Compostable layered product suitable for decorating fabrics, in particular items of clothing

Abstract

The present invention relates to a layered artifact (50; 150; 250) for the decoration of a surface (S), in particular of a surface (S) of pieces of clothing (M) such as t-shirts, sweatshirts or the like, said artifact (50; 150; 250) comprising a decorative part (12; 12'; 12") adapted to define the decoration layer for the surface (S) and a support part (10) for the decorative part (12; 12'; 12"). The decorative part (12; 12'; 12") comprises a first part (20) of compostable thermoplastic material adapted to be placed in contact with said surface (S) and a second part comprising at least one layer (21; 22; 24; 26) comprising bio¬ degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer. The first part (20) is present in a weight percentage lower than 60% with respect to the weight of the decorative part (12; 12'; 12"), preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 10% and 60% with respect to the weight of the decorative part (12;12';12"), more preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 25% and 45% with respect to the weight of the decorative part (12; 12'; 12").

Description

[0001] COMPOSTABLE LAYERED PRODUCT SUITABLE FOR DECORATING FABRICS, IN PARTICULAR ITEMS OF CLOTHING

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0003] The present invention is in the field of making prints on objects. In particular, the present invention relates to the decoration of surfaces, for example fabrics such as pieces of clothing and / or accessories. In detail, the present invention relates to an artifact adapted to be used for the decoration of surfaces, such as fabrics in general.

[0004] Even more in detail, the present invention relates to an artifact comprising at least one layer, preferably coloured, suitable for being heat transferred on said surfaces.

[0005] DESCRIPTION OF THE STATE OF THE ART

[0006] Various systems for the decoration of objects such as fabrics in general such as for example t-shirts, sweatshirts, caps, shoes, trousers, bags, or pieces of clothing and / or similar accessories are known in the state of the art.

[0007] Known techniques for the decoration of fabrics comprise the more traditional printing techniques according to which the desired decorations (writings, figures or the like) are made by directly applying to the fabrics themselves inks suitable for the purpose, for example by means of Stencil techniques. However, more recently developed techniques are also known according to which the desired figures or decorations are not made directly on the fabrics but rather on multilayered printing substrates which are then subsequently applied to the fabrics by simultaneous application of heat and pressure. These techniques are, among other things, appreciated because printing on the printing substrates is much easier than printing directly on the fabrics, whereas printing on the printing substrates allows making decorations of the most varied types and shapes. The printing substrates typically comprise at least one coloured layer and at least one thermoadhesive layer; the support is subsequently laid on the fabric or piece of clothing in the desired position and with the thermoadhesive layer in contact with the fabric or piece of clothing, and applied thereto (fixed) through heat and by pressure thereby making the thermoadhesive layer adhere to the fabric or piece of clothing (heat- transfer).

[0008] The heat-transferable multi-layered materials on the market today consist of vinyl, polyurethane, silicone or acrylic films that can be cut into the desired shape and transferred by heat and pressure onto the fabric or piece of clothing thanks to a thermo-reactivatable thermoplastic layer capable of melting at certain temperatures and pressures in order to penetrate and cling to the underlying textile fibres once cooled.

[0009] However, the printing modes according to the prior art, in particular the printing substrates according to the prior art, have some drawbacks.

[0010] One drawback consists in that the known solutions generate rejects and waste that are not easily disposed of. The rejects generated by their use, in particular deriving from the processing scraps, being in general different layers of materials of different chemical nature, are eliminated and disposed of as dry residue.

[0011] The dry residue for its disposal is sent to an incinerator and is therefore not suitable for recycling.

[0012] It is therefore an object of the present invention to obviate the aforementioned drawbacks encountered in the printing systems according to the prior art.

[0013] In particular, an object and objective of the present invention is to propose a solution that allows making printing substrates for surfaces, preferably fabrics such as pieces of clothing and / or accessories of natural origin, which reduces the environmental impact deriving from the rejects generated by the processing of the support itself.

[0014] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0015] The present invention is based on the general consideration according to which the drawbacks encountered in the printing substrates according to the prior art can be effectively overcome or at least minimized by means of a layered artifact comprising a thermoplastic material with compostable properties.

[0016] In a first aspect thereof, the present invention therefore refers to a layered artifact for the decoration of a surface, in particular of a surface of pieces of clothing such as t-shirts, sweatshirts or the like, said artifact comprising a decorative part adapted to define the decoration layer for said surface and a support part for said decorative part; wherein said decorative part comprises:

[0017] - a first part made of compostable thermoplastic material adapted to be placed in contact with said surface;

[0018] - a second part comprising at least one layer comprising bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer; wherein said first part is present in a weight percentage lower than 60% with respect to the weight of said decorative part, preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 10% and 60% with respect to the weight of said decorative part, more preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 25% and 45% with respect to the weight of said decorative part.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first part comprises polybutylene adipate terephthalate and / or polybutylene succinate.

[0020] Preferably, the first part has a thickness comprised between 10 and 120 micrometres, more preferably a thickness comprised between 30 and 50 micrometres.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the first part has a melting temperature comprised between 70 °C and 150 °C, preferably comprised between 110 °C and 140 °C. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the second part consists of a layer comprising a bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer, wherein said bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer is present in said layer in a weight percentage comprised between 40% and 100% with respect to the weight of said layer, preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 65% and 95% with respect to the weight of said layer, more preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 75% and 85% with respect to the weight of said layer.

[0022] Preferably, the second part comprises biodegradable micronized wax.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, said biodegradable micronized wax is present in said second part in a weight percentage comprised between 2% and 6% with respect to the weight of said second part, preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 3% and 5% with respect to the weight of said second part, more preferably in a weight percentage equal to 4% with respect to the weight of said second part.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the second part further comprises:

[0025] - inorganic pigments, preferably iron oxide, titanium dioxide, aluminosilicates, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 20% with respect to the weight of said second part;

[0026] - inorganic additives, preferably silicates and calcium carbonate, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 5% with respect to the weight of said second part;

[0027] - pigments and additives of organic origin in a weight percentage comprised between 5% and 15% with respect to the weight of said second part. Preferably, the second part comprises a first layer arranged in contact with the support part and a second layer, arranged between the first layer and the first part, wherein the first layer comprises biodegradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer and biodegradable micronized wax and the second layer comprises biodegradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer is present in said first layer in a weight percentage comprised between 75% and 85% with respect to the weight of said first layer and / or said biodegradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer is present in said second layer in a weight percentage comprised between 75% and 85% with respect to the weight of said second layer.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the biodegradable micronized wax is present in said first layer in a weight percentage comprised between 1% and 15% with respect to the weight of said first layer, preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 4% and 12% with respect to the weight of said first layer, more preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 7% and 9% with respect to the weight of said first layer.

[0030] Preferably, the first layer further comprises:

[0031] - inorganic pigments, preferably iron oxide, titanium dioxide, aluminosilicates, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 20% with respect to the weight of said first layer;

[0032] - inorganic additives, preferably silicates and calcium carbonate, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 5% with respect to the weight of said first layer;

[0033] - pigments and additives of organic origin in a weight percentage comprised between 5% and 20% with respect to the weight of said first layer; and / or said second layer further comprises:

[0034] - inorganic pigments, preferably iron oxide, titanium dioxide, aluminosilicates, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 20% with respect to the weight of said second layer;

[0035] - inorganic additives, preferably silicates and calcium carbonate, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 5%; with respect to the weight of said second layer;

[0036] - pigments and additives of organic origin in a weight percentage comprised between 5% and 10% with respect to the weight of said second layer. In a preferred embodiment, said second part comprises a third layer, arranged between the second layer and the first part, wherein the third layer comprises biodegradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer.

[0037] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer is present in said third layer in a weight percentage comprised between 75% and 85% with respect to the weight of said third layer.

[0038] Preferably, the third layer further comprises:

[0039] - inorganic pigments, preferably iron oxide, titanium dioxide, aluminosilicates, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 20% with respect to the weight of said third layer;

[0040] - inorganic additives, preferably silicates and calcium carbonate, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 5% with respect to the weight of said third layer;

[0041] - pigments and additives of organic origin in a weight percentage comprised between 5% and 10% with respect to the weight of said third layer.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, said support part comprises a polyester or paper, preferably a polyester with adhesive or paper with adhesive.

[0043] Preferably, the polyester or paper support part comprises an adhesive layer of a silicone or acrylic nature or rubber base.

[0044] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] In the following, the present invention will be elucidated by the description of preferred embodiments represented in the attached drawing tables. It should be noted, however, that the present invention is not limited to the forms of embodiment depicted in the drawing tables; on the contrary, all those variations or modifications of the embodiment depicted and described which will appear clear, obvious and immediate to the person skilled in the art fall within the framework and scope of the present invention. In particular, in the attached drawing tables:

[0046] - figure 1 shows, in schematic form, the steps of the process for making an artifact in a plant according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] - figure 2 shows, in axonometric view, the artifact according to the first preferred embodiment obtained with the process of figure 1 ;

[0048] - figure 3 shows a sectional view of the artifact of figure 2; - figures 4 to 8 show the processing steps of the printed artifact of figure 2 and its application to obtain a decorated object according to a first preferred embodiment of the invention;

[0049] - figures 9 to 12 show the processing steps of the printed artifact of figure 2 and its application to obtain an object according to a second preferred embodiment of the invention;

[0050] - figure 13 shows, in schematic form, the steps of the process for making an artifact in a plant according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] - figure 14 shows, in axonometric view, the artifact according to the second preferred embodiment obtained with the process of figure 13;

[0052] - figure 15 shows a sectional view of the artifact of figure 14;

[0053] - figure 16 shows a step of application of the artifact of figure 14;

[0054] - figure 17 shows, in axonometric view, an artifact according to another preferred embodiment of the invention;

[0055] - figure 18 shows a sectional view of the artifact of figure 17;

[0056] - figure 19 shows a step of application of the artifact of figure 17.

[0057] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0058] Figure 1 schematically shows a plant 500 adapted to make a layered artifact 50 according to a first preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0059] The artifact 50 according to the preferred embodiment obtained by means of said plant 500 is shown, in particular, in figures 2 and 3. Therein the artifact 50 is shown in substantially sheet form, for example an A4 sheet.

[0060] However, the artifact of the present invention may have any other desired shape and / or be wrapped around a reel ready to be cut to size.

[0061] It should be pointed out, then, that for ease of description the thicknesses of the various layers in the various figures are merely indicative, as well as the proportions between them.

[0062] The artifact 50 according to the invention can be advantageously used for the decoration of surfaces S of objects M such as fabrics in general such as for example t-shirts, sweatshirts, caps, shoes, trousers, bags, or pieces of clothing and / or similar accessories, as well as on polyester, cotton and mixed fabrics and on nylon for the realization, for example, of ennobled textile pieces of clothing.

[0063] Returning to the production process of the artifact 50 of figure 1 and to the lower part 570 of the plant 500, the reference number 552 identifies a first reel on which an element 10 of a preferably laminar nature is wound which, in the final artifact 50, constitutes a support part 10, as better described below.

[0064] Reference numeral 514 identifies a second reel on which an element 12 of a preferably laminar nature is wound which, in the final artifact 50, constitutes a first decorative part 12 that will define the decoration layer for the surface S of the object M to be decorated.

[0065] The support part 10 and the decorative part 12 are conveyed and coupled at a coupling unit 560 preferably comprising a pair of pressure cylinders 562A, 562B. According to a preferred embodiment, the coupling of the two parts 10, 12 is favoured by the adhesive characteristic of the support part 10. In a preferred embodiment, in fact, the support part 10 is made of an intrinsically adhesive material. In a preferred embodiment variant, the support part 10 could be nonadhesive.

[0066] At the exit from the coupling unit 560, the artifact 50 obtained by coupling the two elements 10, 12 is preferably wound in a special reel 564 ready for subsequent use and / or cut to size, for example cut into A4 size sheets.

[0067] The first decorative part 12 is made in the plant 500, in particular in the upper part of the plant 500 of figure 1 as described below, to then be coupled to the support part 10 according to the above (in the lower part 570 of the plant 500). Reference numeral 502 identifies a first reel on which a spreading support 508 is wound.

[0068] The spreading support 508 performs the function of allowing the subsequent processing steps inside the plant 500. The plant 500 is preferably provided with a spreading station 501A as described below. In a subsequent step of the production process of the artifact 50, said spreading support 508 is preferably recovered for subsequent reuse, for example as indicated in figure 1 in which the spreading support 508 is rewound in a reel 506. In an embodiment variant, the spreading support 508 can be removed to be eliminated.

[0069] The spreading support 508 preferably comprises a paper film, more preferably a silicone paper film, and / or a polyester film.

[0070] The spreading support 508 is unrolled from the first reel 502 and advanced within the plant 500, preferably in the direction of advancement indicated by the left-to-right arrow in figure 1.

[0071] With the spreading support 508 advancing from left to right, the spreading station 501 A is activated for spreading a first layer of material 21 on the spreading support 508.

[0072] The spreading station 501 A preferably comprises a spreading blade lAt that receives the material that will constitute the first layer 21.

[0073] By means of the spreading blade lAt an amalgam of the materials of which the first layer 21 is composed is spread on the spreading support 508.

[0074] At the exit from the first station 501 A the amalgam is heated (dried off or dried) by means of an oven IF to form a continuous layer B.

[0075] A reel 520 is then identified on which an element 20 of a preferably laminar nature is wound which, in the final artifact 50, will define, together with the aforementioned first layer 21, the decoration part 12 for the surface S of the object M to be decorated.

[0076] The laminar element 20 and the continuous layer B comprising the first layer 21 are conveyed and coupled at a coupling unit 510 preferably comprising a pair of pressure rollers.

[0077] At the exit from the coupling unit 510, the layers 21, 20 defining the decoration part 12 of the artifact 50 are preferably wound on a special reel 514.

[0078] The reel 514 with the decoration part 12 wound is then employed in the lower part 570 of the plant 500 to obtain the artifact 50, according to what is described above.

[0079] In an embodiment variant of the plant, the decoration part 12 at the exit from the one coupling unit 510 could be coupled directly to the support layer 10.

[0080] In the final artifact, therefore, the decoration part 12 and the support part 10 are identified, as shown in figures 2 and 3. The decoration part 12 therefore comprises a first part 20, identified by the layer 20, adapted to be placed in contact with the surface S of the object M to be decorated and a second part identified by the first layer 21.

[0081] Preferably, the first part 20 of material constituting the decorative part 12 of the artifact 50 is made of compostable thermoplastic material.

[0082] In a preferred embodiment, the compostable thermoplastic material of the first part 20 comprises polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT).

[0083] Polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), also called polybutyrate, is a thermoplastic material obtained from fossil sources with compostable properties and, in particular, is a fully compostable copolyester.

[0084] In a preferred embodiment variant, the compostable thermoplastic material of the first part 20 comprises polybutylene succinate.

[0085] In a further preferred embodiment variant, the compostable thermoplastic material of the first part 20 comprises polybutylene adipate terephthalate and polybutylene succinate in appropriate percentages.

[0086] According to one aspect of the present invention, the first part 20 is present in a weight percentage lower than 60% with respect to the weight of the decorative part 12, preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 10% and 60% with respect to the weight of the decorative part 12, more preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 25% and 45% with respect to the weight of the decorative part 12.

[0087] The indicated percentages of the first part 20 in compostable thermoplastic material according to the present invention, allow to confer to the decorative part 12 the correct compromise between capacity of adhesion to the object M to be decorated and the desired compostability in terms of time, as prescribed for example by the regulations and better described below with reference in particular to the processing scraps.

[0088] Percentages of the first part 20 in compostable thermoplastic material with respect to the decorative layer 12 higher than 60%, on the contrary, do not allow achieving the desired compostability in terms of time.

[0089] The first part 20 preferably has a thickness comprised between 10 and 120 micrometres, more preferably a thickness comprised between 30 and 50 micrometres.

[0090] Preferably, the first part 20 has a melting temperature comprised between 70 °C and 150 °C, preferably comprised between 110 °C and 140 °C. This value makes it particularly advantageous to use the artifact 50 during its application to the object M to be decorated, as better described below.

[0091] According to another aspect of the present invention, the second material part 21 of the decorative part 12 of the artifact 50, comprises bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer.

[0092] The bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer is present in the second part 21 in a weight percentage comprised between 40% and 100% with respect to the weight of the second part 21 itself, preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 65% and 95% with respect to the weight of the second part 21, more preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 75% and 85% with respect to the weight of the second part 21. Preferably, the bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer of the second part 21 is chosen so as to satisfy one or more of the characteristics indicated in Table 1 below:

[0093] Table 1

[0094] The bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer used is preferably highly hydrolysable.

[0095] By highly hydrolysable is meant higher decomposition rate than the homologous acrylic resins, with degradation greater than 50% in less than 30 days; acrylics show a variation equal to 0 in the same period.

[0096] In a preferred embodiment, the second part 21 further comprises biodegradable micronized wax.

[0097] The biodegradable micronized wax is present in the second part 21 in a weight percentage comprised between 2% and 6% with respect to the weight of the second part 21 itself, preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 3% and 5% with respect to the weight of the second part 21, more preferably in a weight percentage equal to 4% with respect to the weight of the second part 21.

[0098] In a preferred embodiment, the second part 21 further comprises:

[0099] - inorganic pigments, preferably iron oxide, titanium dioxide, aluminosilicates, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 20% with respect to the weight of the second part 21;

[0100] - inorganic additives, preferably silicates and calcium carbonate, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 5% with respect to the weight of the second part 21;

[0101] - pigments and additives of organic origin in a weight percentage comprised between 5% and 15% with respect to the weight of the second part 21.

[0102] The pigments present in the second part 21 confer the colouration for the artifact 50 adapted to define the desired decoration.

[0103] Preferably, the second part 21 has a melting temperature comprised between 175 °C and 200 °C, preferably comprised between 180 °C and 190 °C, more preferably equal to 185 °C.

[0104] The melting temperature of the second part 21 is advantageously higher than the melting temperature of the first part 20 comprising compostable thermoplastic material. Furthermore, the melting temperature of the second part 21 is advantageously higher than the temperatures employed during the use of the artifact 50 for the decoration of the object M, as described below.

[0105] The second part 21 preferably has a thickness comprised between 10 and 90 micrometres, more preferably comprised between 40 and 60 micrometres.

[0106] According to another aspect of the present invention, the layer 10 of material constituting the support part 10 of the artifact 50 preferably comprises polyester, preferably a polyester provided with an adhesive.

[0107] In an embodiment variant, the support part may comprise a paper layer provided with an adhesive.

[0108] Preferably, said adhesive is of a silicone or acrylic nature or rubber base.

[0109] The support layer 10, as better described below, favours the steps of use of the artifact 50 for the decoration of the object M to be decorated and, once used, the support layer 10 will be suitably removed.

[0110] The decoration layer 12 of the artifact 50 will remain instead on the surface S of the object M.

[0111] Figures 4 to 8 refer to a preferred way of using the artifact 50 for the decoration of the surface S of an object M, for example a T-shirt M.

[0112] Reference is made, for example, to an artifact 50 in which the second part 21 of the decorative part 12 is coloured, preferably but not necessarily uniformly coloured.

[0113] The artifact 50 with the coloured decorative part 12 can be cut, preferably with the aid of scissors or a cutting plotter or other cutting tools, to obtain an artifact 50’ with the desired contours, for example cut into a star shape as shown in figures 4 and 5.

[0114] The cut-to-size artifact 50’, shown in figure 5, is then ready to be applied, for example, to a T-shirt M. A scrap part SF is also generated from the cutting operation, as always shown in figure 5.

[0115] The application of the cut-to-size artifact 50’ to the T-shirt M is schematically represented in figures 6 and 7 and comprises a first step (figure 6) in which the artifact 50’ is positioned at the desired portion of the T-shirt with the first part 20 of the decoration layer 12 turned towards the surface S of the T-shirt M to be decorated.

[0116] At a subsequent step (figure 7), heat and pressure are applied to the artifact 50’ by means of a special press 180.

[0117] In particular, during this step, the first part 20 of the decoration layer 12 melts and impregnate the fabric that makes up the T-shirt M.

[0118] The subsequent cooling and hardening of the first part 20 leads to the definitive fixing of the first part 20 of the decoration layer 12 to the T-shirt M and then the definitive fixing / transfer of the decoration layer 12 to the T-shirt M, including the second part 21.

[0119] Preferably, the working temperatures of the press 180 are within a range comprised between 110 °C and 140 °C, preferably substantially corresponding to the melting temperatures of the first part 20 of the decoration layer 12.

[0120] For example, the pressing step may occur at a temperature within such a range, more preferably at a temperature of 130 °C, for a period of time of about or higher than 5 seconds with a predetermined pressure (about 50 PSI).

[0121] Once the press 180 is opened, the support layer 10 is removed.

[0122] The result is therefore that represented in figure 8, i.e. that of a piece of clothing M decorated by heat transfer of one or more suitably shaped parts of the decoration layer 12 of the starting artifact 50.

[0123] Note that by using such working temperatures of the press 180, the first part 20 of the decoration layer 12 substantially completely melts and permeates the fabric of the object M to be decorated: conversely, the second part 21 of the decoration layer 12, having a melting temperature comprised between 175 °C and 200 °C, preferably comprised between 180 °C and 190 °C, more preferably equal to 185 °C, is not substantially subjected to alterations, such as softening or melting, substantially maintaining its solid state. This feature of the second part 21 allows to avoid the dispersion of the colouring agents / pigments inside the decoration layer 12 to obtain, therefore, a better quality in terms of decoration definition. In the decorated object M, in which the support layer 10 is removed, the second part 21 of the decorative part 12 results to be the outermost layer. Therefore, the second part 12 is the layer most exposed to wear. The micronized wax present inside the second part 21 advantageously confers an anti-abrasive property to the second part 21, resulting in an increase in the holding of the decoration over time on the object M. The second part 21 provided with micronized wax therefore performs an advantageous anti-abrasive function.

[0124] According to an advantageous aspect of the present invention, the processing scraps SF, comprising said completely compostable decoration layer 12 with the first part 20 made using compostable thermoplastic material, preferably polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and / or polybutylene succinate, do not require special precautions for their disposal and therefore, if applicable, can be composted.

[0125] In particular, the Applicant carried out an assessment of the biodegradation of these scraps SF to assess the compostability thereof. Biodegradation of the scraps was induced in an aerobic compost environment inside a plastic container designed to contain organic waste. For the experimental preparation, technical standards EN 13432, ISO 14855-1, EN 14995 and D6400 were followed.

[0126] The result highlighted a number of days below the permitted threshold of 180 days according to EN13432 and D6400 standard.

[0127] In the case of an artifact in which the first polybutyrate part is present in a weight percentage greater than 60% with respect to the decorative part, the biodegradation times are higher and do not comply with the threshold allowed according to EN13432 and D6400 standard.

[0128] Figures 9 to 12 refer to a second preferred mode of use of the artifact 50.

[0129] This mode of use differs from that described above with reference to figures 4 to 8 in that instead of cutting the artifact 50’ to size (figure 5) by cutting both the support layer 10 and the decoration layer 12, and its two parts 20, 21, the cutting operation takes place by keeping the support layer 10 intact.

[0130] Said cutting operation is preferably obtained by means of an automated cutting system, or plotter, capable of cutting the decoration layer 12 with the desired shapes, while the support layer 10 is not cut. The cut-to-size artifact 50” illustrated in figure 10 shows said shapes consisting of six stars.

[0131] In a first advantageous aspect thereof, the fact of keeping the support layer 10 intact, favours the correct maintenance of the positions of the decorations when these decorations are made up of separate elements, such as for example precisely the six stars shown in figure 10.

[0132] The decorations / stars can in fact be applied all at the same time to the T-shirt M, as shown in figure 11, contrary to the case in which the previous cutting operation had also provided for cutting the support layer 10 and therefore the need to apply the six stars separately to the T-shirt M.

[0133] The application of the cut-to-size artifact 50” to the T-shirt M is schematically represented in figure 11 in which the artifact 50” is positioned at the desired portion of the T-shirt with the first part 20 of the decoration layer 12 turned towards the surface S of the T-shirt M to be decorated and then the two heat- transferred parts 20, 21 in similar ways to those described above.

[0134] The result is therefore that represented in figure 12, i.e. that of a piece of clothing M decorated by heat transfer of one or more suitably shaped parts of the decoration layer 12 of the starting artifact 50.

[0135] Figure 13 schematically shows a plant 500’ adapted to make a layered artifact 150 in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the invention. The artifact 150 according to this preferred embodiment obtained by means of said plant 500’ is shown, in particular, in figures 14 and 15.

[0136] The artifact 150 according to this preferred embodiment differs from the artifact 50 described with reference to the previous embodiment in that the second part, previously comprising the first layer 21, now comprises a first layer 22 arranged in contact with the support part 10 and a second layer 24, arranged between the first layer 22 and the first part 20. The characteristics of these layers will be described in detail below.

[0137] A support part 10 and a decorative part 12’ comprising the first part 20, the first layer 22 and the second layer 24 are therefore identified in the artifact 150.

[0138] The production process of the artifact 150 through the plant 500’ is substantially similar to the process described above for making the artifact 50 through the plant 500 of figure 13.

[0139] The plant 500’ for making the new artifact 150 differs from the plant 500 described above by the mere fact of comprising a second spreading station 50 IB arranged downstream of the first spreading station 501 A and a respective oven 2F.

[0140] In the figure, characteristics and / or component parts corresponding or equivalent to the plant 500 of figure 1 are identified by the same reference numbers. The formation of the artifact 150 provides that the spreading support 508 is unrolled from the first reel 502 and advanced within the plant 500’, preferably in the direction of advancement indicated by the arrow from left to right in figure 13.

[0141] With the spreading support 508 advancing from left to right, the first spreading station 501 A is activated for spreading a first layer of material 22 on the spreading support 508. The first spreading station 501 A preferably comprises a spreading blade lAt that receives the material that will constitute the first layer 22. By means of the spreading blade lAt an amalgam of the materials of which the first layer 22 is composed is spread on the spreading support 508.

[0142] At the exit from the first station 501 A the amalgam is heated (dried off or dried) by means of the oven IF to form a continuous layer B.

[0143] In the next spreading station 501B the second layer 24 is formed. The second spreading station 50 IB preferably comprises a spreading blade IBt that receives the material that will constitute the second layer 24.

[0144] By means of the spreading blade IBt an amalgam of the materials of which the second layer 24 is composed is spread on the continuous layer B coming from the first spreading station 501 A.

[0145] At the exit from the second station 50 IB the amalgam is heated (dried off or dried) by means of the oven 2F to form a continuous layer C. The continuous layer C therefore comprises the two layers 22, 24.

[0146] The laminar element 20 wound on the reel 520 and the continuous layer C comprising the first and second layers 22, 24 are conveyed and coupled at the coupling unit 510.

[0147] At the exit from the coupling unit 510, the layers 20, 24 and 22 defining the decoration part 12’ of the artifact 150 are preferably wound in a special reel 514. The reel 514 with the wound decoration part 12’ is then employed in the lower part 570’ of the plant 500’ for coupling with the support part 10 to obtain the artifact 150.

[0148] In the final artifact 150, therefore, the decoration part 12’ and the support part 10 are identified, as shown in figures 14 and 15. The decoration part 12’ therefore comprises the first part 20, identified by the layer 20, adapted to be placed in contact with the surface S of the object M to be decorated and a second part identified by the two layers 22, 24.

[0149] Preferably, the first material part 20 of the decorative part 12’ of the artifact 150 is of the type described above.

[0150] According to one aspect of the present embodiment variant, the first layer 22 of the second part that constitutes the decorative part 12’ of the artifact 150, comprises bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer and biodegradable micronized wax.

[0151] The bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer is present in the first layer 22 in a weight percentage comprised between 75% and 85% with respect to the weight of the first layer 22.

[0152] Preferably, the bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer of the first layer 22 is chosen so as to satisfy one or more of the characteristics indicated in Table 1 reported above.

[0153] The bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer used is preferably highly hydrolysable, as mentioned above.

[0154] The biodegradable micronized wax is present in the first layer 22 in a weight percentage comprised between 1% and 15% with respect to the weight of the first layer 22 itself, preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 4% and 12% with respect to the weight of the first layer 22, more preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 7% and 9% with respect to the weight of the first layer 22.

[0155] In a preferred embodiment, the first layer 22 further comprises:

[0156] - inorganic pigments, preferably iron oxide, titanium dioxide, aluminosilicates, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 20% with respect to the weight of the first layer 22;

[0157] - inorganic additives, preferably silicates and calcium carbonate, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 5% with respect to the weight of the first layer 22;

[0158] - pigments and additives of organic origin in a weight percentage comprised between 5% and 20% with respect to the weight of the first layer 22.

[0159] According to this embodiment, the pigments present in the first layer 22 are such as to confer a black colouration for the first layer 22, and therefore also for the artifact 150.

[0160] Preferably, the first layer 22 has a melting temperature comprised between 175 °C and 200 °C, preferably comprised between 180 °C and 190 °C, more preferably equal to 185 °C.

[0161] The melting temperature of the first layer 22 is therefore advantageously higher than the melting temperature of the first part 20 comprising compostable thermoplastic material, similarly to what is described with reference to the second part 21 of the first embodiment.

[0162] The first layer 22 preferably has a thickness comprised between 5 and 45 micrometres, more preferably comprised between 20 and 30 micrometres.

[0163] According to one aspect of the present embodiment variant, the second layer 24 of the second part that constitutes the decorative part 12’ of the artifact 150, comprises bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer.

[0164] The bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer is present in the second layer 24 in a weight percentage comprised between 75% and 85% with respect to the weight of the second layer 24.

[0165] Preferably, the bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer of the second layer 24 is chosen so as to satisfy one or more of the characteristics indicated in Table 1 reported above.

[0166] The bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer used is preferably highly hydrolysable, as mentioned above.

[0167] In a preferred embodiment, the second layer 24 further comprises:

[0168] - inorganic pigments, preferably iron oxide, titanium dioxide, aluminosilicates, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 20% with respect to the weight of the second layer 24;

[0169] - inorganic additives, preferably silicates and calcium carbonate, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 5% with respect to the weight of the second layer 24;

[0170] - pigments and additives of organic origin in a weight percentage comprised between 5% and 10% with respect to the weight of the second layer 24.

[0171] According to this embodiment, the pigments present in the second layer 24 are such as to confer a black colouration for the second layer 24, and therefore also for the artifact 150.

[0172] Preferably, the second layer 24 has a melting temperature comprised between 175 °C and 200 °C, preferably comprised between 180 °C and 190 °C, more preferably equal to 185 °C.

[0173] The melting temperature of the second layer 24 is therefore advantageously higher than the melting temperature of the first part 20 comprising compostable thermoplastic material, similarly to what is described with reference to the second part 21 of the first embodiment. The second layer 24 preferably has a thickness comprised between 5 and 45 micrometres, more preferably comprised between 10 and 40 micrometres, even more preferably comprised between 20 and 30 micrometres.

[0174] The artifact 150 obtained according to this embodiment can be used for the decoration of an object M, for example a T-shirt M, in a manner completely similar to what is described above for the first embodiment and in which the decoration part 12’ is now defined by the multi-layered decoration part 12’ comprising the first part 20 and the two layers 22, 24. During the heat transfer process, therefore, all layers 20, 24 and 22 are heat-transferred onto the object M. The support layer 10 will be duly removed at the end of the process.

[0175] Figure 16 shows one of the steps during the heat transfer process of the artifact 150’, suitably cut, on the object M: during this step, heat and pressure are applied to the artifact 150’ by means of the press 180.

[0176] During this step, the first part 20 of the decoration layer 12’ melts and impregnate the fabric that makes up the T-shirt M.

[0177] The subsequent cooling and hardening of the first part 20 leads to the definitive fixing of the first part 20 of the decoration layer 12’ to the T-shirt M and then the definitive fixing / transfer of the decoration layer 12’ to the T-shirt M, including the second part with its two layers 22, 24.

[0178] Preferably, the working temperatures of the press 180 are within a range comprised between 110 °C and 140 °C, preferably substantially corresponding to the melting temperatures of the first part 20 of the decoration layer 12’.

[0179] With such working temperatures of the press 180, the first part 20 of the decoration layer 12’ substantially completely melts and permeates the fabric of the object M to be decorated: conversely, the layers 22, 24 of the second part of the decoration layer 12’, both having a melting temperature comprised between 175 °C and 200 °C, preferably comprised between 180 °C and 190 °C, more preferably equal to 185 °C, are not substantially subjected to alterations, such as softening or melting, substantially maintaining their solid state. This feature of the layers 22, 24 allows to avoid the dispersion of the colouring agents / pigments inside the decoration layer 12’ to obtain, therefore, a better quality in terms of definition of the decoration.

[0180] In the decorated object M, moreover, in which the support layer 10 is removed, the first layer 22 of the second part of the decorative part 12’ results to be the outermost layer. The micronized wax present inside the first layer 22 of the second part advantageously confers an anti-abrasive property to the second part, resulting in an increase in the holding of the decoration over time on the object M. The first layer 22 of the second part provided with micronized wax therefore performs an advantageous anti-abrasive function.

[0181] This embodiment therefore allows the same advantages of the first embodiment to be obtained, also with regard to the use of compostable thermoplastic material in the first part 20.

[0182] The artifact 150 according to this embodiment is particularly suitable for the decoration of objects M by means of a completely black decoration, as highlighted above with reference to the use of pigments adapted to colour the two layers 22, 24 constituting the second part of the decoration part 12’ black.

[0183] The artifact 250 according to the embodiment illustrated with reference to figures 17 and 18 is instead preferably suitable for making coloured, non-black, decorations.

[0184] The artifact 250 according to this preferred embodiment firstly differs from the artifact 150 described with reference to figures 14 and 15 in that the second part of the decorative part 12” comprises a third layer 26, arranged between the second layer 24 and the first part 20. In the figures, characteristics and / or corresponding component parts of the previous embodiment are identified by the same reference numbers.

[0185] According to one aspect of the present embodiment variant, the third layer 26 is substantially the same as the second layer 24.

[0186] Thus, the third layer 26 comprises bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester- based polymer.

[0187] The bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer is present in the third layer 26 in a weight percentage comprised between 75% and 85% with respect to the weight of the third layer 26.

[0188] Preferably, the bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer of the third layer 26 is chosen so as to satisfy one or more of the characteristics indicated in Table 1 reported above.

[0189] The bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer used is preferably highly hydrolysable, as mentioned above.

[0190] In a preferred embodiment, the third layer 26 further comprises:

[0191] - inorganic pigments, preferably iron oxide, titanium dioxide, aluminosilicates, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 20% with respect to the weight of the third layer 26;

[0192] - inorganic additives, preferably silicates and calcium carbonate, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 5% with respect to the weight of the third layer 26;

[0193] - pigments and additives of organic origin in a weight percentage comprised between 5% and 10% with respect to the weight of the third layer 26.

[0194] According to this embodiment, the pigments present in the second layer 24 are preferably such as to confer a non-black colouration for the second layer 24 and may include a certain percentage of white pigments. The pigments present in the third layer 26 are preferably also such as to confer a non-black colouration for the third layer 26, possibly the same as the second layer 24, and include a percentage of white pigments higher than the percentage of white pigments present in the second layer 24.

[0195] Preferably, the third layer 26 has a melting temperature comprised between 175 °C and 200 °C, preferably comprised between 180 °C and 190 °C, more preferably equal to 185 °C.

[0196] The melting temperature of the third layer 26 is therefore advantageously higher than the melting temperature of the first part 20 comprising compostable thermoplastic material, similarly to what is described with reference to the second part 21 of the first embodiment.

[0197] The third layer 26 preferably has a thickness comprised between 5 and 65 micrometres, more preferably comprised between 35 and 55 micrometres, even more preferably comprised between 15 and 25 micrometres.

[0198] In a preferred embodiment, the first and second layer 22, 24 also preferably have the same thickness as the third layer 26, i.e. a thickness comprised between 5 and 65 micrometres, more preferably comprised between 35 and 55 micrometres, even more preferably comprised between 15 and 25 micrometres.

[0199] The artifact 250 obtained according to this embodiment can be used for the decoration of an object M, for example a T-shirt M, in a manner completely similar to what is described above for the second embodiment and in which the decoration part 12” is now defined by the multi-layered decoration part 12” comprising the first part 20 and the three layers 22, 24, 26. During the heat transfer process, therefore, all layers 20, 26, 24, 22 are heat transferred onto the object M. The support layer 10 will be duly removed at the end of the process, figure 19 shows one of the steps during the heat transfer process of the artifact 250’, suitably cut, on the object M: during this step, heat and pressure are applied to the artifact 250’ by means of the press 180.

[0200] In particular, during this step, the first part 20 of the decoration layer 12” melts and impregnate the fabric that makes up the T-shirt M.

[0201] The subsequent cooling and hardening of the first part 20 leads to the definitive fixing of the first part 20 of the decoration layer 12” to the T-shirt M and then the definitive fixing / transfer of the decoration layer 12” to the T-shirt M, including the second part with its three layers 22, 24, 26.

[0202] Preferably, the working temperatures of the press 180 are within a range comprised between 110 °C and 140 °C, preferably substantially corresponding to the melting temperatures of the first part 20 of the decoration layer 12”.

[0203] With such working temperatures of the press 180, the first part 20 of the decoration layer 12” melts substantially completely and permeates the fabric of the object M to be decorated: conversely, the layers 22, 24, 26 of the second part of the decoration layer 12’, all three having a melting temperature comprised between 175 °C and 200 °C, preferably comprised between 180 °C and 190 °C, more preferably equal to 185 °C, are not substantially subjected to alterations, such as softening or melting, substantially maintaining their solid state. This characteristic of the layers 22, 24, 26 allows to avoid the dispersion of the colouring agents / pigments inside the decoration layer 12” to obtain, therefore, a better quality in terms of definition of the decoration.

[0204] In the decorated object M, moreover, in which the support layer 10 is removed, the first layer 22 of the second part of the decorative part 12” results to be the outermost layer. The micronized wax present inside the first layer 22 of the second part advantageously confers an anti-abrasive property to the second part, resulting in an increase in the holding of the decoration over time on the object M. The first layer 22 of the second part provided with micronized wax therefore performs an advantageous anti-abrasive function.

[0205] This embodiment therefore allows the same advantages of the previous embodiments to be obtained, also with regard to the use of compostable thermoplastic material in the first part 20.

[0206] The artifact 250 according to this embodiment is particularly suitable for the decoration of objects M by means of a non-black coloured decoration.

[0207] A plant, not illustrated, that makes the artifact 250 according to this embodiment can be easily made starting from the plant of figure 13 by adding a third spreading station arranged downstream of the second spreading station 501B, and a respective oven, with the task of making the third layer 26 above the two layers 22, 24 made in the two previous spreading stations 501 A and 502B.

[0208] It has thus been demonstrated by means of the above detailed description of preferred embodiments that the present invention allows to obtain the desired results while minimizing the drawbacks encountered in the prior art.

[0209] It should be further noted that, although the present invention has been elucidated by the foregoing detailed description of its embodiments shown in the drawing tables, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and shown in the drawing tables. On the contrary, all variations and modifications of the described and depicted embodiments that will appear clear and obvious to those skilled in the art are within the scope of the present invention. For example, the thickness of each of the layers may be chosen according to needs and / or circumstances. Again, the plant may have different characteristics. For example, it may be possible to provide alternative spreading stations to those illustrated and described, such as, for example, “reverse” coating with cylinder, “synchro” coating, or by “Millepunti-design” printing.

[0210] Furthermore, it should be specified that the methods for making the layers illustrated and described above represent preferred embodiments for making the artifact according to the present invention. In embodiment variants, however, the layers of the artifact could be made and mutually coupled through the use of plants, and related method, different from what is described herein. Therefore, the succession of the realization of the layers of the artifact and / or their mutual coupling may be different from what is described in detail above.

[0211] The scope of the present invention is therefore defined by the claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1) Layered artifact (50; 150; 250) for the decoration of a surface (S), in particular of a surface (S) of pieces of clothing (M) such as t-shirts, sweatshirts or the like, said artifact (50; 150; 250) comprising a decorative part (12; 12’; 12”) adapted to define the decoration layer for said surface (S) and a support part (10) for said decorative part (12;12’;12”); characterized in that said decorative part (12; 12’; 12”) comprises:- a first part (20) made of compostable thermoplastic material adapted to be placed in contact with said surface (S);- a second part comprising at least one layer (21; 22; 24; 26) comprising biodegradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer; wherein said first part (20) is present in a weight percentage lower than 60% with respect to the weight of said decorative part (12; 12’; 12”), preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 10% and 60% with respect to the weight of said decorative part (12; 12’; 12”), more preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 25% and 45% with respect to the weight of said decorative part (12; 12’; 12”).2) Artifact (50; 150; 250) according to claim 1, characterized in that said first part (20) comprises polybutylene adipate terephthalate and / or polybutylene succinate.3) Artifact (50; 150; 250) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said first part (20) has a melting temperature comprised between 70°C and 150°C, preferably comprised between 110 °C and 140°C.4) Artifact (50) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said second part consists of a layer (21) comprising a bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer, wherein said bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer is present in said layer in a weight percentage comprised between 40% and 100% with respect to the weight of said layer (21), preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 65% and 95% with respect to the weight of said layer (21), more preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 75% and 85% with respect to the weight of said layer (21).5) Artifact (50) according to claim 4, characterized in that said second part (21) comprises biodegradable micronized wax.6) Artifact (50) according to claim 5, characterized in that said biodegradablemicronized wax is present in said second part (21) in a weight percentage comprised between 2% and 6% with respect to the weight of said second part(21), preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 3% and 5% with respect to the weight of said second part (21), more preferably in a weight percentage equal to 4% with respect to the weight of said second part (21).7) Artifact (50) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that said second part (21) further comprises: inorganic pigments, preferably iron oxide, titanium dioxide, aluminosilicates, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 20% with respect to the weight of said second part (21);- inorganic additives, preferably silicates and calcium carbonate, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 5% with respect to the weight of said second part (21);- pigments and additives of organic origin in a weight percentage comprised between 5% and 15% with respect to the weight of said second part (21).8) Artifact (150; 250) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that said second part comprises a first layer (22) arranged in contact with said support part (10) and a second layer (24), arranged between said first layer(22) and said first part (20), wherein said first layer (22) comprises biodegradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer and biodegradable micronized wax and said second layer (24) comprises biodegradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer.9) Artifact (150; 250) according to claim 8, characterized in that said biodegradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer is present in said first layer (22) in a weight percentage comprised between 75% and 85% with respect to the weight of said first layer (22) and / or said bio-degradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer is present in said second layer (24) in a weight percentage comprised between 75% and 85% with respect to the weight of said second layer (24).10) Artifact (150; 250) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that said biodegradable micronized wax is present in said first layer (22) in a weight percentage comprised between 1% and 15% with respect to the weight of said first layer (22), preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 4% and 12% with respect to the weight of said first layer (22), more preferably in a weight percentage comprised between 7% and 9% with respect to the weightof said first layer (22).11) Artifact (150; 250) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that said first layer (22) further comprises: inorganic pigments, preferably iron oxide, titanium dioxide, aluminosilicates, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 20% with respect to the weight of said first layer (22);- inorganic additives, preferably silicates and calcium carbonate, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 5% with respect to the weight of said first layer (22);- pigments and additives of organic origin in a weight percentage comprised between 5% and 20% with respect to the weight of said first layer (22); and / or said second layer (24) further comprises: inorganic pigments, preferably iron oxide, titanium dioxide, aluminosilicates, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 20% with respect to the weight of said second layer (24);- inorganic additives, preferably silicates and calcium carbonate, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 5%; with respect to the weight of said second layer (24);- pigments and additives of organic origin in a weight percentage comprised between 5% and 10% with respect to the weight of said second layer (24).12) Artifact (250) according to any one of claims 8 to 11, characterized in that said second part comprises a third layer (26), arranged between said second layer (24) and said first part (20), wherein said third layer (26) comprises biodegradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer.13) Artifact (250) according to claim 12, characterized in that said biodegradable polyurethane-copolyester-based polymer is present in said third layer (26) in a weight percentage comprised between 75% and 85% with respect to the weight of said third layer (26).14) Artifact (250) according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that said third layer (26) further comprises: inorganic pigments, preferably iron oxide, titanium dioxide, aluminosilicates, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 20% with respect to the weight of said third layer (26);- inorganic additives, preferably silicates and calcium carbonate, present in a weight percentage comprised between 0% and 5% with respect to theweight of said third layer (26);- pigments and additives of organic origin in a weight percentage comprised between 5% and 10% with respect to the weight of said third layer (26).15) Artifact (50; 150; 250) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said support part (10) comprises a polyester or paper, preferably a polyester with adhesive or paper with adhesive.16) Artifact (50; 150; 250) according to claim 15, characterized in that said polyester or paper support part (10) comprises an adhesive layer of a silicone or acrylic nature or rubber base.

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