Laser-Imageable Composition Particle Size for Single-Layer Contrast
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Solution Overview
Problem
Laser-imageable compositions containing oxyanions of multivalent metals require multiple layers for high contrast image formation in offset lithographic printing, making the process time-consuming and space-intensive, limiting its commercial viability at low coat weights.
Innovation Solution
A laser-imageable composition comprising an oxyanion of a multivalent metal with particles having a D50 particle size distribution of 10 μm or less, combined with an oligomer, enables high contrast image formation at low coat weights using a single layer in offset lithographic printing, enhancing rheological properties and maintaining image quality over time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple layers of laser-imageable composition are applied to achieve high contrast image formation with oxyanions of multivalent metals, then image contrast is improved, but printing process complexity and production time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the particle size parameter of the oxyanion from conventional larger sizes to 10 μm or less (D50 distribution). This parameter change enables single-layer application to achieve sufficient image contrast, eliminating the need for multiple layers while maintaining high contrast image formation. The fine particle size increases surface area and laser absorption efficiency, allowing adequate contrast at low coat weights with single layer application.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a multi-layer structural approach to a single-layer approach by utilizing fine particle distribution (D50 ≤ 10 μm) as a new dimensional characteristic. This dimensional change in particle size enables the same image contrast function to be achieved with reduced layer complexity, simplifying the printing process while maintaining manufacturing precision.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple layers of laser-imageable composition are applied for high contrast image formation, then image quality is improved, but production time and space occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
By changing the particle size parameter to D50 ≤ 10 μm, the invention enables single-layer application to achieve adequate image quality. This parameter modification increases the effective surface area and laser interaction efficiency, allowing high contrast images to be formed with single layer deposition at low coat weights, thereby reducing production time and eliminating the need for multiple layer applications.
3Ease of manufacture
If offset lithographic printing is used to apply low coat weights of laser-imageable composition, then printing cost is reduced, but sufficient image contrast cannot be achieved with oxyanions of multivalent metals
Solution Approach 1:
The invention modifies the particle size parameter of the oxyanion to D50 ≤ 10 μm, which significantly increases the surface area to volume ratio. This parameter change enhances laser absorption efficiency and image formation capability at low material concentrations, enabling offset lithographic printing to achieve sufficient image contrast at low coat weights (0.7-1.8 gsm) with single layer application, thus maintaining cost effectiveness while achieving adequate image quality.
4Manufacturing precision
If flexographic, gravure or screen printing is used to achieve higher coat weights for adequate image contrast, then image contrast is improved, but printing cost and process complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
By changing the particle size parameter to fine distribution (D50 ≤ 10 μm), the invention enables offset lithographic printing to achieve adequate image contrast at low coat weights, avoiding the need for more expensive alternative printing methods. The fine particle size maximizes the effectiveness of the material at low concentrations, making cost-effective offset printing viable for laser-imageable compositions containing oxyanions of multivalent metals.
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 composition allows for the production of high contrast, human and machine-readable images at low coat weights with improved environmental resistance and smoothness, facilitating efficient and cost-effective printing processes.
Implementation Method 1
Such compounds are capable of generating high contrast human and/or machine readable images upon exposure of the laser-imageable composition to an appropriate stimulus
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a laser-imageable composition comprising an oxyanion of a multivalent metal and an oligomer, wherein the oxyanion of a multivalent metal comprises particles having a D50 particle size distribution of 10 μm or less. A method of formulation of the laser-imageable composition and a substrate comprising the laser-imageable composition applied thereto are also disclosed.