Water-Based Polyurethane Ink for Nonwoven Substrates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing inks for non-woven substrates, such as those used in incontinence products, suffer from low color transfer resistance, leading to ink transfer onto contact surfaces, and most technologies rely on solvent-based inks with VOCs, limiting their use and failing to provide adequate abrasion resistance.
Innovation Solution
A water-based polyurethane resin ink system comprising a mixture of isocyanates, active hydrogen compounds, and colorants, which provides improved rub resistance and color transfer resistance when printed on non-woven substrates, with optional additives like solvents and waxes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If solvent-based printing inks are used on non-woven substrates, then color transfer resistance is improved, but volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are released into the atmosphere
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameters of the ink system by replacing solvent-based formulations with water-based polyurethane resin dispersions. This substitution maintains the film-forming and colorfastness properties while eliminating VOC emissions, directly resolving the contradiction between color transfer resistance and environmental harm.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the traditionally harmful solvent component into beneficial water-based polyurethane resin that provides both environmental benefits (no VOCs) and performance benefits (superior color transfer resistance and abrasion resistance). The water-based system dries to form a durable, flexible film that prevents ink transfer.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional printing inks are used on non-woven substrates, then printing process compatibility is maintained, but abrasion resistance and color transfer resistance are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite ink formulations combining water-based polyurethane resin with specific pigments, extenders, and functional additives. This composite approach creates an ink system that adheres well to non-woven substrates through flexographic or rotogravure printing while providing enhanced abrasion and color transfer resistance that conventional single-component inks cannot achieve.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the rheological and adhesive parameters of the ink by using water-based polyurethane resin with controlled molecular weight and functionality. These parameter changes enable the ink to be processed through conventional printing presses while achieving superior performance in abrasion and color transfer resistance.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If water-based printing inks are used, then VOC emissions are reduced, but color transfer resistance and abrasion resistance are typically lower than solvent-based inks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent fundamentally changes the performance parameters of water-based inks by using polyurethane resin with specific molecular weight, hydroxyl value, and isocyanate content. These parameter optimizations enable the water-based formulation to achieve color transfer resistance and abrasion resistance that rival or exceed solvent-based systems, eliminating the traditional performance deficit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the perceived disadvantage of water-based formulations into an advantage by utilizing the water-compatible polyurethane resin system that cures to form a highly durable, flexible film. This film provides exceptional color transfer and abrasion resistance while maintaining the environmental benefits of water-based technology.
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 water-based polyurethane resin ink system achieves excellent color transfer resistance, maintaining performance even under abrasion, and is suitable for decorative and functional applications like wetness indication, while avoiding VOC limitations of solvent-based inks.
Implementation Method 1
a water based polyurethane resin
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a waterborne composition comprising of a water-based polyurethane, water, and colorant which can be used as a printing ink for non-woven articles.