A waterless eco-friendly printing method for fabrics made from natural fiber

Abstract

A printing method specifically for fabrics made from natural fibers used in the textile industry, characterized in that; including, - Selecting release paper (1) with a weight of 20-120 g / m² (S1001), - Coating the release paper (1) with a transfer layer (3) weighing 3-12 g / m² (S1002), - Printing a pattern on the release paper (20) with a coated transfer layer using a digital printing machine (S1003), - Combining the pattern-printed transfer paper (30) with a fabric made from natural fibers and transferring the pattern onto the fabric using a press that applies 50-200 kg / cm² pressure and 120-220°C temperature (S1004), - Collecting the transfer paper used as a pattern carrier as waste (S1005), - Collecting the fabric made of natural fiber with printing process, i.e. transfer process (S1006).

Description

[0001] A Waterless Eco-Friendly Printing Method for Fabrics Made from Natural Fiber

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The invention relates to a waterless eco-friendly printing method for fabrics made from natural fiber, specifically used in the textile industry.

[0004] Prior Art

[0005] The textile industry, which involves the use of natural and synthetic fibers, collaborates with the agricultural sector for the production of natural fibers and with the petrochemical industry for the production of synthetic fibers. All stages of the textile process, from fiber production to the final product, are technically connected with many sectors, including automotive, construction, decoration, medicine, and heavy industry.

[0006] The industry produces almost all types of yarns, from ready-to-wear clothing to home textiles. Especially in cotton-based production, the use of technology is quite high, and there is a well-established structure. A significant portion of fabric production in Turkey is done with cotton. Turkey is a very important cotton producer. This raw material advantage is clearly evident in the ready-to-wear industry. The country's traditional cotton production positively impacts the sector. However, since Turkey's domestic demand has exceeded its production quantity, Turkey has become a net importer of cotton. As a quality cotton producer, Turkey has an integrated and diverse product range in all textile production. It produces and exports all types of yams, fabrics, ready-to-wear, and home decoration products. Turkey ranks 7th in the world and 1st in Europe in cotton production.

[0007] In Turkey, where the production of cotton fabrics is intensive, large volumes of water are used from the beginning to the end of processes such as washing yarns, bleaching, dyeing, and washing final products. The textile industry, after the metal industry, generates a total of 131,315,000 m3of wastewater annually, approximately 57% of which is discharged without treatment.

[0008] In wet processes, wastewater contains high levels of Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) in processes such as sizing removal and boiling, Absorbable Organic Halides (AOX) in bleaching, and BOD, Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), and metals in dyeing processes, depending on the specific process. Additionally, dyeing, printing, and finishing processes result in high levels of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC). In Turkey, textile factories also commonly use less costly river, lake, and well water as additional sources. A small portion of the large amounts of water used initially is retained in the product, resulting in a significant volume of wastewater. Consequently, the consumption of natural water resources is increasing day by day. This also leads to the formation of wastewater, causing the pollution of clean water sources and environmental degradation. Efficient use of water in textiles and the treatment of wastewater will reduce the environmental impact of water consumption.

[0009] In recent years, with the advancement of technology, developments in the textile industry, like in many other sectors, have played a significant role in the increase of environmental problems. The most critical issue in the Turkish textile industry is the discharge of large volumes of chemically intensive water into receiving environments. The liquid waste generated during production includes dyeing agents used in the production process. Especially in finishing operations, large volumes of water are used from the beginning to the end of processes such as washing wool and yarns, bleaching, dyeing, and washing final products. Additionally, textile factories commonly use less costly river, lake, and well water as supplementary sources. Therefore, the primary environmental problems that may arise include threats to marine and riverine life, depletion of natural resources, eutrophication, acidification, and impacts on human health.

[0010] Water plays a significant role in the textile industry. If we consider the textile sector as an umbrella industry, all its sub-sectors also involve substantial water consumption. Nearly all dyes and chemicals are applied to fabrics in the form of water baths. Various steps such as desizing, cleaning, bleaching, and mercerizing use large amounts of water. The water used in this way returns to the ecosystem without treatment. The dyes and chemicals used during the milling process are sent back to water sources, polluting both groundwater and surface water. As mentioned earlier, the increase in pollution results in a significant decrease in the amount of clean and usable water. This pollution greatly affects the people and organisms in the ecosystem, putting their lives at risk.

[0011] Compared to other printing techniques, the transfer printing method is preferred in the textile industry as it results in the least water consumption among existing techniques. In the transfer printing method, the print is first applied to a carrier material and then transferred to the fabric using heat and pressing. Since it does not require any pre- or post-treatment, there is no need for water during the application, and thus, no water consumption occurs. This printing technique is currently applied using various digital and analog printing machines. Today, the digital printing technique is preferred as a developing and growing application method.

[0012] In the prior art, the pattern and / or color intended to be printed on the surface of the fabric made from natural fiber is first printed on a paper called transfer paper, which consists of two layers, using a digital printing machine. The first layer of the transfer paper is a film layer that absorbs the dye and allows the transfer, while the second layer is a release paper that carries the film layer until it is transferred to the desired surface when heat and pressure are applied.

[0013] The film layer on the transfer paper, which contains the printed pattern intended to be transferred to the fabric made from natural fiber, is transferred along with the printed pattern onto the surface of the natural fiber fabric using a transfer printing machine that applies a certain amount of heat and pressure.

[0014] In the current printing process, the heat applied by the transfer press is often 120- 200°C, more often 140-180°C, and most often 160°C. The pressure applied in the mentioned printing process is often 0.5-5 kg / cm2, more often 0.5-2 kg / cm2, and most often 1 kg / cm2.

[0015] In the current transfer printing technique used for fabrics made from natural fiber, the pattern is printed onto the transfer film using digital printing machines, and then the printed film is transferred onto the fabric surface using heat transfer presses. The existing technique takes advantage of the thermoplastic properties of the film. Depending on the chemical structure of the film, it becomes fluid when a certain amount of heat is applied and partially penetrates the surface of the fabric made from natural fiber it comes into contact with. After the heat application is stopped, the film begins to cool and adheres to the fabric with greater force than to the carrier paper. As a result, when the paper and fabric are separated, the film layer adheres to the fabric surface, forming a layer on it. The transferred film has a minimum weight of 20 g / m2or more. The reason for applying the transferred fdm at weights of at least 20 g / m2or more is that layers applied at lower weights do not sufficiently penetrate the fabric's surface and therefore do not adhere well to the fabric surface. Insufficient penetration of the film into the fabric results in the finished product not meeting the expected physical durability conditions such as washing, rubbing, and scratching. If the product does not meet the specified conditions for durability against washing, rubbing, and scratching within general guidelines, it means that the product cannot be used, i.e., it cannot be a commercial product.

[0016] In another existing transfer printing method, the pattern to be transferred is printed onto a single-layer transfer film using a digital printing machine. Subsequently, a thermoplastic resin is applied over the pattern using a silk screen printing technique and allowed to dry. The pattern is then transferred to the fabric with the aid of a heat press. In this printing method, the combined amount of thermoplastic resin and the pattern exceeds 20 g / m2to meet the fastness requirements. This results in the fabric surface becoming stiff, the pattern area preventing the fabric from breathing, and negatively affecting the tactile sensation of the person touching the patterned area. Thus, this existing printing technique also causes the physical properties of the surface to change adversely for the user.

[0017] Another existing transfer printing technique is sublimation transfer printing. Sublimation printing is a method based on the principle where a solid material, referred to as "sublime," transitions directly from a solid state to a gas state without becoming liquid when heat is applied. This printing process occurs when sublimation inks used in digital transfer printing react in this manner during printing. Sublimation dye particles exist as micro-particles in solid form within the sublimation ink. The sublimation ink is transferred onto transfer printing papers via digital printing machines. When the transfer printing papers are placed on the surface to be printed and pressed under predetermined temperatures using transfer printing machines, the solid sublimation dye particles in micro-particle form on the transfer paper transition into a gas state. The fabric being printed captures the dye from the transfer printing paper, thereby completing the printing process. If polyester molecules are present in the environment, the gasified dye colors the polyester molecules. If the surface to be printed does not contain polyester, the gasified dye disperses into the air. Therefore, it is understood that the products to be printed using the sublimation transfer method must contain polyester or polyamide molecules; otherwise, the transfer cannot be achieved. As explained above, sublimation transfer printing requires polyester molecules in the fabric to transfer the ink from the transfer paper to the fabric. This means that the sublimation technique can be applied to fabrics containing at least 60% polyester. Today, sublimation transfer printing is extensively used for printing on various fabrics used in ready-to-wear clothing, sportswear, home textiles, decoration, and the advertising sector, as well as for printing on polyester-coated metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, and similar products. The downside of this technique is that it can only be applied to fabrics made from synthetic fibers. The sublimation printing technique cannot be used on fabrics made entirely or predominantly from natural fibers because it does not meet the wash fastness requirements for these fabrics.

[0018] As mentioned above, various digital transfer printing techniques are used for fabrics made from both natural and synthetic fibers. However, unfortunately, none of the current printing techniques applied to fabrics made from natural fibers can complete the printing process without water consumption, unlike the sublimation printing technique used for synthetic fabrics. On the contrary, the existing digital printing techniques applied industrially for natural fiber prints involve multiple waterconsuming and non-eco-friendly processes.

[0019] In the prior art described in the American patent document with the code US20020054992, there is mention of an image transfer medium for inkjet printing, a transfer printing process, and a transfer printing fabric. The mentioned printing method includes a release layer and a transfer layer containing fine particles of thermoplastic resin and a polymeric binder. A thermoplastic resin is used as the polymeric binder. The patent document in question does not discuss printing on fabrics made from natural fibers.

[0020] In the methods used in the prior art, increasing the application amount of the transfer film enhances both the quantity that penetrates the fabric and the physical strength of the film. The minimum application amount required to meet the physical durability conditions of the transfer film leads to the elimination of the fabric's air permeability, the creation of an undesirable and unacceptable tactile sensation, and the formation of a stiffness that removes the fabric's softness. To eliminate these negative effects, applying the transfer film below the minimum application amount results in insufficient penetration of the transferred film into the fabric. The insufficient penetration of the film into the fabric results in the final product not meeting the expected physical durability conditions such as washing, rubbing, and scratching. Consequently, the product fails to meet the specified standards for durability against washing, rubbing, and scratching, as outlined in general guidelines. As a result, the product becomes unusable and cannot be commercially viable.

[0021] Objective of the Invention

[0022] The objective of the invention is to prevent undesirable and unfavorable outcomes such as the elimination of air permeability in fabrics made from natural fibers, the creation of an unwanted and unacceptable tactile sensation, and the formation of a stiffness that removes the softness of the fabric. Another objective of the invention is to ensure that the film layer penetrates the fabric more effectively to achieve better adhesion of the film layer to the surface of the fabric made from natural fibers.

[0023] Another objective of the invention is to develop a printing method for fabrics made from natural fibers that provides new business opportunities and higher profitability.

[0024] Another objective of the invention is to develop a printing method for fabrics made from natural fibers that offers an unlimited range of colors.

[0025] Another objective of the invention is to develop a printing method for fabrics made from natural fibers that enables rapid production.

[0026] Another objective of the invention is to develop a printing method for fabrics made from natural fibers that ensures durable prints.

[0027] Another objective of the invention is to develop an eco-friendly printing method for fabrics made from natural fibers that produces minimal waste.

[0028] Another objective of the invention is to develop an environmentally friendly printing method that does not consume water, thereby preventing the discharge of large volumes of chemically intensive water into receiving environments.

[0029] Another objective of the invention is to develop an economical printing method for fabrics made from natural fibers that does not consume water, thereby eliminating the need to treat chemically intensive water such as liquid waste and dyeing agents produced in water-consuming printing systems.

[0030] To achieve the mentioned objectives, the developed printing method includes the following steps;

[0031] - Selecting release paper (1) with a weight of 20-120 g / m2(SI 001 ),

[0032] - Coating the release paper (1) with a transfer layer (3) weighing 3-12 g / m2(SI 002),

[0033] - Printing a pattern on the release paper (20) with a coated transfer layer using a digital printing machine (S1003),

[0034] - Combining the pattern-printed transfer paper (30) with a fabric made from natural fibers and transferring the pattern onto the fabric using a press that applies 50-200 kg / cm2pressure and 120-220°C temperature (SI 004),

[0035] - Collecting the transfer paper used as a pattern carrier as waste ( SI 005 ),

[0036] - Collecting the fabric made of natural fibre with printing process, i.e. transfer process (S1006).

[0037] Description of the Figures

[0038] Attached are: Figure - 1 is a front sectional view of the paper coating machine.

[0039] Figure- 2 is a front sectional view of the transfer layer coating process.

[0040] Figure - 3 is a front sectional view of the digital printing machine.

[0041] Figure - 4 is a front sectional view of the pattern printing process.

[0042] Figure- 5 is a front sectional view of the high-pressure and heated transfer press. Figure - 6 is a front sectional view of the pattern transfer process onto the fabric. Figure- 7 is the workflow of the printing method subject to the invention.

[0043] The main parts indicated in the figures are listed below by number and name.

[0044] (A) Paper coating machine

[0045] (B) High-pressure and heated transfer press

[0046] (C) High-pressure and heated transfer press

[0047] (D) Digital printing machine

[0048] (Ml) Pressure roller

[0049] (M2) Heated roller

[0050] (1) Release paper

[0051] (2) Release layer

[0052] (3) Transfer layer

[0053] (3.1) Pattern-printed transfer layer

[0054] (4) Fabric

[0055] (10) Release paper with release layer

[0056] (20) Release paper (1) with release layer coated with transfer layer (3)

[0057] (30) Pattern-printed transfer paper

[0058] (40) Release paper (1) with release layer with transferred pattern

[0059] (50) Natural fiber fabric with transferred pattern

[0060] Detailed Description of the Figures

[0061] To eliminate the negative effects expressed in the prior art, the amount of the film transferred to the surface of the fabric must be applied at less than 15 g / m2Reducing the amount transferred to the fabric's surface prevents undesirable and unfavorable outcomes such as the elimination of air permeability, the creation of an unwanted and unacceptable tactile sensation, and the formation of a stiffness that removes the fabric's softness. In the prior art, as the amount of film transferred to the surface of the fabric made from natural fibers is reduced, both positive and negative outcomes emerge. The positive outcomes are as follows;

[0062] It does not affect the existing air permeability of the fabric, thereby preventing negative conditions such as sweating for the person using a product made from the fabric.

[0063] The degree of fabric stiffening is also reduced, thereby not adversely affecting the comfort provided by the softness of the fabric.

[0064] The negative impact on the tactile sensation of the fabric surface is also reduced.

[0065] The negative outcome that arises as the amount of film transferred to the surface of the fabric made from natural fibers is reduced is that the wash fastness of the fabric decreases to unacceptable levels.

[0066] In the printing methods used in the prior art, the amount of pressure per cm2ranges from 0-5 kg. Pressure of 0-5 kg / cm2, under conditions where the transfer layer (3) is applied at 15 g / m2and above, allows sufficient penetration into the fabric surface to meet quality requirements. However, this situation leads to undesirable negative effects on fabric quality.

[0067] In the prior art, if the fdm layer transferred to the fabric surface falls to 15 g / m2or below, the press applied with 0-5 kg / cm2pressure ensures the adhesion of the fdm to the fabric surface. However, under usage conditions that involve physical durability challenges such as wetting and rubbing, the film cannot maintain its structural integrity and adhesion on the fabric surface, nor can it preserve the structural integrity of the dye on it. This situation results in the product not meeting the expected quality standards after transfer.

[0068] The invention relates to a waterless eco-friendly printing method for fabrics made from natural fibers, specifically used in the textile industry. Since there is no water consumption, the environmental damage caused by water-consuming printing methods is eliminated. Additionally, in printing methods that consume water, intense chemicals mix with the water, requiring treatment before being released into nature. Treatment systems are complex and expensive. Therefore, with the printing method of the invention, there is no need for treatment systems.

[0069] The printing method of the invention involves using a two-layer transfer paper consisting of release layer (2) and transfer layer (3) to print on fabrics made from natural fibers. The formulation of the transfer layer (3) followed the steps below: initially, a coating formulation containing liquid resin, wax, surface tension agent, and various additives was applied onto silicone paper. However, coating formulation- 1 could not achieve the desired coating form on silicone paper, so the coating medium was changed to polyester film.

[0070] The composition of the invention consists of acrylic binder, Copolyamide resin, water-based dispersion of thermoplastic elastomers, poly dimethylsiloxane emulsion (foam controller), polyether-modified siloxane (or silicone surfactant), polyether macromer-modified polyacrylate (surface tension agent), and non-ionic HD polyethylene wax emulsion. The formulation is obtained from mixtures of the above components in the following weight ratios..

[0071] The proportions by weight of the paper coating formulation - 1 are as follows:

[0072] - %33.15 Water

[0073] %27 Acrylic binder

[0074] % 18.7 Copolyamide resin

[0075] %7.28 Blocked isocyanate

[0076] %3.67 Polyethylene wax emulsion

[0077] %3.34 Calcined calcium carbonate

[0078] %2.33 Polyether modified siloxane (or silicone surfactant)

[0079] %2.32 Acrylic thickener

[0080] % 1.87 Styrene modified maleic acid copolymer solution (or wetting and dispersing agent)

[0081] %0.28 Polyether modified polydimethylsiloxane solution (or defoamer)

[0082] The chemicals used in the formulation mentioned above, acrylic binder; used to increase adhesion and ensure better adhesion of the ink to the fabric. Calcined calcium carbonate resin; used to further strengthen bonding. Blocked isocyanate; activated after 160 degrees Celsius to help bond fabric and dye together. Polyethylene wax emulsion; used to increase scratch resistance of the coating. Calcined calcium carbonate; used as a filler to properly absorb ink into the layer. Silicone surface agent; provided for smooth application of the coating onto the carrier media. Acrylic thickener; provided to adjust the viscosity for smooth application of the coating. Wetting agent; used to ensure proper suspension of calcium carbonate particles used as a filler in the coating formulation, preventing sedimentation and agglomeration. Used to prevent foam formation during mixing of the coating formulation.

[0083] In the sample prepared according to the specified ratios, after printing and transfer onto cotton fabric, scratching and waving were observed. Additionally, after printing, ink residue was observed on the paper. Colors showed blurring. The ink did not absorb at the desired rate. There were ink bleedings in some areas. Gradient transitions were not as smooth as desired. Scratch resistance on the fabric surface was low. Due to these drawbacks, the raw material ratios were adjusted to obtain formulation-2.

[0084] The proportions by weight of the paper coating formulation - 2 are as follows:

[0085] - %34 Water

[0086] %27.76 Acrylic binder

[0087] % 19.92 Copolyamide resin

[0088] %7.14 Blocked isocyanate

[0089] %3.48 Polyethylene wax emulsion

[0090] %3.4 Calcined calcium carbonate

[0091] %2.10 Polyether modified siloxane (or silicone surfactant)

[0092] % 1.83 Styrene modified maleic acid copolymer solution (or wetting and dispersing agent)

[0093] %0.34 Polyether modified polydimethylsiloxane solution (or defoamer)

[0094] The chemicals used in the formulation mentioned above, Acrylic binder was used to increase adhesion and improve ink adhesion to the fabric. Copolyamide resin was used to further strengthen bonding. Blocked isocyanate was activated after 160 degrees Celsius to help bond the fabric and dye together. Polyethylene wax emulsion was used to increase scratch resistance of the coating. Calcined calcium carbonate served as a filler to ensure proper ink absorption by the layer. Silicone surface agent was provided to ensure smooth application of the coating on the carrier media. Wetting agent was used to prevent sedimentation and agglomeration of calcium carbonate particles used as fillers in the coating formulation. It was used to prevent foam formation during formulation.

[0095] According to the specified ratios, in the sample prepared according to Formulation 1, fluctuations and creases were not observed on the paper after drawing and printing because the viscosity-increasing chemical was withdrawn. After the transfer, there was less ink residue on the paper compared to Formulation 1. However, desired properties during printing and desired efficiency in adhesion to the fabric were not achieved, leading to a change in raw materials and resulting in Formulation 3.

[0096] The proportions by weight of the paper coating formulation - 3 are as follows: %40.84 Water-based dispersion of thermoplastic elastomers. %26.62 Acrylic binder

[0097] - % 12.44 Water

[0098] %7.04 Blocked isocyanate

[0099] %3.45 Polyethylene wax emulsion

[0100] %3.23 Calcined calcium carbonate

[0101] % 1.98 Acrylic thickener

[0102] %1.8 Styrene modified maleic acid copolymer solution (or wetting and dispersing agent)

[0103] %0.32 Polyether modified polydimethylsiloxane solution (or defoamer) %0.067 95% 2-amino-2-methyl-l-propanol solution (or pH regulator)

[0104] In the formulation mentioned above, the following chemicals, acrylic binder was used to increase adhesion and ensure better adhesion of ink to the fabric. Copolyamide resin was employed to further strengthen bonding. Blocked isocyanate, which activates after reaching 160 degrees Celsius, was used to assist in bonding fabric and dye together. Polyethylene wax emulsion was utilized to enhance the scratch resistance of the coating. Calcined calcium carbonate served as a filler to ensure proper ink absorption by the layer. Silicon surface agent was provided to enable smooth application of the coating onto the carrier media. Wetting agent was used to ensure proper suspension of calcium carbonate particles used as a filler in the coating formulation, preventing sedimentation and agglomeration. Foam suppressor was used to prevent foam formation during the formulation of the coating. pH regulator was used to adjust the pH level of the coating to the desired level required by the chemicals used in the formulation.

[0105] To eliminate the drawbacks of thickener addition, the pH level was adjusted. In the sample prepared according to the specified ratios, ink bleeding on the paper was observed after transfer. Color efficiency decreased compared to the other formulation, especially noticeable in red tones. Due to these issues, a different approach was aimed for, leading to the transition to formulation-4.

[0106] The proportions by weight of the paper coating formulation - 4 are as follows:

[0107] %72.64 Water-based dispersion of thermoplastic elastomers.

[0108] %24.9 Acrylic binder

[0109] %2.46 Polyether modified siloxane (or silicone surfactant)

[0110] In the formulation mentioned above, the water-based dispersion of thermoplastic elastomers forms the main structure of the coating, intended to melt and transfer to the fabric upon heating. Acrylic binder was used to enhance adhesion and improve ink retention on the fabric. Silicone surface agent was applied to ensure smooth application of the coating onto the carrier media. The aim was to create a smoother mixture with reduced chemical usage. Calcined calcium carbonate was removed from further experiments as it hindered the adhesion of the coating to the fabric during transfer.

[0111] According to the specified ratios, when the sample is pulled with a fine bar on paper, less streaking is observed compared to pulling with a medium bar. However, streaking in red color continues to be observed as in Formulation 3. After transfer, the ink residue was observed to be less compared to Formulation 3. Due to an increased binder ratio in the total formulation of the coating, adhesion has improved. Scratch resistance was also observed to have increased compared to the previous formulation. However, due to ongoing issues with ink residue and streaking, trials for Formulation-5 were conducted.

[0112] The proportions by weight of the paper coating formulation - 5 are as follows:

[0113] %54 Water-based dispersion of thermoplastic elastomers

[0114] % 19.5 Acrylic binder

[0115] - % 17 Water

[0116] %7.78 Urea aldehyde resin

[0117] %1.72 Alcohol alkoxylate (or wetting agent)

[0118] The chemicals used in the formulation above, the water-based dispersion of thermoplastic elastomer aim to melt upon heating and transfer onto the fabric, forming the main structure of the coating. Acrylic binder was used to enhance adhesion and ensure better ink retention on the fabric. Urea-aldehyde resin was utilized to facilitate more uniform absorption of dye by the coating. Wetting agent was employed to prevent streaking observed in red coloration.

[0119] According to the specified ratios, sharp edges were achieved after transfer in the sample prepared, thanks to urea-aldehyde resin. Unlike formulations 3 and 4, no streaking was observed in red coloration. However, occasional peeling was noticed after washing. Ink residue was minimal after printing. High viscosity led to some wrinkling on the paper. Overall, color yield was satisfactory. Due to issues with peeling and wrinkling after washing, changes in raw materials were made to achieve formulation - 6.

[0120] The proportions by weight of the paper coating formulation - 6 are as follows: %71.45 Water-based dispersion of thermoplastic elastomers %25.52 Acrylic binder

[0121] % 1.86 Polyether modified siloxane (or silicone surfactant)

[0122] %1.17 polyether macromer modified polyacrylate (surface tension increasing agent)

[0123] The chemicals used in the formulation specified above, the water-based dispersion of thermoplastic elastomer forms the main structure of the coating intended to transfer to the fabric when melted by heat. Acrylic binder is used to enhance adhesion and ensure better adhesion of the ink to the fabric. Silicone surfactant is used to reduce wrinkling observed in the previous formulation. It is applied to sharpen the pattern lines formed on the printed coating.

[0124] In the sample prepared according to the specified ratios, sharpness and clarity were observed to be good after transfer. The application smoothness was satisfactory. However, color efficiency was not very good. After washing, occasional fabric surface peeling was observed. Due to the issues with color efficiency and peeling, transition to formulation 7 was made.

[0125] The proportions by weight of the paper coating formulation - 7 are as follows:

[0126] %69.1 Water-based dispersion of thermoplastic elastomers

[0127] %24.64 Acrylic binder

[0128] %3.37 Copolyamide resin

[0129] % 1.78 Poly ether modified siloxane (or silicone surfactant) %1.11 Polyether macromer modified polyacrylate (surface tension increasing agent)

[0130] The chemicals used in the formulation mentioned above, the aqueous dispersion of thermoplastic elastomer forms the main structure of the coating, designed to melt and transfer onto the fabric upon heating. Acrylic binder has been utilized to enhance adhesion and improve ink adherence to the fabric. Copolyamide resin has been employed to reduce the peeling observed after washing in previous formulations. Silicone surfactant has been used to reduce streaking observed in the previous formulation. It has also been used to sharpen the pattern lines on the printed coating.

[0131] According to the specified ratios, in the sample prepared, it was observed that color efficiency after transfer and fabric durability after washing were better than in Formulation 6. Despite achieving better results compared to Formulation 6, the desired efficiency was not fully achieved. Foam in the solution, however, led to negative outcomes. Therefore, changes in raw materials and proportional adjustments were made to achieve Formulation- 8.

[0132] The proportions by weight of the paper coating formulation - 8 are as follows: %68.42 Water-based dispersion of thermoplastic elastomers %25.3 Acrylic binder %3.75 Copolyamide resin

[0133] % 1.31 Polyether modified siloxane (or silicone surfactant)

[0134] %0.94 Polyether macromer modified polyacrylate (surface tension increasing agent)

[0135] %0.28 Polydimethylsiloxane emulsion (defoamer)

[0136] The chemicals used in the formulation above, the water-based dispersion of thermoplastic elastomer forms the main structure of the coating, which melts and transfers to the fabric when heated. Acrylic binder is used to increase adhesion and ensure better adhesion of the ink to the fabric. Copolyamide resin is used to reduce the fabric durability issues observed in previous formulations. Silicone surfactant is used to reduce streaking observed in the previous formulation. A defoamer is used to eliminate foaming observed in the previous formulation trial.

[0137] In the sample prepared according to the specified ratios, polydimethylsiloxane emulsion was used as a defoamer. During the preparation of Formulation-7, foaming was observed. Foaming during transfer to paper prevents the formation of a smooth surface. Therefore, a defoamer was added to obtain Formulation- 8. There were no adverse effects on color efficiency and transfer to paper. However, some inconsistencies were observed in the application of the coating formulation due to the use of a defoamer. There was a decrease in color intensity, and the scratch resistance was below the desired values. Formulation-9 was obtained by adjusting the ratios of the raw materials.

[0138] The proportions by weight of the paper coating formulation - 9 are as follows: %67.13 Water-based dispersion of thermoplastic elastomers %24.08 Acrylic binder %3.28 Copolyamide resin

[0139] % 1.87 Nonionic hd polyethylene wax emulsion %1.5 Blocked isocyanate

[0140] %0.93 Polyether modified siloxane (or silicone surfactant)

[0141] %0.93 Polyether macromer modified polyacrylate (surface tension increasing agent)

[0142] %0.28 Polydimethylsiloxane emulsion (defoamer)

[0143] The chemicals used in the formulation specified above, the water-based dispersion of thermoplastic elastomer, form the main structure of the coating intended to melt and transfer to fabric with heat. Acrylic binder has been used to increase adhesion and improve ink retention on fabric. Copolyamide resin has been used to reduce wash-off observed in previous formulations. Polyethylene wax emulsion has been applied to enhance scratch resistance of the coating. Blocked isocyanate has been used to strengthen the bonding structure within the formulation. Silicone surfactant has been employed to reduce streaking observed in the previous formulation. The surface tension agent has been used to sharpen pattern lines on the printed coating. Defoamer has been used to eliminate foam observed in the previous formulation trial.

[0144] In the sample prepared according to the specified ratios, compared to formulation- 8, better results were achieved with formulation- 8 after transfer. Adhesion has increased. Scratch resistance has improved. However, because the desired efficiency was not achieved, formulation- 10 was developed.

[0145] The proportions by weight of the paper coating formulation - 10 are as follows:

[0146] %67.78 Water-based dispersion of thermoplastic elastomers

[0147] %24.45 Acrylic binder

[0148] %3.33 Copolyamide resin

[0149] % 1.88 Nonionic hd polyethylene wax emulsion

[0150] % 1.88 Polyethielnoxide and Polyacrylamide blend stabiliser and thickener %1.22 Polyether modified siloxane (or silicone surfactant)

[0151] % 1 Polyether macromer modified polyacrylate (surface tension increasing agent)

[0152] %0.33 Polydimethylsiloxane emulsion (defoamer)

[0153] The chemicals used in the formulation mentioned above, the water-based dispersion of thermoplastic elastomer forms the main structure of the coating intended to transfer to fabric when melted by heat. Acrylic binder is used to increase adhesion and improve ink adhesion to the fabric. Copolyamide resin is employed to reduce washing-induced peeling observed in previous formulations. Polyethylene wax emulsion is used to enhance scratch resistance of the coating. A mixture of polyethylene oxide and polyacrylamide acts as a stabilizer and thickener to increase the viscosity of the coating formulation. Silicone surfactant is used to reduce streaking observed in the previous formulation. An agent that increases surface tension is used to sharpen pattern lines on the printed coating. A foam suppressor is used to eliminate foam observed in the previous formulation trial.

[0154] In the sample prepared according to the specified ratios, good results were achieved after transfer. However, after washing, it was observed that there were openings in the painted areas and fabric peel-offs in the unpainted areas. It was observed that the thickening agent caused these peeling issues. Scratch resistance was observed to have increased. Changes in raw material ratios led to the formulation of Formulation- 11.

[0155] The proportions by weight of the paper coating formulation - 11 are as follows: %68.1 Water-based dispersion of thermoplastic elastomers, %24.28 Acrylic binder, %3.33 Copolyamide resin, % 1.9 Nonionic hd polyethylene wax emulsion, % 1.14 Poly ether modified siloxane (or silicone surfactant) %0,95 Polyether macromer modified polyacrylate (surface tension increasing agent) %0.28 Polydimethylsiloxane emulsion (defoamer)

[0156] The chemicals used in the formulation described above, the thermoplastic elastomer's water-based dispersion, form the main structure of the coating intended to melt and transfer to fabric with heat. Acrylic binder was used to increase adhesion and improve ink adhesion to the fabric. Copolyamide resin was employed to reduce peeling observed after washing in previous formulations. Polyethylene wax emulsion was used to enhance scratch resistance of the coating. Silicone surfactant was used to reduce streaking observed in the previous formulation. An agent increasing surface tension was used to sharpen pattern lines on the printed coating. A foam reducer was used to eliminate foaming observed in the previous formulation trial.

[0157] According to the specified ratios, in the sample prepared, better results were achieved after transfer and washing compared to other formulations prepared, and the desired outcomes were achieved. With the achieved formula, undesirable conditions such as eliminating air permeability exposure in product use, preventing an unwanted and unacceptable tactile sensation on the fabric, and eliminating a hardness that removes the softness of the fabric have been addressed. Additionally, the transfer layer (3) weighing 15 g / m2and below adheres better to the fabric surface, ensuring better penetration into the fabric. Better penetration eliminates the need for pre- and post-processing, and does not require water during application, thereby significantly reducing water consumption.

[0158] The properties of the mixtures described in detail above are briefly summarized in the table below. The properties of the mixtures are given a score between 1-5. As you go from 1 to 5, the quality of the mentioned feature increases. In solving the existing issues in the prior art, the transfer layer (3) with a weight of 15 gr / m2 or less should be ensured to adhere better to the fabric surface and penetrate better into the fabric. The film transferred onto the fabric surface, the more it penetrates the fabric structure, and the deeper the film layer can enter into the fabric from its surface, the less impact there will be from the problems encountered during product use.

[0159] As a result, in the invention regarding the printing method, the pressure level in the transfer conditions has been increased up to 150 kg / cm2Through conducted tests, significant improvements have been achieved in properties such as abrasion resistance and colorfastness of the transferred product. Additionally, the transfer layer (3) of 15 gr / m2or less, transferred at high pressure, did not block the fabric's pores, allowing for air permeability.

[0160] The transfer layer (3) of 15 gr / m2or less did not have a noticeable effect on stiffening the fabric. Similarly, this transfer layer (3) did not adversely affect the tactile sensation of the fabric surface. Consequently, by increasing the current pressure applied during the transfer step in the printing process on fabrics made from natural fibers, it has been possible to reduce the amount of the transfer layer (3), thereby enabling the elimination of current technical problems.

[0161] The transfer paper consists of a release paper (1), a release layer (2), and a transfer layer (3). The release paper (1) is the layer on which the release layer (2) is located. On top of the release layer (2) is the transfer layer (3). The design intended for transfer to the fabric is printed on the transfer layer (3). Once printed, pattern- printed transfer layer (3.1) is transferred onto the fabric to complete the transfer process.

[0162] A printing method specifically for fabrics made from natural fibers used in the textile industry, characterized in that; including,

[0163] Selecting release paper (1) with a weight of 20-120 g / m2(S1001),

[0164] Coating the release paper (1) with a transfer layer (3) weighing 3-12 g / m2(S1002),

[0165] Printing a pattern on the release paper (20) with a coated transfer layer using a digital printing machine (S1003),

[0166] Combining the pattern-printed transfer paper (30) with a fabric made from natural fibers and transferring the pattern onto the fabric using a press that applies 50-200 kg / cm2pressure and 120-220°C temperature (S1004), Collecting the transfer paper used as a pattern carrier as waste (S 1005), Collecting the fabric made of natural fiber with printing process, i.e. transfer process (S1006).

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on 19 February 2025 (19.02.2025)1. The invention relates to a printing method specifically designed for fabrics made from natural fibers, particularly for use in the textile industry, characterized by the following steps:Selecting a release paper (1) with a weight between 20-120 g / m2(S1001 ), Coating the release paper (1) with a transfer layer (3) weighing between 3- 12 g / m2, wherein the transfer layer (3) comprises (S1002)-. o 68.1% Water-based dispersion of thermoplastic elastomers, o 24.28% Acrylic binder, o 3.33% Copolyamide resin, o 1.9% Non-ionic HD polyethylene wax emulsion, o 1.14% Polyether-modified siloxane (or silicone surfactant), o 0.95% Polyether macromer-modified polyacrylate (surface tensionenhancing agent), o 0.28% Polydimethylsiloxane emulsion (defoamer),Printing a pattern onto the transfer-layer-coated release paper (20) using a digital printing machine (D) (S1003),Aligning the patterned transfer paper (30) with a fabric made from natural fibers and transferring the pattern onto the fabric using a press that applies a pressure of 50-200 kg / cm2and a temperature of 120-220°C (S1004), Collecting the used transfer paper as waste (S 1005),Collecting the printed natural fiber fabric as the final product of the printing process (S1006).

2. The coating used in the process step “Coating the release paper (1) with a transfer layer (3) weighing 3-12 g / m2(S1002)” that is mentioned in Claim 1, characterized in that; including,- %68.1 Water-based dispersion of thermoplastic elastomers,- 24.28% Acrylic binder,- 3.33% Copolyamide resin,- % 1.9 Nonionic hd polyethylene wax emulsion,- % 1.14 Polyether modified siloxane (or silicone surfactant),- %0.95 Polyether macromer modified polyacrylate (surface tension increasing agent),- %0,28 Polydimethylsiloxane emulsion (defoamer) which ensures the elimination of undesirable situations such as the elimination of air permeability, the formation of an undesirable and unacceptable tactile sensation in the fabric and the formation of a stiffness that eliminates the softness of the fabric, ensures the said transfer layer (3) to better penetrate into the fabric for the better adhesion of the transfer layer (3) with a weight less than 15 g / m2to the fabric surface, do not require any pre-treatment and post-treatment and does not require water during application, thus ensuring a significant reduction in water consumption.16AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19)

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