surface layer contains an acrylic resin, particles and an inorganic antiviral agent, the particles are particles composed of a (meth)acrylic resin, the inorganic antiviral agent contains an inorganic carrier and an inorganic active ingredient carried on the inorganic carrier, and a ratio (d / e) of a volume average particle diameter (d) of the inorganic carrier contained in the inorganic antiviral agent to a volume average particle diameter (e) of the particles is 0.06 or more.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to plumbing components. More specifically, it relates to plumbing components that combine antiviral properties and durability. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, to impart desired functions to plumbing components, a surface layer having the desired function is provided on the surface of the base material of the plumbing component. Pathogens such as viruses may adhere to the surface of plumbing components, and people touch the surface of plumbing components with their hands, therefore good hygiene is required for plumbing components. On the other hand, to maintain hygiene, plumbing components are frequently cleaned, and their surfaces are subjected to loads (e.g., sliding forces) resulting from cleaning. Therefore, plumbing components are required to have the performance (durability) to withstand these loads.

[0003] For example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2014-233946 (Patent Document 1) describes a member having a hydrophilic surface layer formed on a substrate, wherein the surface layer contains particles of a specific size (Claims, etc.). Specifically, the surface layer is described as containing methacrylate having sulfonic acid groups and acrylic resin beads in a coating film mainly composed of acrylic resin (Examples 1 to 5). According to Patent Document 1, particles such as acrylic resin beads impart anti-slip properties to the surface layer (paragraphs 0026, 0029, etc.). Furthermore, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2015-212324 (Patent Document 2) proposes a coating for further improving the hydrophilicity of the surface layer of water-related articles (paragraph 0007, etc.). Specifically, it is proposed that by blending a volatile compound having polymerizable groups and hydrophilic groups (for example, hydroxymethyl methacrylate (HEMA)) with methacrylate having sulfonic acid groups in the coating, the segregation of methacrylate having sulfonic acid groups onto the coating surface is promoted during the coating film manufacturing process, resulting in higher hydrophilicity.

[0004] On the other hand, Japanese Patent Publication No. 11-48412 (Patent Document 3) describes providing an antibacterial protective layer on the surface of a decorative material, which includes a resin as the main component, spherical fillers, and spherical antibacterial agents (Claim 3, etc.). According to Patent Document 3, a decorative material with excellent abrasion resistance can be obtained by using spherical fillers and antibacterial agents (Paragraph 0007, etc.). Patent Document 3 also describes that the spherical fillers have an average particle size of 10 to 100 μm, the non-silver-based spherical antibacterial agents have an average particle size of 2 to 20 μm (Claim 4, etc.), and the average particle size of the spherical fillers is larger than the average particle size of the spherical antibacterial agents (Claim 5, etc.). It is said that the abrasion resistance of the decorative material can be further improved with such a configuration. Furthermore, Patent Document 3 specifically describes an antibacterial protective layer comprising a polyether-based urethane acrylate as the main component, a spherical filler (silica, average particle size 35 μm), and a spherical antibacterial agent (SEABIO manufactured by Hōyū Systems Co., Ltd., average particle size 15 μm) (paragraphs 0063-0064).

[0005] Furthermore, Japanese Patent Publication No. 11-277685 (Patent Document 4) describes providing an antibacterial protective layer on the surface of a decorative material, similar to Patent Document 3, which includes a resin as the main component, spherical fillers, and a spherical antibacterial agent (Claim 2, etc.). It also describes that the spherical fillers are spherical particles made of polycarbonate (PC), the spherical antibacterial agent is an inorganic spherical antibacterial agent, and the average particle size of the latter is within ±30% of the particle size with the highest frequency in the particle size distribution of the former (Claim 2, etc.). An antibacterial protective layer with such a configuration is said to have excellent abrasion resistance (paragraphs 0004-0005). Patent Document 4 specifically describes an antibacterial protective layer that includes a polyether-based urethane acrylate as the main component, spherical fillers (made of PC with an average particle size of 2.8 μm), and a silver-based antibacterial agent (with an average particle size of 3.2 μm) (paragraphs 0047-0048). [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2014-233946 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2015-212324 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-48412 [Patent Document 4] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-277685 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] The inventors of this invention aimed to realize a novel configuration that can further impart antiviral properties to a surface layer containing (meth)acrylic resin and (meth)acrylic particles, taking into consideration the various performance requirements for plumbing components. However, they discovered a novel problem: simply adding an inorganic antiviral agent to the surface layer did not provide sufficient antiviral properties. To address this problem, the inventors of this invention found that by devising the size ratio of (meth)acrylic particles to the inorganic antiviral agent, specifically by setting the ratio of the volume-average particle diameter of the inorganic carrier contained in the inorganic antiviral agent to a certain value or higher, it is possible to impart good antiviral properties to the surface layer without reducing its durability. This invention is based on this finding.

[0008] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a water-related component that combines good antiviral properties with durability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The plumbing component according to the present invention is It includes a base material and a surface layer provided on the base material, The surface layer comprises (meth)acrylic resin, particles, and an inorganic antiviral agent. The aforementioned particles are particles made of (meth)acrylic resin, The inorganic antiviral agent comprises an inorganic carrier and an inorganic active ingredient supported on the inorganic carrier. The ratio (d / e) of the volume average particle diameter (d) of the inorganic carrier contained in the inorganic antiviral agent to the volume average particle diameter (e) of the particles is 0.06 or more.

Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, a water-related member having both good antiviral properties and durability is provided.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011] [Figure 1] It is a schematic diagram showing an example of the water-related member according to the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a cross-sectional observation image of the sample of Comparative Example 1. [Figure 3] It is a cross-sectional observation image of the sample of Example 1.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Plumbing fixtures An example of the water-related member according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1. The water-related member 1 includes a base material 2 and a surface layer 3 provided on the base material 2. The surface layer 3 includes a (meth)acrylic resin 4, particles 5, and an inorganic antiviral agent 6. The particles 5 and the inorganic antiviral agent 6 are present in a uniformly dispersed state in the surface layer 3.

[0013] surface layer The surface layer 3 will be described below.

[0014] The state of particles and inorganic antiviral agents in the surface layer In the present invention, the inorganic antiviral agent 6 and particles 5 are present in the surface layer 3, and the ratio (d / e) of the volume-average particle diameter (d) of the inorganic carrier contained in the inorganic antiviral agent 6 to the volume-average particle diameter (e) of the particles 5 is 0.06 or more. As a result, the inorganic antiviral agent 6 and particles 5 can exist in a uniformly dispersed state in the surface layer 3 containing the (meth)acrylic resin 4. Because these two particles are uniformly dispersed in the surface layer 3, (i) the surface layer 3 can exhibit the durability required for water-related components, and (ii) the active ingredients contained in the inorganic antiviral agent 6 can efficiently elute into or onto the surface of the surface layer 3. As a result, the surface layer 3 can possess both antiviral properties and durability.

[0015] <Reason why inorganic antiviral agent 6 and particles 5 are uniformly dispersed in the surface layer 3> The reason why a ratio (d / e) of 0.06 or higher allows for the formation of a well-dispersed surface layer 3 containing particles 5 and inorganic antiviral agent 6 can be considered based on the evaluation results of Examples 1 to 5 described later. For example, it is thought that in a (wet) coating of a composition capable of forming a surface layer 3, the aggregation of the inorganic antiviral agent 6 on the surface of particles 5 is suppressed, and the surface layer 3 is formed by curing the coating while maintaining this suppressed aggregation state.

[0016] One possible cause of aggregation is the interaction between the particles 5 and the inorganic antiviral agent 6 in the (wet) coated material of the composition (for example, interaction due to surface tension or meniscus formation). For example, if the particles 5 are larger than the inorganic antiviral agent 6, the inorganic antiviral agent 6, which was uniformly dispersed immediately after coating the composition, may aggregate on the surface of the particles 5 over time. Another possible cause of aggregation is when the zeta potentials of the particles 5 and the inorganic antiviral agent 6 present in the (wet) coating of the composition are positive for one and negative for the other, causing them to attract each other and aggregate. It should be noted that the above-mentioned considerations regarding the aggregation mechanism are hypotheses, and these hypotheses do not limit the technical scope of the present invention in any way.

[0017] In the present invention, by setting the aforementioned ratio (d / e) to 0.06 or higher, it is believed that the meniscus effect acting on the (wet) coated material of the composition, that is, the phenomenon in which smaller particles are attracted to larger particles, can be made less likely to occur. In other words, the larger the particle 5, the greater the meniscus force (the force that attracts the inorganic antiviral agent 6), but by increasing the size of the inorganic antiviral agent 6, it is possible to give the inorganic antiviral agent 6 energy to resist the meniscus force. As a result, it is believed that the meniscus force can be weakened. In short, by setting the aforementioned ratio (d / e) to 0.06 or higher, it is believed that the attraction and aggregation of the inorganic antiviral agent 6 to the particle 5 is suppressed, and the uniform dispersion state of the inorganic antiviral agent 6 and particle 5 in the composition immediately after coating can be easily maintained.

[0018] In the present invention, the ratio (d / e) of the volume-average particle diameter (d) of the inorganic carrier contained in the inorganic antiviral agent 6 to the volume-average particle diameter (e) of the particles 5 is preferably 8.1 or less. This allows the inorganic antiviral agent 6 and particles 5 to be more uniformly dispersed in the surface layer 3. As a result, the antiviral properties and durability of the surface layer 3 can be further improved.

[0019] <Method for confirming the presence (dispersion / aggregation) of inorganic antiviral agents on the surface layer> The following describes the state of the inorganic antiviral agent 6 on the surface layer 3, and in particular, how to determine whether or not the inorganic antiviral agent 6 is agglomerated around the particle 5.

[0020] <Overview of the determination method> First, perform appropriate polishing treatment or the like on the sample containing the surface layer 3 to obtain a mirror-finished cross-section of the sample. Observe this mirror-finished cross-section with a microscope. Then, observe the observation image obtained by the microscope with processing software to identify the particles 5. Among these identified particles 5, the particle 5 in which no other particles exist in the region within 1 μm from the outer periphery of the particle 5 toward the outside is defined as the isolated particle i. For each isolated particle i, calculate the ratio (%) occupied by the inorganic antiviral agent 6 in the region within a distance of 1 μm from the outer periphery of the isolated particle i toward the outside. When the average value of the three largest calculated values is 15% or more, it is determined that the inorganic antiviral agent 6 has aggregated around the particle 5.

[0021] <Judgment method when using SEM> To facilitate understanding of the judgment method, the aggregation judgment method when using SEM is described below. First, embed the sample containing the surface layer 3 in an epoxy resin, and take a single-field photograph of the mirror-finished cross-section of the surface layer 3 obtained by polishing treatment with a scanning electron microscope (manufactured by JEOL, tabletop scanning electron microscope JCM-7000). Save the observation image of the surface layer 3 as an electronic file in the 24-bit bmp format of grayscale. Extract, as an annular region for judgment, the region within a distance of 1 μm from the outer periphery of each particle 5 contained in the surface layer 3 in the saved observation image toward the outside. Next, extract the isolated particle i in which no other particle 5 exists in the annular region. For each isolated particle i, calculate the ratio occupied by the inorganic antiviral agent 6 in the annular region of the isolated particle i from the following formula. c[%]=b / a×100 In the above formula, the number of pixels in the annular region of each isolated particle i is defined as the area (a) of the annular region, the number of pixels of the inorganic antiviral agent 6 is defined as the area (b) of the inorganic antiviral agent, and calculate the ratio (c) occupied by the inorganic antiviral agent 6 in the annular region of the isolated particle. Calculate the ratio (c) occupied by the above-mentioned inorganic antiviral agent 6 for each isolated particle i identified in the observation image, select the three largest values among them, and when the average value is 15% or more, it is determined that the inorganic antiviral agent 6 has "aggregated" around the particle 5. In carrying out the above, in the grayscale SEM image, the inorganic antiviral agent 6 appears whiter than the (meth)acrylic resin 4 contained in the surface layer 3, so the white areas are identified as the inorganic antiviral agent 6. Furthermore, the number of pixels of the inorganic antiviral agent 6 is determined by binarizing the annular region of the isolated particle i into black and white based on the brightness of each pixel, and counting the number of black pixels (particles 5) and white pixels (inorganic antiviral agent 6).

[0022] <Method for calculating the volume-average particle diameter of particles and the volume-average particle diameter of inorganic carriers contained in inorganic antiviral agents> The volume-average particle diameter (e) of particle 5 and the volume-average particle diameter (d) of the inorganic carrier contained in the inorganic antiviral agent 6 can be calculated using the method shown below. The volume-average particle diameter (e) of particle 5 and the volume-average particle diameter (d) of the inorganic carrier contained in the inorganic antiviral agent 6 can be calculated using the following formula, with respect to the diameter of particle 5 and the diameter of the inorganic carrier contained in the inorganic antiviral agent 6. Volume average particle diameter = Σ(Vi di) / Σ(Vi) Vi = volume of particle 5 or volume of inorganic carrier di = diameter of particle 5 or particle size (diameter) of the inorganic carrier In the above formula, when calculating the volume-average particle diameter (e) of particle 5, use Vi = volume of particle 5 and di = diameter of particle 5. When calculating the volume-average particle diameter (d) of the inorganic carrier contained in the inorganic antiviral agent 6, use Vi = volume of the inorganic carrier and di = diameter of the inorganic carrier.

[0023] The diameter of the particles 5 and the diameter of the inorganic carrier contained in the inorganic antiviral agent 6 can be calculated by observing the surface layer 3 with a microscope and processing the obtained observation image. Commercially available image processing software (for example, winRoof2017 manufactured by Mitani Corporation) may be used to process the observation image. In the observed image, if the inorganic carrier contained in particle 5 and inorganic antiviral agent 6 is circular, the volume-average particle diameter can be calculated using the diameter calculated within the observed image. If it is not circular, the average volume particle diameter can be calculated using the diameter of a circle having the same area as the inorganic carrier contained in particle 5 and inorganic antiviral agent 6 observed within the observed image. The surface layer 3 can be observed from the top, back, or cross-section.

[0024] In observing the surface layer 3, to make it easier to distinguish between the outer edges of the particles 5 and the inorganic carriers contained in the inorganic antiviral agent 6, the cross-section of the measurement sample may be exposed by polishing, the depth of focus during measurement may be changed, or depth of focus stacking using an image processing device may be used. Furthermore, in order to more accurately determine the diameter of the particles 5 and the inorganic carrier contained in the inorganic antiviral agent 6, the cross-section or surface of the sample can be gradually polished while observation is performed, and the area and diameter observed in the observation image when the area and diameter are largest for each individual particle 5 and inorganic carrier contained in the inorganic antiviral agent 6 can be used to calculate the volume-average particle diameter. Furthermore, if there are factors hindering observation, such as irregularities, scratches, or polishing marks on the sample surface, a liquid with a refractive index close to that of the surface, such as water or oil, may be dropped onto the surface to reduce these hindering factors. If the surface of the dropped liquid is not smooth and interferes with observation, a cover slip or the like may be used. For observation, various microscopes can be used, such as optical microscopes, digital microscopes, SEMs (scanning electron microscopes), and TEMs (transmission electron microscopes).

[0025] Film thickness of the surface layer The thickness of the surface layer 3 may be appropriately determined according to the application of the water-related component 1. In the present invention, the thickness of the surface layer 3 is preferably 0.1 μm or more and 50 μm or less. More preferably, it is 1 μm or more and 30 μm or less.

[0026] <Method for measuring the thickness of the surface layer> The thickness t of the surface layer can be calculated from the weight of the surface layer. First, the initial weight of the substrate is measured. Next, the weight of the plumbing component after the surface layer has been formed on the substrate is measured. The weight of the surface layer is obtained by subtracting the weight of the substrate from the weight of the plumbing component. Here, assuming that the surface layer is uniformly formed on the substrate, the thickness (t) of the surface layer is calculated using the following formula. Surface layer thickness t (μm) = weight of surface layer (g) ÷ surface area of ​​substrate (cm²) 2 ) ÷ surface layer density (g / cm³) 3 ) × 10 4

[0027] The thickness t of the surface layer can also be determined by methods other than the measurement method described above. For example, methods include observing and measuring the cross-section of the water-related component 1 with a microscope, or measuring it with a reflectance film thickness meter. The following are examples of methods for observing and measuring the cross-section of the plumbing component 1 using a microscope. The surface layer 3 is identified in the cross-section of the plumbing component 1 to be evaluated. For example, the surface layer 3 is prepared by polishing or other means until the boundary line between the surface layer 3 and other layers (substrate 2 or intermediate layer) can be distinguished. The cross-section obtained by polishing can be observed with a microscopic observation device, and the thickness of the surface layer 3 can be measured. If the outermost surface 7 of the surface layer and the interface between the surface layer 3 and, for example, the substrate 2 have poor linearity, making it difficult to determine the distance between the interfaces, the thickness of the surface layer 3 may be measured by dividing the area of ​​the cross-section of the surface layer 3 included in the observation image by the length of a straight line approximating the interface between the surface layer 3 and the substrate 2 in the observation image. Alternatively, in order to determine and use the length of the interface between the surface layer 3 and the substrate, when obtaining an observation image with microscopic observation, the observation image may be taken in a state where the interface between the surface layer 3 and the substrate 2, and a straight line approximating the interface, are horizontal in the observation image. Microscopic observation methods used for observation include, for example, optical microscopes, digital microscopes, SEM (scanning electron microscopes), TEM (transmission electron microscopes), and EDS / EDX (energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy) mapping. In particular, observation using backscattered electron images with an SEM is suitable for the above observations because it can easily capture material differences within the surface layer 3 with high resolution.

[0028] Components contained in the surface layer The components contained in the surface layer 3 will be described below.

[0029] (Meth)acrylic resin (Meth)acrylic resin 4 refers to a resin having a (meth)acrylic group or a resin obtained by further polymerization of a (meth)acrylic resin. In the present invention, "(meth)acrylic" means acrylic and methacrylic. The (meth)acrylic resin 4 may be, for example, polymethyl methacrylate resin, (meth)acrylate copolymer polymer, methacrylate copolymer polymer, reactive urethane (meth)acrylate oligomer, reactive urethane (meth)acrylate polymer, reactive (meth)acrylic polymer, and the like.

[0030] The fact that the surface layer contains a (meth)acrylic resin can be confirmed by FT-IR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) and GC-MS (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry). Specifically, the surface layer is scraped off, and the scraped surface layer is analyzed by FT-IR. The following are known as typical peaks observed by FT-IR. From these peaks, it can be determined whether a (meth)acrylic resin is contained. 2990 cm -1 : Asymmetric stretching of methyl group C-H 2950 cm -1 : Symmetric stretching of methyl group C-H 1725 cm -1 : Ester group C=O stretching vibration 1435 cm -1 : Symmetric deflection (scissors) of methylene group C-H 1145 cm -1 : Ester group C-O stretching 750 cm -1 : Asymmetric in-plane deformation (rocking) of methylene group C-H Since FT-IR is affected by the components contained in the surface layer, accuracy can be improved by analyzing it using GC-MS. The mass spectrum obtained by GC-MS is compared with a peak library and analyzed. In this way, it is possible to determine whether or not the surface layer contains (meth)acrylic resin.

[0031] The amount of (meth)acrylic resin 4 contained in the surface layer 3 is preferably 30% by weight or more and 80% by weight or less. This makes it possible to create a highly durable surface layer.

[0032] The method for calculating the amount of (meth)acrylic resin 4 contained in the surface layer 3 is explained below. First, a sample containing the surface layer 3 is embedded in epoxy resin and polished to obtain a mirror cross-section of the surface layer 3. A single field of view is captured using a scanning electron microscope (for example, JEOL JCM-7000 desktop scanning electron microscope) to obtain an observation image. This observation image of the surface layer 3 is saved as an electronic file in grayscale 24-bit BMP format. The number of pixels of the surface layer 3 in the saved observation image is calculated. Next, the number of pixels of each particle 5 and each inorganic antiviral agent 6 contained in the surface layer 3 is calculated. Using these calculated pixel counts, the amount (area %) of (meth)acrylic resin 4 contained in the surface layer 3 is calculated from the following formula. Amount of (meth)acrylic resin 4 [area %] = (number of pixels of each particle 5 + number of pixels of each inorganic antiviral agent 6) / number of pixels of surface layer 3 × 100

[0033] In carrying out the above, in the grayscale SEM image, the inorganic antiviral agent 6 appears whiter compared to the (meth)acrylic resin 4 contained in the surface layer 3, so the white areas are identified as the inorganic antiviral agent 6. Also, since the particles 5 appear blacker compared to the (meth)acrylic resin 4 contained in the surface layer 3, the black areas are identified as particles 5. The number of black pixels (particles 5) and white pixels (inorganic antiviral agent 6) are counted.

[0034] particle The particles 5 contained in the surface layer 3 are made of (meth)acrylic resin. This improves the adhesion between the (meth)acrylic resin 4 and the particles 5. In other words, it prevents the (meth)acrylic resin 4 or particles 5 from detaching from the surface layer 3. As a result, the overall durability of the surface layer 3 can be improved. The particles 5 are sometimes also referred to as "(meth)acrylic particles 5".

[0035] The (meth)acrylic resin constituting particle 5 refers to a resin having (meth)acrylic groups or a resin obtained by further polymerization of (meth)acrylic resin, similar to (meth)acrylic resin 4. The (meth)acrylic resin constituting particle 5 may be, for example, polymethyl methacrylate resin, (meth)acrylic acid ester copolymer polymer, (meth)acrylic acid ester copolymer polymer, reactive urethane (meth)acrylate oligomer, reactive urethane (meth)acrylate polymer, reactive (meth)acrylic polymer, etc.

[0036] The shape of the (meth)acrylic particles 5 may be spherical, ellipsoidal, geometric, rod-shaped, fibrous, or irregular. Among these, a spherical shape is preferred. This allows the surface shape of the surface layer to be rounded. As a result, it is possible to suppress snagging of objects on the surface layer, for example, when brushes, sponges, cloths, etc. are slid over it during cleaning. Consequently, the durability of the surface layer can be improved.

[0037] The volume-average particle diameter e of the (meth)acrylic particles 5 may be determined within the range that satisfies the d / e value, but is preferably, for example, 0.1 μm or more and 50 μm or less. This makes it possible to make use of the design appearance of the substrate 2 while exhibiting good surface gloss of the surface layer 3. The volume-average particle diameter e of the (meth)acrylic particles 5 is more preferably 1 μm or more and 30 μm or less.

[0038] In the present invention, the ratio (e / t) of the volume average particle diameter e of the (meth)acrylic particles 5 to the film thickness t of the surface layer 3 described above is preferably 0.01 ≦ e / t ≦ 9. Thereby, it becomes possible to obtain the anti-slip property and design property required for the water-related member 1. From the viewpoint of imparting high anti-slip property to the surface layer, it is preferably 1 < e / t ≦ 9. From the viewpoint of imparting high design property to the surface layer, it is preferably 0.01 ≦ e / t ≦ 1.

[0039] When the volume average particle diameter e of the (meth)acrylic particles 5 is smaller than the film thickness t of the surface layer 3 (e / t < 1), the unevenness on the surface of the surface layer 3 is small and the water contact angle on the surface becomes high. Therefore, when wet with water, it becomes easy to wipe off and remove.

[0040] When the volume average particle diameter e of the (meth)acrylic particles 5 is larger than the film thickness t of the surface layer 3 (e / t > 1), unevenness is formed on the surface of the surface layer 3. Therefore, the water contact angle on the surface becomes low, and when wet with water, it spreads and dries quickly.

[0041] The amount of the (meth)acrylic particles 5 contained in the surface layer 3 is preferably 10% by weight or more and 20% by weight or less. Thereby, the surface layer 3 can exhibit durability while ensuring good anti-slip property and design property (for example, a uniform and matte design).

[0042] Inorganic antiviral agents The inorganic antiviral agent 6 contained in the surface layer 3 includes an inorganic carrier and an inorganic active ingredient supported on the inorganic carrier. Such an inorganic antiviral agent 6 is preferable for a water-related member provided with a surface layer that a person touches with their hand or the like because it has lower skin irritation than an organic antiviral agent.

[0043] As the inorganic carrier, zeolite, (calcium)apatite, zirconia, zirconium phosphate, calcium phosphate, calcium zinc phosphate, silica gel, calcium silicate, magnesium aluminosilicate, titanium oxide, potassium titanate, silica, alumina, soluble glass, thiosulfite, etc. can be used.

[0044] As inorganic active ingredients, metal ions can be used, such as silver ions, copper(I) ions, copper(II) ions, zinc ions, gold ions, cobalt ions, nickel ions, palladium ions, iron(III) ions, aluminum(III) ions, zirconium(II) ions, manganese(II) ions, barium(II) ions, calcium(II) ions, and sodium ions. Of these, silver ions, copper(I) ions, copper(II) ions, and zinc ions are preferred, with silver ions being more preferred. Silver ions can exhibit antiviral activity in smaller amounts compared to other metal ions.

[0045] The volume-average particle diameter d of the inorganic carrier contained in the inorganic antiviral agent 6 is preferably 0.05 μm or more and 50 μm or less. More preferably, it is 0.5 μm or more and 30 μm or less.

[0046] It is more preferable that the amount of inorganic antiviral agent 6 contained in the surface layer 3 be 0.3% by weight or more and 4% by weight or less. This allows the inorganic antiviral agent 6 to exhibit good antiviral activity and further suppress discoloration of the surface layer 3.

[0047] The amount of the active ingredient supported on the inorganic support is preferably, for example, 0.2% by mass or more.

[0048] Other ingredients Sulfonic acid group or sulfonic acid base In the present invention, it is preferable that the surface layer contains sulfonic acid groups or sulfonic acid bases at least on its surface. This makes it possible to impart hydrophilicity to the surface layer. As a result, drainage and drying properties are improved, the adhesion of dirt such as limescale due to residual water is suppressed, and the adhesion of oil can also be suppressed. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the surface layer contains sulfonic acid groups or sulfonic acid bases on its surface. According to a more preferred embodiment of the present invention, the surface layer contains more sulfonic acid groups or sulfonic acid bases on its surface than in its interior. That is, it is more preferable that the sulfonic acid groups or sulfonic acid bases are segregated on the surface of the surface layer. Compounds that provide sulfonic acid groups or sulfonic acid bases to the surface layer will be described later.

[0049] Composition for forming a surface layer The following describes the composition for forming the surface layer 3 mentioned above. The present invention also relates to a composition (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "composition") for forming the surface layer 3 included in the above-described plumbing component 1.

[0050] The composition contains a film-forming component, particles 5, and an inorganic antiviral agent 6. The film-forming component is a (meth)acrylic monomer, oligomer, or polymer that hardens to become a (meth)acrylic resin 4. The particles 5 and the inorganic antiviral agent 6 have already been described.

[0051] In other words, the composition according to the present invention is A composition for forming the surface layer of a water-related component, which includes a base material and a surface layer provided on the base material, It contains a film-forming component, particles, and an inorganic antiviral agent. The aforementioned particles are particles made of (meth)acrylic resin, The inorganic antiviral agent comprises an inorganic carrier and an active ingredient supported on the inorganic carrier. The inorganic antiviral agent is characterized in that the ratio (d / e) of the volume-average particle diameter (d) of the inorganic carrier to the volume-average particle diameter (e) of the particles is 0.06 or greater.

[0052] <Membrane-forming components> In the present invention, it is preferable to use a polyfunctional (meth)acrylic monomer, oligomer, or polymer having three or more functional groups in one molecule as the film-forming component. This makes it possible to form a three-dimensional highly crosslinked coating film of the cured product of the composition (i.e., "surface layer 3"). As a result, surface layer 3 can have good durability. It is more preferable that the polyfunctional (meth)acrylic monomer, oligomer, or polymer has five or more functional groups. This makes the coating film more highly crosslinked, improving the durability of surface layer 3.

[0053] In the present invention, the film-forming component preferably contains 10% by weight or more of a polyfunctional (meth)acrylic monomer, oligomer, or polymer having three or more functional groups in one molecule, and more preferably 20% by weight or more. This enhances the durability of the surface layer.

[0054] In the present invention, the functional group is preferably an ethylenically unsaturated group. Ethylenelycol is highly reactive and can increase the hardness of the surface layer. The ethylenically unsaturated group is preferably a vinyl group, an acryloyl group, or a methacryloyl group, and more preferably an acryloyl group or a methacryloyl group.

[0055] Examples of (meth)acrylic monomers (oligomers) having three or more functional groups include ethoxylated isocyanuric acid triacrylate, ε-caprolactone-modified tris-(2-acryloxyethyl) isocyanurate, pentaerythritol triacrylate, trimethylolpropane triacrylate, ditrimethylolpropane trimethacrylate, ethoxylated glycerin triacrylate, ethoxylated pentaerythritol tetraacrylate, ditrimethylolpropane tetraacrylate, pentaerythritol tetraacrylate, dipentaerythritol hexaacrylate, dipentaerythritol pentaacrylate, trimethylolpropane triacrylate, polyethylene glycol diacrylate, polyethylene glycol dimethacrylate, polypropylene glycol diacrylate, polytetramethylene glycol diacrylate, glycerin triacrylate ethoxylate, and dipentaerythritol polyacrylate.

[0056] <Solvent> In the present invention, the composition may contain a solvent to improve wettability to the substrate or to adjust the viscosity of the composition. For example, the composition preferably contains about 60% by weight of a solvent. Examples of such solvents, from the viewpoint of compatibility with other compounds contained in the composition, include, but are not limited to, alcohols such as methanol, ethanol, IPA (isopropanol), and n-butanol; cellosolves such as methoxyethanol and methoxypropanol; ketones such as acetone and MEK (methyl ethyl ketone); ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, THF (tetrahydrofuran), toluene, PEGMEA (propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate), DMF (N,N'-dimethylformamide); and water. Multiple types of solvents may be mixed and used as needed.

[0057] <Polymerization initiator> In the present invention, as described later, it is preferable that the composition contains a polymerization initiator in order to cure (polymerize) the uncured film of the composition. When curing (polymerizing) the uncured film of the composition by heat, the composition may contain known radical polymerization initiators, curing catalysts, polymerization accelerators, etc. As thermal polymerization initiators, for example, azobisisobutyronitrile, 2,2'-azobis(2-methylbutyronitrile), 2,2'-azobis(2-methylpropionamidine) dihydrochloride, benzoyl peroxide, etc. may be used. When curing (polymerizing) the uncured film of the composition with radiation, such as active energy rays like ultraviolet light or visible light, the composition may contain known photopolymerization initiators. For example, benzophenone, (±)-camphorquinone, acetophenone, 4'-hydroxyacetophenone, 3-methylbenzophenone, 1,4-dibenzoylbenzene, 1-benzoylcyclohexanol, 2-chlorothioxanthone, etc. are used. A mixture of 1-hydroxycyclohexylphenyl ketone and benzophenone in a weight ratio of 1:1 is preferred as the photopolymerization initiator.

[0058] <Curing catalyst> In the present invention, the composition may contain a curing catalyst. Examples include dinonylnaphthalene disulfonic acid catalysts, dinonylnaphthalene (mono)sulfonic acid catalysts, dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid catalysts, dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid catalysts (blocked acid catalysts), p-toluenesulfonic acid catalysts (blocked acid catalysts), phosphoric acid catalysts, phosphoric acid blocked catalysts, and tin catalysts.

[0059] <Compounds containing a sulfonic acid group or a sulfonic acid base> In the present invention, the composition may include, for example, a compound having a sulfonic acid group or sulfonic acid base and at least one ethylenically unsaturated group in its molecule, as a compound that provides a sulfonic acid group or sulfonic acid base to the surface layer. Specifically, examples include sodium or potassium salts of 2-((meth)acryloyloxy)ethanesulfonic acid, 3-((meth)acryloyloxy)propane-1-sulfonic acid, and acrylamide tert-butylsulfonic acid. Preferably, linear alkyl sulfonic acids having a (meth)acryloyloxy group and their salts, such as 2-((meth)acryloyloxy)ethanesulfonic acid and potassium 3-((meth)acryloyloxy)propane-1-sulfonic acid (potassium 3-sulfopropyl methacrylate). Furthermore, compounds having a sulfonic acid group or a sulfonic acid base and at least one ethylenically unsaturated group in the molecule can also be used, such as methacrylic sulfonic acid, sodium or potassium salts of p-styrene sulfonic acid, alkyl sulfosuccinate alkenyl ether salts, polyoxyethylene (meth)acrylate sulfate salts, alkyl sulfosuccinate alkenyl ester salts, and glycerol-1-allyl-3-alkylphenyl-2-polyoxyethylene sulfate.

[0060] <Volatile compounds> In the present invention, the composition may include, for example, a volatile compound having a smaller molecular weight than the above-mentioned compounds containing sulfonic acid groups or sulfonic acid bases, and having one ethylenically unsaturated group and one hydrophilic group in its molecule, as a compound capable of segregating sulfonic acid groups or sulfonic acid bases on the surface of the surface layer. Specifically, examples include hydroxymethyl (meth)acrylate, hydroxyethyl (meth)acrylate, hydroxypropyl (meth)acrylate and its structural isomers, hydroxybutyl (meth)acrylate and its structural isomers, tetrahydrofurfuryl (meth)acrylate, (meth)acryloylmorpholine, N-vinylformamide, (meth)acrylic acid, etc. Among these, hydroxymethyl (meth)acrylate, hydroxyethyl (meth)acrylate, and (meth)acrylic acid are preferred from the viewpoint of compatibility with compounds containing sulfonic acid groups or sulfonic acid bases.

[0061] pigment In the present invention, the composition may contain pigments. For example, it may contain zinc oxide, lead white, lithopone, titanium dioxide, precipitated barium sulfate and palite powder, red lead, iron oxide red, lead yellow, zinc yellow (zinc yellow type 1, zinc yellow type 2), ultramarine blue, Prussian blue (potassium iron ferrocyanide), carbon black, and the like.

[0062] UV absorber In the present invention, the composition may contain an ultraviolet absorber. For example, it may contain ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, octyl methoxycinnamate, ethylhexyl paramethoxycinnamate, diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate, bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine, t-butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, octyl triazone, octocrylene, and the like.

[0063] Method for preparing the surface layer In the present invention, the method for producing the surface layer 3 can be any known method and is not particularly limited. For example, it can be produced by the following method: First, the composition is applied to the substrate 2, and then a drying and curing process is carried out to obtain the surface layer 3. The method for producing the surface layer 3 will be described below in order of steps.

[0064] <Preparation of base material> First, prepare base material 2.

[0065] <Coating process> Next, the composition is applied to the substrate 2 to form a (wet) coating of the composition. In the present invention, known methods such as brush coating, spray coating, dip coating, spin coating, and curtain coating can be used as methods for applying the composition to a substrate.

[0066] <Drying process> Next, the (wet) coating of the composition formed on the substrate 2 is dried to obtain an uncured film. At this time, it is sufficient to dry the (wet) coating, and if necessary, it may be dried by heating. By (heating) drying, the solvent and, if applicable, volatile compounds contained in the (wet) coating are volatilized.

[0067] As for the heating and drying method, known methods such as drying by infrared radiation or hot air can be used. The heating temperature is usually room temperature to 200°C, preferably 35°C to 150°C, and more preferably 40°C to 100°C. The drying time may be appropriately determined within a range that allows sufficient volatilization of the solvent.

[0068] <Curing process> Next, the uncured film is cured. That is, the film-forming component (a compound containing a sulfonic acid group or a sulfonic acid base, depending on the case) is copolymerized. As a curing method, known methods such as thermosetting, active energy ray curing, or a combination thereof can be used.

[0069] When polymerization curing is performed by thermal curing, the polymerization initiator described above can be used. Furthermore, as for the heating method, known methods such as heating by infrared radiation or hot air can be used, similar to the drying process of the (wet) coated material described earlier. In the case of thermal curing, the drying process and curing process of the (wet) coated material can also be performed simultaneously in a single step.

[0070] When polymerization curing is performed using active energy rays, the radiation can be visible light in the 400-800 nm range, ultraviolet light below 400 nm, or electron beams, but ultraviolet light is preferred because it allows polymerization to be performed simply and in a short time. When curing is performed using ultraviolet light, a known photopolymerization initiator is used. Examples of ultraviolet light sources include low-pressure mercury lamps, high-pressure mercury lamps, ultra-high-pressure mercury lamps, xenon lamps, gallium lamps, metal halide lamps, ultraviolet lasers, deep ultraviolet LED lamps, and sunlight. The irradiation atmosphere may be in the atmosphere or under an inert gas such as nitrogen or argon.

[0071] Performance of plumbing components Antiviral As described above, the plumbing component according to the present invention has good antiviral properties. In the present invention, the antiviral properties of the plumbing component 1 (i.e., the surface layer 3) mean that the antiviral activity value obtained by the following test method in accordance with JIS R1756 (2020) dark place is 2 or higher. <Method for evaluating antiviral activity> The antiviral properties of water-related component 1 will be evaluated according to JIS R1756 (2020) in the dark. Specifically, an antiviral test will be conducted using bacteriophage Qβ, and the antiviral activity value (V) in the dark will be calculated using the following formula. Antiviral activity value: V = Log 10 (UV / TV) TV: Bacteriophage infectivity titer (pfu) 24 hours after bacteriophage solution administration. UV: Bacteriophage infectivity titer (pfu) immediately after bacteriophage droplet application.

[0072] durability As described above, the plumbing components according to the present invention have high durability. In the present invention, durability refers to the ability to sufficiently withstand the load applied when sliding a brush, sponge, cloth, etc., across the surface of the surface layer 3 during cleaning. The durability of the surface layer can be expressed, for example, using the hardness of the surface layer as an indicator. The hardness of the surface layer can be expressed, for example, using the pencil hardness scale. In the present invention, the pencil hardness of the surface layer is preferably 1H or higher, and more preferably 5H or higher. The pencil hardness of the surface layer can be measured according to the scratch hardness (pencil method) JIS K 5600-5-4.

[0073] Applications of plumbing components The plumbing components according to the present invention are used, for example, in toilets, bathrooms, kitchens, vanity units, etc. Specifically, they are used as bathroom wall materials, bathroom floor materials, bathroom counters, bathtubs, bathtub rims, bathroom window materials, bathroom door materials, shower booth wall materials, bathroom mirrors, vanity units, washbasins, kitchen counters, kitchen doors, storage shelves, storage boards, toilets, toilet seats, bidet toilet seats and their washing nozzles, drains, faucets, range hood materials, etc., but are not limited to these.

[0074] Base material for plumbing components In the present invention, the base material 2 of the water-related component 1 is not particularly limited. Examples of materials for the base material 2 include metal, glass, resin, paper, and wood-based materials. Among these, a resin material is preferred. Examples of resin materials include thermosetting resins and thermoplastic resins. As a thermosetting resin, one or more selected from urea resin, melamine resin, phenolic resin, unsaturated polyester resin, epoxy resin, and silicon resin can be used. As the thermoplastic resin, one or more can be selected from polypropylene resin (PP), polyethylene resin (PE), polyacetal resin (POM), polybutylene terephthalate resin (PBT), polyvinyl chloride resin (PVC), polystyrene resin (PS), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer resin (ABS), polyphenylene sulfide resin (PPS), polyethylene terephthalate resin (PET), polymethyl methacrylate resin (PMMA), polyamide resin (PA), polyether ether ketone resin (PEEK), polytrimethylene terephthalate resin (PTT), polycarbonate resin (PC), and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) (tetrafluoroethylene resin). In the present invention, it is preferable to use a thermoplastic resin as the resin. More preferably, it is preferable to use one or more selected from PP, PE, POM, PBT, PVC, ABS, PPS, PET, PMMA, PA, and PC as the resin. Of these, one or more selected from PP, POM, PBT, ABS, and PMMA are preferred. In the present invention, since the surface layer 3 contains (meth)acrylic resin 4, the (meth)acrylic resin material substrate 2 has good affinity (e.g., adhesion) with the surface layer 3. Furthermore, the shape of the substrate 2 is not particularly limited and can be a planar shape or a three-dimensional shape.

[0075] In the present invention, the surface layer 3 may be formed directly on the surface of the substrate 2, or another layer may be formed between the substrate 2 and the surface layer 3. For example, an intermediate layer may be formed between the substrate 2 and the surface layer 3 to enhance adhesion. [Examples]

[0076] The present invention will be specifically described based on the following examples, but the present invention is not limited to these examples.

[0077] 1. Preparation (1) Raw materials <Membrane-forming components> • Film-forming component 1: Dipentaerythritol hexaacrylate • Film-forming component 2: Acrylic oligomer having three or more ethylene groups • Film-forming component 3: Trimethylolpropane triacrylate

[0078] <Additives> • Additive 1: Compound containing a sulfonic acid group: Potassium 3-(methacryloyloxy)propanesulfonate

[0079] <Photopolymerization initiator> • Photopolymerization initiator: A mixture of 1:1 hydroxycyclohexylphenyl ketone and benzophenone in a 1:1 weight ratio.

[0080] <Solvent> • Solvent 1: 2-Methoxyethanol • Solvent 2: methanol

[0081] <Particle> • Particle 1: Acrylic particles (volume-average particle size 1.2 μm) • Particle 2: Acrylic particles (volume average particle size 6 μm) • Particle 3: Acrylic particles (volume average particle size 15 μm) • Particle 4: Acrylic particles (volume average particle size 19 μm)

[0082] <Inorganic antiviral agents> • Inorganic antiviral agent 1: A material consisting of calcium zinc phosphate (volume-average particle size 0.8 μm) as an inorganic carrier on which 2% by mass of silver ions are supported. • Inorganic antiviral agent 2: A material in which 0.2% by mass of silver ions is supported on zirconium phosphate (volume-average particle size 1.5 μm) as an inorganic carrier. • Inorganic antiviral agent 3: A zeolite (volume-average particle size 4.0 μm) used as an inorganic carrier on which 4.5% by mass of copper ions are supported. • Inorganic antiviral agent 4: Alumina borosilicate glass (with a volume-average particle size of 9.6 μm) on which 1.5% by mass of silver ions are supported.

[0083] (1-2) Measurement of volume-average particle diameter The volume-average particle size of the inorganic carrier contained in the particles and inorganic antiviral agents was measured using a wet / dry laser diffraction particle size analyzer (Partica LA950, Horiba, Ltd.). Water was used as the dispersion medium, the circulation speed was set to 5, and the stirring speed to 1. The sample to be measured (particles, inorganic antiviral agents) was added to the dispersion bath so that the transmittance was within an appropriate range (90-80% for semiconductor lasers, 90-70% for LED lasers). After confirming that the transmittance values ​​had stabilized, the measurement was performed to obtain the volume-average particle size.

[0084] (1-3) Method for calculating the amount of active ingredient contained in inorganic antiviral agents First, carbon tape was attached to the sample stage of a desktop scanning electron microscope (JEOL JCM-700), and an amount of inorganic antiviral agent was placed on top of the carbon tape to cover it. Then, it was evaluated by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) at a magnification of 5000x. As a result, the mass percentage of the element (e.g., silver) contained as the active ingredient was used as the amount of the active ingredient from the obtained composition ratio.

[0085] (2) Base material An acrylic sheet with PMMA as the main component (size: 100mm x 100mm x 2mm, manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation, Acrylite EX®) was prepared (substrate S).

[0086] 2. Preparation of the composition (1) Preparation of base coat <Base Coating 1> A solution containing 37.0 g of film-forming component 1, 4.6 g of film-forming component 2, 0.6 g of photopolymerization initiator 1, and 44 g of solvent 1 was stirred with a stirrer for 60 minutes to prepare base coating 1.

[0087] <Base Coat 2> Base coating 2 was prepared by stirring a solution containing 26.5 g of film-forming component 1, 26.5 g of film-forming component 3, 2.1 g of photopolymerization initiator 1, and 13.3 g of solvent 2 with a stirrer for 60 minutes.

[0088] <Base Coat 3> A solution containing 37.0 g of film-forming component 1, 4.6 g of film-forming component 2, 0.5 g of additive 1, 0.6 g of photopolymerization initiator 1, and 44 g of solvent 1 was stirred with a stirrer for 60 minutes to prepare base coating 3.

[0089] (2) Preparation of the composition Composition 1 Composition 1 was prepared by adding 14.3 g of particles 4 and 2 g of inorganic antiviral agent 1 to the base coating 1 and stirring with a stirrer for 60 minutes. Composition 2 Composition 2 was prepared by adding 14.3 g of particles 3 and 2 g of inorganic antiviral agent 1 to the base coating 2 and stirring with a stirrer for 60 minutes. Composition 3 Composition 3 was prepared by adding 14.3 g of particles 4 and 2 g of inorganic antiviral agent 2 to the base coating 3 and stirring with a stirrer for 60 minutes. Composition 4 Composition 4 was prepared by adding 14.3 g of particles 2 and 2 g of inorganic antiviral agent 1 to the base coating 1 and stirring with a stirrer for 60 minutes. Composition 5 Composition 5 was prepared by adding 14.3 g of particles 1 and 2 g of inorganic antiviral agent 1 to the base coating 1 and stirring with a stirrer for 60 minutes. Composition 6 Composition 6 was prepared by adding 14.3 g of particles 1 and 10 g of inorganic antiviral agent 3 to the base coating 1, and stirring with a stirrer for 60 minutes. Composition 7 Composition 7 was prepared by adding 14.3 g of particles 1 and 10 g of inorganic antiviral agent 4 to the base coating 1 and stirring with a stirrer for 60 minutes.

[0090] 3. Preparation of water-related component samples Compositions 1 to 7 were applied to the substrate S by spray coating. The substrate S coated with each composition was heated and dried in a forced-air constant-temperature incubator (DKN402, Yamato Scientific Co., Ltd.) at 60°C for 6 minutes to evaporate the solvent. After that, it was removed from the forced-air constant-temperature incubator and cured in an ultraviolet curing device equipped with a high-pressure mercury lamp (ANUP4154, Panasonic Electric Works) at an integrated light intensity of 1000 mJ / cm². 2 The coating film was cured by irradiating it with ultraviolet light in such a manner. From the above, samples of Comparative Examples 1-2 and Examples 1-5 were obtained, each having a surface layer with a thickness of approximately 15 μm formed on the surface of the substrate S.

[0091] 4. Evaluation The following evaluations were performed on each sample that was prepared.

[0092] (1) Evaluation of antiviral activity The antiviral activity of Sample 1 from Example and the sample from Comparative Example 1 was evaluated according to JIS R1756 (2020) dark conditions. Specifically, an antiviral test was conducted using bacteriophage Qβ, and the antiviral activity value (V) in the dark was calculated using the following formula. Antiviral activity value: V = Log 10 (UV / TV) TV: Bacteriophage infectivity titer (pfu) 24 hours after bacteriophage solution administration. UV: Bacteriophage infectivity titer (pfu) immediately after bacteriophage droplet application. When the antiviral activity value V ≥ 2, the sample was judged to exhibit good antiviral activity. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0093] (2) Determination of whether the inorganic antiviral agent 6 is agglomerated around the particle 5. (2-1) Cross-sectional observation Each sample was cut to a size of 5mm x 7mm x 2mm and sandwiched between BUEHLER UniClip clips. Transparent packing tape (3M Japan, Scotch 315) was then applied to one side of a holder made of Sankei embedded clear ring (outer diameter: 1.25 inches), and the clips holding the samples were placed vertically on the tape-applied portion inside the holder. A mixture of Kemet Japan Technovit main agent and Kemet Japan Technovit hardener in a 1:2 ratio was mixed and poured into the holder containing the samples. Subsequently, a degassing treatment was performed. Specifically, the container was placed in a vacuum chamber, the pressure was reduced using a ULVAC G-50SA vacuum pump, and it was left to stand for 5 minutes under a pressure of 0.09 MPa. After that, it was left to stand for 16 hours at 30°C to cure. The cured epoxy resin in which the sample was embedded (hereinafter referred to as the embedding resin) was removed from the holder, and approximately 2 mm was removed using #600 abrasive paper on a polishing machine (PRESI Mecatech250) to expose the sample from the embedding resin. Subsequently, the sample was buffed with an aqueous solution containing diamond particles (9 μm), then with an aqueous solution containing diamond particles (3 μm), and then with an aqueous solution containing alumina abrasive (φ0.5 μm) to obtain a mirror-finish cross-section of the sample. (2-1) Judgment method The obtained mirror cross-sections were observed using a desktop scanning electron microscope (JEOL JCM-700) for one field of view. In each observed image, it was checked whether or not the inorganic antiviral agent was aggregated on the surface of the particles. The criteria for determining whether or not aggregation was occurring were as follows. The observed images were viewed using processing software to identify particle 5. Of these identified particle 5s, those particle 5s in which no other particles existed within a region of 1 μm outward from the outer edge were defined as isolated particle i. For each isolated particle i, the percentage (%) occupied by the inorganic antiviral agent 6 in the region within a distance of 1 μm outward from the outer edge of the isolated particle i was calculated. When the average of the three largest calculated values ​​was 15% or more, it was determined that the inorganic antiviral agent 6 was aggregated around particle 5. Observed images of the cut samples from Comparative Example 1 and Example 1 are shown in Figures 2 and 3.

[0094] (3) Measurement of surface layer thickness The surface layer thickness t was calculated from the weight of the surface layer. First, the initial weight of the substrate S (surface area = 10 cm × 10 cm) was measured. Next, the weight of each sample was measured after the surface layer was formed on the substrate S. The weight of the surface layer was obtained by subtracting the weight of the substrate S from the weight of the sample. Here, assuming that the surface layer was uniformly formed on the substrate S, the surface layer thickness t of each sample was calculated using the following formula. The results are shown in Table 1. Surface layer thickness t (μm) = weight of surface layer (g) ÷ surface area of ​​substrate (cm²) 2 ) ÷ surface layer density (g / cm³) 3 ) × 10 4

[0095] (4) Measurement of pencil hardness For each sample, the pencil hardness was measured according to the scratch hardness (pencil method) JIS K 5600-5-4. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0096] [Table 1] [Explanation of Symbols]

[0097] 1: Plumbing fixtures 2: Base material 3: Surface layer 4: (Meth)acrylic resin 5: Particles 6: Inorganic antiviral agents 7: The outermost surface of the surface layer

Claims

1. A water-related component comprising a base material and a surface layer provided on the base material, The surface layer comprises (meth)acrylic resin, particles, and an inorganic antiviral agent. The aforementioned particles are particles made of (meth)acrylic resin, The inorganic antiviral agent comprises an inorganic carrier and an inorganic active ingredient supported on the inorganic carrier. A plumbing component in which the ratio (d / e) of the volume-average particle diameter (d) of the inorganic carrier contained in the inorganic antiviral agent to the volume-average particle diameter (e) of the aforementioned particles is 0.06 or more and 8.1 or less.

2. The plumbing member according to claim 1, wherein the volume-average particle diameter (e) of the aforementioned particles is 0.1 μm or more and 50 μm or less.

3. The water-related component according to claim 1, wherein the ratio (e / t) of the volume-average particle diameter (e) of the particles to the thickness (t) of the surface layer satisfies 0.01 ≤ e / t ≤ 9.

4. The plumbing component according to claim 1, wherein the particles are spherical.

5. The plumbing member according to claim 1, wherein the pencil hardness of the surface layer is 1H or higher.

6. The plumbing component according to claim 1, wherein the active ingredient is silver ions, copper ions, or zinc ions.

7. The water-related component according to claim 1, wherein the surface layer further comprises sulfonic acid groups.

8. A composition for forming the surface layer of a water-related component, which includes a base material and a surface layer provided on the base material, It contains a film-forming component, particles, and an inorganic antiviral agent. The aforementioned particles are particles made of (meth)acrylic resin, The inorganic antiviral agent comprises an inorganic carrier and an active ingredient supported on the inorganic carrier. A composition wherein the ratio (d / e) of the volume-average particle diameter (d) of the inorganic carrier contained in the inorganic antiviral agent to the volume-average particle diameter (e) of the particles is 0.06 or more and 8.1 or less.

9. The composition according to claim 8, wherein the film-forming component comprises a polyfunctional (meth)acrylic monomer, oligomer, or polymer having three or more ethylenically unsaturated groups in one molecule.

10. The composition according to claim 8, wherein the film-forming component comprises a polyfunctional acrylic monomer, oligomer, or polymer having five or more ethylenically unsaturated groups in one molecule.

11. The composition according to claim 8, wherein the ethylenically unsaturated group is one or more selected from the group consisting of an acryloyl group, a methacryloyl group, and a vinyl group.

12. The composition according to claim 8, further comprising a sulfonic acid group or a sulfonic acid base.

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