Optically Polymerizable Inkjet Ink Viscosity and Curing Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical polymerizable inkjet inks with low skin sensitization risk face challenges in achieving suitable viscosity and curing properties, as compounds with a Stimulation Index (SI) less than 3 often result in high viscosity and inadequate curing, while using volatile organic solvents degrades ejection stability and poses environmental concerns.
Innovation Solution
Combining an optically polymerizable monomer with a Stimulation Index (SI) less than 3, a molecule cleavage type optical polymerization initiator, and an amine compound as a polymerization accelerator, along with a hydrogen-extracting type initiator, to improve viscosity and curing efficiency while avoiding volatile organic compounds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If compounds with Stimulation Index (SI) less than 3 are used as optical polymerizable monomers, then skin sensitization risk is reduced, but viscosity of the inkjet ink increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical structure parameters of the monomer by selecting specific compounds with SI<3 and combining them with particular initiators and accelerators to achieve both low skin sensitization risk and acceptable viscosity. This involves adjusting molecular weight, functional groups, and composition ratios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite ink formulation by combining SI<3 monomers with specific ratios of molecule cleavage type initiators, hydrogen-extracting type initiators, and amine compounds. This composite approach allows the individual properties of each component to contribute to the overall performance, achieving low viscosity while maintaining safety.
2Reliability
If hydrogen-extracting type initiator and polymerization accelerator are used in combination, then curing property is improved, but viscosity control becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the concentration ratios and selection of hydrogen-extracting type initiators and amine compounds to achieve sufficient curing while controlling viscosity. By adjusting the parameters of these components, the patent resolves the contradiction between curing efficiency and viscosity stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The amine compound acts as an intermediary that mediates between the hydrogen-extracting type initiator and the monomer, enabling controlled polymerization and curing while helping to manage the viscosity through its specific chemical properties and interaction with other components.
3Stability of the object's composition
If organic solvent is added to decrease viscosity, then inkjet ejection stability is improved, but volatile organic compounds are emitted causing environmental problems
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using volatile organic solvents that cause environmental harm, the patent converts the problem by finding non-volatile alternatives through careful selection of monomer structures and additives. The harmful VOC emission is eliminated while still achieving the desired viscosity through benign chemical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameters by replacing organic solvents with alternative viscosity-controlling agents that do not volatilize. This involves adjusting the molecular weight and composition of the ink formulation to achieve stable viscosity without VOC emission.
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 decreases ink viscosity, enhances curing properties, and allows for clear distinction between cured and uncured films, improving image quality and reducing environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
optically polymerizable inkjet ink including an optically polymerizable monomer having a Stimulation Index (SI) of less than 3 in a skin sensitization test as measured by Local Lymph Node Assay (LLNA), a molecule cleavage type optical polymerization initiator, a hydrogen-extracting type optical polymerization initiator, and an amine compound serving as a polymerization accelerator
Implementation Method 2
molecule cleavage type optical polymerization initiator
Implementation Method 3
hydrogen-extracting type optical polymerization initiator
Implementation Method 4
an amine compound serving as a polymerization accelerator
Data Source
AI summary
An optically polymerizable inkjet ink including an optically polymerizable monomer having a Stimulation Index (SI) of less than 3 in a skin sensitization test as measured by Local Lymph Node Assay (LLNA), a molecule cleavage type optical polymerization initiator, a hydrogen-extracting type optical polymerization initiator, and an amine compound serving as a polymerization accelerator.