High-Molecular-Weight PVB Films for Direct Sputter Functionalization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for functionalizing polyvinyl butyral (PVB) films for laminated glass face challenges due to their softness and the need for cooling during sputtering processes, which are not economically viable.

Innovation Solution

The use of high molecular weight PVB films with a peak top molecular weight (Mp) above 150,000 g/mol, which exhibit improved stability and storage modulus during sputtering and lamination, allowing for direct functionalization without significant cooling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If PVB films are used for sputtering functionalization, then direct functionalization is achieved, but the films become too soft and require cooling during the process

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedirect functionalization capabilityVSAvoidfilm stability during sputtering
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the molecular weight parameter of the PVB film from conventional levels to above 150,000 g/mol. This parameter change increases the storage modulus and thermal stability of the film, allowing it to withstand sputtering temperatures without requiring active cooling, while still enabling direct functionalization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If PVB films with substantial plasticizer are used, then ease of processing is improved, but the films become softer and require cooling during sputtering

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing easeVSAvoidfilm temperature control during sputtering
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the molecular weight parameter to above 150,000 g/mol, which compensates for the softening effect of plasticizers. The high molecular weight provides sufficient thermal stability and storage modulus even with substantial plasticizer content, eliminating the need for cooling during sputtering while maintaining processing ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If multiple film layers are used for heat shielding, then heat-shielding properties are achieved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveheat-shielding performanceVSAvoidnumber of film layers
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functions into a single PVB film layer. The high molecular weight PVB film can be directly functionalized with heat-shielding coatings, merging the interlayer function and heat-shielding function into one integrated component, thereby reducing the total number of layers from three to two.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The PVB film serves multiple functions: it acts as the interlayer material, provides the substrate for functionalization, and enables heat-shielding properties through direct coating. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated heat-shielding layers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 high molecular weight PVB films maintain stability and improve adhesion during sputtering and lamination, enabling efficient production of laminated glass with functional layers.

Implementation Method 1

functionalization of PVB films by sputtering techniques

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSputtering: Sputtering

Data Source

PatentEP4613479A1Polyvinyl acetal films with functionalization
Publication Date: 2025.09.10 KURARAY EURO GMBH
  • EP4613479A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4613479A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4613479A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention relates functionalised polyvinyl acetal films with a high molecular weight and laminated glass comprising a such functionalised films sandwiched between two sheets of glass.