Cross-linked Overcoat Layer Wear Resistance via Silicone PEG Ester
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional photoreceptors with PTFE particles in overcoat layers face challenges in dispersing due to low viscosity of the coating solution, necessitating a filler that provides low surface energy and wear resistance while being easily incorporable.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a soluble silicone poly(ethylene glycol) ester into the overcoat layer, which is soluble in alcohols and forms a crosslinking overcoat coating solution, offering low surface energy and wear resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If PTFE particles are used to provide low surface energy and wear resistance, then the overcoat layer achieves desired surface properties, but the particles are difficult to disperse in the coating solution due to low viscosity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of the filler material from insoluble PTFE particles to a soluble silicone PEG ester. This parameter change allows the filler to dissolve uniformly in the coating solution rather than requiring dispersion, directly resolving the manufacturing difficulty while maintaining the low surface energy and wear resistance properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The silicone PEG ester acts as an intermediary substance that provides the desired low surface energy properties without the dispersion issues of PTFE particles. It serves as a soluble alternative that mediates between the need for wear resistance and the ease of incorporation into the coating solution.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If PTFE particles are used in the overcoat layer, then wear resistance is improved, but the incorporation into the coating solution becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the filler material from an insoluble particulate form (PTFE) to a soluble molecular form (silicone PEG ester). This parameter change enables easy incorporation into the coating solution while preserving the durability and wear resistance characteristics needed for the overcoat layer.
3Reliability
If conventional overcoat layers are used, then the structure is simple, but the wear resistance and print quality are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite overcoat layer by incorporating silicone PEG ester into the coating formulation. This composite approach combines the base overcoat material with the low surface energy silicone compound, achieving enhanced wear resistance and print quality while maintaining relative simplicity in the overall structure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The silicone PEG ester improves print quality and maintains electrical performance with reduced wear rates, demonstrating enhanced durability and print quality compared to conventional overcoat layers.
Implementation Method 1
the overcoat layer comprises a crosslinked overcoat coating solution
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments pertain to a novel imaging member, namely, an imaging member or photoreceptor comprising an overcoat layer which comprises a soluble filler that improves low surface energy and wear. The soluble filler is a silicone poly(ethylene glycol) ester which improves low surface energy and wear without negatively impacting electrical properties of the overcoat layer.