Roofing Membrane Adhesive Film with Barrier Layer to Prevent Migration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional self-adhered roofing membranes have a two-step manufacturing process that involves separate application of adhesive, which can be inefficient and may not ensure optimal adhesion between the roofing membrane and the substrate.

Innovation Solution

A roofing system with a roofing membrane comprising a cap layer, a core layer, and a scrim, where the membrane includes a first adhesive layer adhered to the core layer and a second adhesive layer adhered to the substrate, with a barrier layer positioned between them to enhance adhesion, using materials like thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or their combinations, and employing non-polar and polar adhesive materials to achieve a peel strength of 2 PLI to 15 PLI.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If adhesive is applied in a separate second process step at a different production line, then the manufacturing process can be simplified and production lines can be specialized, but the adhesion quality may not be optimal and the overall manufacturing efficiency is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing process simplicityVSAvoidadhesion quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the adhesive application step with the membrane manufacturing step into a single integrated process. The adhesive is applied to the membrane during the extrusion process itself, rather than in a separate second process step. This merging ensures optimal adhesion quality while maintaining manufacturing efficiency, as the adhesive and membrane are processed together in one continuous operation rather than requiring coordination between separate production lines.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Device complexity

If a single adhesive layer is used, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the adhesion performance and durability are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadhesive structure complexityVSAvoidadhesion strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the adhesive system into multiple distinct layers: a first adhesive layer applied to the membrane and a second adhesive layer applied to the substrate, with an optional barrier layer between them. This segmentation allows each adhesive layer to be optimized for its specific function - the first layer bonds to the membrane while the second layer bonds to the substrate. This multi-layer structure significantly improves adhesion strength and durability compared to a single adhesive layer, while the added complexity is justified by the enhanced performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Productivity

If adhesive is applied without a barrier layer, then the manufacturing process is faster, but adhesive migration occurs and adhesion strength is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing speedVSAvoidadhesion consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a barrier layer as an intermediary between the first adhesive layer (on the membrane) and the second adhesive layer (on the substrate). This barrier layer prevents adhesive migration between the two adhesive layers, ensuring that each adhesive maintains its intended properties and bonding characteristics. The barrier layer is applied during the manufacturing process in a controlled manner, so while it adds a step, it prevents defects that would require rework, thereby maintaining productivity while significantly improving adhesion consistency and reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 improved adhesion between the roofing membrane and the substrate, enhancing the durability and installation efficiency of the roofing system by ensuring a strong bond while preventing adhesive migration and maintaining adhesion strength across various surface energies.

Implementation Method 1

a first adhesive layer, wherein the first adhesive layer is adhered to the core layer of the roofing membrane; a second adhesive layer, wherein the second adhesive layer is adhered to the roofing substrate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesion: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentUS11834836B2Roofing systems and related methods
Publication Date: 2023.12.05 BMIC LLC
  • US11834836B2 patent drawing
  • US11834836B2 patent drawing
  • US11834836B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a roofing system. In some embodiments, the roofing system includes a roofing membrane, which may include a cap, a scrim, and a core. In some embodiments, the roofing system may also include an adhesive film, which may include a first adhesive layer adhered to the roofing membrane, a second adhesive layer configured to adhere the roofing membrane to a roofing substrate, and a barrier layer positioned between the first and second adhesive layers. Methods of manufacturing roofing systems are also disclosed.