Polyimide Intermediate Transfer Member with Perfluoropolyether Phosphate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing intermediate transfer members for xerographic systems face issues such as low modulus and break strength, brittleness, high production costs, and the need for multiple components like release additives, leveling agents, and dispersing agents, which complicates the manufacturing process and affects image transfer quality.
Innovation Solution
A polyimide-based intermediate transfer member comprising a perfluoropolyether phosphate and an optional conductive component, which functions as a single layer film, self-releases from metal substrates without an external release layer, acting as both a release additive and dispersing agent, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process and enhancing mechanical properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a separate release layer is deposited on a metal substrate and multiple additives (release additive, leveling additive, dispersing agent) are used, then the intermediate transfer member can be separated from the substrate, but the preparation cost and time increase and the process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functional additives (release additive, leveling additive, and dispersing agent) into a single perfluoropolyether phosphate compound. This single component performs all three functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate release layers and multiple additive components, thereby simplifying the preparation process and reducing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The perfluoropolyether phosphate acts as a multi-functional agent that simultaneously provides release properties, leveling effects, and dispersing capabilities. This universal component replaces the traditional multi-component system, allowing the intermediate transfer member to be prepared without separate release layers while maintaining all necessary functions
2Ease of manufacture
If thermoplastic materials are used for intermediate transfer members, then the cost is reduced, but the modulus values become relatively low (1,000 to 1,500 MPa)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite material system consisting of polyimide as the base polymer combined with perfluoropolyether phosphate additives. This composite approach maintains the structural integrity and high modulus values characteristic of polyimide (significantly higher than thermoplastic materials) while incorporating the functional benefits of release and dispersing properties, thereby avoiding the need to compromise strength for cost reduction
3Reliability
If known intermediate transfer member materials are used, then image transfer can be achieved, but the members become brittle and show inadequate acceptance of developed images
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the chemical composition parameters of the intermediate transfer member by incorporating perfluoropolyether phosphate additives into the polyimide matrix. This compositional change reduces brittleness and improves the material's ability to accept developed images while maintaining reliable image transfer properties, effectively adjusting the material parameters to eliminate the brittleness issue
Data Source
AI summary
An intermediate transfer member that contains a mixture of a polyimide, an optional conductive component, and a perfluoropolyether phosphate.