Inkjet Heat-Transfer Layer Composition for Wash-Fast Fabric Prints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing decoration methods for fabrics using layered items result in poor washing fastness and require high temperatures/long application times, especially when using inks with dyes, making home application difficult.
Innovation Solution
A layered item comprising a finish layer with a mixture of polyamide powders in a polymeric matrix, including specific surface areas and melting points, to improve ink absorption and resistance to washing, combined with a thermo-adhesive layer for application by heat and pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional layered items are used for decorating fabrics, then the decoration process is simple and accessible, but the washing fastness is poor and colors fade after repeated washing
Solution Approach 1:
The finish layer uses a composite material consisting of polyamide powder particles embedded in a polymeric matrix. This composite structure combines the ink-absorbing properties of polyamide powder with the binding properties of the polymeric matrix, creating a layer that both captures ink effectively and adheres strongly to fabric, thereby improving washing fastness while maintaining ease of application
Solution Approach 2:
The polyamide powder particles in the finish layer create a porous structure that effectively absorbs and retains ink. This porous architecture allows the ink to be trapped within the particle matrix, preventing it from washing away, while the overall layer structure remains compatible with simple application processes
2Reliability
If high temperatures and long application times are used to transfer decorations onto fabric, then the decoration adheres well, but home application with an iron becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The thermo-adhesive layer is formulated with specific thermal properties that enable effective adhesion at reduced temperatures and shorter times compared to conventional methods. This parameter optimization allows the decoration to transfer and bond securely to fabric under milder conditions that are achievable with household irons, thereby improving home applicability while maintaining reliable adhesion
3Ease of manufacture
If inks with dyes are used for printing on layered items, then the printing process is simple and colorful, but the colors fade and visible abrasions appear after washing
Solution Approach 1:
The finish layer's composite structure of polyamide powder particles in a polymeric matrix creates a protective network that traps dye molecules. This composite architecture prevents dye migration and fading during washing, while the polymeric matrix provides surface cohesion that resists abrasion, thereby protecting against both color fading and surface damage
Solution Approach 2:
The porous structure formed by polyamide powder particles provides extensive internal surface area for dye absorption and retention. The ink and dye become trapped within the porous network of particles, making them resistant to washing out, while the overall layer maintains structural integrity to prevent surface abrasion
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 solution provides enhanced washing fastness and allows for lower application temperatures and times, ensuring clear images and resistance to abrasion, suitable for home and professional use.
Implementation Method 1
a finish layer (16) suited to receive inks, more specifically inks for inkjet printers
Implementation Method 2
applied (fixed) to the latter by means of heat and pressure, thereby making the thermo-adhesive layer adhere to the fabric or clothing item
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention concerns a layered item (50) suited to be printed by means of inks (I), preferably by means of inkjet technology, for decorating a surface of an object (T), in particular a surface of clothing articles (T) such as T-shirts, sweatshirts or the like. The item (50) comprises a thermo-adhesive layer (12) suited to allow the item (50) to be fixed to the surface (T) and a finish layer (16) suited to receive said inks (I). The finish layer (16) comprises a mixture (M) of polyamide powders incorporated in a matrix of polymeric material (P), wherein the mixture (M) of polyamide powders comprises: - a first polyamide powder having a specific surface area included between 15 m2/g and 35 m2/g; - a second polyamide powder having a specific surface area included between 3 m2/g and 15 m2/g; - a third polyamide powder having its melting and softening point included between 160°C and 200°C.