U.S. patent application number 14/553324 was filed with the patent office on 2015-06-04 for top coating for indoor and outdoor temporary removable graphics and system and method for making, applying and removing such graphics.
The applicant listed for this patent is CSD, LLC. Invention is credited to Parvez Akhtar, John Fitzwater, Norman J. Greenberg.
Application Number | 20150152277 14/553324 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40313625 |
Filed Date | 2015-06-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150152277 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Akhtar; Parvez ; et
al. |
June 4, 2015 |
TOP COATING FOR INDOOR AND OUTDOOR TEMPORARY REMOVABLE GRAPHICS AND
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MAKING, APPLYING AND REMOVING SUCH
GRAPHICS
Abstract
A composition for a removable top coating for protecting the
exposed face of a temporary removable graphic is provided. A
remover for the transferred graphic image is provided that
completely dissolves the temporary removable graphic, but does not
affect the commonly encountered substrates such as concrete, brick,
wooden floors, asphalt surfaces, terrazzo and motor vehicle body
surfaces, marine and aeronautical craft surfaces. A method for
making, applying and removing the temporary removable graphic is
provided.
Inventors: |
Akhtar; Parvez; (Roswell,
GA) ; Fitzwater; John; (Atlanta, GA) ;
Greenberg; Norman J.; (Marietta, GA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
CSD, LLC |
Eatonton |
GA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
40313625 |
Appl. No.: |
14/553324 |
Filed: |
November 25, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13633428 |
Oct 2, 2012 |
8926783 |
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14553324 |
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13330055 |
Dec 19, 2011 |
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13633428 |
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11833045 |
Aug 2, 2007 |
8221574 |
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13330055 |
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60914123 |
Apr 26, 2007 |
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60914133 |
Apr 26, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
524/40 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C09D 7/63 20180101; C09D
101/14 20130101; C09D 5/008 20130101; C08K 5/10 20130101; C09D
133/12 20130101; C09D 9/005 20130101; C09D 133/12 20130101; C08K
5/10 20130101; C08L 33/12 20130101; C08L 2205/02 20130101; C09D
133/12 20130101; C08K 5/10 20130101 |
International
Class: |
C09D 101/14 20060101
C09D101/14; C09D 7/12 20060101 C09D007/12; C09D 133/12 20060101
C09D133/12 |
Claims
1-26. (canceled)
27. A composition comprising by percentage dry weight, based on the
total dry weight of components a), b) and c) combined: a) 40 to 80%
of cellulose acetate butyrate ester having a molecular weight in
the range of 10,000 to 500,000; b) 15 to 60% of at least one
acrylic polymer, wherein the at least one acrylic polymer is at
least one methyl methacrylate copolymer; and c) 2 to 10% of sucrose
acetate isobutyrate; in an amount of solvent effective to dissolve
the dry components of the composition, wherein the solvent
comprises at least one organic solvent, and wherein the composition
is useful for preparing a removable top coat.
28. The composition of claim 27, further comprising at least one
plasticizer other than sucrose acetate isobutyrate.
29. The composition of claim 27, wherein the cellulose acetate
butyrate ester is selected from CAB 553-0.4 and CAB 531.1, wherein
CAB 553-0.4 is a cellulose acetate butyrate having, on the average,
butyryl content of about 46 wt %, acetyl content of about 2 wt %,
hydroxyl content of about 4.8 wt %, glass transition temperature
about 136.degree. C., melting point about 150-160.degree. C., and
molecular weight about 20,000, and wherein CAB-531.1 is a cellulose
acetate butyrate having, on the average, butyryl content of about
50 wt %, acetyl content of about 3 wt %, hydroxyl content of about
1.7 wt %, melting point about 135-150.degree. C., glass transition
temperature about 115.degree. C., and molecular weight about
40,000.
30. The composition of claim 27, wherein the cellulose acetate
butyrate ester has a hydroxyl content of approximately 3 to 6% by
dry weight of the cellulose acetate butyrate ester.
31. The composition of claim 27, wherein the at least one organic
solvent is at least one lower molecular weight alcohol selected
from methyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol and n-propyl
alcohol.
32. The composition of claim 27, wherein the sucrose acetate
isobutyrate is SAIB-100 and SAIB-100 is sucrose acetate isobutyrate
having a molecular weight of from 832 to 856 and soluble in lower
molecular weight alcohols.
33. The composition of claim 27 further comprising a flow
improver.
34. The composition of claim 33, wherein the dry weight of the flow
improver is 0.66 to 1% by weight of the composition after
evaporation of the solvent.
35. The composition of claim 33, wherein the flow improver contains
alkoxylated polydimethylsiloxane and ethyleneglycol n-butyl
ether.
36. The composition of claim 27, wherein the solvent comprises at
least one lower molecular weight alcohol.
37. The composition of claim 27, wherein the cellulose acetate
butyrate ester is used in an amount of approximately 68% by dry
weight of the composition and the acrylic polymer is a mixture of:
a methyl methacrylate and n-butyl methacrylate copolymer with a
molecular weight of approximately 80,000 or higher in an amount of
approximately 15% by dry weight of the composition and a copolymer
of methyl methacrylate and n-butyl methacrylate with a molecular
weight of approximately 80,000 or lower in an amount of
approximately 10% by dry weight of the composition.
38. The composition of claim 27, wherein the methyl methacrylate
copolymer is NEOCRYL B-734, wherein NEOCRYL B-734 is a methyl
methacrylate copolymer having, on the average, molecular weight
105,000, glass transition temperature 45.degree. C. and acid value
of zero.
39. The composition of claim 27, wherein the at least one acrylic
polymer is at least a copolymer of methyl methacrylate and n-butyl
methacrylate.
40. The composition of claim 39, wherein the copolymer of methyl
methacrylate and n-butyl methacrylate is NEOCRYL B-723, wherein
NEOCRYL B-723 is a copolymer of n-butyl methacrylate and methyl
methacrylate having, on the average, molecular weight of about
200,000, glass transition temperature of 48.degree. C., and acid
value 5.5.
41. The composition of claim 39, wherein the copolymer of methyl
methacrylate and n-butyl methacrylate is BR-106, wherein BR-106 is
a copolymer of n-butyl methacrylate and methyl methacrylate having,
on the average, molecular weight of approximately 60,000, glass
transition temperature of 58.degree. C. and acid value of 3.
42. The composition of claim 32, wherein the at least one acrylic
polymer comprises methyl methacrylate copolymer, or a copolymer of
n-butyl methacrylate and methyl methacrylate.
43. The composition of claim 27 further comprising at least one
additive.
44. The composition of claim 43, wherein the at least one additive
is selected from UV absorbers, optical brightening agents, UV
tracers, heat stabilizers, phosphorescence agents and
anti-oxidants.
45. The composition of claim 31, wherein the at least one lower
molecular weight alcohol is selected from methyl alcohol, ethyl
alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, n-propyl alcohol and diacetone
alcohol.
46. The composition of claim 45, wherein the at least one organic
solvent further comprises at least one solvent selected from
ethylene glycol n-butyl ether, ethyl 3-ethoxypropionate, propylene
glycol monomethyl ether acetate and tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol.
47. The composition of claim 27, wherein the at least one acrylic
polymer is a mixture of NEOCRYL B-734 and BR-106, wherein NEOCRYL
B-734 is a methyl methacrylate copolymer having, on the average,
molecular weight 105,000, glass transition temperature 45.degree.
C. and acid value of zero, and wherein BR-106 is a copolymer of
n-butyl methacrylate and methyl methacrylate having, on the
average, molecular weight of approximately 60,000, glass transition
temperature of 58.degree. C. and acid value of 3.
48. The composition of claim 27, further comprising a pigmented
compound.
49. The composition of claim 38, wherein the at least one acrylic
polymer further comprises NEOCRYL B-723, wherein NEOCRYL B-723 is a
copolymer of n-butyl methacrylate and methyl methacrylate having,
on the average, molecular weight of about 200,000, glass transition
temperature of 48.degree. C., and acid value 5.5.
50. The composition of claim 41, wherein the at least one acrylic
polymer further comprises NEOCRYL B-723, wherein NEOCRYL B-723 is a
copolymer of n-butyl methacrylate and methyl methacrylate having,
on the average, molecular weight of about 200,000, glass transition
temperature of 48.degree. C., and acid value 5.5.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority to copending U.S.
Provisional Application No. 60/914,123, entitled "A Water Based
Back Coat For Temporary Graphics Fabrication," filed Apr. 26, 2007,
and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/914,133, entitled "A
Solvent Based Top Coating For Temporary Graphics Fabrication,"
filed Apr. 26, 2007, both of which are herein incorporated by
reference in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention is a top coating composition for indoor and
outdoor temporary removable graphics and a method for making,
applying and removing temporary removable graphics.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Numerous types of stickers and graphics are available in the
market today that are of the self-adhesive type or may be applied
after coating with an adhesive. There are also numerous adhesives
available for securing an image that is pre-applied onto a special
water release paper, and then transferred to a painted or unpainted
surface. However, removal of the sticker material along with the
image is a cumbersome process and usually results in damage to the
underlying surface.
[0004] There is a need in the market place for a strong composite
structure that can be used as a temporary removable graphic, which
can be easily applied, and when desired, can be easily removed
without damage to the underlying substrate. Potential uses for such
a temporary removable graphic are as an advertisement, logo, label,
banner, sign, instructions, color coding, identification and many
other functional situations that identify, protect or decorate
substrates. A composite structure is needed that can be applied to
concrete, brick, asphalt, tar, parking lots, terrazzo, parquet,
wood, glass, metals, plastics, ceramics, elastomers, rubber,
fabrics, textiles and other painted or unpainted substrates.
[0005] There is also a complete absence in the market for a
suitable system and method that may be used as an indoor or outdoor
temporary removable floor graphic. This is difficult to accomplish
today, because items such as graphics or signs are not durable
enough and cannot be used on walking and driving surfaces as they
do not have the necessary strength and resistance properties to
fulfill the service life required. Also, they cannot be easily
removed from substrates without damage to the underlying
surface.
[0006] Graphics or signs are applied to substrates by standard
techniques such as screen printing, gravure printing, flexographic
printing or hand-painting, to form finished products. The graphics
cannot be easily removed from the substrates, especially painted or
coated substrates without damage to the underlying surfaces.
Aggressive solvents such as toluene, xylene, methylethyl ketone,
ethyl acetate, acetone, trichloroethylene, hexane and other
hydrocarbon mixtures of solvents would usually be required to
remove the adhesive and printing ink, and would result in damage to
painted substrates and many other substrates such as plastics.
[0007] Graphics and signs can also be applied to substrates using a
paper, film and an adhesive. The film or coated paper has graphics
printed on the surface or on the reverse side of the film or coated
paper. Also, on the reverse side of the surface an adhesive is
applied in the form of a pressure sensitive adhesive or a
remoistenable adhesive followed by some type of release paper in
certain situations. The graphic or sign is applied by peeling away
the release paper and applying to various substrates. An example of
this would be a label stuck on a wooden object or a label put on an
automobile body. In both cases, the label cannot be easily removed
from the substrate without possible surface damage.
[0008] There is a need for a composite structure that can be
applied to an outdoor surface such as a floor, a wall, a painted
vehicle body, a marine or aeronautical craft body, to serve as an
advertisement or sign for an extended period of time. Wind, rain,
sunlight or other environmental factors should not adversely affect
the performance of the composite structure. At a designated time,
the advertisement or sign can be easily removed without damage to
the underlying substrates. After removal and clean up, a new
advertisement or sign can be repeatedly re-applied to the same
surface.
[0009] A practical application would be to apply an advertisement
to outdoor vertical and horizontal surfaces by applying graphics on
concrete, asphalt, brick or cement block and to an indoor floor
such as a painted or unpainted concrete or terrazzo floor in a
shopping mall or store. The advertisement or sign should have a
composite structure that would be easy to apply, easy to remove but
would have sufficient properties to be used on an outdoor or indoor
walking and driving surface such as a parking lot or a floor in a
shopping mall.
[0010] Another practical application would be to apply an
advertisement, sign or graphic to the body of an auto vehicle,
marine or aeronautical craft, that would have sufficient properties
to last for an extended period of time outdoors including repeated
automatic or manual washing using a detergent or windshield washing
with an ammonia solution. When desired, the advertisement, sign or
graphic could be easily removed without damage to the surface. If
required, a fresh temporary removable graphic could be re-applied
onto the same surface.
[0011] Traditionally, the transfers of images are of two types:
those which have a dry release; and those which have a wet release.
The wet release graphics have an image printed on a paper which is
pre-coated with a layer of water soluble gum. The back side of the
printed image is usually coated with a water remoistenable glue.
When the graphic is soaked with water and pressed on a surface on
which the image is to appear, the soluble gum layer partially
dissolves and becomes soft, so that the paper may be removed,
leaving the image on the desired surface. The paper on which the
image is printed is known as a wet release paper. This is normally
made up of an absorbent paper of good quality which is coated with
some type of water soluble starch or vegetable gum to act as a
release layer. The paper or backing serves as a support for the
release layer and subsequent layers of ink and adhesive.
[0012] The image may be applied on the paper with standard methods,
such as printing, copying or drawing directly or in reverse,
depending on the final surface. A wide variety of inks are used,
and the image can be applied by standard methods such as silk
screening, offset printing, digital printing or toner based laser
printout.
[0013] Normally, the process begins by application of a coat of
lacquer or varnish on the gum coated side of the paper surface.
Then the image is printed on the lacquer, and a water remoistenable
glue is coated on to the dried surface of the ink. To apply the
graphics, it is submerged in water for a short while, causing the
water soluble gum layer to release the paper from the image. The
image and adhesive composite structure is slid off from the paper,
and transferred to the substrate for its intended long-term
use.
[0014] The graphics need to be protected on the outer face by a
polymeric top coating as a key part of the composite structure. The
polymeric coating must be flexible, clear, durable, have good
resistance properties to ultraviolet light, water, humidity, rain,
snow, heat, cold, pollution, common cleaning chemicals and soaps.
The polymeric coating must be able to be applied from solution or
in a molten state by various application methods to yield
consistent, quality films. Inks, decorative and functional coatings
must be able to be applied to the dried polymeric film. Back
coatings must be able to be applied to the composite polymeric
coating and ink structure. The polymeric coating must have the
unique ability to have the necessary service life properties and be
able to be removed easily with a remover without leaving any
residue or damaging the substrate.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] A polymeric coating was developed by dissolving various
combinations of polymers, such as cellulose acetate butyrate ester,
sucrose acetate isobutyrate, acrylic and methacrylic polymers in
solvents such as the lower alcohols, esters, glycol ethers, and
glycol ether acetates.
[0016] The preferred results were obtained by using from 50 to 70%
by dry weight of cellulose acetate butyrate ester (CAB), 20 to 50%
of an acrylic polymer and 2 to 10% of sucrose acetate isobutyrate
as a plasticizer. Preferably a mixture of acrylic polymers such as
copolymers of methyl methacrylate and n-butyl methacrylate is used.
An alkoxylated modified siloxane flow improver can be used with
this composition. The polymers are selected on the basis of their
solubility molecular weight (MW) glass transition temperature Tg
and acid value.
[0017] The preferred solvent consists of approximately 20 to 30% of
ethyl alcohol, 10 to 12% of isopropyl alcohol, 10 to 20% of
diacetone alcohol, 2 to 5% of ethylene glycol n-butyl ether and 10
to 20% of propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate and 2 to 5% of
tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol based upon the weight of the solvent and
the polymers.
[0018] Selected polymers must be soluble in very polar solvents
such as alcohols and must have a molecular weight range of 10,000
to 500,000 in order to have the necessary balance of film toughness
and viscosity control. Blends of various polymer systems are often
necessary to achieve the best balance of properties such as
hardness, abrasion resistance and flexibility. The coatings are
based mainly on a combination of acrylic, methacrylic and cellulose
acetate butyrate polymers. The polymeric coating can also be
pigmented or tinted using compatible dispersions made from pigment
chips or dye solutions. Other additives may be added to achieve
specific physical effects and properties. Such additives could be
UV absorbers, optical brightening agents, UV tracers, heat
stabilizers, plasticizers, phosphorescence agents and
anti-oxidants.
[0019] The polymeric solution formed is coated onto a "water
release slide paper." The coating is applied by standard methods
such as roller coating, knife coating, blade coating, rod coating,
screen coating, spraying or other suitable methods to form a smooth
wet film of 4 to 7 mils in thickness. The coating is cured or dried
at temperatures from 60.degree. F. to 300.degree. F. Drying can be
done in atmospheric conditions or by using standard techniques like
convection hot air ovens or conveyor tunnels. The resulting
polymeric film of the top coating is now ready to have additional
layers applied to it, such as inks and finally an adhesive back
coating.
[0020] The top coating does not need to have a graphic layer and
can be used as a protective layer for a substrate.
[0021] The back coat is applied onto the printed image graphic as a
"peel-and-stick" pressure sensitive adhesive film. The resulting
graphic is a composite structure having a polymeric film formed by
the top coating as the top face and the pressure sensitive adhesive
back coat as the back face. The release paper from the back face of
the adhesive film is now removed and the composite structure is
adhered to the target substrate. At this stage, the top face of the
temporary removable graphic still has the water release paper
adhering to the top coat. It can be activated and detached from the
top face of the temporary removable graphic by applying water or
soaking the water release coated paper in water, and after the
release coating of the gum on the paper is dissolved, gently
sliding off the paper. This completes the installation process.
[0022] The adhesive back coat is used in the form of a high tack,
peel-and-stick film supplied as a proprietary product by Avery
Dennison Graphics and Reflective Products Division. It is prepared
separately by coating a high tack acrylic based emulsion adhesive
on to a siliconized release paper, drying the coating and applying
a second layer of release paper onto the adhesive film. This forms
a laminated sandwich structure with the two release papers on each
face, and the tacky adhesive film in the middle.
[0023] The composite structure was activated by immersing in water
and the release film was removed. The composite structure was then
applied to a painted surface. The composite structure demonstrated
the surface life required
[0024] After the desired service duration, the composite structure
can be easily removed from the substrate by using a novel remover
described in this invention, without causing damage to the
substrate. The preferred remover has a formulation of: [0025] from
50 to 80% of tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol; [0026] from 5 to 20% of
dibasic ester; [0027] 4 to 12% of ethylene glycol n-butyl ether;
[0028] 4 to 12% of the ethyl 3-ethoxypropionate; and [0029] 4 to
12% of the 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3 pentanoldiol monoisobutyrate.
[0030] The cleaning up of the dissolved composite structure and the
remover is done by applying a high surface area absorbent/adsorbent
based on such materials as vermiculite, aluminum silicate, Fuller's
earth, ground cellulosic materials such as waste paper or cornmeal
or similar materials to absorb/adsorb the excess remover and the
dissolved temporary composite structure without damage to the
substrate or to the environment.
[0031] When it is desired to remove the temporary removable
graphic, the remover solution is spread on the surface of the
graphic and scrubbed. A powder may be used to absorb the residue
and then removed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0032] FIG. 1 is a cross-section view of the temporary removable
graphic, shown as a composite structure before it is applied to a
surface.
[0033] FIG. 2 is a cross-section view of the "peel-and-stick"
adhesive film, shown as a composite structure before it is applied
to the printed graphic back surface.
KEY FOR FIGS. 1 AND 2
[0034] 1 Water slide paper [0035] 2 Release coating [0036] 3 Top
Coating [0037] 4 Printed Image/Graphic [0038] 5 Pressure Sensitive
Adhesive Film [0039] 6 Substrate (floor, brick or other) [0040] 7
Release Paper [0041] 8 Silicone Release Layer [0042] 9 Pressure
Sensitive Adhesive Film [0043] 10 Silicone Release Layer [0044] 11
Release Paper
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0045] A polymeric coating is provided that is used in a composite
graphic structure. The composite structure is formed by the
polymeric coating, an ink and an adhesive back coating. The
composite structure can be used as a temporary removable graphic or
advertisement on a wide variety of surfaces. In addition, a remover
is provided that easily removes the composite structure from
various surfaces without damage to the substrate.
[0046] The polymeric coating is made from a combination of
polymers, namely, a cellulose acetate butyrate ester and acrylic
polymer. Cellulose acetate butyrate ester (CAB) is preferably one
that is soluble in low molecular weight alcohols, such as methyl
alcohol, ethyl alcohol, isopropyl and N-propyl alcohol and some
other common organic solvents. Preferably the CAB has a high
hydroxyl content, such as 3 to 6% by weight which aids in its
alcohol solubility. The preferred CAB is CAB 553-0.4 produced by
Eastman Chemical Company. CAB-553-0.4 has a high hydroxyl content
of approximately 4.8% by weight. It is important that the CAB have
a high hydroxyl content so that it is soluble in the lower
molecular weight alcohols. CAB 531.1 can also be used but it is not
as good as the CAB 553-0.4 because of its lower solubility in
alcohol. It has approximately 1.7% by weight of hydroxyl
content.
[0047] The CAB is mixed with one or more acrylic polymers. One of
the preferred acrylic polymers is methyl methacrylate copolymer.
NeoCryl B-734 is a preferred acrylic polymer. This acrylic polymer
is manufactured by DSM NeoResins, Inc. This acrylic polymer is
soluble in some of the lower molecular weight alcohols. This
particular polymer has an advantage in that it is resistant to
gasoline, oil and grease which may be important in some
applications. NeoCryl B-734 has an average molecular weight of
105,000, a Tg of 45.degree. C. and an acid value of zero.
[0048] The acrylate can be a copolymer of methyl methacrylate and
n-butyl methacrylate. An example of such a copolymer is NeoCryl
B-723 which has a molecular weight (MW) of about 200,000, a Tg of
48.degree. C. and an acid value of 5.5. The NeoCryl B-734 is
preferred because of its higher solubility and other
characteristics. The NeoCryl B-734 has an excellent compatibility
with CAB because it has an amino functional monomer built into the
backbone of the compound which allows for superior cohesion
properties when inks are applied to it.
[0049] Another acrylic polymer that can be used is a copolymer of
n-butyl methacrylate and methyl methacrylate sold under the name
BR-106 by Dianal America, Inc. It has a molecular weight of
approximately 60,000, a Tg of 58.degree. C. and an acid value of
3.0. A mixture of BR-106 and B-734 is preferred.
[0050] It is preferred to add sucrose acetate isobutyrate to the
mixture of polymers. The preferred sucrose acetate isobutyrate is
SAIB 100 manufactured by Eastman Chemical, Inc. It serves as a
modifying extender for the polymer films. The SAIB 100 has a
molecular weight of from 832 to 856. It is also soluble in the
lower molecular weight alcohols. The SAIB 100 has a plasticizing
effect and improves leveling and clarity of the film.
[0051] A flow modifier is preferably used to reduce or eliminate
film defects such as craters, crawling and fisheyes. These help
provide a uniform film on a substrate. A preferred flow improver is
FX8 manufactured by Eagle Specialty Products. It is a combination
of alkoxylated polydimethylsiloxane and ethyleneglycol n-butyl
ether. The ethyleneglycol n-butyl ether is present in approximately
53% by weight and the alkoxylated polydimethysiloxane is present in
an amount of approximately 47% by weight. Other flow modifiers may
be used to improve the flow and leveling of the polymeric
films.
[0052] The above polymer compositions may be dissolved in a lower
molecular weight alcohol for application to a substrate. Ethyl
alcohol, isopropyl alcohol and diacetone alcohol may be used as
solvents for these polymers. A small amount of ethylene glycol
n-butyl ether may be used along with propylene glycol monomethyl
ether acetate and tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol. A small amount of
ethyl 3-ethoxypropionate may be included.
[0053] The polymeric top coat of this invention is prepared by
mixing the polymers together and dissolving them in an alcohol
based solvent. Preferably from 40 to 80% by dry weight of a
cellulose acetate butyrate ester (CAB) is mixed with 15 to 60% of
an acrylic polymer and 2 to 10% of a plasticizer. Preferably 50 to
70% of CAB is used and 20 to 50% of an acrylic polymer and 2 to 10%
of sucrose acetate isobutyrate as a plasticizer or extender is
used.
[0054] The best results were obtained by using approximately 68% by
dry film weight of cellulose acetate butyrate ester (CAB 553-0.4)
and a mixture of two acrylic polymers. One of these is B-734 which
is a zero acid value, 105,000 MW, methyl methacrylate and n-butyl
methacrylate copolymer and the other is BR-106 which is also a
copolymer of methyl methacrylate and n-butyl methacrylate, but has
an acid value of 3.0 and a MW of 60,000. B-734 can be used in an
amount of approximately 15% while the BR-106 is used in an amount
of 10%. The sucrose acetate isobutyrate (SAIB 100) is used in
amount of approximately of 5%. Approximately 0.6% of the flow
improver FX8 is used in this mixture. This is a mixture of 53%
ethylene glycol n-butyl ether and alkoxylated
polydimethylsiloxane.
[0055] This dry mixture of polymers described above is dissolved in
a mixture of polar solvents. A combination of ethyl alcohol,
isopropyl alcohol, diacetone alcohol, ethylene glycol n-butyl
ether, propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate and
tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol is used. It has been found that
approximately 20 to 30% of the solvent and polymers can be ethyl
alcohol with approximately 10 to 12% isopropyl alcohol and 10 to
20% of diacetone alcohol and 2 to 5% of ethylene glycol n-butyl
ether and 10 to 20% of propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate
and 2 to 5% of tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol. The preferred solvent
mixture is approximately 28% ethyl alcohol, 12% isopropyl alcohol,
16% diacetone alcohol, 4% ethylene glycol n-butyl ether and 16%
propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate and 4% tetrahydrofurfuryl
alcohol based upon the weight of the solvent and polymers as shown
in Table III infra.
[0056] Polymeric films made from the solutions demonstrated the
flexibility, toughness and clarity required. Inks were applied to
the films and the intercoat adhesion properties between the ink and
the polymeric film was excellent.
[0057] Back coatings were applied to the ink and polymeric film
structure by using a pressure sensitive adhesive film. The adhesive
back coating is used in the form of a high tack, peel-and-stick
film supplied as a proprietary product by Avery Dennison Graphics
and Reflective Products Division. It is prepared separately by
coating a high tack acrylic based emulsion adhesive on to a
siliconized release paper, drying the coating and applying a second
layer of release paper onto the adhesive film. This forms a
laminated sandwich structure with the two release papers on each
face, and the tacky adhesive film in the middle.
[0058] The back coat is applied onto the printed image graphic as a
"peel-and-stick" pressure sensitive adhesive film. The resulting
graphic is a composite structure having a polymeric film formed by
the top coating as the top-face and the pressure sensitive adhesive
back coat as the back-face. The release paper from the back-face of
the adhesive film is now removed and the composite structure is
adhered to the target substrate. At this stage, the top face of the
temporary removable graphic still has the water release paper
adhering to the top coat. It can be activated and detached from the
top-face of the temporary removable graphic by applying water or
soaking the water release coated paper in water, and after the
release coating of the gum on the paper is dissolved, gently
sliding off the paper. This completes the installation process.
[0059] The top coating with the adhesive applied can be used as a
protective coating without any graphics.
[0060] This is illustrated in FIG. 2 where the pressure sensitive
adhesive film is represented by the numeral 9. Silicone release
layers 8 and 10 are applied to the film to permit the easy release
of release paper 7 and release paper 11. Release paper 7 is
provided so that it is easier to release than release paper 11 as
release paper 7 is first removed and adhered to the top coating 3
as illustrated in FIG. 1. Release layer 11 is removed when the
composite structure of the graphic with the adhesive is adhered to
a hard surface.
[0061] Removing the Temporary Graphic from the Substrate
[0062] The composite structure was easily removed from the
substrate by using the remover developed by this invention.
Removers for polymeric coatings and films are readily available on
the market today. The term "paint strippers" is a common definition
most often used and sold commercially. Commercial paint strippers
easily removed many of the polymeric films and composite structures
tested but with considerable damage to the painted surface on which
the composite structure was applied to. In addition, fast
evaporating ketones, esters and alcohols posed less damage to the
painted surfaces based upon their low flash points but were not
effective removers.
[0063] In this invention, a remover was developed using a
biodegradable alcohol such as tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol and a
biodegradable ester solvent such as dibasic ester. The
tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol is not an aggressive solvent and
consequently does not hurt most substrates. This is also true of
the dibasic ester. A small amount of three other solvents can also
be included. They are ethylene glycol n-butyl ether, ethyl 3
ethoxypropionate and the 2,2,4 trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol
monoisobutyrate (Table VIII). A combination of solvents is
necessary in order to have a reasonably fast speed of removal of
the coating, and not harm the substrate, especially if it is
painted. The different polymers in the coating have a different
solubilities in the various solvents.
[0064] The preferred remover has a formulation of: [0065] from 50
to 80% of tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol; [0066] from 5 to 20% of
dibasic ester; [0067] 4 to 12% of ethylene glycol n-butyl ether;
[0068] 4 to 12% of the ethyl 3 ethoxypropionate; and [0069] 4 to
12% of the 2,2,4 trimethyl-13 pentanoldiol monoisobutyrate.
[0070] A surfactant such as ethoxylate of nonylphenol may be
incorporated in the formulation and used to help clean the surface
of the substrate when rinsed with water. A satisfactory surfactant
is Surfonic.RTM. N-95. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose may be used as
a thickener for the solvents. Methocel.RTM. 311 has been found to
be a satisfactory thickening agent that can increase the viscosity
of the solvent composition. The preferred composition of the
remover is as follows:
TABLE-US-00001 Tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol 65.00% by weight Dibasic
ester 10.00% by weight EB solvent (ethylene glycol n-butyl ether)
8.00% by weight EEP Solvent (ethyl 3-ethoxypropionate) 8.00% by
weight Texanol ester (2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol 8.00% by
weight monoisobutyrate Surfonic N-95 0.50% by weight Methocell 311
0.50% by weight
[0071] The remover can then be applied by brushing or by roller.
Dwell time for the remover to activate is between one to ten
minutes. The remover along with the dissolved composite can then be
wiped away with a clean cloth and at the same time the composite
structure is removed without damage to the substrate.
[0072] A high surface area filler such as aluminum silicate and
others can be sprinkled onto the remover during the removing step
to absorb the remover and the dissolved polymeric film so that the
disposable soluble waste formed can be disposed of in a landfill
with no environmental damage to the area where the graphic is
removed.
[0073] After a dwell time of between one to ten minutes an
absorbent/adsorbent applied to the composite can be removed.
Suitable absorbents include vermiculite; aluminum silicate;
Fuller's Earth or similar materials to absorb/adsorb the excess
remover and the dissolved temporary composite structure without
damage to the substrate. Other standard absorbents/adsorbents may
also be used, for example, ground cornmeal.
[0074] If the substrate is a cross-linked type painted or coated
surface, the remover will not cause any damage to it. The remover
solution will dissolve and remove the adhesive back coat that has
been developed by Avery Dennison Graphics and Reflective Products
Division along with the polymers and any inks that are included in
the graphic.
[0075] An Overview of the System for Making, Applying and Removing
Temporary Removable Graphics:
[0076] 1. Prepare the top coat by blending the required
ingredients.
[0077] 2. Apply the top coating onto the gum coated face of the
water release slide paper.
[0078] 3. Dry the applied top coat. The coated paper may now be cut
to the required standard sizes.
[0079] 4. Print the desired graphics or image onto the dried top
coating on the above paper.
[0080] 5. Apply the adhesive back coating onto the printed area by
transferring a "peel-and-stick" adhesive film from the separately
available proprietary sticker.
[0081] 6. Remove the protective release paper from the adhesive
film face of the composite structure formed in the above step
#5.
[0082] 7. Stick the above composite structure onto the target area
by pressing the sticky adhesive face onto the required
substrate.
[0083] 8. Apply water to the paper face of the above composite
structure. After a few minutes of soaking, the water release paper
detaches from the coating and becomes mobile.
[0084] 9. Remove the water release paper from the graphic and wipe
off excess water. Let it dry. The installation process is now
complete.
Removal:
[0085] 1. Apply the special remover of this invention by spreading
a generous layer of the liquid remover onto the face of the
graphics. In three to six minutes the composite structure becomes
soft and loose. The speed up the process, gently scrub the surface
in a circular motion, using a plastic bristle brush.
[0086] 2. Sprinkle a 1/4 inch layer of the powdered inorganic
adsorbents described in this invention. The powder absorbs and
adsorbs the viscous solution of the dissolved polymers and inks
from the composite structure. Using a plastic spatula, gently move
the mass of the powder over the entire surface of the graphic area,
to absorb any small remains of liquid until all of it becomes a dry
flowering powder.
[0087] 3. The dry powder may be sucked up with a vacuum cleaner or
may be brushed up for collection. It may now be disposed as a dry
solid waste and not harm the environment.
[0088] 4. Clean up the exposed substrate area by using tap water. A
spray or sponge may be used. Wipe off excess water and let the
surface dry.
[0089] 5. Another temporary removable graphic may now be installed
on this clean surface by repeating the above steps. The application
of a graphic and its removal can be repeated many times.
[0090] The performance of all these components of the proposed
system are interdependent on the behavior of the ingredients, and
their balanced behavior is critical to the end results of this
invention. The properties of the composite graphic should have
enough resistance to withstand the wear and tear of the intended
use, and when desired, it should be easily removable by being
dissolved in the special remover, without damaging the
substrate.
[0091] As a representative of the several coatings and solvents
used for these coatings and removers with the characteristics
described above, the following experiments are included:
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE I Formula # Solvent Calculation Product:
Reducers M1, M2 (Medium to Slow Evaporation Rate) Final Formulation
wt % Ser. Name of version version # Ingredient. M1 M2 1 Alcohol -
denatured; 35.00 35.00 technical grade 2 Isopropyl Alcohol 15.00
15.00 3 Diacetone Alcohol 15.00 20.00 4 EB Solvent (Ethylene glycol
10.00 5.00 n-butyl ether) 5 PM acetate (propylene glycol 10.00
20.00 monomethyl ether acetate) 6 tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol 0.00
5.00 7 EEP Solvent 15.00 0.00 (ethyl 3-ethoxypropionate) Total
Input 100.00 100.00 Calculated evaporation rate (relative 0.919
0.949 to n-butyl acetate = 1) The mixture of solvents forms a clear
solution. Density is 0.849 g/ml in both cases.
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE II Formula #M15 Product: Top Coating Final
Formulation Ser. Name of Wt. (grams) Wt. (%) Wt. (%) Wt. (%) #
Ingredient. ---*--------- ingredient dry solids in dry film 1 CAB
553-0.4 = Cellulose Acetate 11.9600 11.96% 11.96% 59.49% Butyrate -
Eastman 2 acrylic B734 = DSM-NeoResins. 3.9900 3.99% 3.99% 19.85% 3
acrylic BR106 = Dianal America Inc. 2.6600 2.66% 2.66% 13.23% 4
SAIB 100 = Sucrose Acetate 1.3300 1.33% 1.33% 6.62% Isobutyrate -
Eastman 5 flow improver: FX8 = Eagle 0.3300 0.33% 0.17% 0.82%
Specialty Chemicals. Reducer M1 = 79.73% wt. 1 Alcohol - denatured;
technical grade 27.9055 27.91% 2 Isopropyl Alcohol 11.9595 11.96% 3
Diacetone Alcohol 11.9595 11.96% 4 EB Solvent (Ethylene glycol
7.9730 7.97% n-butyl ether) 5 PM acetate (propylene glycol 7.9730
7.97% monomethyl ether acetate) 6 tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol 0.0000
0.00% 7 EEP Solvent (ethyl 3-ethoxypropionate) 11.9595 11.96% Total
Input 100.00 100.00% 20.11% 100.00% This makes a clear film.
Viscosity at this concentration = 80 cp at 25 deg. C. Also, gives
good leveling and initial gloss, but shows blushing effects. Coated
a film to test on car. Shows very mild attack by Cleaner 409 and
also by Windex .RTM. solution. Has a slightly lower adhesion.
TABLE-US-00004 TABLE III Formula #M15A Product: Top Coating Final
Formulation Ser. Name of Wt. (grams) Wt. (%) Wt. (%) Wt. (%) #
Ingredient. ---*--------- ingredient dry solids in dry film 1 CAB
553-0.4 = Cellulose Acetate 16.4100 16.41% 16.41% 68.12% Butyrate -
Eastman 2 acrylic B734 = DSM-NeoResins. 3.7900 3.79% 3.79% 15.73% 3
acrylic BR106 = Dianal America Inc. 2.5300 2.53% 2.53% 10.50% 4
SAIB 100 = Sucrose Acetate 1.2000 1.20% 1.20% 4.98% Isobutyrate -
Eastman 5 flow improver: FX8 = Eagle 0.3200 0.32% 0.16% 0.66%
Specialty Chemicals. Reducer M2 = 75.75% wt. 1 Alcohol - denatured;
technical grade 26.5125 26.51% 2 Isopropyl Alcohol 11.3625 11.36% 3
Diacetone Alcohol 15.1500 15.15% 4 EB Solvent (Ethylene glycol
3.7875 3.79% n-butyl ether) 5 PM acetate (propylene glycol 15.1500
15.15% monomethyl ether acetate) 6 tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol
3.7875 3.79% 7 EEP Solvent (ethyl 3-ethoxypropionate) 0.0000 0.00%
Total Input 100.00 100.00% 24.09% 100.00% This makes a clear film.
Viscosity at this concentration = 150 cp at 25 deg. C. Also, gives
good leveling and gloss. Was tested on car. Shows no attack by
Cleaner 409 or Windex .RTM. solution or car washes. Has good
hardness & adhesion.
TABLE-US-00005 TABLE IV Formula #DX-2-a-2 Product: Top Coating
Final Formulation Ser. Name of Wt. (grams) Wt. (%) Wt. (%) Wt. (%)
# Ingredient. ---*--------- ingredient dry solids in dry film 1 CAB
531.1 8.00 8.51% 8.51% 40.00% 2 acrylic B723 = DSM-NeoResins. 12.00
12.77% 12.77% 60.00% 4 Alcohol, denatured, 95% 54.00 57.45% 5
Dibasic Ester 0.00 0.00% 6 Diacetone Alcohol 20.00 21.28% Total
Input 94.00 100.00% 21.28% 100.00% This makes a clear film, but has
some insoluble particles, apparently from the CAB. Viscosity was
about 4500 cps at 25 C.
TABLE-US-00006 TABLE V Formula #DX-2-c-2 Product: Top Coating Final
Formulation Ser. Name of Wt. (grams) Wt. (%) Wt. (%) Wt. (%) #
Ingredient. ---*--------- ingredient dry solids in dry film 1 CAB
531.1 8.00 8.51% 8.51% 40.00% 2 acrylic B734 = DSM-NeoResins. 12.00
12.77% 12.77% 60.00% 4 Alcohol, denatured, 95% 54.00 57.45% 5
Dibasic Ester 0.00 0.00% 6 Diacetone Alcohol 20.00 21.28% Total
Input 94.00 100.00% 21.28% 100.00% This makes a clear film, but has
some insoluble particles, apparently from the CAB.
TABLE-US-00007 TABLE VI Formula #DX-2-a-1 Product: Top Coating
Final Formulation Ser. Name of Wt. (grams) Wt. (%) Wt. (%) Wt. (%)
# Ingredient. ---*--------- ingredient dry solids in dry film 1 CAB
553-0.4 = Cellulose Acetate 18.10 13.86% 13.86% 63.84% Butyrate -
Eastman 2 acrylic B723 = DSM-NeoResins. 10.25 7.85% 7.85% 36.16% 3
Alcohol, denatured, 95% 67.19 51.45% 4 Isopropyl Alcohol 14.00
10.72% 5 Diacetone Alcohol 21.06 16.13% Total Input 130.60 100.00%
21.71% 100.00% This makes a clear film, but is very viscous (+5500
cps) at these concentrations. Also, develops a slight haze upon
standing for 2 weeks.
TABLE-US-00008 TABLE VII Formula #DX-2-a-1-a. Product: Top Coating
Final Formulation Ser. Name of Wt. (grams) Wt. (%) Wt. (%) Wt. (%)
# Ingredient. ---*--------- ingredient dry solids in dry film 1 CAB
553-0.4 = Cellulose Acetate 18.85 14.08% 14.08% 59.65% Butyrate -
Eastman 2 acrylic B723 = DSM-NeoResins. 10.25 7.66% 7.66% 32.44% 3
SAIB 100 = Sucrose Acetate 2.50 1.87% 1.87% 7.91% Isobutyrate -
Eastman 4 Alcohol, denatured, 95% 67.19 50.20% 5 Isopropyl Alcohol
14.00 10.46% 6 Diacetone Alcohol 21.06 15.73% Total Input 133.85
100.00% 23.61% 100.00% This makes a clear film. Viscosity was 450
cps at 25 C. Also, develops a 5% increase in viscosity upon
standing for 2 weeks.
TABLE-US-00009 TABLE VIII Formula #R-3 Product: Remover Final
Formulation Ser. Name of Wt. (grams) Wt. (%) # Ingredient.
---*--------- ingredient 1 tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol 65.00 65.00%
2 Dibasic Ester 10.00 10.00% 3 EB Solvent (Ethylene glycol 8.00
8.00% n-butyl ether) 4 EEP Solvent (ethyl 8.00 8.00%
3-ethoxypropionate) 5 texanol ester (2,2,4- 8.00 8.00%
trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol monoisobutyrate) 6 Surfonic n-95 0.50
0.50% 7 methocell 311 0.50 0.50% Total Input 100.00 100.00% This
makes a colorless hazy viscous liquid. Viscosity was 400 cps at 25
C. Density is 1.05 to 1.10 at 25 C.
[0092] A General Note on Mixing Procedure and Method
[0093] All blending vessels were made of stainless steel and were
grounded using a flexible clamp wired to a copper grounding strap
to prevent any sparking due to static charge build up. The stirring
system had a disperser type blade and a variable speed explosion
proof motor fitted to it. All electrical fittings in the mixing
area were suitable for Class I, Division I flammable materials
handling environment. The vessels were enclosed and covered to
prevent any major losses of volatile materials.
Example 1
Preparing a Mixture of the Solvents in Accordance with Table I
[0094] The two formulations for the solvent mixtures used in
preparing the coatings have slightly different proportions of the
components, as these were required to achieve the optimum
solubilities for the different resins used to prepare the various
coatings.
[0095] These blends produce two mixtures that may also be used as
diluent reducers for thinning down the final coating to make it
suitable for spraying applications. The theoretical evaporation
rate for Reducer M1 is lower than Reducer M2, which makes M2 a
slightly faster evaporating blend. It is necessary in colder
conditions to have a slightly faster evaporation rate, whereas in
warmer conditions a slower evaporating mixture is preferred. The
term "retarder" is used for a blend of thinning solvents that has a
slower evaporation rate compared to the blend that has a medium
rate of evaporation. Hence, M1 may be considered a retarder, and M2
may be considered a reducer for this coating system.
[0096] M1: A 100 liter batch of the retarder M1 was prepared.
Thirty-five liters of denatured ethyl alcohol (35%) was added,
followed by 15 liters of isopropyl alcohol (15%) and 15 liters of
diacetone alcohol (15%). Ten liters of EB Solvent (Ethylene glycol
n-butyl ether) (10%) was added, followed by ten liters of PM
acetate (propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate) (10%) and 15
liters of EEP Solvent (ethyl 3-ethoxypropionate) (15%). The mixture
was gently stirred for 15 minutes to complete this procedure.
[0097] M2: A 100 liter batch of the retarder M2 was prepared.
Thirty-five liters of denatured ethyl alcohol (35%) was added,
followed by 15 liters of isopropyl alcohol (15%) and 20 liters of
diacetone alcohol (20%). Five liters of EB Solvent (Ethylene glycol
n-butyl ether) (5%) was added, followed by 20 liters of PM acetate
(propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate) (20%) and five liters
of tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol (5%). The mixture was gently stirred
for 15 minutes to complete this procedure.
Example 2
Preparing the Top Coating #M15 in Accordance with Table II
[0098] 100 lb. of the coating was prepared. Seventy-nine and 73/100
lb. of solvents mixture M1 (79.73%) was added to the mixing vessel.
While mixing slowly, 11 and 96/100 lb. (11.96%) of CAB 553-0.4
Cellulose Acetate Butyrate powder from Eastman Chemical was
gradually added into the liquid. The liquid was mixed for 30
minutes to ensure no big lumps of the agglomerated polymer remain
in the liquid. Three and 99/100 lb. (3.99%) of acrylic B734 from
DSM-NeoResins were gradually added to the liquid while mixing. Two
and 66/100 lb. (2.66%) of acrylic BR106 from Dianal America were
gradually added to the liquid while mixing. One and 33/100 lb.
(1.33%) of SAIB 100 Sucrose Acetate Isobutyrate from Eastman
Chemicals were gradually added to the liquid while mixing. 33/100
lb. (0.33%) of flow improver FX8 from Eagle Specialty Chemicals was
gradually added to the liquid while mixing. Mixing was continued
for about 45 minutes to ensure no undissolved particles remained in
the solution. Minor adjustments may be made at this stage by adding
up to 2% of the required components to bring the batch within the
specifications.
[0099] Quality Control: Samples were drawn to check the viscosity
using a brookfield viscometer. A sample was dried for four hours in
an oven at 110.degree. C. to check for the percent solid content. A
film was cast on a glass sheet to check for the film clarity and
color. During the development stage, hardness, abrasion, elongation
and tensile properties of the film were also tested.
Example 3
Preparing the Top Coating #M15A in Accordance with Table III
[0100] 100 lb. of the coating was prepared. Seventy-five and 75/100
lb. of solvents mixture M2 (75.75%) was added to the mixing vessel.
While mixing slowly, 16 and 41/100 lb. (16.41%) of CAB 553-0.4
Cellulose Acetate Butyrate powder from Eastman Chemical was
gradually added into the liquid. The liquid was mixed for 30
minutes to ensure no big lumps of the agglomerated polymer remain
in the liquid. Three and 79/100 lb. (3.79%) of acrylic B734 from
DSM-NeoResins were gradually added to the liquid while mixing. Two
and 53/100 lb. (2.53%) of acrylic BR106 from Dianal America were
gradually added to the liquid while mixing. One and 20/100 lb.
(1.20%) of SAIB 100 Sucrose Acetate Isobutyrate from Eastman
Chemicals were gradually added to the liquid while mixing. 32/100
lb. (0.32%) of flow improver FX8 from Eagle Specialty Chemicals was
gradually added to the liquid while mixing. Mixing was continued
for about 45 minutes to ensure no undissolved particles remained in
the solution. Minor adjustments may be made at this stage by adding
up to 2% of the required components to bring the batch within the
specifications.
[0101] Quality Control: The same procedures were used for quality
control as shown in Example 2.
Example 4
Preparing the Top Coating #DX-2-a-2 in Accordance with Table IV
[0102] 100 lb. of the coating was prepared. Fifty-seven and 45/100
lb. (57.45%) of ethyl alcohol and 21 and 28/100 lb. (21.28%) of
diacetone alcohol was added to the mixing vessel. While mixing
slowly, eight and 51/100 lb. (8.51%) of CAB 531.1 Cellulose Acetate
Butyrate powder from Eastman Chemical was gradually added into the
liquid. The liquid was mixed for 30 minutes to ensure no big lumps
of the agglomerated polymer remain in the liquid. Twelve and 77/100
lb. (12.77%) of acrylic B723 from DSM-NeoResins were gradually
added to the liquid while mixing.
[0103] Mixing was continued for about 45 minutes to ensure no
undissolved particles remained in the solution. Minor adjustments
may be made at this stage by adding up to 2% of the required
components to bring the batch within the specifications.
[0104] Quality Control: The same procedures were used for quality
control as shown in Example 2.
Example 5
Preparing the Top Coating #DX-2-c-2 in Accordance with Table V
[0105] 100 lb. of the coating was prepared. Fifty-seven and 45/100
lb. (57.45%) of ethyl alcohol and 21 and 28/100 lb. (21.28%) of
diacetone alcohol was added to the mixing vessel. While mixing
slowly, eight and 51/100 lb. (8.51%) of CAB 531.1 Cellulose Acetate
Butyrate powder from Eastman Chemical was gradually added into the
liquid. The liquid was mixed for 30 minutes to ensure no big lumps
of the agglomerated polymer remain in the liquid. Twelve and 77/100
lb. (12.77%) of acrylic B734 from DSM-NeoResins were gradually
added to the liquid while mixing.
[0106] Mixing was continued for about 45 minutes to ensure no
undissolved particles remained in the solution. Minor adjustments
may be made at this stage by adding up to 2% of the required
components to bring the batch within the specifications.
[0107] Quality Control: The same procedures were used for quality
control as shown in Example 2.
Example 6
Preparing the Top Coating #DX-2-a-1 in Accordance with Table VI
[0108] 100 lb. of the coating was prepared. Fifty-one and 45/100
lb. (51.45%) of ethyl alcohol, and 16 and 13/100 lb. (16.13%) of
diacetone alcohol and ten and 72/100 lb. (10.72%) of isopropyl
alcohol was added to the mixing vessel. While mixing slowly, 13 and
86/100 lb. (13.86%) of CAB 553-0.4 Cellulose Acetate Butyrate
powder from Eastman Chemical was gradually added into the liquid.
The liquid was mixed for 30 minutes to ensure no big lumps of the
agglomerated polymer remain in the liquid. Seven and 85/100 lb.
(7.85%) of acrylic B723 from DSM-NeoResins were gradually added to
the liquid while mixing.
[0109] Mixing was continued for about 45 minutes to ensure no
undissolved particles remained in the solution. Minor adjustments
may be made at this stage by adding up to 2% of the required
components to bring the batch within the specifications.
[0110] Quality Control: The same procedures were used for quality
control as shown in Example 2.
Example 7
Preparing the Top Coating #DX-2-a-1-a in Accordance with Table
VII
[0111] 100 lb. of the coating was prepared. Fifty and 20/100 lb.
(50.20%) of ethyl alcohol, and 15 and 73/100 lb. (15.73%) of
diacetone alcohol and ten and 46/100 lb. (10.46%) of isopropyl
alcohol was added to the mixing vessel. While mixing slowly, 14 and
08/100 lb. (14.08%) of CAB 553-0.4 Cellulose Acetate Butyrate
powder from Eastman Chemical was gradually added into the liquid.
The liquid was mixed for 30 minutes to ensure no big lumps of the
agglomerated polymer remain in the liquid. Seven and 66/100 lb.
(7.66%) of acrylic B723 from DSM-NeoResins were gradually added to
the liquid while mixing. One and 87/100 lb. (1.87%) of SAIB 100
Sucrose Acetate Isobutyrate from Eastman Chemicals were gradually
added to the liquid while mixing. Mixing was continued for about 45
minutes to ensure no undissolved particles remained in the
solution. Minor adjustments may be made at this stage by adding up
to 2% of the required components to bring the batch within the
specifications.
[0112] Quality Control: The same procedures were used for quality
control as shown in Example 2.
Example 8
Preparing the Graphic Remover #R-3 in Accordance with Table
VIII
[0113] 100 lb. of the remover was prepared. Sixty-five lb. (65.00%)
of tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, and ten lb. (10.00%) of dibasic
ester and eight lb. (8.00%) of EB Solvent (Ethylene glycol n-butyl
ether) and eight lb. (8.00%) of EEP Solvent (ethyl
3-ethoxypropionate) and eight lb. (8.00%) of texanol ester
(2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol monoisobutyrate) were added to the
mixing vessel. While mixing slowly, 05/100 lb. (0.50%) of Surfonic
n-95 and 05/100 lb. (0.50%) of methocell 311 was gradually added
into the liquid. The liquid was mixed for 30 minutes to ensure no
big lumps of the agglomerated polymer remain in the liquid. Mixing
was continued for about 45 minutes to ensure no undissolved
particles remained in the solution. Minor adjustments may be made
at this stage by adding up to 2% of the required components to
bring the batch within the specifications.
[0114] Quality Control: Ten mil wet films of the top coating are
cast, dried and an adhesive layer is stuck on the back. The remover
is then used to check for efficiently dissolving all parts of the
coating and the adhesive.
[0115] While the invention will be described in conjunction with
illustrated embodiments, it will be understood that it is not
intended to limit the invention to such embodiments. On the
contrary, it is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications
and equivalents as may be included within the spirit and scope of
the invention as defined by the present patent specification as a
whole.
* * * * *