Liquid Electrophotographic Varnish Composition for Scratch and Peel Resistance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electrophotographic inks often lack durability on certain print substrates, exhibiting issues in peel, scratch, and flaking resistance, which can be partially addressed by applying an electrophotographic varnish but may compromise peel resistance.

Innovation Solution

A liquid electrophotographic varnish composition comprising a polymer resin, an epoxy-based cross-linking agent, and a solid catalyst with an amine group is used, which improves the integrity and balance between scratch and peel resistance through cross-linking and enhanced adhesion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If electrophotographic varnish is applied to improve scratch resistance, then scratch resistance is improved, but peel resistance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescratch resistanceVSAvoidpeel resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent modifies the chemical composition parameters of the varnish by incorporating specific polymer resins with controlled functionality ratios, epoxy cross-linking agents, and solid catalysts to achieve optimal balance between scratch and peel resistance through controlled cross-linking density and adhesion properties

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a composite varnish system combining multiple components (polymer resin, epoxy cross-linking agent, solid catalyst, carrier liquid) that work synergistically to provide both scratch resistance through cross-linked network formation and peel resistance through controlled adhesion to the substrate

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Strength

If conventional varnish composition is used to enhance durability, then scratch resistance improves, but electrostatic properties are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovedurabilityVSAvoidelectrostatic properties
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent controls the electrical properties by selecting polymer resins with appropriate glass transition temperatures and incorporating solid catalysts that minimize interference with electrostatic charging, while maintaining durability through cross-linking chemistry

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates different functional zones within the varnish layer: the cross-linked network provides durability and scratch resistance, while the polymer resin matrix and carrier liquid composition maintain electrostatic properties for proper image transfer

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 varnish composition enhances the durability of printed images by improving scratch resistance and maintaining adequate peel resistance, with the solid catalyst promoting efficient curing and reducing potential electrostatic property impacts.

Implementation Method 1

an epoxy-based cross-linking agent, and a solid catalyst with an amine group which is a curing agent for epoxides

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCross-linking: Chemical Bonding

Implementation Method 2

a solid catalyst with an amine group which is a curing agent for epoxides

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCatalysis: Catalysis

Data Source

PatentEP3248066B1Liquid electrophotographic varnish composition
Publication Date: 2022.04.20 HP INDIGO BV
  • EP3248066B1 patent drawing
  • EP3248066B1 patent drawing
  • EP3248066B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A liquid electrophotographic varnish composition comprising: a polymer resin; an epoxy-based cross-linking agent; a solid catalyst comprising at least one amine group; and a carrier liquid.