Transparent Ink-Jet Films with Segmented Layers for High Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transparent ink-jet recording films face challenges in achieving high image densities without excessive ink usage, leading to ink transfer issues and curl problems due to high image-receiving layer thicknesses.
Innovation Solution
The development of transparent ink-jet recording films with increased image-receiving layer thicknesses, incorporating a transparent substrate with under-layers containing gelatin and borate derivatives, image-receiving layers with inorganic particles and water-soluble polymers, and back-coat layers with core-shell particles and hydrophilic colloids, which enhance adhesion and ink drying performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If image-receiving layer thickness is increased to accommodate more printing ink for high image densities, then maximum optical density is improved, but ink transfer between adjacent films increases and curl problems occur
Solution Approach 1:
The image-receiving layer is segmented into multiple functional layers: a first image-receiving layer with specific thickness and composition, and a second image-receiving layer with different properties. This segmentation allows each layer to perform specific functions - the first layer absorbs excess ink to prevent transfer, while the second layer receives the ink jet signal, thereby resolving the contradiction between achieving high optical density and preventing ink transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameters of the image-receiving layers by incorporating gelatin, borate derivatives, and inorganic particles in specific ratios. These parameter changes modify the layers' ink absorption characteristics and structural properties, enabling them to maintain dimensional stability (reduce curl) while achieving high ink capacity for maximum optical density.
2Illumination intensity
If image-receiving layer thickness is increased to absorb more ink, then image density is improved, but curl of the film increases
Solution Approach 1:
The image-receiving layers are formulated as composite materials containing gelatin, borate derivatives, inorganic particles, and other additives in specific combinations. This composite structure provides dimensional stability that counteracts curl while maintaining the thickness needed for high ink absorption and image density.
Solution Approach 2:
By changing the chemical composition parameters - specifically incorporating borate derivatives and inorganic particles in controlled amounts - the patent modifies the physical properties of the thick image-receiving layers to reduce curl while maintaining their ink-holding capacity for high image density.
3Illumination intensity
If more ink is applied to achieve high image densities on transparent films, then optical density is improved, but drying time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The image-receiving layers incorporate inorganic particles and gelatin matrices that create a porous structure. This porosity enables rapid capillary absorption and evaporation of ink solvents, allowing the layers to accommodate high ink applications for maximum optical density while maintaining fast drying times through enhanced solvent removal pathways.
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 achieves high maximum optical densities with rapid ink drying and negligible ink transfer, while minimizing curl and ensuring excellent adhesion between layers, thereby improving the quality and reliability of printed images.
Implementation Method 1
at least one water soluble or water dispersible polymer comprising at least one hydroxyl group
Implementation Method 2
the at least on under-layer comprises gelatin and at least one borate or borate derivative
Implementation Method 3
the at least one back-coat layer comprises gelatin and at least one core-shell particle comprising at least one thermoplastic polymer
Data Source
AI summary
Transparent ink-jet recording films, compositions, and methods are disclosed. These films can exhibit high maximum optical densities, rapid ink drying, low curl, excellent adhesion between the coating layers and the substrate, and negligible ink transfer between stacked ink-jet recording films after imaging. Such films are useful in medical imaging applications.