Intermediate transfer medium, intermediate transfer medium with release member, combination of intermediate transfer medium and thermal transfer sheet, combination of intermediate transfer medium, thermal transfer sheet and transferee, printed matter, and method for manufacturing printed matter

Abstract

The present disclosure provides an intermediate transfer medium having, in order, a substrate, a foamable layer containing a foaming agent, and a transfer layer.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an intermediate transfer medium, an intermediate transfer medium with a release member, a combination of an intermediate transfer medium and a thermal transfer sheet, a combination of an intermediate transfer medium, a thermal transfer sheet and a transfer-receiving body, a printed matter, and a method for manufacturing the printed matter. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, known methods for producing printed matter by thermal transfer include a method in which a thermal transfer sheet is used and an image is transferred from the thermal transfer sheet to a transfer recipient. Also known is a method in which a thermal transfer sheet and an intermediate transfer medium are used and an image is transferred from the thermal transfer sheet to the intermediate transfer medium, and then the image is retransferred from the intermediate transfer medium to a transfer recipient.

[0003] In recent years, with the diversification of uses for prints, there has been an increasing demand for forming images on any desired transfer medium. In the former method, the image is transferred directly to the transfer medium, which limits the transfer medium that can be used. On the other hand, in the latter method, an intermediate transfer medium is used, so the transfer medium is not limited.

[0004] The thermal transfer method for producing a printed product can transfer an image well to a substrate with a high degree of surface smoothness. However, when the substrate has a low surface smoothness, the image is not easily transferred to the concave portions of the substrate's surface, resulting in problems such as blurring, white spots, and unclear image edges, resulting in a decrease in print quality.

[0005] Therefore, Patent Document 1 proposes a thermal transfer material in which a thermally transferable ink layer containing a heat-meltable binder, a colorant, and a thermally decomposable foaming agent is formed on a support. Patent Document 2 also proposes a thermal transfer recording medium in which a foaming agent layer containing a foaming agent is provided between the support layer and the ink layer. In these techniques, during thermal transfer, the heat-decomposable foaming agent contained in the thermally transferable ink layer decomposes and generates gas due to heating, or the foaming agent contained in the foaming agent layer between the support layer and the ink layer decomposes and expands, thereby pressing the ink layer against the transfer target, making it possible to transfer ink to recesses in the surface of the transfer target. Furthermore, in the above techniques, the layer containing the foaming agent is also transferred to the transfer target.

[0006] Patent Document 3 proposes a thermal transfer recording medium having a foaming agent-containing layer, a heat-melt peelable layer, and a heat-melt coloring layer laminated in this order on a substrate. In this technology, too, during thermal transfer, the foaming agent contained in the foaming agent-containing layer foams or expands due to heating, pressing the heat-melt coloring layer against the transfer recipient, making it possible to transfer ink to recesses in the surface of the transfer recipient. Furthermore, with the above technology, the foaming agent-containing layer remains on the substrate during thermal transfer. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 59-201893 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 60-82389 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-161799 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] A thermal transfer printer is used in the manufacturing of thermal transfer prints. In a thermal transfer printer, a thermal transfer sheet and a transfer target are superimposed and passed between a thermal head and a platen roller, and the thermal head locally heats the thermal transfer sheet, thereby transferring an image to the transfer target.

[0009] In the above technology, a foaming agent is foamed or expanded during thermal transfer. However, in a thermal transfer printer, the thermal transfer sheet is locally heated while the thermal transfer sheet and the transfer recipient are transported, so the heating time is short. Furthermore, the thermal energy from the thermal head diffuses from the transfer recipient. This makes it difficult to foam or expand the foaming agent sufficiently. Therefore, when the surface of the transfer recipient is highly uneven, it is still difficult to transfer ink to the recesses on the surface of the transfer recipient, even if foaming or expansion of the foaming agent is used.

[0010] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above problems, and has as its main object to provide an intermediate transfer medium that has good transferability even to a transfer-receiving body with low surface smoothness. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] One embodiment of the present disclosure provides an intermediate transfer medium having, in order, a substrate, a foamable layer containing a foaming agent, and a transfer layer, wherein the foamable layer and the transfer layer are peelable from each other, and the foaming agent is in an unfoamed state.

[0012] Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides an intermediate transfer medium with a release member, the intermediate transfer medium having the above-described intermediate transfer medium and a release member disposed on the surface of the intermediate transfer medium facing the substrate.

[0013] Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides a combination of the above-described intermediate transfer medium and a thermal transfer sheet, the thermal transfer sheet having a colorant layer.

[0014] Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides a combination of the above-described intermediate transfer medium, a thermal transfer sheet, and a transfer-receiving body, wherein the thermal transfer sheet has a colorant layer.

[0015] Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides a printed matter having a transfer object and a transfer layer having an image disposed on the transfer surface of the transfer object, wherein the arithmetic mean height Sa of the transfer surface of the transfer object is 1.0 μm or more and 200 μm or less, and the arithmetic mean height of the surface of the transfer layer opposite the transfer object is 1.0 μm or more and 200 μm or less.

[0016] Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides a printed matter having a transfer object and a transfer layer having an image disposed on the transfer surface of the transfer object, wherein the transfer object is a textile, and the arithmetic mean height of the transfer layer on the surface opposite the transfer object is 1.0 μm or more and 200 μm or less.

[0017] Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides a printed matter having a transfer object and a transfer layer having an image disposed on the transfer surface of the transfer object, wherein Sa2 / Sa1≧0.05, where Sa1 is the arithmetic mean height of the surface of the transfer object in an area where the transfer layer is not disposed, and Sa2 is the arithmetic mean height of the surface of the transfer layer opposite the transfer object.

[0018] Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method for manufacturing a printed matter, the method comprising: a preparation step of preparing an intermediate transfer medium having, in this order, a substrate, a foamable layer containing a foaming agent, and a transfer layer; an image formation step of forming an image on the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium; a transfer step of opposing the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium on which the image has been formed to the transfer surface of a transferee, and applying heat and pressure to expand the foamable layer while transferring the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium on which the image has been formed to the transfer surface of the transferee; and a peeling step of peeling the substrate and the expanded foamable layer from the transfer layer transferred to the transfer surface of the transferee. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] The present disclosure can provide an intermediate transfer medium that has good transferability even to a transfer-receiving body with low surface smoothness. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an intermediate transfer medium according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 1A to 1C are process diagrams illustrating a method for producing a printed matter according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3] 1A to 1C are process diagrams illustrating a method for producing a printed matter according to the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an intermediate transfer medium according to the present disclosure. [Figure 5] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an intermediate transfer medium according to the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an example of an intermediate transfer medium with a release member according to the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a thermal transfer sheet according to the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a print according to the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 1A to 1C are process diagrams illustrating a method for producing a printed matter according to the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 1A to 1C are process diagrams illustrating a method for producing a printed matter according to the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 1A to 1C are process diagrams illustrating a method for producing a printed matter according to the present disclosure. [Figure 12] 1A to 1C are process diagrams illustrating a method for producing a printed matter according to the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 1A to 1C are process diagrams illustrating a method for producing a printed matter according to the present disclosure. [Figure 14] 1A to 1C are process diagrams illustrating a method for producing a printed matter according to the present disclosure. [Figure 15] 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a second adhesive layer forming step in the method for producing a print according to the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 16]1A to 1C are process diagrams illustrating a conventional method for producing a printed matter. [Figure 17] 1A to 1C are process diagrams illustrating a conventional method for producing a printed matter. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] Below, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings etc. However, the present disclosure can be implemented in many different forms and should not be limited to the description of the embodiments exemplified below. Furthermore, to make the explanation clearer, the drawings may show the width, thickness, and shape of each part schematically compared to the actual form, but this is merely an example and should not be interpreted as limiting.

[0022] In this specification, when describing a mode in which another component is disposed on a certain component, the term "above" or "below" refers to both a case in which another component is disposed directly above or below the certain component so as to be in contact with the component, and a case in which another component is disposed above or below the certain component with another component interposed therebetween, unless otherwise specified. Also, in this specification, when describing a mode in which another component is disposed on the surface of a certain component, the term "on the surface" refers to both a case in which another component is disposed directly above or below the certain component so as to be in contact with the component, and a case in which another component is disposed above or below the certain component with another component interposed therebetween, unless otherwise specified.

[0023] The intermediate transfer medium, the combination of the intermediate transfer medium and the thermal transfer sheet, the combination of the intermediate transfer medium, the thermal transfer sheet and the transfer-receiving body, the print, and the method for manufacturing the print in this disclosure will be described in detail below.

[0024] A. Intermediate transfer medium The intermediate transfer medium of the present disclosure includes, in this order, a substrate, a foamable layer containing a foaming agent, and a transfer layer. In the intermediate transfer medium of the present disclosure, the foamable layer and the transfer layer are separable from each other, and the foaming agent is in an unfoamed state. That is, the foaming agent foams when the transfer layer is transferred to a transfer-receiving body.

[0025] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an example of an intermediate transfer medium according to the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, the intermediate transfer medium 10 includes a substrate 1, a foamable layer 2 containing a foaming agent, and a transfer layer 3, and is arranged in a thickness direction D. T The intermediate transfer medium in the present disclosure is a transfer sheet before an image is formed on the transfer layer, and is an image-forming sheet.

[0026] FIGS. 2(a) to 2(c) and 3(a) to 3(b) are process diagrams illustrating a method for producing a print using an intermediate transfer medium according to the present disclosure. First, as shown in FIG. 2(a), an intermediate transfer medium 10 is prepared. The intermediate transfer medium 10 is similar to the intermediate transfer medium 10 shown in FIG. 1 above. Next, as shown in FIG. 2(b), an image 25 is formed on the surface of the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10. The image 25 may be formed on the surface of the transfer layer 3, or may be formed by transferring a colorant into the transfer layer 3. At this time, the foaming agent in the foamable layer 2 is in an unfoamed state, and the foamable layer 2 is not expanded. Next, as shown in FIG. 2(c), the surface of the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10 on which the image 25 has been formed is placed opposite the transfer surface of the transferee 51. Next, as shown in FIG. 3(a), heat and pressure are applied to expand the foamable layer 2, and the transfer layer 3 on which the image 25 of the intermediate transfer medium 10 has been formed is transferred to the transfer surface of the transferee 51. At this time, the foaming agent in the foamable layer 2 foams, causing the foamable layer 2 to expand, pressing the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10 on which the image 25 has been formed against the transferee 51. The transfer layer 3 on which the image 25 has been formed is pressed into the concave portions of the uneven transfer surface of the transferee 51. This allows the transfer layer 3 on which the image 25 has been formed to be transferred to the concave portions of the uneven transfer surface of the transferee 51. As described above, the image 25 may be formed on the surface of the transfer layer 3, or may be formed by transferring a colorant into the transfer layer 3, but the colorant is not transferred to the transferee 51. Next, as shown in FIG. 3(b), the substrate 1 and the expanded foamable layer 2 are peeled from the transfer layer 3 transferred to the transfer surface of the transferee 51. This causes the expanded foamable layer 2 and the transfer layer 3 to peel off from each other, and only the transfer layer 3 is transferred to the transfer surface of the transferee 51. In this way, the foamable layer 2 and the transfer layer 3 can be peeled off from each other in the intermediate transfer medium 10. The foaming agent used in the foamable layer 2 is appropriately selected so as to foam when the transfer layer 3 is transferred to the transfer-receiving body 51. However, the foaming agent is not selected so as to foam before or during image formation on the transfer layer 3.

[0027] 16(a) to 16(c) show an example of a conventional thermal transfer sheet 110 having a foamable layer 102 and a colorant layer 122, in that order, on one side of a substrate 101. In the thermal transfer sheet 110, the colorant layer 122 is a melt-transfer type colorant layer, to which the colorant layer 122 itself is transferred. First, as shown in FIGS. 16(a) and 16(b), the colorant layer 122 of the thermal transfer sheet 110 is thermally transferred to a transfer-receiving body 151, and simultaneously, the foamable layer 102 of the thermal transfer sheet 110 is expanded. Next, as shown in FIG. 16(c), the expanded foamable layer 102a and the substrate 101 are peeled from the colorant layer 122 transferred to the transfer-receiving body 151. During thermal transfer, a thermal head (not shown) locally heats only the area of ​​the thermal transfer sheet 110 to which the colorant layer 122 is to be transferred. In this case, the heating temperature is high and the heating time is short. Because the heating time is short, a sufficient amount of heat cannot be applied to the thermal transfer sheet 110, making it difficult to sufficiently expand the foamable layer 102. Furthermore, if the foamable layer 102 does not expand sufficiently, the force with which the colorant layer 122 is pressed against the transferee 151 is weakened. As a result, the colorant layer 122 is not pressed into the concave portions of the uneven transfer surface of the transferee 151, and the colorant layer 122 is transferred only to the convex portions of the uneven transfer surface of the transferee 151. As a result, in the printed matter 150, the image formed by thermal transfer of the colorant layer 122 may have faded or white spots, or the edges of the image may become unclear.

[0028] In contrast, when producing a print using the intermediate transfer medium of the present disclosure, as described above, an image is formed on the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium, and then the transfer layer on which the image is formed is transferred to a transferee. Therefore, the image formation process for forming an image and the transfer process for transferring the image-formed transfer layer by utilizing the expansion of the foamable layer can be performed separately. Because the image is already formed on the transfer layer during the transfer process, there is no need to locally heat the intermediate transfer medium using a thermal head. Therefore, the heating time during the transfer process can be extended, allowing sufficient heat to be applied to the intermediate transfer medium. Furthermore, unlike conventional local heating using a thermal head, the transfer process does not require high temperatures, and the heating temperature can be adjusted. For example, the heating temperature can be adjusted depending on the foaming initiation temperature or maximum foaming temperature of the foaming agent. This allows the foamable layer to expand sufficiently. Therefore, the force with which the transfer layer on which the image is formed of the intermediate transfer medium is pressed against the transferee increases, making it easier for the transfer layer on which the image is formed to be pressed into the concave portions of the transferee surface. This reduces the occurrence of blurring, whiteouts, and blurred image edges.

[0029] Therefore, the intermediate transfer medium of the present disclosure can achieve good transferability even to a transfer-receiving body with low surface smoothness.

[0030] Furthermore, when a printed product is produced using the intermediate transfer medium of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG. 3(b) above, the substrate 1 and the expanded foamable layer 2 are peeled off from the transfer layer 3 transferred to the transfer surface of the transfer recipient 51. That is, the expanded foamable layer 2 is peeled off from the transfer layer 3 transferred to the transfer recipient 51 and remains on the intermediate transfer medium. As described above, the intermediate transfer medium of the present disclosure has good transferability, so the transfer layer 3 on which the image 25 is formed easily follows the unevenness of the transfer surface of the transfer recipient 51. Therefore, in the printed product 50, the surface of the transfer layer 3 opposite the transfer recipient 51 is likely to reflect the surface shape of the transfer surface of the transfer recipient 51. In other words, in the printed product 50, the surface of the transfer layer 3 opposite the transfer recipient 51 has a surface shape similar to the surface shape of the transfer surface of the transfer recipient 51. Therefore, in the printed matter, the difference in appearance between the surface of the transfer layer opposite the transfer object and the transfer surface of the transfer object in the area where the transfer layer is not transferred is small, and the sense of incongruity can be reduced. Therefore, the texture of the image in the printed matter can be improved.

[0031] 17(a) to 17(c) show another example of a conventional thermal transfer sheet 110 having a foamable layer 102 and a colorant layer 122, in that order, on one side of a substrate 101. In the thermal transfer sheet 110, the colorant layer 122 is a melt-transfer type colorant layer to which the colorant layer 122 itself is transferred. First, as shown in FIGS. 17(a) and 17(b), the colorant layer 122 of the thermal transfer sheet 110 is thermally transferred to a transfer recipient 151, and simultaneously the foamable layer 102 of the thermal transfer sheet 110 is expanded. Next, as shown in FIG. 17(c), the substrate 101 is peeled off from the colorant layer 122 transferred to the transfer recipient 151 and the expanded foamable layer 102a. In this way, when the expanded foamable layer 102a is also transferred to the transferee 151, the expanded foamable layer 102a and the colorant layer 122 fill in some of the irregularities on the transferee surface of the transferee 151. Therefore, in the printed product 150, the shape of the surface of the expanded foamable layer 102a opposite the transferee 151 differs from the surface shape of the transferee surface of the transferee 151 in the region to which the colorant layer 122 and the expanded foamable layer 102a have not been transferred. Therefore, in the printed product 150, the region to which the colorant layer 122 and the expanded foamable layer 102a have been transferred may appear as if something has been pasted on the transferee 151. In particular, because peeling occurs between the substrate 101 and the foamable layer 102a, the surface of the expanded foamable layer 102a opposite the transferee 151 becomes smooth, creating an unnatural feeling due to the different surface shape. As a result, in the printed matter 150, the area where the color material layer 122 and the expanded foamable layer 102a are transferred may have a different glossiness, for example, and may look like a sticker is attached. Therefore, the texture of the transferred object is damaged in the printed matter, and the texture is deteriorated.

[0032] Thus, the intermediate transfer medium of the present disclosure can improve print quality.

[0033] Hereinafter, each configuration of the intermediate transfer medium in the present disclosure will be described.

[0034] 1. Foam layer The foamable layer in the present disclosure contains a foaming agent. The foamable layer is a layer that functions to press the transfer layer against a transfer-receiving body by expanding during thermal transfer. Furthermore, the foamable layer is a layer that remains on the intermediate transfer medium when an image is formed on the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium and the transfer layer on which the image has been formed is transferred to a transfer-receiving body.

[0035] The foamable layer may be a single layer containing a foaming agent, or may have multiple layers. When the foamable layer has multiple layers, at least one layer must contain a foaming agent. The foamable layer may also have, in order from the substrate side, a foaming agent-containing layer containing a foaming agent and a release layer. The term "single layer" means that the foamable layer is composed of one layer.

[0036] (1) First embodiment of the foamable layer The foamable layer of this embodiment is a single layer containing a foaming agent.

[0037] (a) Foaming agent The foaming agent is preferably a thermal foaming agent, which expands when heated or decomposes when heated to generate gas.

[0038] Examples of blowing agents include thermally expandable microcapsules. Thermally expandable microcapsules are particles with a core-shell structure that encapsulate a low-temperature volatile solvent. In the present disclosure, thermally expandable microcapsules are preferred. Generally, thermally expandable microcapsules are particles in which low-boiling-point hydrocarbons are microencapsulated with a shell wall made of resin. When heated at a specific temperature, their volume expands several to several hundred times compared to before heating. Examples of low-boiling-point hydrocarbons encapsulated in thermally expandable microcapsules include fluorine-containing aliphatic hydrocarbons such as methyl chloride, methyl bromide, trichloroethane, dichloroethane, n-butane, n-heptane, n-propane, n-hexane, n-pentane, isobutane, isoheptane, neopentane, petroleum ether, and Freon, as well as mixtures of these hydrocarbons. Examples of materials for the shell walls of thermally expandable microcapsules include vinylidene chloride, vinyl chloride, acrylonitrile, styrene, methyl methacrylate acrylate, ethyl methacrylate acrylate, vinyl acetate, and copolymers or blends thereof. If necessary, a crosslinking agent may be added to the material of the partition walls.

[0039] In addition, a thermal decomposition type chemical blowing agent may be used as the blowing agent, and examples thereof include organic and inorganic blowing agents. Examples of organic blowing agents include azo blowing agents such as azodicarbonamide (ADCA), azobisformamide, and azobisisobutyronitrile; fluorinated alkane blowing agents such as trichloromonofluoromethane; hydrazine blowing agents such as p-toluenesulfonylhydrazide, hydrazolecarbonamide, and acetone-p-sulfonylhydrazone; semicarbazide blowing agents such as p-toluenesulfonylsemicarbazide; triazole blowing agents such as 5-morpholyl-1,2,3,4-thiatriazole; N-nitroso blowing agents such as N,N-dinitrosoterephthalamide and dinitrosopentamethylenetetramine; and azide blowing agents such as p-toluenesulfonylazide. Examples of inorganic blowing agents include ammonium carbonate, ammonium bicarbonate, ammonium nitrite, ammonium borohydride, and azides.

[0040] The average particle size of the foaming agent is preferably 0.1 to 5 times the thickness of the foamable layer. The average particle size of the foaming agent is, for example, 0.1 μm to 90 μm, or may be 5 μm to 30 μm. If the average particle size of the foaming agent is within the above range, the transferability of the transfer layer can be further improved by the expansion of the foamable layer.

[0041] The average particle size of the foaming agent is the particle size (D50) at 50% of the cumulative value in the particle size distribution determined by laser diffraction scattering. To measure the average particle size of the foaming agent, the foamable layer is dissolved in a solvent to separate the foaming agent. The solvent is not particularly limited as long as it can dissolve components other than the foaming agent contained in the foamable layer, and is appropriately selected depending on the type of resin contained in the foamable layer. For example, the solvent used in the foamable layer composition used to form the foamable layer can be used. For example, a Microtrack particle size analyzer manufactured by Microtrack Bell can be used as a measuring device.

[0042] The foaming initiation temperature of the foaming agent may be, for example, 90°C to 200°C, 90°C to 160°C, 100°C to 200°C, or 120°C to 160°C. When the foaming initiation temperature of the foaming agent is within the above range, foaming of the foaming agent can be suppressed during drying of the coating film when forming each layer constituting the intermediate transfer medium. Furthermore, expansion of the foamable layer can be suppressed when forming an image on the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium. This suppresses the occurrence of unevenness on the surface of the transfer layer due to expansion of the foamable layer, thereby suppressing the occurrence of unevenness and shading in the image when forming the image on the transfer layer. Even if the heating temperature is relatively high during the process of forming each layer constituting the intermediate transfer medium and the process of forming an image on the transfer layer, it is believed that the foaming agent will hardly foam if the heating time is very short. Furthermore, when the foaming initiation temperature of the foaming agent is within the above range, deterioration of the resin contained in the foamable layer can be suppressed.

[0043] The maximum foaming temperature of the foaming agent may be, for example, from 100° C. to 200° C., or from 120° C. to 190° C. If the maximum foaming temperature of the foaming agent is within the above range, when the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium is transferred to the transfer receiving body, the foamable layer can expand sufficiently without insufficient expansion, and the transfer layer can be pressed into the concaves of the uneven transfer surface of the transfer receiving body.

[0044] The foaming initiation temperature and maximum foaming temperature of the foaming agent are determined by thermomechanical analysis (TMA). Specifically, when measured by thermomechanical analysis (TMA) at a heating rate of 20°C / min and a load of 0.06 N, with the x-axis representing temperature and the y-axis representing displacement, the temperature at which the maximum displacement occurs is the maximum foaming temperature, and the temperature at which the displacement is 3% of the maximum displacement is the foaming initiation temperature. When measuring the foaming initiation temperature and maximum foaming temperature of the foaming agent, the foamable layer is dissolved in a solvent to separate the foaming agent. The method for separating the foaming agent from the foamable layer is as described above.

[0045] The content of the foaming agent in the foamable layer is, for example, 5% by mass to 85% by mass. If the content of the foaming agent is within the above range, the transferability of the transfer layer can be further improved by the expansion of the foamable layer.

[0046] (b) Resin The foamable layer may generally contain a foaming agent and a resin. The resin is not particularly limited as long as it can disperse the foaming agent and does not prevent the foaming layer from expanding due to the foaming agent, and examples thereof include polyester resin, acrylic resin, phenol resin, acrylonitrile-styrene copolymer, polyimide resin, epoxy resin, cellulose resin, polyurethane resin, and polystyrene resin.

[0047] The softening point of the resin is preferably, for example, 100°C or lower, more preferably 90°C or lower, even more preferably 85°C or lower, and particularly preferably 80°C or lower. If the softening point of the resin is within the above range, it is possible to avoid interfering with the expansion of the foamable layer by the foaming agent. On the other hand, the softening point of the resin may be, for example, 40°C or higher.

[0048] The softening point of the resin is measured using a local thermal analysis system (Nanoscale Thermal Analysis: nanoTA). Using a scanning thermal microscope (NanoTA manufactured by Anasys), the tip of a probe is brought into contact with the cross-sectional surface of the foamable layer, and the probe is heated at a heating rate of 5°C / min to measure the displacement of the probe. The cantilever model of the thermal probe is, for example, EX-AN2-200. The temperature at which the probe displacement is maximum is taken as the softening point of the resin. The measurement position is changed and five measurements are taken, and the average of the five measured values ​​is used.

[0049] (c) Additives The foamable layer may contain a release agent. For example, the foamable layer may contain a release agent, and when the transfer layer has a release layer on the surface of the foamable layer side as described later, the release layer may contain a release agent, or both the foamable layer and the release layer may contain a release agent. In addition, the foamable layer may contain an additive as needed.

[0050] (c) Characteristics of the foam layer The foamable layer can expand, for example, at an expansion ratio of 2 to 25 times. The expansion ratio may be, for example, 2 to 15 times, or 2 to 12 times. If the expansion ratio is within the above range, the transferability of the transfer layer can be further improved by the expansion of the foamable layer. The expansion ratio is the value when the foamable layer of the intermediate transfer medium is expanded by heating at 1 atmosphere (1013 hectopascals), and is calculated using the following formula. Expansion ratio (times) = thickness of foam layer after expansion / thickness of foam layer before expansion

[0051] The thickness of the foamable layer is preferably 0.2 to 10 times the average particle size of the foaming agent. The thickness of the foamable layer may be equal to or greater than the average particle size of the foaming agent. The thickness of the foamable layer is, for example, 5 μm to 90 μm, or may be 5 μm to 30 μm, or may be 5 μm to 15 μm. When the thickness of the foamable layer is within the above range, the transferability of the transfer layer can be further improved by the expansion of the foamable layer.

[0052] In this specification, the thickness of each layer is the average value of thicknesses measured at any 10 points on a cross section of the intermediate transfer medium in the thickness direction observed with a scanning electron microscope (SEM).

[0053] (2) Second embodiment of the foamable layer As shown in Fig. 4, the foamable layer 2 of this embodiment includes, in order from the substrate 1 side, a foaming agent-containing layer 2a containing a foaming agent and a release layer 2b. This increases the flexibility in selecting the resin to be used for the foaming agent-containing layer. Furthermore, it also improves the releasability at the interface between the foamable layer and the transfer layer.

[0054] In this embodiment, the foamable layer 2 may have an intermediate adhesive layer 2c between the foaming agent-containing layer 2a and the release layer 2b, as illustrated in Fig. 4. By increasing the adhesion between the foaming agent-containing layer and the release layer, the peelability at the interface between the foamable layer and the transfer layer can be improved.

[0055] (a) Foaming agent-containing layer The foaming agent and resin contained in the foaming agent-containing layer are the same as those described in the first embodiment of the foamable layer. Other aspects of the foaming agent-containing layer are also the same as those described in the first embodiment of the foamable layer.

[0056] (b) Release layer As for the release layer, a known release layer used in a thermal transfer sheet or intermediate transfer medium for a melting type thermal transfer system or a dye sublimation type thermal transfer system can be used.

[0057] (c) Intermediate adhesive layer The material of the intermediate adhesive layer is not particularly limited as long as it can improve the adhesion between the foaming agent-containing layer and the release layer, and any conventionally known material can be used. The thickness of the intermediate adhesive layer is not particularly limited, and is, for example, 0.1 μm to 5 μm.

[0058] 2. Transfer layer The transfer layer constituting the intermediate transfer medium in the present disclosure is a transfer layer before image formation. After an image is formed on the transfer layer, the transfer layer is peeled off from the foamable layer after expansion during thermal transfer and transferred to a transfer recipient.

[0059] The transfer layer has a printable surface on the side opposite to the foamable layer. Examples of printing methods include on-demand printing. On-demand printing is a printing method that allows printing from digital data without using a plate. Examples of on-demand printing methods include thermal transfer, inkjet, and electrophotography. Examples of electrophotography methods include laser and LED (light-emitting diode) methods.

[0060] The printable surface of the transfer layer is appropriately selected depending on the printing method. The transfer layer may have a surface onto which ink can be fixed as the printable surface, or may have a receiving layer onto which ink can be received. In the case of a dye-sublimation thermal transfer method, the transfer layer has a receiving layer as the printable surface. On the other hand, in the case of a melt-transfer thermal transfer method, the transfer layer has a surface onto which a melt-transfer colorant layer of a thermal transfer sheet can be transferred as the printable surface. In this case, the transfer layer may have a receiving layer as the printable surface. In addition, in the case of an inkjet method, the transfer layer has a surface onto which ink can be fixed as the printable surface. In this case, the transfer layer may have a receiving layer as the printable surface. In addition, in the case of an electrophotographic method, the transfer layer has a surface onto which toner can be fixed as the printable surface. Among these, the thermal transfer method is preferred. Images with high design quality can be obtained. The dye-sublimation thermal transfer method enables printing with high gradation and a wide color reproduction range. The melting type thermal transfer method is capable of transferring color materials with high light resistance, and is also capable of printing metallic or pearlescent tones.

[0061] 5(a), the transfer layer 3 may have a release layer 12 on the surface facing the foamable layer 2. This can improve the releasability of the transfer layer from the foamable layer after expansion during thermal transfer.

[0062] 5(b), the transfer layer 3 may have a protective layer 13 on the surface facing the foamable layer 2. By disposing the protective layer on the outermost surface of the transfer layer facing the foamable layer, the image formed on the transfer layer can be protected after transfer, improving the durability of the image. The release layer may also serve as the protective layer.

[0063] In the case of the dye-sublimation thermal transfer method, as illustrated in Figures 5(a) and 5(b), the transfer layer 3 has a receiving layer 11 on the surface opposite to the foamable layer 2. In this case, the transfer layer 3 may have, in order from the foamable layer 2 side, a release layer 12 and a receiving layer 11, or a protective layer 13 and a receiving layer 11. Furthermore, as described above, the release layer may also serve as a protective layer.

[0064] Each layer constituting the transfer layer will be described below.

[0065] (1) Receptor The transfer layer may optionally have a receiving layer that receives ink.

[0066] In a dye-sublimation thermal transfer system, an image is formed on a receiving layer from a thermal transfer sheet having a dye-sublimation transfer colorant layer by thermal transfer. The transfer layer on which the image is formed on the intermediate transfer medium is then transferred to a receiving material, resulting in a printed image. The receiving layer can be made of any conventional resin material that readily accepts thermally transferable colorants such as sublimation dyes. Examples of suitable materials include polyolefin resins such as polypropylene, halogenated resins such as polyvinyl chloride or polyvinylidene chloride, vinyl resins such as polyvinyl acetate, vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate copolymers, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers, and polyacrylic esters, polyester resins such as polyethylene terephthalate or polybutylene terephthalate, polystyrene resins, polyamide resins, copolymers of olefins such as ethylene or propylene with other vinyl polymers, cellulose resins such as ionomers or cellulose diastase, and polycarbonates. Among these, vinyl chloride resins, acrylic-styrene resins, and polyester resins are preferred. The resin materials may be used alone or in combination.

[0067] In the ink jet method, a swelling type receiving layer or a porous type receiving layer can be used as the receiving layer that receives the ink, as required.

[0068] When a transfer layer including a receiving layer on which an image is formed is transferred to a receiving body via a heat seal layer, the receiving layer itself does not necessarily need to be adhesive. On the other hand, when a transfer layer including a receiving layer on which an image is formed is transferred to a receiving body without a heat seal layer, the receiving layer preferably contains an adhesive resin material such as a vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate copolymer.

[0069] The receiving layer may contain various additives as required.

[0070] The receiving layer can be formed by dissolving or dispersing the resin material and, if necessary, additives in a suitable solvent such as water or an organic solvent to prepare a receiving layer composition, and then applying and drying the receiving layer composition. Examples of application methods include conventionally known application methods such as gravure printing, screen printing, and reverse coating using a gravure plate. The thickness of the receiving layer is, for example, 1 μm or more and 10 μm or less.

[0071] (2) Peeling layer The transfer layer may have a release layer on the surface facing the foamable layer. The release layer is an optional layer that constitutes the transfer layer and is transferred to a transfer-receiving material during thermal transfer. The release layer can improve the releasability of the transfer layer from the foamable layer after expansion during thermal transfer. Furthermore, when the release layer also serves as a protective layer (described later), the durability of the print formed using the intermediate transfer medium can be improved. Furthermore, when the transfer layer has a release layer and a protective layer in this order from the foamable layer side, the durability of the print can be further improved.

[0072] The release layer may be made of any known material. Examples of suitable materials include cellulose derivatives such as ethyl cellulose, nitrocellulose, and cellulose acetate; acrylic resins such as polymethyl methacrylate, polyethyl methacrylate, and polybutyl acrylate; and thermoplastic resins such as polyvinyl chloride, vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate copolymers, and vinyl butyral copolymers. Other suitable materials include thermosetting resins such as saturated or unsaturated polyester resins, polyurethane resins, thermally crosslinkable epoxy-amino resins, and aminoalkyd resins. Other suitable materials include silicone wax, silicone resins, silicone-modified resins, fluororesins, fluoro-modified resins, and polyvinyl alcohol. These materials may be used alone or in combination.

[0073] The release layer may contain a filler, which can improve the foil tearability.

[0074] The release layer can be formed by dispersing or dissolving the above-mentioned materials in a solvent to prepare a composition for the release layer, and then applying and drying the composition. Examples of application methods include conventionally known application methods such as roll coating, gravure coating, and bar coating. The thickness of the release layer is, for example, from 0.1 μm to 5 μm, and may be from 0.5 μm to 2 μm.

[0075] (3) Protective layer The transfer layer may have a protective layer on the surface on the foamable layer side. The protective layer is an optional layer that constitutes the transfer layer and is transferred to a transfer-receiving material during thermal transfer. The protective layer can improve the durability of a print formed using the intermediate transfer medium, specifically, its abrasion resistance and plasticizer resistance.

[0076] The material of the protective layer is not particularly limited, and conventionally known materials can be used, such as polyester, polycarbonate, acrylic resin, vinyl chloride resin, ultraviolet absorbing resin, epoxy resin, polystyrene, polyurethane, acrylic urethane resin, silicone-modified resins of these resins, mixtures of these resins, ionizing radiation curable resins, and ultraviolet absorbing resins.

[0077] The protective layer may contain a filler, which can improve the foil tearability.

[0078] The protective layer can be formed by dissolving or dispersing the above-mentioned materials in an appropriate solvent to prepare a protective layer composition, and then applying and drying the protective layer composition. Examples of application methods include conventionally known application methods such as gravure printing, screen printing, or reverse coating using a gravure plate. The thickness of the protective layer is, for example, 2 μm or more and 30 μm or less.

[0079] 3.Base material The substrate is a member that supports the transfer layer and the foamable layer. The substrate is not particularly limited, and a resin film can be used. Examples of resins that constitute the resin film include polyester, polypropylene, polycarbonate, cellulose acetate, polyethylene derivatives, polyamide, and polymethylpentene. Examples of polyesters include polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene naphthalate. The resin film may be a stretched film or an unstretched film. The resin film may be a single-layer film or a composite film in which two or more layers of films containing the above resins are laminated. The substrate may also be a resin film containing voids therein.

[0080] The thickness of the substrate is preferably somewhat thick from the viewpoints of ease of peeling the intermediate transfer medium from the intermediate transfer medium with a release member (described below), ease of handling after peeling the intermediate transfer medium from the intermediate transfer medium with a release member until installation in a thermal transfer device (press machine), heat resistance to a heat source, suppression of curling, and prevention of folding and wrinkling during operation. The thickness of the substrate is appropriately selected depending on the type of resin so as to obtain the desired strength, heat resistance, etc. The thickness of the substrate may be, for example, 1 μm or more, or 3 μm or more, preferably 20 μm or more, and more preferably 30 μm or more. On the other hand, the thickness of the substrate may be, for example, 500 μm or less, or may be 400 μm or less, or may be 200 μm or less, or may be 100 μm or less. Specifically, the thickness of the substrate may be 1 μm or more and 500 μm or less, 3 μm or more and 500 μm or less, 3 μm or more and 400 μm or less, 20 μm or more and 200 μm or less, 30 μm or more and 100 μm or less, or 1 μm or more and 100 μm or less.

[0081] 4.First adhesive layer As illustrated in FIG. 4, the intermediate transfer medium 10 of the present disclosure may have a first adhesive layer 4 between the substrate 1 and the foamable layer 2. The first adhesive layer can improve the adhesion between the substrate and the foamable layer. This can improve the peelability of the transfer layer from the expanded foamable layer during thermal transfer.

[0082] The material of the first adhesive layer is not particularly limited as long as it can improve the adhesion between the substrate and the foamable layer, and any conventionally known material can be used. The thickness of the first adhesive layer is not particularly limited, and is, for example, 0.1 μm to 5 μm.

[0083] B. Intermediate transfer medium with release member The intermediate transfer medium with a release member according to the present disclosure includes the above-described intermediate transfer medium and a release member disposed on the surface of the intermediate transfer medium facing the substrate.

[0084] 6(a) is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an example of an intermediate transfer medium with a release member according to the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 6(a), the intermediate transfer medium with a release member 30 includes an intermediate transfer medium 10 and a release member 31 disposed on the surface of the intermediate transfer medium 10 facing the substrate 1.

[0085] The intermediate transfer medium with a release member according to the present disclosure has the above-described intermediate transfer medium, and therefore exhibits the same effects as the above-described intermediate transfer medium.

[0086] 1. Intermediate transfer medium The intermediate transfer medium is the same as that described above in "A. Intermediate Transfer Medium."

[0087] 2. Release material The release member in the present disclosure is disposed on the substrate-side surface of the intermediate transfer medium. The release member is disposed on the intermediate transfer medium when an image is formed on the transfer layer, and is a member that is peeled off from the intermediate transfer medium before the transfer layer is transferred to the transfer recipient. By disposing the release member on the substrate-side surface of the intermediate transfer medium, it is possible to improve the suitability for transport through a printer when an image is formed on the transfer layer.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 6(a), the release member 31 may be a single layer. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 6(b), the release member 31 may have multiple layers, for example, a resin layer 33 and a support 32, in that order from the substrate 1 side. The dynamic friction coefficients of both surfaces of the release member 5 may be 0.3 or more and 0.9 or less. This is because this improves the printer's transportability during image formation on the transfer layer. Examples of such release members include the release members described in Japanese Patent No. 7120472.

[0089] The support may be a single layer or multiple layers. The support may be in contact with the intermediate transfer medium. In this case, it is preferable that the support be such that the dynamic friction coefficients of both surfaces of the release member are 0.3 to 0.9. As shown in FIG. 6(b), the support 32 may be in contact with a resin layer 32. The resin layer can improve the adhesion between the intermediate transfer medium and the release member. In this case, the surface of the resin layer facing the intermediate transfer medium becomes the surface of the release member, and the surface of the support opposite the resin layer becomes the back surface of the release member.

[0090] The support may be a resin substrate or a paper substrate. Examples of resin substrate materials include polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate, polyarylate, polycarbonate, polyurethane, polyimide, polyetherimide, cellulose derivatives, polyethylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polypropylene, polystyrene, acrylic, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl butyral, nylon, polyether ether ketone, polysulfone, polyethersulfone, tetrafluoroethylene-perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether copolymer, polyvinyl fluoride, tetrafluoroethylene-ethylene copolymer, tetrafluoroethylene-hexafluoropropylene copolymer, polychlorotrifluoroethylene, and polyvinylidene fluoride. Examples of paper substrates include condenser paper, glassine paper, parchment paper, synthetic paper, wood-free paper, art paper, coated paper, uncoated paper, cast-coated paper, wallpaper, cellulose fiber paper, synthetic resin-impregnated paper, backing paper, and impregnated paper (synthetic resin-impregnated paper, emulsion-impregnated paper, synthetic rubber latex-impregnated paper). The support may include multiple resin substrates, multiple paper substrates, or one or more resin substrates and one or more paper substrates.

[0091] The support may be subjected to an adhesion treatment on the surface on the resin layer side. Examples of the adhesion treatment include corona discharge treatment, flame treatment, ozone treatment, ultraviolet treatment, radiation treatment, surface roughening treatment, chemical treatment, plasma treatment, low-temperature plasma treatment, and grafting treatment. The support may also be subjected to an adhesion treatment on the surface opposite to the resin layer. In this specification, the primer treatment includes a form in which a primer layer is provided on the surface of the support on the resin layer side.

[0092] The release member may include a void layer. By including a void layer in the release member, a high-density image can be formed on the printable surface of the transfer layer. Examples of the void layer include a film having voids therein. The voids are also sometimes called microvoids or holes. The film having voids therein may be a resin substrate. Examples of the void layer include a layer produced by kneading inorganic particles into a polymer and then stretching the mixture to generate voids using the inorganic particles as nuclei, and a layer produced by mixing one or more incompatible polymers with a main resin and stretching the mixture to generate voids.

[0093] The release member may have a laminated structure in which a support, a void layer, and a resin layer are laminated in this order. Alternatively, the release member may have a laminated structure in which a void layer, a support, a void layer, and a resin layer are laminated in this order.

[0094] The thickness of the intermediate transfer medium with a release member is, for example, from 50 μm to 1500 μm, preferably from 100 μm to 300 μm, and more preferably from 150 μm to 250 μm. By having the thickness of the intermediate transfer medium with a release member in the above range, the transport suitability of the printer during image formation on the transfer layer can be improved.

[0095] The thickness of the release member is not particularly limited, and is preferably set so that the thickness of the intermediate transfer medium with the release member is as described above, taking into consideration the thickness of the intermediate transfer medium, etc. The same applies to the thickness of the resin layer and the thickness of the support.

[0096] C. Combination of intermediate transfer medium and thermal transfer sheet The combination of this embodiment is a combination of the above-described intermediate transfer medium and a thermal transfer sheet, and the thermal transfer sheet has a colorant layer.

[0097] The intermediate transfer medium is a transfer sheet before an image is formed on the transfer layer, and is an image-forming sheet. Therefore, the intermediate transfer medium can be used in combination with a thermal transfer sheet having a colorant layer for forming an image.

[0098] 1. Intermediate transfer medium The intermediate transfer medium is the same as that described above in "A. Intermediate Transfer Medium." Furthermore, the intermediate transfer medium may be the one with the release member described above.

[0099] 2. Thermal transfer sheet The thermal transfer sheet has a thermal transfer sheet 20A having a color material layer 22, as shown in FIG. 7(a).

[0100] The thermal transfer sheet may also be a thermal transfer sheet 20C having a support 21c, a colorant layer 22 (yellow colorant layer 22Y, magenta colorant layer 22M, cyan colorant layer 22C) and a heat seal layer 23 arranged on the same side of the support 21c, as shown in Figure 7(c), or may have a thermal transfer sheet 20A having a colorant layer 22 as shown in Figure 7(a) and a thermal transfer sheet 20B having a heat seal layer 23 as shown in Figure 7(b).

[0101] The thermal transfer sheet may also be a thermal transfer sheet 20D having a support 21d, a colorant layer 22 (yellow colorant layer 22Y, magenta colorant layer 22M, cyan colorant layer 22C) arranged on the same side of the support 21d, a concealing layer 24 and a heat seal layer 23, as shown in Figure 7(d); or a thermal transfer sheet 20C having a support 21c, a colorant layer 22 and a heat seal layer 23 arranged on the same side of the support 21c, as shown in Figure 7(c), and a thermal transfer sheet 20E having a concealing layer 24 as shown in Figure 7(e); or a thermal transfer sheet 20A having a colorant layer 22 as shown in Figure 7(a), a thermal transfer sheet 20B having a heat seal layer 23 as shown in Figure 7(b), and a thermal transfer sheet 20E having a concealing layer 24 as shown in Figure 7(e).

[0102] (1) Color material layer The colorant layer is a layer for forming an image on the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium.

[0103] The colorant layer may be a sublimation transfer colorant layer to which a colorant contained in the colorant layer is transferred, or a melt transfer colorant layer to which the colorant layer itself is transferred. The thermal transfer sheet may have both a sublimation transfer colorant layer and a melt transfer colorant layer.

[0104] The sublimation transfer colorant layer contains a colorant and a binder resin. A sublimation dye is used as the colorant. The colorant and binder resin contained in the sublimation transfer colorant layer can be any known material used in sublimation transfer colorant layers of thermal transfer sheets.

[0105] The melt-transfer colorant layer contains a colorant and a binder resin. The colorant may be a pigment or a dye. The colorant and binder resin contained in the melt-transfer colorant layer may be any known material used in melt-transfer colorant layers of thermal transfer sheets.

[0106] The thermal transfer sheet may have one colorant layer on one side of the support, or may have multiple colorant layers of different hues arranged in face order, such as a yellow colorant layer, a magenta colorant layer, and a cyan colorant layer.

[0107] (2) Support The support is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a resin film, such as a known resin film used in thermal transfer sheets.

[0108] (3) Heat seal layer The heat seal layer is a layer that melts or softens when heated and is transferred from the thermal transfer sheet to the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium. The heat seal layer is a layer that bonds the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium, on which an image is formed, to the transfer target. The material for the heat seal layer can be any known material used for the heat seal layer of a thermal transfer sheet.

[0109] (4) Release layer A release layer may be disposed between the support and the heat seal layer. The release layer can improve the releasability of the heat seal layer. The release layer is a layer that remains on the thermal transfer sheet when the heat seal layer of the thermal transfer sheet is transferred to the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium. The material of the release layer can be any known material used for the release layer of a thermal transfer sheet.

[0110] (5) Peel-off layer The thermal transfer sheet may have a peel-off layer. The peel-off layer is a layer for removing a part of the transfer layer on which the image of the intermediate transfer medium is formed. The material of the peel-off layer can be any known material used for the peel-off layer of a thermal transfer sheet.

[0111] (6) Block layer The thermal transfer sheet may have a block layer. The block layer is a layer that is transferred from the thermal transfer sheet to the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium, and functions as a masking member when transferring the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium to the transfer surface of the transfer recipient, preventing part of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium from being transferred to the transfer recipient. The material for the block layer can be a known material used for the block layer of a thermal transfer sheet. Examples of the block layer include the block layers described in International Patent Publication No. WO 2019 / 151378.

[0112] (7) Back layer The thermal transfer sheet may have a back layer on the side of the support opposite to the colorant layer. The back layer can suppress fusion with a thermal head or the like during thermal transfer and improve slippage. The material for the back layer can be any known material used for the back layer of a thermal transfer sheet.

[0113] (8) Hiding layer The thermal transfer sheet may have a concealing layer. The concealing layer is a layer that is transferred from the thermal transfer sheet to the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium. Furthermore, when the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium on which an image has been formed is transferred to a transfer recipient, the concealing layer is disposed between the transfer recipient and the image, and serves to conceal the color of the transfer recipient. The material for the concealing layer can be any known material used for the concealing layer of a thermal transfer sheet. Furthermore, the heat seal layer may contain a material for the concealing layer, and the heat seal layer may also serve as the concealing layer.

[0114] D. Combination of intermediate transfer medium, thermal transfer sheet and transfer-receiving material The combination of this embodiment is a combination of the above-mentioned intermediate transfer medium, a thermal transfer sheet, and a transfer-receiving body, and the thermal transfer sheet has a colorant layer.

[0115] The intermediate transfer medium is a transfer sheet before an image is formed on the transfer layer, and is an image-forming sheet. Therefore, the intermediate transfer medium can be used in combination with a thermal transfer sheet having a colorant layer for forming an image, and a transfer-receiving body.

[0116] 1. Intermediate transfer medium The intermediate transfer medium is the same as that described above in "A. Intermediate Transfer Medium." Furthermore, the intermediate transfer medium may be the one with the release member described above.

[0117] 2. Thermal transfer sheet The thermal transfer sheet is the same as that described above in "C. Combination of intermediate transfer medium and thermal transfer sheet."

[0118] 3. Transferee The transfer layer on which the image of the intermediate transfer medium is formed is transferred to the transfer surface of the transfer receiving body, thereby obtaining a printed product. The transfer receiving body is not particularly limited, but it is preferable that the transfer receiving surface has unevenness.

[0119] Examples of the transfer target include paper, cloth, and wood. Of these, cloth is preferred. Generally, cloth has a greater surface roughness than paper. As described above, in the present disclosure, good transferability can be obtained even when the transfer target has a greater surface roughness. Therefore, the present disclosure is useful when the transfer target is cloth. Examples of cloth include woven fabric, nonwoven fabric, knitted fabric, lace, felt, tufted fabric, and the like. Furthermore, when cloth is used, the transfer target may be a fabric (material) or a cloth product. The cloth product may be any product made from the above-mentioned cloth, and among these, woven fabric products and nonwoven fabric products are preferred. In this specification, cloth (material) and cloth products are collectively referred to as textiles.

[0120] The arithmetic mean height Sa of the transfer surface of the transfer object is, for example, preferably 1.0 μm or more and 200 μm or less, more preferably 1.2 μm or more and 150 μm or less, and even more preferably 1.5 μm or more and 100 μm or less. When the transfer object is fabric, particularly when the transfer object is a textile, the arithmetic mean height Sa of the transfer surface of the transfer object is, for example, preferably 8 μm or more and 200 μm or less, more preferably 10 μm or more and 150 μm or less, and even more preferably 15 μm or more and 100 μm or less. In the present disclosure, as described above, good transferability can be obtained even when the surface roughness of the transfer object is high. Therefore, the present disclosure is useful when the transfer surface Sa of the transfer object is relatively high as described above.

[0121] The maximum height Sz of the transfer surface of the transfer receiver is, for example, preferably 200 μm or more and 900 μm or less, and more preferably 250 μm or more and 800 μm or less. When a print is produced using the intermediate transfer medium of the present disclosure, the foaming agent in the foamable layer foams and the foamable layer expands, and when the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium is pressed against the transfer receiver, if Sz of the transfer surface of the transfer receiver is within the above range, adhesion between the concave portions of the uneven transfer surface of the transfer receiver and the transfer layer is improved.

[0122] The arithmetic mean curvature Spc of the peaks of the transfer surface of the transferee is preferably, for example, 2000 [1 / mm] or more and 12000 [1 / mm] or less, and more preferably 4000 [1 / mm] or more and 9000 [1 / mm] or less. Spc represents the average principal curvature of the peaks of the surface. A small Spc indicates that the point of contact with another object is rounded. A large Spc indicates that the point of contact with another object is sharp. If the Spc of the transfer surface of the transferee is within the above range, the surface of the transferee feels smooth. Furthermore, when a printed product is produced using the intermediate transfer medium of the present disclosure, the foaming agent in the foamable layer foams, causing the foamable layer to expand. As a result, when the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium is pressed against the transfer surface, if the Spc of the transfer surface of the transferee is within the above range, cracks or fissures can be suppressed in the transfer layer transferred to the transfer surface.

[0123] The developed area ratio Sdr of the interface of the transfer surface of the transfer receiver is, for example, preferably 5 to 100, and more preferably 12 to 65. Sdr represents the increase in the developed area (surface area) of a defined region relative to the area of ​​the defined region. The Sdr of a completely flat surface is 0. Furthermore, Sdr increases when the surface is inclined. When a printed product is produced using the intermediate transfer medium of the present disclosure, the foaming agent in the foamable layer foams and expands, causing the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium to be pressed against the transfer receiver. If the Sdr of the interface of the transfer surface of the transfer receiver is within the above range, adhesion between the concave portions of the uneven transfer surface of the transfer receiver and the transfer layer will be improved, and image deformation can be suppressed.

[0124] The arithmetic mean height Sa of the transferred surface of the transferred object, the maximum height Sz, the arithmetic mean curvature Spc of the peaks, and the developed area ratio Sdr of the interface are measured using a laser microscope in accordance with ISO 25178: 2012. Details of the measurement conditions are described in the Examples.

[0125] E. Prints The print material in the present disclosure has three embodiments, which will be described below separately.

[0126] E-1. First embodiment of printed matter The print of this embodiment is a print having a transfer object and a transfer layer having an image placed on the transfer surface of the transfer object, wherein the transfer object is cloth, and the arithmetic mean height Sa of the transfer layer on the surface opposite the transfer object is 1.0 μm or more and 200 μm or less.

[0127] Fig. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a printed object of this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 8, printed object 50 has a transfer recipient 51 and a transfer layer 3 having an image 25 disposed on the transfer recipient surface of transfer recipient 51. Transfer recipient 51 is fabric. The surface Sa of transfer layer 3 opposite to transfer recipient 51 is within a predetermined range.

[0128] The print of this embodiment can be produced by using the intermediate transfer medium described above, and therefore has the same effects as the intermediate transfer medium described above.

[0129] 16(a) to 16(c), when a printed matter is produced using a conventional thermal transfer sheet 110 having a foamable layer 102 and a colorant layer 122 in this order on one surface of a substrate 101, the colorant layer 122 is transferred only to the convex portions of the uneven surface of the transferee 151 in the printed matter 150, as shown in FIG. 16(b). In such a case, the colorant layer 122 is scattered. Therefore, it is difficult to measure Sa on the surface of the transfer layer opposite the transferee.

[0130] 1. Transfer layer In this embodiment, the arithmetic mean height Sa of the transfer layer on the surface opposite to the transfer target is 1.0 μm or more and 200 μm or less.

[0131] Furthermore, if the arithmetic mean height of the surface of the transfer recipient in the area where the transfer layer is not disposed is Sa1 and the arithmetic mean height of the transfer layer on the surface opposite the transfer recipient is Sa2, the ratio of Sa2 / Sa1 is not particularly limited, but is preferably Sa2 / Sa1≧0.05, more preferably Sa2 / Sa1≧0.10, even more preferably Sa2 / Sa1≧0.20, and even more preferably Sa2 / Sa1≧0.25. If the ratio Sa2 / Sa1 is within the above range, the transfer layer is transferred without damaging the texture of the transfer recipient, and therefore a printed product with excellent design can be obtained.

[0132] The arithmetic mean height Sa1 of the surface of the transfer object in the region where the transfer layer is not disposed and the arithmetic mean height Sa2 of the surface of the transfer layer opposite the transfer object are measured using a laser microscope in accordance with ISO 25178: 2012. Details of the measurement conditions are described in the Examples.

[0133] It is preferable that the transfer layer have a textured surface on the side opposite the transferee that differs from the shape of the transferee and from the shapes of the layers constituting the transfer layer other than the layer located on the side opposite the transferee. The print of this embodiment is produced using the intermediate transfer medium described above. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 9(a), when the transfer layer 3 on which the image 25 of the intermediate transfer medium 10 is formed is transferred to the transfer surface of the transferee 51 while expanding the foamable layer 2 by applying heat and pressure, a textured surface originating from the expanded foamable layer 2 is formed on the surface of the transfer layer 3 facing the expanded foamable layer 2. In this case, as shown in FIG. 9(b), in the print 50, the transfer layer 3 has a textured surface on the side opposite the transferee 51 that differs from the shape of the transferee 51 and from the shapes of the layers constituting the transfer layer 3 other than the layer located on the side opposite the transferee. In the method for manufacturing a printed matter, when forming an image, the image 25 may be formed on the surface of the transfer layer 3, or may be formed by transferring color material into the transfer layer 3, but when transferring, the color material is not transferred to the transferee 51.

[0134] The uneven shape on the surface of the transfer layer opposite to the transfer target is observed using a laser microscope under the same measurement conditions as those for Sa above.

[0135] The transfer layer has an image. The image is preferably an image formed by an on-demand printing method. The printing method is the same as that described above in "A. Intermediate Transfer Medium 2. Transfer Layer." The image is a thermal transfer image in the case of a thermal transfer method, a toner image in the case of an electrophotographic method, or an ink image in the case of an inkjet method.

[0136] The transfer layer may have a release layer on the surface opposite to the transfer-receiving material. When a print is produced using the intermediate transfer medium, the release layer can be improved in release properties from the expandable layer after thermal transfer.

[0137] The transfer layer may have a protective layer on the side opposite to the transfer target. The protective layer can protect the image on the transfer layer and improve the durability of the image. The release layer may also serve as the protective layer.

[0138] The transfer layer is the same as that described above in "A. Intermediate Transfer Medium 2. Transfer Layer" except that the transfer layer has an image.

[0139] 2. Transferee The transfer-receiving body in this embodiment is a cloth. The details regarding the cloth are the same as those described above in "D. Combination of intermediate transfer medium, thermal transfer sheet, and transfer-receiving body." The transfer-receiving body is preferably a textile.

[0140] 3. Other layers The printed matter of this embodiment may have a heat seal layer between the transferee and the transfer layer having an image. The printed matter of this embodiment may also have a concealing layer between the transferee and the transfer layer having an image. The printed matter of this embodiment may also have a heat seal layer and a concealing layer, in that order from the transferee side, between the transferee and the transfer layer having an image. The heat seal layer and the concealing layer are the same as those described above in "C. Combination of intermediate transfer medium and thermal transfer sheet."

[0141] 4. Manufacturing method of printed matter The print of this embodiment is preferably produced by a print production method described below.

[0142] E-2. Second embodiment of print The print of this embodiment is a print having a transfer object and a transfer layer having an image and placed on the transfer surface of the transfer object, wherein the arithmetic mean height Sa of the transfer surface of the transfer object is 1.0 μm or more and 200 μm or less, and the arithmetic mean height Sa of the surface of the transfer layer opposite the transfer object is 1.0 μm or more and 200 μm or less.

[0143] Fig. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a printed object of this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 8, printed object 50 has a transferee 51 and a transfer layer 3 that is disposed on the transferee surface of transferee 51 and has an image 25. Sa of the transferee surface of transferee 51 is within a predetermined range, and Sa of the surface of transfer layer 3 opposite to transferee 51 is also within a predetermined range.

[0144] The print of this embodiment can be produced by using the intermediate transfer medium described above, and therefore has the same effects as the intermediate transfer medium described above.

[0145] 1. Transfer layer The transfer layer in this embodiment is the same as the transfer layer in the first embodiment of the print.

[0146] 2. Transferee In this embodiment, the arithmetic mean height Sa of the transfer surface of the transfer receiver is 1.0 μm or more and 200 μm or less. The arithmetic mean height Sa of the transfer surface of the transfer receiver and the surface properties of the transfer receiver are the same as those described above in "D. Combination of intermediate transfer medium, thermal transfer sheet, and transfer receiver, 3. Transfer receiver."

[0147] The transfer-receiving material is not particularly limited as long as it has the above-mentioned surface properties, but is preferably cloth. The details regarding cloth are the same as those described above in "D. Combination of intermediate transfer medium, thermal transfer sheet, and transfer-receiving material." The transfer-receiving material is preferably textile.

[0148] 3. Other layers The printed matter of this embodiment may have a heat seal layer between the transferee and the transfer layer having an image. The printed matter of this embodiment may also have a concealing layer between the transferee and the transfer layer having an image. The printed matter of this embodiment may also have a heat seal layer and a concealing layer, in that order from the transferee side, between the transferee and the transfer layer having an image. The heat seal layer and the concealing layer are the same as those described above in "C. Combination of intermediate transfer medium and thermal transfer sheet."

[0149] 4. Manufacturing method of printed matter The print of this embodiment is preferably produced by a print production method described below.

[0150] E-3. Third embodiment of printed matter The print of this embodiment is a print having a transfer object and a transfer layer having an image and placed on the transfer surface of the transfer object, and when the arithmetic mean height of the surface of the transfer object in the area where the transfer layer is not placed is Sa1 and the arithmetic mean height of the surface of the transfer layer opposite the transfer object is Sa2, Sa2 / Sa1≧0.05.

[0151] Fig. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a printed object of this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 8, printed object 50 has a transferee 51 and a transfer layer 3 that is disposed on the transfer surface of transferee 51 and has an image 25. Although not shown, there is a predetermined relationship between an arithmetic mean height Sa1 of the surface of transferee 51 in an area where transfer layer 3 is not disposed and an arithmetic mean height Sa2 of the transfer surface of transferee 51.

[0152] The print of this embodiment can be produced by using the intermediate transfer medium described above, and therefore has the same effects as the intermediate transfer medium described above.

[0153] 1. Transfer layer In this embodiment, if the arithmetic mean height of the surface of the transfer object in the area where the transfer layer is not placed is Sa1 and the arithmetic mean height of the surface of the transfer layer opposite the transfer object is Sa2, the transfer layer, for which Sa2 / Sa1≧0.05, is the same as the transfer layer in the first embodiment of the above-mentioned printed matter.

[0154] 2. Transferee The transfer object is the same as that described above in "D. Combination of intermediate transfer medium, thermal transfer sheet and transfer object, 3. Transfer object."

[0155] 3. Other layers The printed matter of this embodiment may have a heat seal layer between the transferee and the transfer layer having an image. The printed matter of this embodiment may also have a concealing layer between the transferee and the transfer layer having an image. The printed matter of this embodiment may also have a heat seal layer and a concealing layer, in that order from the transferee side, between the transferee and the transfer layer having an image. The heat seal layer and the concealing layer are the same as those described above in "C. Combination of intermediate transfer medium and thermal transfer sheet."

[0156] 4. Manufacturing method of printed matter The print of this embodiment is preferably produced by a print production method described below.

[0157] F. Print manufacturing method The method for producing a print in the present disclosure includes a preparation step of preparing an intermediate transfer medium having, in this order, a substrate, a foamable layer containing a foaming agent, and a transfer layer; an image formation step of forming an image on the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium; a transfer step of opposing the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium on which the image has been formed to the transfer surface of a transferee, and applying heat and pressure to expand the foamable layer while transferring the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium on which the image has been formed to the transfer surface of the transferee; and a peeling step of peeling the substrate and the expanded foamable layer from the transfer layer transferred to the transfer surface of the transferee.

[0158] FIGS. 2(a) to 2(c) and 3(a) to 3(b) are process diagrams illustrating a method for producing a printed matter according to the present disclosure. First, as shown in FIG. 2(a), an intermediate transfer medium 10 is prepared. The intermediate transfer medium 10 is similar to the intermediate transfer medium 10 shown in FIG. 1 above. Next, as shown in FIG. 2(b), an image 25 is formed on the surface of the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10. Next, as shown in FIG. 2(c), the surface of the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10 on which the image 25 has been formed is placed opposite the transfer surface of the transfer recipient 51. Next, as shown in FIG. 3(a), heat and pressure are applied to expand the foamable layer 2, while the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10 on which the image 25 has been formed is transferred to the transfer surface of the transfer recipient 51. At this time, as the foamable layer 2 expands, the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10 on which the image 25 has been formed is pressed against the transfer recipient 51, and the transfer layer 3 on which the image 25 has been formed is pressed into the concave portions of the uneven transfer surface of the transfer recipient 51. This allows the transfer layer 3 on which the image 25 has been formed to be transferred also into the concave portions of the uneven transfer surface of the transfer recipient 51. Next, as shown in FIG. 3(b), the substrate 1 and the expanded foamable layer 2 are peeled off from the transfer layer 3 transferred to the transfer surface of the transfer recipient 51.

[0159] In the present disclosure, the above-described intermediate transfer medium is used, and therefore the effects described above in "A. Intermediate transfer medium" are achieved.

[0160] 1. Preparation process In the preparation step, an intermediate transfer medium having a substrate, a foamable layer containing a foaming agent, and a transfer layer in this order is prepared. The intermediate transfer medium is the same as that described above in "A. Intermediate Transfer Medium."

[0161] 2. Image forming process In the image forming step, an image is formed on the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium. The image is preferably formed by an on-demand printing method. The on-demand printing method is the same as that described above in "A. Intermediate Transfer Medium."

[0162] In the case of the thermal transfer method, a thermal transfer sheet is used, which is the same as that described above in "C. Combination of intermediate transfer medium and thermal transfer sheet."

[0163] 3. Transfer process In the transfer process, the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium on which the image is formed is placed opposite the transfer surface of the transferee, and heat and pressure are applied to expand the foamable layer, while the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium on which the image is formed is transferred to the transfer surface of the transferee.

[0164] The heating conditions and pressure conditions are appropriately set depending on the type of foaming agent, the material of the transfer layer, etc. The heating temperature is preferably higher than the foaming initiation temperature of the foaming agent, more preferably within ±45°C of the maximum foaming temperature of the foaming agent, and even more preferably within ±30°C of the maximum foaming temperature of the foaming agent. Specifically, the heating temperature is preferably 80°C or higher and 200°C or lower, more preferably 85°C or higher and 185°C or lower, and even more preferably 90°C or higher and 170°C or lower. The heating time is, for example, preferably 15 seconds or higher and 6 minutes or lower, more preferably 30 seconds or higher and 6 minutes or lower, even more preferably 30 seconds or higher and 4 minutes or lower, and may be 1 minute or higher and 4 minutes or lower.

[0165] The pressing method is not particularly limited as long as it is a method that can apply pressure while heating. The pressing conditions are appropriately adjusted to the conditions for transferring the transfer layer to the transfer-receiving material. For heating and pressing, a heat roll, a laminator, an iron, a heat press, a heating drum, etc. may be used.

[0166] The transfer-receiving body is the same as that described above in "D. Combination of intermediate transfer medium, thermal transfer sheet and transfer-receiving body."

[0167] 4. Peeling process In the peeling step, the substrate and the expanded foamable layer are peeled off from the transfer layer transferred to the transfer surface of the transfer-receiving material, thereby obtaining a printed matter.

[0168] 5.Removal process The method for producing a printed matter according to the present disclosure may include, between the image forming step and the transfer step, a removal step in which a peel-off layer is heat-pressed onto the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium, and then a part of the transfer layer is removed by the peel-off layer.

[0169] FIGS. 10(a) to 10(d) are process diagrams illustrating the image forming and removing steps in the method for producing a printed matter according to the present disclosure. First, as shown in FIG. 10(a), a thermal transfer sheet 10F is prepared. The thermal transfer sheet 20F has a support 21f, colorant layers 22 (yellow colorant layer 22Y, magenta colorant layer 22M, and cyan colorant layer 22C) disposed on the same surface of the support 21f, and a peel-off layer 26. As described above, the peel-off layer 26 is a layer for removing a portion of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium. Next, as shown in FIG. 10(b), an image 25 is formed on the surface of the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10 using the colorant layer 22 of the thermal transfer sheet 20F. Next, as shown in FIG. 10(c), the thermal transfer sheet 20F and the intermediate transfer medium 10 are overlapped so that the surface of the peel-off layer 26 of the thermal transfer sheet 20F contacts the surface of the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium. In this state, the thermal transfer sheet 20F is locally heated by the thermal head 29 from the surface side of the support 21f of the thermal transfer sheet 20F, and the surface of the peel-off layer 26 of the thermal transfer sheet 20F is pressed against the surface of the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium by the thermal head 29 and a platen roller (not shown). The heat-pressed portion 26A of the peel-off layer 26 adheres closely to the surface of the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10, so that the portion 26A of the peel-off layer 26 adheres to the transfer layer 3. Meanwhile, the other portions of the peel-off layer 26 other than the portion 26A are not heat-pressed to the transfer layer 3 and therefore do not adhere to the transfer layer 3. Next, as shown in FIG. 10(d), the thermal transfer sheet 20F is peeled off from the intermediate transfer medium 10, thereby removing the portion 3A of the transfer layer 3 corresponding to the portion 26A of the peel-off layer 26. At this time, since the foamable layer 2 and the transfer layer 3 are peelable from each other in the intermediate transfer medium 10, the foamable layer 2 remains on the intermediate transfer medium 10. The portion 3A of the transfer layer 3 corresponding to the portion 26A of the peel-off layer 26 may be located in an area on the surface of the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10 where the image 25 is not formed, or in an area where transfer to the transfer recipient is not desired. Next, although not shown, in a transfer step, the portion 3B of the transfer layer 3 that was not removed in the removal step is transferred to the transfer recipient surface of the transfer recipient.

[0170] When the removal step is performed, by removing a portion of the transfer layer, it is possible to transfer only the necessary area of ​​the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium to the transfer surface of the transfer recipient in the transfer step after the removal step, or to prevent the desired area of ​​the transfer recipient from being covered by the transfer layer in the printed product.

[0171] Furthermore, when the removal step is performed, a melt layer forming step of forming a melt layer on the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium in the removal area where the transfer layer is to be removed may be performed between the image forming step and the removal step. In this case, the removal area can be cleanly removed in the removal step.

[0172] The melting layer is not particularly limited as long as it melts or softens when heated and can be formed on the transfer layer, and for example, a heat seal layer or a melt transfer type color material layer can be used.

[0173] In the melt layer forming step, the melt layer may be formed in at least a part of the removal area. The melt layer may be formed in an area narrower than the removal area, in the same area as the removal area, or in an area wider than the removal area. The melt layer may also be formed in a pattern.

[0174] When performing the removal step, the thermal transfer sheet is not limited to the thermal transfer sheet 20F described above. For example, a thermal transfer sheet having a colorant layer disposed on one side of a support and a thermal transfer sheet having a peel-off layer disposed on one side of a support may be used in combination. Also, for example, a thermal transfer sheet having a colorant layer, a heat seal layer, and a peel-off layer disposed in surface order on one side of a support may be used, or a thermal transfer sheet having a colorant layer, a melt-transfer colorant layer, and a peel-off layer disposed in surface order on one side of a support may be used.

[0175] 6. Block layer formation process The method for producing a print product according to the present disclosure may include, between the image forming step and the transfer step, a block layer forming step of forming a block layer in an area on the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium where no image is formed.

[0176] FIGS. 11(a) to 11(d) and 12(a) and 12(b) are process diagrams illustrating the image forming process, block forming process, transfer process, and peeling process in the method for producing a print product according to the present disclosure. First, as shown in FIG. 11(a), a thermal transfer sheet 10G is prepared. The thermal transfer sheet 20G has a support 21g and colorant layers 22 (yellow colorant layer 22Y, magenta colorant layer 22M, cyan colorant layer 22C) and a block layer 27 disposed on the same surface of the support 21g. Next, as shown in FIG. 11(b), an image 25 is formed on the surface of the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10 using the colorant layer 22 of the thermal transfer sheet 20G. Next, as shown in FIGS. 11(c) and 11(d), the thermal transfer sheet 20G and the intermediate transfer medium 10 are superimposed so that the surface of the block layer 27 of the thermal transfer sheet 20G faces the surface of the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium. In this state, the thermal transfer sheet 20G is locally heated by the thermal head 29 from the surface of the support 21g of the thermal transfer sheet 20G. This transfers the heated portion 27A of the block layer 27 to the surface of the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10. The portion 27A of the block layer 27 is located in an area of ​​the surface of the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10 where the image 25 is not formed. Next, as shown in FIG. 12(a), the intermediate transfer medium 10 and the transferee 51 are superimposed so that the surface of the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10 faces the transfer-receiving surface of the transferee 51. In this state, the intermediate transfer medium 10 and the transfer-receiving surface 51 are heated and pressurized. At this time, as shown in FIG. 12(b), the foaming agent in the foamable layer 2 foams, causing the foamable layer 2 to expand, thereby transferring the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10 to the transfer-receiving surface of the transferee 51. At this time, the block layer 27A transferred onto the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10 functions as a masking member, and only the portion 3C of the transfer layer 3 that does not overlap with the block layer 27A is transferred onto the transfer surface of the transfer object 51.

[0177] When performing the block layer formation process, by forming a block layer on a portion of the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium, in the transfer process after the block layer formation process, only the necessary area of ​​the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium can be transferred to the transfer surface of the transferee.

[0178] When performing the block layer forming step, the thermal transfer sheet is not limited to the thermal transfer sheet 20G described above. For example, a thermal transfer sheet having a color material layer disposed on one side of a support and a thermal transfer sheet having a block layer disposed on one side of a support may be used in combination. Also, for example, a thermal transfer sheet having a color material layer, a heat seal layer, and a block layer disposed in face order on one side of a support may be used.

[0179] 7.Second adhesive layer formation process The method for producing a print product according to the present disclosure may include, between the image forming step and the transfer step, a second adhesive layer forming step of forming a second adhesive layer on the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium in the region where the image is formed. In this case, in the transfer step, the transfer layer is transferred to the transfer surface of the transfer recipient via the second adhesive layer, thereby increasing the adhesion of the transfer layer.

[0180] 13(a) to 13(c) and 14(a) to 14(b) are process diagrams illustrating the image forming process, second colored layer forming process, transfer process, and peeling process in the method for producing a printed matter according to the present disclosure. First, as shown in FIG. 13(a), an image 25 is formed on the surface of the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10. Next, as shown in FIG. 13(b), a second adhesive layer 28 is formed on the surface of the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10 in the area where the image 25 is formed. Next, as shown in FIG. 13(c), the intermediate transfer medium 10 and the transferee 51 are superimposed so that the surface of the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10 faces the transfer surface of the transferee 51. In this state, the intermediate transfer medium 10 and the transferee 51 are heated and pressurized. 14(a), the foaming agent in the foamable layer 2 foams and the foamable layer 2 expands, thereby transferring the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10 to the transfer surface of the transfer recipient 51 via the second adhesive layer 28. Next, as shown in FIG. 14(b), the substrate 1 and the expanded foamable layer 2 are peeled off from the transfer layer 3 transferred to the transfer surface of the transfer recipient 51. As a result, the expanded foamable layer 2 and the transfer layer 3 are peeled off, and only the transfer layer 3 is transferred to the transfer surface of the transfer recipient 51.

[0181] In the second adhesive layer forming step, as shown in Figure 14(a), the second adhesive layer 28 may be formed only in the area where the image 25 is formed on the surface of the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10. Alternatively, in the second adhesive layer forming step, as shown in Figure 14(b), the second adhesive layer 28 may be formed in an area that is slightly larger than the area where the image 25 is formed on the surface of the transfer layer 3 of the intermediate transfer medium 10. In either case, in the transfer step, only the portion of the transfer layer that overlaps the second adhesive layer is transferred to the transfer surface of the transfer recipient.

[0182] When the second adhesive layer is formed on the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium in an area slightly larger than the area where the image is formed, the distance d from the edge of the area where the image is formed to the edge of the second adhesive layer is appropriately selected depending on the size of the area where the image is formed, the printer, the application, etc., but may be, for example, 30 μm or more and 450 μm or less. Specifically, the distance d may be 1 dot or more and 5 dots or less, or 1 dot or 2 dots, in a 300 dpi or 600 dpi printer. In this way, by forming the second adhesive layer in an area slightly larger than the area where the image is formed, image misalignment during transfer can be tolerated.

[0183] The second adhesive layer may be the heat seal layer described above.

[0184] G. Image-bearing intermediate transfer medium The image-bearing intermediate transfer medium of the present disclosure has the above-described intermediate transfer medium, and the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium bears an image. The image-bearing intermediate transfer medium of the present disclosure is obtained after the image forming step in the above-described method for producing a print.

[0185] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments. The above-described embodiments are merely examples, and anything that has substantially the same configuration as the technical idea described in the claims of the present disclosure and exhibits similar effects is included within the technical scope of the present disclosure. [Example]

[0186] The present disclosure will be specifically described with reference to examples and comparative examples.

[0187] [Example 1] (1) Preparation of intermediate transfer medium A 38 μm thick polyethylene terephthalate film was used as the substrate, and adhesive layer composition 1 having the following composition was applied to the substrate by gravure coating, followed by drying at 100°C for 1 minute to form an adhesive layer having a thickness of 0.5 μm. <Adhesive layer composition 1> Urethane-modified copolymer polyester resin 30 parts (Byron UR1400, manufactured by Toyobo MC Co., Ltd.) Solvent (toluene / MEK=1 / 1) 70 parts

[0188] Next, the following foamable layer composition 1 was applied onto the adhesive layer by gravure coating so that the thickness after drying would be 10 μm, and dried at 120° C. for 1 minute to form a foamable layer. <Foamable Layer Composition 1> Acrylic resin 15 parts (Celltop 226, Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd., solid content 50%) Aluminum catalyst 3 parts (Celltop CAT-A, manufactured by Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd., solid content 10%) Foaming agent 7.8 parts (Matsumoto Microsphere FN-100SSD, manufactured by Matsumoto Yushi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., average particle size 6 μm to 11 μm, foaming start temperature 120°C to 130°C, maximum foaming temperature 145°C to 155°C, solid content 70% to 80%) Solvent (toluene / MEK=1 / 1) 74.2 parts

[0189] Next, the release layer composition 1 having the following composition was applied to the foamable layer by gravure coating and dried at 100°C for 1 minute to form a release layer having a thickness of 2.0 μm, which also served as a protective layer. <Release layer composition 1> 20 parts acrylic resin (Dianal BR-87, manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation) Solvent (toluene / MEK=1 / 1) 80 parts

[0190] Next, the receiving layer composition 1 having the following composition was applied onto the release layer and dried to form a receiving layer having a thickness of 2 μm, thereby obtaining a transfer layer having the release layer and the receiving layer. <Receptor layer composition 1> Vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate copolymer 19 parts (Solvine CNL, manufactured by Nissin Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) Epoxy-modified silicone 1 part (X-22-3000T, manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.) Solvent (toluene / MEK=1 / 1) 80 parts

[0191] (2) Preparation of thermal transfer sheet The thermal transfer sheet was a modified 8 x 10 inch dye ribbon from "Pure Premium Digital" media for the "DP-DS820" dye-sublimation digital photo printer manufactured by Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd. The colorant layer used was a Ye, Mg, and Cy panel as is. The protective layer (OP) of the ribbon was replaced with a layer consisting of a backing layer, support, release layer, and heat seal layer, as shown below.

[0192] A polyethylene terephthalate film having a thickness of 5 μm was used as a support, and a composition for a back layer having the following composition was applied onto the support and dried to form a back layer having a thickness of 1 μm. <Coating liquid for back layer> Polyvinyl acetal 36 parts (S-LEC KS-1, manufactured by Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd.) Isocyanate compound 25 parts (Burnoc D750, manufactured by DIC Corporation) Silicone resin particles 1 part (Tospearl 240, manufactured by Momentive Performance Materials Japan, LLC) Zinc stearyl phosphate 10 parts (LBT1830 refined, manufactured by Sakai Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) Zinc stearate 10 parts (SZ-PF, manufactured by Sakai Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) 3 parts polyethylene wax (Polywax 3000, manufactured by Toyo ADL Co., Ltd.) Ethoxylated alcohol-modified wax 7 parts (Unitox 750, manufactured by Toyo ADL Co., Ltd.) 200 parts methyl ethyl ketone 100 parts toluene

[0193] Next, a release layer composition having the following composition was applied by gravure coating to the surface of the support opposite to the back layer, and dried at 100° C. for 1 minute to form a release layer having a thickness of 0.25 μm. <Release layer composition> 1 part polyvinyl alcohol (Poval 27-96, manufactured by Kuraray Trading Co., Ltd.) Polyolefin resin 10 parts (Arrowbase SD-1205J2, manufactured by Unitika Ltd., solid content 20%) ·Wednesday 39 parts 50 parts isopropyl alcohol (IPA)

[0194] Next, a composition for a heat seal layer having the following composition was applied onto the release layer by gravure coating and dried at 100° C. for 1 minute to form a heat seal layer having a thickness of 2.0 μm. <Heat seal layer composition> 20 parts polyester (Elitel UE-3380, manufactured by Unitika Ltd.) Solvent (toluene / MEK=1 / 1) 80 parts

[0195] [Example 2] (1) Preparation of intermediate transfer medium An intermediate transfer medium was prepared in the same manner as in Example 1, except that a foamable layer was formed as follows. The following foamable layer composition 2 was applied by gravure coating so that the thickness after drying would be 10 μm, and dried at 120° C. for 1 minute to form a foamable layer. <Foamable Layer Composition 2> Acrylic resin 20 parts (Celltop 226, Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd., solid content 50%) Aluminum catalyst 4 parts (Celltop CAT-A, manufactured by Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd., solid content 10%) Foaming agent 5.2 parts (Matsumoto Microsphere FN-100SSD, manufactured by Matsumoto Yushi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., average particle size 6 μm to 11 μm, foaming start temperature 120°C to 130°C, maximum foaming temperature 145°C to 155°C, solid content 70% to 80%) Solvent (toluene / MEK=1 / 1) 70.8 parts

[0196] (2) Preparation of thermal transfer sheet A thermal transfer sheet was prepared in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0197] [Example 3] (1) Preparation of intermediate transfer medium Using the same substrate as in Example 1, adhesive layer composition 2 having the following composition was applied onto the substrate by gravure coating and dried at 100°C for 1 minute to form an adhesive layer with a thickness of 1.0 µm. <Adhesive layer composition 2> 50 parts polyester (Vylonal MD1930, manufactured by Toyobo Co., Ltd., solid content 31%) ·Water 50 parts

[0198] Composition 1 for foaming agent-containing layer having the following composition was applied onto the adhesive layer by gravure coating and dried at 100° C. for 3 minutes to form a foaming agent-containing layer having a thickness of 10 μm. <Composition 1 for foaming agent-containing layer> Foaming agent 15 parts (Matsumoto Microsphere FN-100SSD, manufactured by Matsumoto Yushi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., average particle size 6 μm to 11 μm, foaming start temperature 120°C to 130°C, maximum foaming temperature 145°C to 155°C, solid content 70% to 80%) 48 parts polyester (Vylonal MD1930, manufactured by Toyobo Co., Ltd., solid content 31%) 37 parts isopropyl alcohol (IPA)

[0199] Next, the intermediate adhesive layer composition having the following composition was applied onto the foaming agent-containing layer by gravure coating and dried at 100° C. for 1 minute to form an intermediate adhesive layer having a thickness of 0.3 μm. <Composition for intermediate adhesive layer> Urethane-modified copolymer polyester resin 30 parts (Byron UR1400, manufactured by Toyobo MC Co., Ltd.) Solvent (toluene / MEK=1 / 1) 70 parts

[0200] Next, the release layer composition 1 having the following composition was applied onto the intermediate adhesive layer by gravure coating and dried at 120°C for 1 minute to form a release layer having a thickness of 2.0 µm, thereby obtaining a foamable layer having a foaming agent-containing layer, an intermediate adhesive layer, and a release layer. <Release layer composition 1> Acrylic resin 15 parts (Celltop 226, Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd., solid content 50%) Aluminum catalyst 3 parts (Celltop CAT-A, manufactured by Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd., solid content 10%) Solvent (toluene / MEK=1 / 1) 82 parts

[0201] The same release layer composition 1 as in Example 1 was applied onto the release layer by gravure coating and dried at 100° C. for 1 minute to form a release layer having a thickness of 2.0 μm.

[0202] Next, the receiving layer composition 2 having the following composition was applied onto the release layer and dried to form a receiving layer having a thickness of 4 μm, thereby obtaining a transfer layer having a release layer and a receiving layer. <Receptor layer composition 2> Vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate copolymer 15 parts (Solvine C, manufactured by Nissin Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) Epoxy-modified silicone 0.75 parts (X-22-3000T, manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.) Methylstyrene-modified silicone 0.05 parts (X-24-510, manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.) Solvent (toluene / MEK=1 / 1) 77 parts

[0203] (2) Preparation of thermal transfer sheet A thermal transfer sheet was prepared in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0204] [Example 4] (1) Preparation of intermediate transfer medium An intermediate transfer medium was prepared in the same manner as in Example 3, except that a foaming agent-containing layer was formed as follows.

[0205] Composition 2 for foaming agent-containing layer having the following composition was applied onto the adhesive layer by gravure coating and dried at 100° C. for 3 minutes to form a foaming agent-containing layer having a thickness of 10 μm. <Composition 2 for foaming agent-containing layer> Foaming agent 10 parts (Matsumoto Microsphere FN-100SSD, Matsumoto Yushi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., average particle size 6 μm to 11 μm, foaming start temperature 120°C to 130°C, maximum foaming temperature 145°C to 155°C, solid content 70% to 80%) 64.5 parts polyester (Vylonal MD1930, Toyobo Co., Ltd., solid content 31%) 25.5 parts isopropyl alcohol (IPA)

[0206] (2) Preparation of thermal transfer sheet A thermal transfer sheet was prepared in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0207] [Example 5] (1) Preparation of intermediate transfer medium An intermediate transfer medium was produced in the same manner as in Example 3, except that a release layer was formed as follows.

[0208] Composition 2 for release layer having the following composition was applied onto the intermediate adhesive layer by gravure coating and dried at 120° C. for 1 minute to form a release layer having a thickness of 2 μm. <Release layer composition 2> Acrylic resin 15 parts (Celltop 226, Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd., solid content 50%) Aluminum catalyst 3 parts (Celltop CAT-A, manufactured by Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd., solid content 10%) Modified silicone oil 0.325 parts (KF-101, manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.) Solvent (toluene / MEK=1 / 1) 81.675 parts

[0209] (2) Preparation of thermal transfer sheet A thermal transfer sheet was prepared in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0210] [Example 6] (1) Preparation of intermediate transfer medium An intermediate transfer medium was produced in the same manner as in Example 3, except that a release layer was formed as follows.

[0211] Onto the release layer, peeling composition 2 having the following composition was applied by gravure coating and dried at 100°C for 1 minute to form a 2 μm-thick release layer, which also served as a protective layer. <Composition 2 for release layer> Acrylic resin 19.2 parts (Dianal BR-87, manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation) Modified silicone oil 0.8 parts (KF-101, manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.) Solvent (toluene / MEK=1 / 1) 80 parts

[0212] (2) Preparation of thermal transfer sheet A thermal transfer sheet was prepared in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0213] [Example 7] (1) Preparation of intermediate transfer medium An intermediate transfer medium was produced in the same manner as in Example 3, except that a release layer and a peeling layer were formed as follows.

[0214] Composition 3 for release layer having the following composition was applied onto the intermediate adhesive layer by gravure coating and dried at 120° C. for 1 minute to form a release layer having a thickness of 2 μm. <Release layer composition 3> Acrylic resin 15 parts (Celltop 226, Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd., solid content 50%) Aluminum catalyst 3 parts (Celltop CAT-A, manufactured by Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd., solid content 10%) Modified silicone oil 0.0970 parts (KF-101, manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.) Solvent (toluene / MEK=1 / 1) 81.903 parts

[0215] Composition 3 for release layer having the following composition was applied onto the release layer by gravure coating and dried at 100°C for 1 minute to form a release layer having a thickness of 2 μm. This release layer also serves as a protective layer. <Composition 3 for release layer> Acrylic resin 19.8 parts (Dianal BR-87, manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation) Modified silicone oil 0.2 parts (KF-101, manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.) Solvent (toluene / MEK=1 / 1) 80 parts

[0216] (2) Preparation of thermal transfer sheet A thermal transfer sheet was prepared in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0217] [Example 8] (1) Preparation of intermediate transfer medium An intermediate transfer medium was produced in the same manner as in Example 3, except that a release layer was formed as follows.

[0218] Composition 4 for release layer having the following composition was applied onto the release layer by gravure coating and dried at 100°C for 1 minute to form a release layer having a thickness of 2 μm. This release layer also serves as a protective layer. <Release layer composition 4> 10 parts acrylic resin (Dianal BR-87, manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation) Vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate copolymer 10 parts (Solvine CNL, manufactured by Nissin Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) Solvent (toluene / MEK=1 / 1) 80 parts

[0219] (2) Preparation of thermal transfer sheet A thermal transfer sheet was prepared in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0220] [Example 9] (1) Preparation of intermediate transfer medium An intermediate transfer medium was prepared in the same manner as in Example 3.

[0221] (2) Preparation of thermal transfer sheet A polyethylene terephthalate film having a thickness of 5 μm was used as a support, and a composition for a back layer having the following composition was applied onto the support and dried to form a back layer having a thickness of 1 μm. <Coating liquid for back layer> Polyvinyl acetal 36 parts (S-LEC KS-1, manufactured by Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd.) Isocyanate compound 25 parts (Burnoc D750, manufactured by DIC Corporation) Silicone resin particles 1 part (Tospearl 240, manufactured by Momentive Performance Materials Japan, LLC) Zinc stearyl phosphate 10 parts (LBT1830 refined, manufactured by Sakai Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) Zinc stearate 10 parts (SZ-PF, manufactured by Sakai Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) 3 parts polyethylene wax (Polywax 3000, manufactured by Toyo ADL Co., Ltd.) Ethoxylated alcohol-modified wax 7 parts (Unitox 750, manufactured by Toyo ADL Co., Ltd.) 200 parts methyl ethyl ketone 100 parts toluene

[0222] Next, on the surface of the support opposite to the back layer, a coating liquid for a yellow colorant layer, a coating liquid for a magenta colorant layer, and a coating liquid for a cyan colorant layer, each having the following composition, were applied in order and dried to form a yellow colorant layer, a magenta colorant layer, and a cyan colorant layer, each having a thickness of 1.0 μm.

[0223] <Coating liquid for yellow colorant layer> Disazo Yellow 5 parts Vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate copolymer (Mn 16000, Tg 76°C) 5 parts ·MEK 90 copies

[0224] <Coating liquid for magenta colorant layer> 5 parts Carmine 6B Vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate copolymer (Mn 16000, Tg 76°C) 5 parts ·MEK 90 copies

[0225] <Coating liquid for cyan colorant layer> Phthalocyanine Blue 5 parts Vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate copolymer (Mn 16000, Tg 76°C) 5 parts ·MEK 90 copies

[0226] Next, a release layer composition having the following composition was applied to the remaining portion of the surface of the support opposite the back layer, and dried at 100° C. for 1 minute to form a release layer having a thickness of 0.25 μm. <Release layer composition> 1 part polyvinyl alcohol (Poval 27-96, manufactured by Kuraray Trading Co., Ltd.) Polyolefin resin 10 parts (Arrowbase SD-1205J2, manufactured by Unitika Ltd., solid content 20%) ·Wednesday 39 parts 50 parts isopropyl alcohol (IPA)

[0227] Next, a composition for a heat seal layer having the following composition was applied onto the release layer by gravure coating and dried at 100° C. for 1 minute to form a heat seal layer having a thickness of 2.0 μm. <Heat seal layer composition> 20 parts polyester (Elitel UE-3380, manufactured by Unitika Ltd.) Solvent (toluene / MEK=1 / 1) 80 parts

[0228] [Example 10] (1) Preparation of intermediate transfer medium An intermediate transfer medium was prepared in the same manner as in Example 3.

[0229] (2) Preparation of thermal transfer sheet A thermal transfer sheet was produced in the same manner as in Example 9, except that after the masking layer was formed on the release layer, a heat seal layer was formed on the masking layer.

[0230] A composition for a masking layer having the following composition was applied onto the release layer by gravure coating and dried at 100° C. for 1 minute to form a masking layer having a thickness of 1.0 μm. <Composition for Hiding Layer> Titanium dioxide 58 parts (Ishihara Sangyo Kaisha, Ltd., R-780) (Meth)acrylic resin 10.5 parts (Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation, Dianall (registered trademark) BR-87) (Meth)acrylic resin 31.5 parts (Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation, Dianale (registered trademark) BR-85) Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) 100 parts 100 parts toluene

[0231] [Example 11] (1) Preparation of intermediate transfer medium An intermediate transfer medium was prepared in the same manner as in Example 3, except that a foaming agent-containing layer was formed as follows.

[0232] Composition 3 for foaming agent-containing layer having the following composition was applied onto the adhesive layer by gravure coating and dried at 100° C. for 3 minutes to form a foaming agent-containing layer having a thickness of 10 μm. <Composition 3 for foaming agent-containing layer> Foaming agent 15 parts (Matsumoto Microsphere FN-80GS, Matsumoto Yushi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., average particle size 6μm-11μm, foaming start temperature 100℃-110℃, maximum foaming temperature 125℃-135℃) 48 parts polyester (Vylonal MD1930, Toyobo Co., Ltd., solid content 31%) 37 parts isopropyl alcohol (IPA)

[0233] (2) Preparation of thermal transfer sheet A thermal transfer sheet was prepared in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0234] [Example 12] (1) Preparation of intermediate transfer medium An intermediate transfer medium was prepared in the same manner as in Example 3, except that a foaming agent-containing layer was formed as follows.

[0235] Composition 4 for foaming agent-containing layer having the following composition was applied onto the adhesive layer by gravure coating and dried at 100° C. for 3 minutes to form a foaming agent-containing layer having a thickness of 10 μm. <Composition 4 for foaming agent-containing layer> Foaming agent 15 parts (Expancel 920-40, Nippon Phillite Co., Ltd., average particle size 10 μm to 14 μm, foaming start temperature 123°C to 133°C, maximum foaming temperature 170°C to 180°C) 48 parts polyester (Vylonal MD1930, Toyobo Co., Ltd., solid content 31%) 37 parts isopropyl alcohol (IPA)

[0236] (2) Preparation of thermal transfer sheet A thermal transfer sheet was prepared in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0237] [Comparative Example 1] (1) Preparation of intermediate transfer medium The same substrate as in Example 1 was used, and a release layer and a receiving layer were formed in this order on the substrate by the same method as in Example 1 to prepare an intermediate transfer medium.

[0238] (2) Preparation of thermal transfer sheet A thermal transfer sheet was prepared in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0239] Comparative Example 2 (1) Preparation of intermediate transfer medium An intermediate transfer medium was prepared in the same manner as in Example 3, except that the foaming agent-containing layer in Example 3 was replaced with the following foaming agent-free layer.

[0240] The following composition was applied onto the adhesive layer by gravure coating so that the thickness after drying would be 10 μm, and then dried at 100° C. for 3 minutes to form a layer containing no foaming agent. <Composition> Polyester 96.8 parts (Vylonal MD1930, Toyobo Co., Ltd., solid content 31%) 3.2 parts isopropyl alcohol (IPA)

[0241] (2) Preparation of thermal transfer sheet A thermal transfer sheet was prepared in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0242] [Reference example] (1) Preparation of direct printing media A medium for fabric transfer (for direct printing) was prepared in the same manner as in Example 3, except that the following was used as the support.

[0243] A polyethylene terephthalate film having a thickness of 5 μm was used as a support, and a composition for a back layer having the following composition was applied onto the support and dried to form a back layer having a thickness of 1 μm. <Coating liquid for back layer> Polyvinyl acetal 36 parts (S-LEC KS-1, manufactured by Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd.) Isocyanate compound 25 parts (Burnoc D750, manufactured by DIC Corporation) Silicone resin particles 1 part (Tospearl 240, manufactured by Momentive Performance Materials Japan, LLC) Zinc stearyl phosphate 10 parts (LBT1830 refined, manufactured by Sakai Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) Zinc stearate 10 parts (SZ-PF, manufactured by Sakai Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) 3 parts polyethylene wax (Polywax 3000, manufactured by Toyo ADL Co., Ltd.) Ethoxylated alcohol-modified wax 7 parts (Unitox 750, manufactured by Toyo ADL Co., Ltd.) 200 parts methyl ethyl ketone 100 parts toluene

[0244] On the surface of the support opposite to the back layer, an adhesive layer, a foaming agent-containing layer, an intermediate adhesive layer, a release layer, a peel layer, and a receiving layer were formed in this order in the same manner as in Example 3.

[0245] (2) Preparation of thermal transfer sheet A thermal transfer sheet was prepared in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0246] [Rating 1] Prints were produced using the intermediate transfer medium and the thermal transfer sheet, and the transferability and surface condition were evaluated.

[0247] (1) Creation of prints (1-1) Primary transcription First, a receiving paper for a Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd. dye-sublimation digital photo printer "DP-DS820" was prepared, and the receiving layer and other components on the surface of the receiving paper were wiped off with a solvent (toluene / MEK = 1 / 1). Next, a weak adhesive (Fujikura Kasei Co., Ltd., LKG-1104) was applied to the wiped surface of the receiving paper to a dry thickness of 3 μm and dried at 100°C for 1 minute to form an adhesive layer. Next, the adhesive layer side of the ribbon was bonded to the substrate side of the intermediate transfer medium. Next, using a thermal transfer printer, the colorant layer (Yellow, Mg, Cy) and heat seal layer of the thermal transfer sheet were transferred to the receiving layer side of the intermediate transfer medium under the following conditions, forming a 10 cm x 10 cm solid black image.

[0248] <Conditions for thermal transfer printers> Thermal head: F3589 (Toshiba Hokuto Electronics Co., Ltd.) Heating element average resistance: 5015Ω Printing voltage: 19V Main scanning resolution: 300 dpi (dots per inch) Sub-scanning resolution: 300 dpi Line speed: 6.0 msec. / line Pulse duty ratio: 85% Tone value: 255 / 255 (maximum energy tone)

[0249] (1-2) Secondary transfer (a) Examples 1 to 8, Comparative Examples 1 and 2 First, the intermediate transfer medium on which the image was formed was peeled off from the image receiving paper. Next, the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium on which the image was formed was placed on the following cloth, and the cloth was pressed with a load of 320 g / cm using the following press machine. 2 The image was transferred to the fabric by heating and pressing at a temperature of 160°C for 180 seconds. After cooling, the expanded foamable layer and the substrate were peeled off from the transfer layer transferred to the fabric. This resulted in a printed image. Fabric: 3.5 oz. T-shirt (white), manufactured by Toms Co., Ltd., 100% polyester. Arithmetic mean height Sa of the transfer surface: 50.1 μm Press: Manual iron press Kabuto PCA-3223 manufactured by Europort Co., Ltd.

[0250] (b) Reference example The image side of the direct printing medium on which the image was formed was placed on the above-mentioned cloth, and a thermal transfer printer was used to print an entire area of ​​10 cm x 10 cm under the following conditions. This resulted in a printed product. Since a thermal head was used for secondary transfer, this method is referred to as a direct printing method and is used as a reference example.

[0251] <Conditions for thermal transfer printers> Thermal head: F3589 (Toshiba Hokuto Electronics Co., Ltd.) Heating element average resistance: 5015Ω Printing voltage: 19V Main scanning resolution: 300 dpi (dots per inch) Sub-scanning resolution: 300 dpi Line speed: 6.0 msec. / line Pulse duty ratio: 85% Tone value: Image (sublimation) 255 / 255 (maximum energy tone)

[0252] (2) Transferability The printed matter was visually observed to confirm whether the image had been transferred to all of the recessed and protruding parts of the surface of the fabric in the printed area. A: The image is transferred to the entire surface of the fabric, regardless of whether it is a concave or convex part. B: There are areas where the transfer has not occurred in the recesses on the fabric surface (white spots have occurred).

[0253] (3) Surface condition The printed matter was visually observed, and the printed part was compared with the T-shirt fabric to evaluate the sense of incongruity. A: The image is formed following the unevenness of the fabric, making the most of the fabric material (no sense of incongruity). B: There are uneven shades (uneven transfer) and glossy areas (appearing as if a sticker has been stuck on), and the printed area feels strange compared to the fabric.

[0254] [Table 1]

[0255] In Examples 1 to 8, prints were produced using an intermediate transfer medium having a foamable layer, and the expanded foamable layer was peeled off together with the substrate after secondary transfer, resulting in good transferability and surface condition. On the other hand, in Comparative Examples 1 and 2, the intermediate transfer medium did not have a foamable layer, resulting in poor transferability and surface condition. In the Reference Example, a thermal head was used for secondary transfer, resulting in insufficient heat and pressure during secondary transfer, resulting in poor transferability and surface condition.

[0256] (4) Arithmetic mean height Sa The Sa of the transfer surface of the fabric used to produce the print and the Sa of the surface of the printed portion of the print of Example 3 were measured in accordance with ISO 25178:2012 using a Keyence VK-X150 shape measurement laser microscope. The measurement range was 1070 μm × 1400 μm, and the magnification was 10x. When producing the print, two methods were used: peeling method 1, in which the fabric was peeled from the substrate of the intermediate transfer medium and the expanded foamable layer after secondary transfer, and peeling method 2, in which the substrate of the intermediate transfer medium and the expanded foamable layer were peeled from the fabric after secondary transfer. Furthermore, when calculating the ratio Sa2 / Sa1, the value of Sa of the transfer surface of the fabric was used as Sa1.

[0257] [Table 2]

[0258] In Examples 5 to 8, the same foamable layer as in Example 3 was used, and therefore it is believed that the same results as in Example 3 were obtained.

[0259] [Rating 2] Prints were produced using the intermediate transfer medium and the thermal transfer sheet, and the transferability and surface condition were evaluated.

[0260] (1) Creation of prints (1-1) Primary transcription First, coated paper (iCOAT SAU 186.1, 165 μm thick, manufactured by Daio Paper Co., Ltd.) was prepared as a support layer for the release member. A weak adhesive (LKG-1104, manufactured by Fujikura Kasei Co., Ltd.) was applied to one side of the coated paper to a dry thickness of 3 μm, and dried at 100°C for 1 minute to form a weak adhesive layer (resin layer), thereby obtaining a release member. Next, the weak adhesive layer (resin layer) side of the release member was bonded to the substrate side of the intermediate transfer medium. This resulted in an intermediate transfer medium with a release member. Next, using a thermal transfer printer, the colorant layer (Ye, Mg, Cy) and heat seal layer of the thermal transfer sheet were transferred to the receiving layer side of the intermediate transfer medium under the following conditions, forming a 10 cm x 10 cm black solid image. For Example 10, under the following conditions, the colorant layer (Ye, Mg, Cy) of the thermal transfer sheet was transferred to the surface of the receiving layer of the intermediate transfer medium, forming a 10 cm x 10 cm black solid image, and then the concealing layer and heat seal layer were transferred in sequence onto the black solid image.

[0261] <Conditions for thermal transfer printers> Thermal head: F3589 (Toshiba Hokuto Electronics Co., Ltd.) Heating element average resistance: 5015Ω Printing voltage: 19V Main scanning resolution: 300 dpi (dots per inch) Sub-scanning resolution: 300 dpi Line speed: 6.0 msec. / line Pulse duty ratio: 85% Tone value: 255 / 255 (maximum energy tone)

[0262] (1-2) Secondary transfer (a) Examples 1 to 9 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2 First, the intermediate transfer medium on which the image was formed was peeled off from the image receiving paper. Next, the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium on which the image was formed was placed on the following cloth, and the cloth was pressed with a load of 320 g / cm using the following press machine. 2 The image was transferred to the fabric by heating and pressing at a temperature of 160°C for 180 seconds. After cooling, the expanded foamable layer and the substrate were peeled off from the transfer layer transferred to the fabric. This resulted in a printed image. Fabric: 3.5 oz. T-shirt (white), manufactured by Toms Co., Ltd., 100% polyester. Arithmetic mean height Sa of the transfer surface: 50.1 μm Press: Manual iron press Kabuto PCA-3223 manufactured by Europort Co., Ltd.

[0263] (b) Example 10 A print was obtained in the same manner as in (a) above, except that the following fabric was used. Fabric: 3.5 oz. T-shirt (black), manufactured by Toms Co., Ltd., 100% polyester. Arithmetic mean height Sa of the transferred surface: 50.1 μm

[0264] (c) Example 11 Load 320g / cm when heated and pressed 2 A print was obtained in the same manner as in (a) above, except that the conditions were a temperature of 140° C. and a time of 180 seconds.

[0265] (d) Example 12 Load 320g / cm when heated and pressed 2 A print was obtained in the same manner as in (a) above, except that the conditions were a temperature of 190° C. and a time of 180 seconds.

[0266] (e) Example 13 The intermediate transfer medium on which the image was formed was that of Example 3. A printed matter was obtained in the same manner as in (a) above, except that the following fabric was used. Fabric: 100% cotton, arithmetic mean height Sa of transferred surface: 48.19 μm

[0267] (f) Example 14 The intermediate transfer medium on which the image was formed was that of Example 3. A printed matter was obtained in the same manner as in (a) above, except that the following fabric was used. Fabric: ACT-00300, 4.4 oz. T-shirt (white), manufactured by Toms Co., Ltd., 100% polyester. Arithmetic mean height Sa of the transfer surface: 101.59 μm

[0268] (2) Transferability The printed matter was visually observed to confirm whether the image had been transferred to all of the recessed and protruding parts of the surface of the fabric in the printed area. A: The image is transferred to the entire surface of the fabric, regardless of whether it is a concave or convex part. B: There are areas where the transfer has not occurred in the recesses on the fabric surface (white spots have occurred). C: Almost no transfer to the fabric surface.

[0269] (3) Surface condition The printed matter was visually observed, and the printed part was compared with the T-shirt fabric to evaluate the sense of incongruity. A1: The image is formed following the unevenness of the fabric, making the most of the fabric material (no sense of incongruity). A2: There are some shiny areas (looking as if a sticker has been stuck on), but it doesn't look strange. B: There are uneven shades (uneven transfer) and glossy areas (appearing as if a sticker has been stuck on), and the printed area feels strange compared to the fabric. F: The surface condition could not be evaluated because the image could not be transferred to the fabric.

[0270] [Table 3]

[0271] (4) Arithmetic mean height Sa, maximum height Sz, arithmetic mean curvature of the peak Spc, and developed area ratio of the interface Sdr The Sa, Sz, Spc, and Sdr of the transfer surface of the fabric used to create the print were measured in accordance with ISO 25178:2012 using a Keyence VK-X150 shape measurement laser microscope. The measurement range was 1070 μm x 1400 μm, and the magnification was 10x. For reference, the Sa, Sz, Spc, and Sdr of the receiving paper and copy paper were also measured in the same way.

[0272] [Table 4]

[0273] (5) Arithmetic mean height Sa The Sa of the transfer surface of the fabric used to produce the print and the Sa of the surface of the printed portion of the print of Example 3 were measured in accordance with ISO 25178:2012 using a Keyence VK-X150 shape measurement laser microscope. The measurement range was 1070 μm × 1400 μm, and the magnification was 10x. When producing the print, two methods were used: peeling method 1, in which the fabric was peeled from the substrate of the intermediate transfer medium and the expanded foamable layer after secondary transfer, and peeling method 2, in which the substrate of the intermediate transfer medium and the expanded foamable layer were peeled from the fabric after secondary transfer. Furthermore, when calculating the ratio Sa2 / Sa1, the value of Sa of the transfer surface of the fabric was used as Sa1.

[0274] [Table 5]

[0275] In Examples 5 to 10, the same foamable layer as in Example 3 was used, and therefore it is believed that the same results as in Example 3 were obtained.

[0276] In the present disclosure, for example, the following inventions are provided. [1] An intermediate transfer medium having, in order, a substrate, a foamable layer containing a foaming agent, and a transfer layer, The intermediate transfer medium is one in which the foamable layer and the transfer layer are separable from each other, and the foaming agent is in an unfoamed state. [2] The intermediate transfer medium according to [1], wherein the foaming agent foams when the transfer layer is transferred to a transfer-receiving body. [3] The intermediate transfer medium according to [1], wherein the transfer layer has a printable surface on the side opposite to the foamable layer. [4] The intermediate transfer medium according to [3], wherein the printable surface of the transfer layer is a surface that can be printed by an on-demand printing method. [5] The intermediate transfer medium according to [4], wherein the on-demand printing method is at least one printing method selected from the group consisting of a thermal transfer method, an inkjet method, and an electrophotographic method. [6] The intermediate transfer medium according to any one of [1] to [5], wherein the foaming agent is a thermal foaming agent. [7] The intermediate transfer medium according to any one of [1] to [6], wherein the foamable layer is a single layer or multiple layers. [8] The intermediate transfer medium according to any one of [1] to [7], wherein the foamable layer has, in order from the substrate side, a foaming agent-containing layer containing the foaming agent and a release layer. [9] The intermediate transfer medium according to any one of [1] to [8], further comprising a first adhesive layer between the substrate and the foamable layer.

[10] The intermediate transfer medium according to any one of [1] to [9], wherein the transfer layer has a receiving layer on the surface opposite to the foamable layer.

[11] The intermediate transfer medium according to any one of [1] to

[10] , wherein the transfer layer has, in order from the foamable layer side, a release layer and a receiving layer.

[12] The intermediate transfer medium according to any one of [1] to

[11] , wherein the thickness of the substrate is 20 μm or more.

[0277]

[13] An intermediate transfer medium with a release member, comprising: the intermediate transfer medium according to any one of [1] to

[12] ; and a release member disposed on the surface of the intermediate transfer medium facing the substrate.

[0278]

[14] A combination of the intermediate transfer medium according to any one of [1] to

[12] and a thermal transfer sheet, wherein the thermal transfer sheet has a colorant layer.

[15] The combination according to

[14] , wherein the thermal transfer sheet further has a concealing layer.

[16] The combination according to

[14] or

[15] , wherein the thermal transfer sheet has the colorant layer and the heat seal layer on the same side of the support.

[17] A combination of the intermediate transfer medium according to any one of [1] to

[12] , a thermal transfer sheet, and a transferee, wherein the thermal transfer sheet has a colorant layer.

[18] The combination according to

[17] , wherein the arithmetic mean height Sa of the transferred surface of the transferred body is 1.0 μm or more and 200 μm or less.

[19] The combination according to

[17] , wherein the object is a textile.

[20] The combination according to

[17] , wherein the object is a textile, and the arithmetic mean height Sa of the surface of the object is 1.0 μm or more and 200 μm or less.

[0279] [twenty one] A print product comprising: a transfer layer having an image and disposed on a transfer surface of the transfer layer; the arithmetic mean height Sa of the transferred surface of the transferred body is 1.0 μm or more and 200 μm or less, The printed matter has an arithmetic mean height Sa of the transfer layer on the surface opposite to the transfer-receiving body, which is 1.0 μm or more and 200 μm or less. [twenty two] A print product comprising: a transfer layer having an image and disposed on a transfer surface of the transfer layer; the object is a textile, The printed matter has an arithmetic mean height Sa of the transfer layer on the surface opposite to the transfer-receiving body, which is 1.0 μm or more and 200 μm or less. [twenty three] A print product comprising: a transfer layer having an image and disposed on a transfer surface of the transfer layer; A printed matter in which Sa2 / Sa1≧0.05, where Sa1 is the arithmetic mean height of the surface of the transfer object in the area where the transfer layer is not disposed, and Sa2 is the arithmetic mean height of the surface of the transfer layer opposite the transfer object. [twenty three] A print product comprising: a transfer layer having an image and disposed on a transfer surface of the transfer layer; A printed matter in which Sa2 / Sa1≧0.10, where Sa1 is the arithmetic mean height of the surface of the transfer object in the area where the transfer layer is not disposed, and Sa2 is the arithmetic mean height of the surface of the transfer layer opposite the transfer object. [twenty four] The printed matter according to any one of

[21] to

[23] , in which the coloring material contained in the image is transferred only to the transfer layer. In other words, the printed matter according to any one of

[21] to

[23] , in which the coloring material contained in the image is not transferred to the transferee. [twenty five] The printed matter according to any one of

[21] to

[24] , wherein the transfer layer has an uneven shape on the side opposite to the object to be transferred, which is different from the shape of the object to be transferred and the shapes of the layers constituting the transfer layer other than the layer located on the side opposite to the object to be transferred of the layers constituting the transfer layer.

[26] The printed matter according to any one of

[21] to

[25] , which has a concealing layer between the transfer object and the transfer layer having the image.

[0280]

[27] a preparation step of preparing an intermediate transfer medium having, in order, a substrate, a foamable layer containing a foaming agent, and a transfer layer; an image forming step of forming an image on the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium; a transfer step of placing the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium on which the image has been formed, facing the surface of a transferee, and applying heat and pressure to expand the foamable layer while transferring the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium on which the image has been formed to the surface of the transferee; a peeling step of peeling the substrate and the expanded foamable layer from the transfer layer transferred to the transfer surface of the transfer recipient; A method for producing a printed matter comprising the steps of:

[28] The method for producing a printed matter according to

[27] , wherein in the image forming step, the image is formed by an on-demand printing method.

[29] The method for producing a printed matter according to

[27] , wherein the on-demand printing method is at least one printing method selected from the group consisting of a thermal transfer method, an inkjet method, and an electrophotographic method.

[30] The method for producing a print according to any one of

[27] to

[29] , wherein the foamable layer is a single layer or multiple layers.

[31] The method for producing a printed matter according to any one of

[27] to

[30] , wherein the foamable layer has, in order from the substrate side, a foaming agent-containing layer containing the foaming agent and a release layer.

[32] The method for producing a print according to any one of

[27] to

[31] , wherein a first adhesive layer is disposed between the substrate and the foamable layer.

[33] The method for producing a printed matter according to any one of

[27] to

[32] , wherein the transfer layer has a release layer on the surface on the foamable layer side.

[34] The method for producing a printed matter according to

[33] , wherein the release layer also serves as a protective layer.

[35] The method for producing a printed matter according to any one of

[27] to

[34] , wherein the transfer layer has a receiving layer on the surface opposite to the foamable layer.

[36] The method for producing a printed matter according to any one of

[27] to

[35] , wherein the transfer layer has, in order from the foamable layer side, a release layer and a receiving layer.

[37] The method for producing a printed matter according to any one of

[27] to

[36] , wherein the arithmetic mean height Sa of the transfer surface of the transfer object is 1.0 μm or more and 200 μm or less.

[38] The method for producing a printed matter according to any one of

[27] to

[37] , wherein the object to be transferred is a textile.

[39] a second adhesive layer forming step of forming a second adhesive layer on the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium only in an area where the image is formed, between the image forming step and the transfer step; A method for producing a printed matter described in any one of

[27] to

[38] , wherein in the transfer step, only the portion of the transfer layer that overlaps with the second adhesive layer is transferred to the transfer surface of the transfer object.

[40] a second adhesive layer forming step of forming a second adhesive layer on a surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium in an area slightly larger than an area where the image is formed, between the image forming step and the transfer step; A method for producing a printed matter described in any one of

[27] to

[38] , wherein in the transfer step, only the portion of the transfer layer that overlaps with the second adhesive layer is transferred to the transfer surface of the transfer object.

[41] a block layer forming step of forming a block layer on a surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium in an area where the image is not formed, between the image forming step and the transfer step; The method for producing a printed matter according to any one of

[27] to

[38] , wherein in the transfer step, only a portion of the transfer layer that does not overlap with the block layer is transferred to the transfer surface of the transfer object.

[42] a removing step of, between the image forming step and the transfer step, heat-pressing a peel-off layer onto the surface of the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium, and then removing a part of the transfer layer by the peel-off layer; A method for producing a printed matter according to any one of

[27] to

[38] , wherein in the transfer step, the portion of the transfer layer that has not been removed in the removal step is transferred to the transfer surface of the transfer object.

[0281]

[43]

[13] An image-bearing intermediate transfer medium comprising the intermediate transfer medium according to any one of [1] to

[12] , wherein the transfer layer of the intermediate transfer medium bears an image. [Explanation of symbols]

[0282] 1 … Base material 2...Foam layer 2a ... foaming agent-containing layer 2b... Release layer 2c … Intermediate adhesive layer 3... Transfer layer 4...First adhesive layer 10... Intermediate transfer medium 11... Receptor 12... peeling layer 13…protective layer 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E Thermal transfer sheets 22 … Coloring material layer 23... Heat seal layer 24... Hidden Layer 25 … Images 26... Peel-off layer 27... Block layer 28…Second adhesive layer 50...printed materials 51 … Transferred object

Claims

1. A print comprising a transfer surface and a transfer layer having an image, wherein the transfer surface of the transfer surface is disposed of the transfer surface of the transfer surface, The arithmetic mean height Sa of the transfer surface of the transfer object is 1.0 μm or more and 200 μm or less. A printed object in which the arithmetic mean height Sa of the transfer layer on the side opposite to the object to be transferred is 1.0 μm or more and 200 μm or less.

2. A print comprising a transfer surface and a transfer layer having an image, wherein the transfer surface of the transfer surface is disposed of the transfer surface of the transfer surface, The material to be transferred is a textile, A printed object in which the arithmetic mean height Sa of the transfer layer on the side opposite to the object to be transferred is 1.0 μm or more and 200 μm or less.

3. A print comprising a transfer surface and a transfer layer having an image, wherein the transfer surface of the transfer surface is disposed of the transfer surface of the transfer surface, Let Sa1 be the arithmetic mean height of the surface of the object to be transferred in the region where the transfer layer is not placed, and Sa2 be the arithmetic mean height of the surface of the transfer layer opposite to the object to be transferred. Then Sa2 / Sa1 ≥ 0.

05. A printed object having an opacity layer between the object to be transferred and the transfer layer having the image.

4. The print according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the colorant contained in the image is transferred only to the transfer layer.

5. The print according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the transfer layer has an uneven shape on the side opposite to the object to be transferred that is different from the shape of the object to be transferred and the shape of the layers constituting the transfer layer other than the layer located on the side of the transfer layer opposite to the object to be transferred.

6. The print according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein an opacity layer is provided between the object to be transferred and the transfer layer having the image.

Images