Articles and methods for applying color on surfaces

ES 2 339 641 T3

DESCRIPTION

Articles and methods for applying color to surfaces.

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to articles and methods for applying color to a surface, for example an architectural surface, in which a dry color component is used and the use of wet tools, such as brushes, sprayers and rollers, is avoided. , stain protections, color component cleaning materials, and liquid volatile organic components for color components.

Background of the invention

It is often desirable to apply one or more colors to a surface, for example an architectural surface, such as an interior or exterior wall or the like, for aesthetic and / or functional reasons, such as obtaining protection against water. Typically, the color is obtained by conventional painting with oil-based or water-based wet paints, application of wallpaper or the like. The laborious processes involved in wet painting and wallpapering are well known. Typically, during such activities, it is necessary to protect the surrounding areas from accidental staining, isolating adjacent surfaces where color is not desired, placing covers to protect the floor and furniture, and the like. You also need to be extremely careful to avoid dripping paint, wallpaper glue, primer, or other wet-apply materials. In many paint or wet wallpaper products it is also recommended to use them together with one or more primers or bases to improve the coverage and / or duration of the desired color, thus increasing the time and work necessary to obtain a desired color effect on a surface. In addition, it is usually necessary to saturate brushes, rollers or other application devices with paint, primer, glue or the like to apply the material to a surface. Consequently, a significant amount of material is wasted that does not reach the intended surface, but remains on the applicator. Likewise, the cleaning of brushes, sprayers, rollers and other tools used in the application of paint and wet wallpaper at the end of painting or wallpapering, or at least when temporarily suspending them for a period of time, for example , during the night, it also consumes time.

Many paints adapted for application to surfaces, such as architectural surfaces, include one or more volatile organic compounds. These paints release harmful gases during and after application, thus requiring ventilation during and after application, especially in closed environments such as buildings.

Therefore, despite the obvious aesthetic and / or functional advantages that can be obtained by applying color to a surface by means of paint or wet wallpaper, the necessary efforts related to such procedures are inconvenient and time consuming.

In an attempt to overcome these drawbacks, DE19837774 (Sturn Waldemar) discloses a method for applying a paint to a surface, in which a carrier film carrying dry paint on its surface is used. The film is adhesively bonded to the surface to be covered. The carrier film comprises plastic or metal, and has a bottom layer of permanent contact or heat-setting adhesive. The film has the same color as the applied paint or is transparent.

Summary of the invention

An object of the invention is to provide articles and methods for applying color to a surface, eg, an architectural surface, which also overcome various drawbacks commonly associated with conventional wet wallpapering and / or painting procedures.

In one aspect, the invention relates to articles for applying color to a surface.

In a first embodiment, the invention relates to an article for applying color to a surface according to appended claims 1 to 14 and 17 to 19. Said article comprises a dry color component sheet and an adhesive on one surface of the dry color component sheet, such that: said article exhibits an elongation of less than about 50%; said article has an opacity index of at least 0.95, measured according to ASTM D2805; said dry color component sheet has a specular reflection, measured using the test method of GM test specification TM-204-A, less than 60 gloss units at 60 °; said adhesive is adapted to exhibit an initial adherence in response to a first condition and a subsequent adherence, greater than the initial adherence, in response to a second condition; said adhesive is capable of adhering the article to a surface at room temperature by applying a pressure of less than 3.5 kg / cm²; and said sheet and adhesive have a combined thickness of 0.08mm or less.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to articles for applying color to a surface according to appended claim 15, and comprising (a) a dry color component sheet including (i) a pigment, dye, or a combination of the themselves in a polymeric binder, and (ii) an outer coating layer, (b) an adhesive

ES 2 339 641 T3 on a surface of the dry dye sheet opposite the outer coating layer, and (c) a removable coating.

When the articles comprise a release liner, the sheet of dry color component is disposed between the release liner and the adhesive, and the release liner has a release agent on its surface adjacent to the dry color component.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to an article for applying color to a surface according to appended claim 16, said article comprising a sheet of dry color component including a backing layer on one surface of the sheet of dry color component. , and an adhesive on a surface of the dry color component sheet adjacent to the backing layer.

In another aspect, the invention relates to methods of obtaining a substantially permanent color effect on a surface, for example an architectural surface, said method being defined in the appended claims 20 to 23.

The articles and methods of the invention are advantageous in that the color can be applied to a surface without requiring the use of wet tools, such as brushes, sprayers and rollers, to apply the articles or the dry color component. , stain protection or cleaning materials for the color component, and the fact that the dry color component is practically free of volatile organic components. The articles and methods are also advantageous in that the color can be applied to a surface in less time, compared to the usual wet wallpaper and / or painting products and methods. These and other additional objectives and advantages will become clearer from the following detailed description.

Brief description of the drawings

The following detailed description will be clearer from the drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an article for applying color to a surface according to the present invention;

Figure 1A shows a schematic diagram of an article as shown in Figure 1, including a reinforcing component;

Figure 1B shows a schematic diagram of an article as shown in Figure 1, in which the dry color component sheet includes an additional protective layer;

Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of another embodiment of an article for applying color to a surface according to the present invention;

Figure 2A shows a schematic diagram of another embodiment of an article for applying color to a surface according to the present invention;

Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of another embodiment of an article for applying color to a surface according to the present invention; and Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram of a process for producing an article for applying color to a surface according to the present invention.

The embodiments shown in the drawings are illustrative in nature, and are not intended to be limiting of the invention defined in the claims. Also, the individual features of the drawings and of the invention will become clearer and more understandable from the detailed description.

Detailed description

The present invention relates to articles and methods for applying color to a surface. As used herein, the term "color" is used to refer to a color effect, that is, to a difference in perception of color. In a specific embodiment, the color effect is a practically permanent color effect, that is, a color effect that is not eliminated or substantially reduced by occasional contact, light washing, or the like. Therefore, a practically permanent color effect is different from a temporary color effect, which can be easily eliminated or reduced, such as that obtained by colored pencils or chalk. In the present specification, the term "color component" is used to refer to the component of the articles of the invention that makes it possible to obtain the color effect. In the following, color components will be described in more detail by way of example.

As used herein, the term "surface" is used to refer to any outer layer or contour of an object or substrate where it is possible to apply a color component. Suitable surfaces may consist of

ES 2 339 641 T3 substantially two-dimensional and planar surfaces, or substantially three-dimensional surfaces and including curves, angled portions or the like. In one embodiment, the surface on which the color component is applied using the articles and methods of the invention comprises an architectural surface, that is, a surface of a building, an integral part of the building (that is, accessories ), furniture and the like. The architectural surface of the building can be an interior surface located within the building or an exterior surface located on an exterior part of said building. Substantially three-dimensional architectural surfaces can include, for example, two-dimensional surface edges, such as trim (eg, trim around windows or doorways), floor slats, fixtures, furniture, and the like. The architectural surface can be permanently installed or it can be installed temporarily or portable. The products of the present invention can also be applied to surfaces of articles, to obtain a texture and / or appearance that is the same or different from architectural surfaces. For example, the products of the present invention can be used to apply a coat of color to accessories, furniture, and other architectural items. Other suitable surfaces for applying color using the articles and methods of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the present disclosure.

As used herein, the term "wet" is used to refer to an article or process step in which a liquid carrier is used. On the other hand, in the present specification, the term "dry" is used to refer to an article or stage of a process practically free from the use of a liquid vehicle, so that the immobilization of a color component is affected. , that is, the color component does not flow or move on the surface under ambient conditions. Therefore, a dry color component is practically free of a liquid carrier or vehicle, so that said color component is physically immobilized in the article in which it is included. Similarly, herein, when mentioning the application of a dry color component without the use of liquid vehicles or carriers, it is meant that the dry color component is practically free of a liquid vehicle or carrier, from so that the color component is physically immobilized in the article in which it is contained.

Therefore, the dry color component used in the articles of the present invention is practically free of volatile organic components (VOCs) and water. According to the standards of the Environmental Protection Agency, architectural coatings that contain less than 250 g / l of volatile organic components are practically free of these components. In specific embodiments of the present invention, the dry color component contains less than 250 g / l, more specifically, about 200 g / l or a lower amount, more specifically, about 100 g / l or a lower amount, and, even more specifically, about 50 g / l or a lower amount of volatile organic components. In other embodiments, the dry color component contains about 25 g / l or a lower amount of volatile organic components, and more specifically, about 20 g / l or a lower amount of volatile organic components. Similarly, in further embodiments, the dry color component contains less than 250 g / l, more specifically about 200 g / l or less, and even more specifically about 100 g / l or less. of water. In more specific embodiments, the dry color component contains about 50 g / l or less water, and more specifically about 25 g / l or less, more specifically about 20 g / l or less. of water.

As will be described in more detail below, the articles and methods for applying color to a surface according to the present invention exhibit several advantageous properties. For example, the articles and methods of the invention are adapted for the application of color at room temperature and with relatively low application pressures, so that the articles can be applied by ordinary users, without the use of excessive pressure. Additionally, it is possible to obtain various surface effects.

It is possible to use the articles and methods to obtain a porous surface coverage that allows air to escape when the article is applied to a surface, thereby preventing the appearance of bubbles and / or wrinkles on the covered surface. In some embodiments, the resulting surface coverage is microporous and therefore allows moisture to escape, rather than accumulate between the applied article and the surface to which it is applied. For example, the surface coatings obtained by the articles and methods according to the present invention may have a water vapor transmission rate (VTVA) of greater than about 1 gj «m / cm.²/ 24 hrs, more specifically, greater than approximately 4 g-um / cm²/ 24 hrs, with a relative humidity of 100% and at 40 ° C, measured according to ASTM F1249-90. It is possible to obtain the desired VTVA by using materials that inherently allow the transmission of water vapor and / or by making pores, perforations, holes or the like in articles, on a microscopic or macroscopic scale. In the following, the above advantageous properties, as well as other additional ones, which can be obtained by the articles and methods of the invention will be described in more detail.

Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the articles according to the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, the article 10 for applying color to a surface comprises a dry color component sheet 12 and an adhesive 14 on a surface 16 of the dry color component sheet 12. Sheet 12 is shown as a single layer of dry color component. Although the schematic diagram of Figure 1 shows relative thicknesses of sheet 12 and adhesive 14, the illustrated thicknesses do not represent or limit the actual thicknesses of the respective components of the embodiment of Figure 1 or of any of the embodiments of the figures. remaining. Also, although the interface between the components is shown as a clearly defined line, the actual interface between the components may comprise other different configurations.

ES 2 339 641 T3

As used herein, the term "dry color component sheet" refers to parts of the article of the invention that contribute to obtaining a color effect on a surface, but does not include a removable liner or other parts of the article that do not they are adapted for adherence to a surface, preferably, for substantially permanent adherence thereto, to obtain the effect of color, as will be described below. Therefore, as will be described in more detail below, the sheet of dry color component may include not only one layer of dry color component, as shown in Figure 1, but also one or more outer covering layers and / or one or more supporting layers that contribute to the color effect.

The dry color component sheet will be less than about 0.08 mm (0.003 inch / 3 mils) thick. In one embodiment, the dry color component sheet will have a thickness of about 0.008mm to 0.08mm (0.0003 inches to 0.003 inches), more specifically, a thickness of about 0.008mm to 0.04mm (0 .0003 inches to 0.0015 inches). In another embodiment, the dry color component sheet will have a thickness of about 0.02mm (0.0007 inches) or less and, even more specifically, a thickness of not more than about 0.013mm (0.0005 inches). .

In cases where the article comprises the dry color component sheet and the adhesive, in the absence of layers such as coatings or carriers, the thickness of the articles will be essentially that of the dry color component sheet, as the adhesive layer is typically relatively thin, that is, typically less than about 0.03mm (1 mil or 0.001 inch) thick, more specifically, a thickness of approximately 0.013 mm (0.5 mils or 0.0005 inches). Therefore, the combination of the dry color component sheet and the adhesive will have a thickness of approximately 0.08 mm (3 mils or 0.003 inches) or less, more specifically, a thickness of approximately 0.008 mm to 0, 08 mm (0.0003 inches to 0.003 inches), even more specifically, a thickness of about 0.008 mm to 0.04 mm (0.0003 inches to 0.0015 inches) and, even more specifically, a thickness of approximately 0.013 mm (0.0007 inches) or less. Advantageously, the edges of the adjacent sheets can overlap without exhibiting a significant overlapping appearance. In additional embodiments, in which one or more removable liners are included, the thickness of the articles will increase.

The dry color component is arranged in at least one layer of the sheet of dry color component, and can comprise any composition that makes it possible to obtain an opaque coverage on the surface to which it is applied. The dry color component can comprise, for example, a pigment or dye, as well as combinations thereof; and a binder. Colorants, inks and paints are examples of compositions that can contain a pigment and / or dye in combination with a binder. Examples of dry color components include inks, colorants, paints, and coatings similar to "wet" compositions, except that they are characterized by low levels of solvents, liquid carriers, and other liquids as described above. The binder can be a polymeric material that forms a coating, sheet or film. A wide variety of binder materials are well known in the art and can be used in the present invention. For example, in US 6,336,998, Enlow et al., Suitable binder materials are disclosed. Suitable binder materials can include the same polymeric materials described below for use as exterior coatings. Examples of binder materials also include polystyrene and polyacrylate / polyvinyl chloride blends. The dry color component sheet may consist of a dry color component overlay layer that is applied over another layer designed to remain on the surface to be colored, as described herein, or, alternatively, The dry color component sheet may consist of a dry color component layer having sufficient integrity that no further layer is necessary for application substantially permanently to the surface to be colored.

In one embodiment, the dry color component comprises a combination of (i) dry pigment and / or dye and (ii) binder, exclusively or in combination with additional components. For example, in specific embodiments, the dry color component comprises dry paint, which includes pigment in combination with additional conventional paint components, for example, binder, from which a liquid carrier is extracted, dry ink, typically including pigments or dyes. fines, exclusively or in combination with additional conventional ink components, including opacifying agents, from which a liquid vehicle, dry colorant, dry ink, or a combination of two or more of these components. The dry color component sheet may comprise a single solid, homogeneous color, with a smooth or textured finish, or it may comprise regular or irregular patterns of two or more color components, and / or layers of color components. The dry color component sheet can have a matte, semi-matte, satin, semi-gloss or gloss finish, as desired. The specific finish can be controlled by selecting the color components and / or by selecting a removable liner with a suitable finish, if used. The texture can be added into the dry color component layer, through a removable liner, and / or through an adhesive layer, depending on the desired effect. The articles of the present invention are especially advantageous for applying an imitation finish to a surface in a single application step. Imitation finishes are well known in the art, and normally allow a non-homogeneous decorative effect to be obtained, examples thereof including, but not limited to, marbling, speckling, stippling, streaking, fading, and the like. In one embodiment, the dry color component is configured in a non-continuous or continuous, repeating or non-repeating pattern to obtain a stencil-like effect on a surface.

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The dry color component can exhibit gloss characteristics, as desired. In one embodiment of the invention, the dry color component exhibits gloss characteristics of conventional architectural paints, such as matte, semi-matte, satin, semi-gloss, or gloss finishes, as desired. A person of average skill in the art will understand the difference between such finishes and high gloss finishes, such as those used, for example, in the automotive industry. Gloss can be measured by specular reflection of a ray of light at an angle of 60 °. The specular reflection of the dry color component sheet of the present invention is less than about 60 gloss units at 60 °. Specular reflection can be measured using the test method described in GM Test Specification TM-204-A. Byk-Mallinckrodt “multi-gloss” or “single gloss” gloss meters can be used to measure the specular gloss of the surface finish. These gloss meters allow to obtain values ​​equivalent to those obtained by the ASTM D-523-57 method. Either gloss meter is used with gloss standards covering the intended range of measurement, in conjunction with a piece of polished black glass plate with a known refractive index. The gloss meter is calibrated by adjusting it to pick up the gloss of a highly polished standard and then picking up the gloss of a working standard with a value preferably within the range of the test panel. The second standard should agree within one unit with its assigned value. At least two measurements are taken in a different area of ​​the test panel. These values ​​are averaged if they agree within one unit. If the interval is greater than one unit, additional zones are used and an average value is calculated. It is possible to obtain the gloss characteristics by using particles included in the dry color component sheet, by means of an outer coating layer, by post-treatment, texturing or the like, according to the practices known in the art.

Another advantage of low gloss surfaces is that the need to prepare the surface is reduced prior to future applications of surface treatments that may be desirable to change the color and / or appearance, or prior to renovating the surface finish using a new color treatment application. Specifically, generally, high gloss surfaces tend to require the presence of some roughness to ensure good results when painting the surface or applying other treatments to the surface.

In specific embodiments, the dry color component sheet comprises two or more layers, at least one of which contains a color component to obtain the desired color effect. Additional layers may comprise an outer coating comprising, for example, a transparent, translucent, pearlescent or opaque coating, which makes it possible to obtain, for example, a glossy, semi-gloss, satin, semi-matte or matte finish, or other optical effects, such as diffusion. , reflection or the like, or other advantageous properties, a white support layer, to obtain intensity and / or consistency, an opacifying layer or the like, and combinations thereof. Another advantage of said additional layers is that they make it possible to obtain greater strength and / or flexibility of the sheet.

In a specific embodiment, the dry color component comprises an architectural surface dry color component, that is, a color component specially adapted for application on an architectural surface. Typically, these dry color components do not include color components which in addition to requiring conventional drying also require an additional curing step, for example, an elevated temperature curing step, the incorporation of a reactive curing agent, or the like. Therefore, in one embodiment, the architectural surface dry color component is practically free of cyanate curing agents, (meth) acrylate curing agents, and cyanate- (meth) acrylate curing agents, commonly used in paints. of curable enamel, such that the color component contains any of said curing agents in an amount that is less than that required for measurable crosslinking of said color component to take place. In more specific embodiments, any such curing agent is included in the color component in an amount of less than 0.0004% by weight.

While the dry color component is adapted for application to a surface in a dry state, the dry color component sheet is produced at a manufacturing location. The dry dye sheet can be formed using latex compositions, water dispersible compositions, solvent-based compositions, ultraviolet curable compositions, or the like. When the sheet is produced in a manufacturing location, the drying or curing of the paint is affected within the manufacturing process, and volatile organic components or other by-products from the compositions may be trapped in the manufacturing process. In one embodiment, these by-products can be recovered or recycled as part of the manufacturing process.

The articles make it possible to achieve good opacity and coverage by applying a single sheet of dry color component, allowing the user to obtain cost and time-saving advantages. The articles have a haze index of at least about 0.95, as measured by ASTM D2805. Typically, in these measurements, the article is carefully applied to a test surface, for example, on the surface of a color contrast card, such as a Leneta 2A opacity pattern, avoiding the formation of bubbles and wrinkles. In more specific embodiments, the articles have a haze index of at least about 0.98, and more specifically, at least about 0.995, as measured by ASTM D2805. It is possible to obtain substantially complete coverage, that is, complete concealment, even of dark surfaces, stained surfaces, and the like. If desired, one or more layers or components of the article may include an additional opacifying agent, for example, one or more metals, metal oxides, minerals or the like, or a combination thereof, to improve the opacity of the article. Examples of such opacifying agents include, but are not limited to, titanium dioxide, carbon black, and the like. Suitable opacifying agents can be included as

ES 2 339 641 T3 conglomerates, powders , flakes, particles or groups of particles, such as aggregates or agglomerates, or the like. Flakes with a minimum dimension of at least 0.02 microns and a aspect ratio of about 100 to 1000 are desirable. Preferably, the particles allowing good opacification, for example titanium dioxide particles, have a dimension in the range of about 0.15 to 150 microns, and more preferably about 0.20 to 50 microns. Although the opacifying agent may be included in the dry color component sheet, in alternative embodiments, the opacifying agent, if used, may be included in the adhesive or the backing layer, or in one or more additional layers, if desired. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is considered that the presence of numerous stains of domestic origin, especially oil stains, reduces surface energy and tends to repel wet paint, specifically, wet water-based paints, thus making making stains difficult to cover and often requiring additional pretreatment steps. Water-based paints can also cause corrosion when water migrates from the paint to nail heads and the like. However, the dry color component sheets of the present invention are substantially free of a liquid carrier, so that the aforementioned problems related to liquid carriers are avoided. Advantageously, it is possible to cover the stains in the usual way without prior treatment of the stained surface.

Advantageously, the dry color component exhibits a minimum level of elasticity, sufficient to allow the sheets to be bent, rolled, or similarly manipulated, without causing fractures, breaks, or other damage to the continuous surfaces of the dry color component. .

Articles of the invention also exhibit less than 50% elongation, measured according to ASTM D882, using a sample with a width of 2.54 cm (1.0 inch) and a reference length of 5.08 cm (2.0 inches), at a crosshead speed of 50.8 cm / min (20 inches / min). Generally, elongation is measured at room temperature which, herein, refers to temperatures below about 38 ° C (100 ° F). Typically, the elongation described above occurs at temperatures from about 4 ° C (40 ° F) to 35 ° C (95 ° F), more specifically 15 ° C (60 ° F) to 27 ° C (80 ° F). In additional embodiments, the article exhibits an elongation of 25% or less, per ASTM D882, as described.

The dry color component sheet may also have sufficient formability to conform to the shape of the surface to be colored. Also, the dry color component sheet may have sufficient formability to allow articles to be easily handled around and / or in corners and other three-dimensional configurations. In addition, the sheet of the dry color component may have micro-formability. As used herein, micro-conformability refers to the ability of articles to adapt their shape or characteristics to the surface to which they adhere, such that, when applied, the sheet of dry color component will imitate rigorous texture of the underlying surface for a paint-like appearance. Preferably, the formability and the micro-formability are present at room temperature, as described above.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the article 10 for applying color to a surface is free of a removable coating and is free of a carrier sheet. As used herein, the term "removable liner" is used generally to refer to a sheet that is removable and that is designed and adapted to be removed shortly before application of the sheet of dry color component to the desired surface. On the other hand, in the present specification, the term carrier sheet is used to refer to a sheet that is designed or adapted for application on a surface, usually located between the surface and a layer that includes the decorative effect, to obtain a structural support. A typical carrier comprises, for example, a backing sheet of wallpaper. Support layers are typically significantly greater than 0.08mm (3 mils) thick and therefore can be significantly distinguished from dry color component sheet and articles of the present invention. Therefore, in the embodiment of Figure 1, neither a carrier sheet nor a removable liner is used. In another embodiment, the article is free of cellulosic materials, specifically cellulosic substrates, commonly used in carrier layers of wallpaper. In a more specific embodiment, the article 10 consists essentially of the dry color component sheet 12 and the adhesive 14 located on the surface 16 of the sheet 12, and does not include any other components that could significantly affect use or wear. the properties of the article.

In another embodiment, the dry color component sheet 12 comprises a reinforcing component. The reinforcing component can be used to increase the strength or structural integrity of the sheet material and / or to increase the thickness or thickness of the sheet material, to facilitate handling and / or use of the article. Other advantages resulting from the use of a reinforcing component will be apparent from the present description. The reinforcing component may comprise any additive that makes it possible to obtain one or more of the intended reinforcing benefits. Preferably, the reinforcing component does not inconveniently alter the rheology of the dry-colored component sheet, so that the sheet exhibits sufficient elasticity to allow bending, rolling, and the like without causing fracture or other damage to the sheet. of dry color component. Examples of suitable reinforcing components include, but are not limited to, filaments, fibers, films, nonwovens, meshes, strands, sheets, and the like, or a combination thereof, and can be formed from any suitable material, including polymers. , metals, cellulosic materials, glass, ceramics and the like. The reinforcing component can be distinguished from a carrier sheet or layer in that the reinforcing component is included within the dry colorant sheet and is not adapted or designed to be arranged between the dry colorant sheet and a wall surface. Instead, as described above

ES 2 339 641 T3 mind, a carrier sheet is designed and adapted for application on a surface, between the surface and a layer with which the color effect is obtained, as in wallpaper.

The reinforcing component may be included in sheet 12 in patterned form, eg, as a sparsely woven structure, or non patterned, in a non-woven manner, using any desirable technique, eg, molding, mixing, coating or spray. In one embodiment, the reinforcing component will have a dimension small enough that it does not conform to an undesirable and uneven surface when the sheet of dry color component is applied to the surface where it is desired to obtain the advantageous effects of a color. For example, in such embodiments, suitable reinforcing components should have a thickness dimension no greater than about 75% of the thickness of the sheet of dry color component. In alternative embodiments, the reinforcing component may be of sufficient thickness to obtain a surface texturization of the sheet of dry color component. Figure 1A shows an article 10A comprising a dry color component sheet 12A and an adhesive 14A. Sheet 12A comprises a reinforcing component 11 and layers 13 of dry color component.

As used herein, the term "adhesive" refers to a substance that is adapted to adhere to a surface at room temperature which, herein, refers to temperatures below about 38 ° C (100 ° F). Typically, when used on architectural surfaces, the adhesive will exhibit the necessary tack effect at temperatures in the range of about 4 ° C (40 ° F) to about 35 ° C (95 ° F). Additionally, the adhesive exhibits an adhesion effect at low application pressures, thus allowing an application and adhesion of the articles of the invention with respect to a surface to be colored by hands or simple tools. In one embodiment, the adhesive is adapted to adhere the article to a surface to be colored by applying a pressure of less than about 3.5 kg / m2.² (50 lb / inch²), more specifically, less than about 2.1 kg / m² (30 lb / inch²) and, even more specifically, less than about 1.4 kg / m² (20 lb / inch²). In a further embodiment, the adhesive is adapted to adhere the article to a surface to be colored by applying a pressure of approximately 0.21 kg / m² (3 lb / inch²) at 0.7 kg / m² (10 lb / inch²).

In Figure 1, the adhesive 14 is shown as a layer on the surface 16 of the sheet 12. The adhesive may be layered, as shown, or it may be arranged in any continuous or non-continuous configuration, depending on is desired. The adhesive serves to adhere the sheet of dry colored component to the surface to be colored. Preferably, the adhesive has certain characteristics and is arranged in an amount that allows the article to be repositioned when it is initially applied to a surface, so that the dry color component sheet can temporarily adhere to a surface to be colored and, if left improperly placed, it can be repositioned or even removed from the surface and reapplied for proper placement, so that, Once a correct placement of the dry color component sheet has been obtained, the dry color component sheet can be permanently adhered to the surface. Therefore, the adhesive is adapted to exhibit an initial tack in response to a first condition and a subsequent tack, greater than the initial tack, in response to a second condition.

A suitable reduced initial tack, which allows repositioning to be carried out, is about 39 g / cm (100 g / inch) or less, more preferably, it is in the range of about 10 g / cm (25 g / inch). at 20 g / cm (50 g / in), measured in a 180 ° adhesion test, using a 2.54 cm (1.0 in) wide adhesion strip, per ASTM D3330 and / or PSTC-1. The subsequent adhesion is superior to the initial adhesion and, in a specific embodiment, allows a substantially permanent adhesion or bond to be obtained between the sheet of dry color component and the surface.

In one embodiment, the first condition may comprise a first application pressure causing the adhesive to exhibit initial tack, while the second condition may comprise a second higher application pressure, causing the adhesive to exhibit superior second tack. In an alternative embodiment, the first condition may comprise a first period of time after application of the article to a surface, the adhesive during said period of time exhibiting a level of adhesion that allows repositioning to be carried out, and the second condition is the period of time that occurs at the end of the first period of time, that is, a "second period of time". After the first period of time, the adhesive exhibits a level of adhesion that prevents or prevents repositioning. The period of time during which the adhesion increases from a level at which repositioning is possible to a level at which the fixation is substantially permanent, depends on the choice of product design, through the selection of the adhesive, based on average knowledge of the adhesive technique. In some embodiments, the first time period will be from about 2 hours to about 24 hours. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the adhesive can be arranged so that the article is placed and adhered to a surface by using a single pressure, applied by hands or a simple application tool, increasing the permanence of the application. adhesion of the adhesive over time once the article has been applied to the surface.

The adhesive component of the articles of the invention is a dry adhesive, that is, an adhesive that is practically free of a liquid carrier, so that it remains immobilized on the sheet of dry colored component and does not drip. Examples of adhesives include, but are not limited to, heat melt, pressure sensitive, water based, water soluble, solvent based, ultraviolet and electron beam curable adhesives, and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the adhesive comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive

ES 2 339 641 T3 pressure, for example, a heat-melting pressure-sensitive adhesive, or a water-based or water-soluble pressure-sensitive adhesive, for example, a liquid emulsion pressure-sensitive adhesive, which it can be applied to a color component sheet and subsequently dried to obtain the articles of the present invention. Alternatively, the adhesive can be a static adhesive, for example an electrostatic adhesive. It is preferable that the adhesive causes the dry paint sheet and substrate to have a final bond strength greater than about 39 g / cm (100 g / inch), more specifically, greater than about 59 g / cm (150 g / inch) and, even more specifically, greater than about 79 g / cm (200 g / inch), measured per ASTM D3330, as described above, using a 2.54 cm (1 inch ) Wide.

Although the adhesive may allow the sheet of dry color component to be initially repositioned, preferably, the adhesive creates an at least substantially permanent adhesion between the dry color component and the surface to which the color effect is applied upon completion of the application process. and curing of the adhesive. A substantially permanent adhesion is one that is not broken by occasional contact, light washing, or the like. The at least substantially permanent adhesion can be obtained by removable adhesion, in which the dried color component can be removed from the surface without destroying the sheet of dry color component. Alternatively, substantially permanent adhesion can be obtained by latent permanent adhesion, in which the sheet of dried color component cannot be removed without destroying it.

In one embodiment, the adhesive is a pressure activated adhesive, in which adhesive adhesion is lower at reduced application pressures, thereby allowing initial repositioning of the sheet of dried color component on a surface, without damaging the surface. dry color component sheet, although with the application of a higher pressure, the adhesive exhibits a higher adhesion, so that the adhesion that forms between the sheet of dry color component and the surface to which it is applied is more permanent, whereby the sheet of dry color component is substantially permanently attached to the surface, i.e. , the sheet does not spontaneously separate and cannot be removed by occasional contact, light washing or the like. Various pressure sensitive adhesives are known in the art and may be used in the articles of the present invention. Such pressure sensitive adhesives can be included as a low weight coating or in the form of patterns or textures, to allow repositioning to be carried out while obtaining a latent permanent adhesion.

Examples of pressure sensitive adhesives include adhesives containing microspheres, used in one, two, or more layers. For example, such microspheres can be broken or deformed by the application of force to the adhesive or article. Compositions containing microspheres that can be broken or deformed are described, for example, in US Patent 3,314,838 to Erwin and US Patent 3,331,729 to Danielson et al. Adhesives containing microspheres are commercially available, an example of which is the product under the trade name Controltac^®by 3M Company. Pressure sensitive adhesives are also disclosed, for example, in US-6,020,062, by Questel et al. In US-5,073,457, by Blackwell, and in US-4,151,319, by Sagoff et al., Additional formulations for pressure sensitive adhesive compositions are disclosed, said adhesives allowing repositioning and latent permanent adhesion to be obtained. , and US-5,939,479, Reaves et al., discloses an adhesive that allows to obtain an adhesion with repositioning. Other pressure sensitive adhesives are commercially available, and include Fasson^® 2001, a latent permanent adhesion product marketed by Avery Dennison.

As described above, the adhesion of the adhesive can also be varied by applying a blocking agent to the exposed adhesive surface. The blocking agent has the effect of decreasing the initial adhesion of the adhesive to the exposed adhesive surface. Therefore, the blocking agent, as defined herein, lowers the adhesion under reduced pressure of an adhesive, while allowing high adhesion to be obtained by applying a higher pressure, which displaces the blocking agent. Suitable blocking agents can consist of solid structures that cover at least a part of the surface and extend over the outer surface of the adhesive. The blocking agents can form a plurality of separate structures, or they can form an interconnected network. One of ordinary skill in the art will know various blocking agents suitable for use in such an embodiment.

In one embodiment, the blocking agent may comprise compositions containing repositioning microspheres. Such compositions can be included in one or more layers, as described in US Pat. No. 4,376,151 to Parrotta. Examples of additional blocking agents include, but are not limited to, those described in US 4,556,595, to Ochi, i.e., conglomerates, powders or particles, for example, of starch, including, but not limited to, potato starch or cornstarch, talc, silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, zeolite or other minerals, polymers or polymer granules, glass or ceramic beads or the like. The amount and size of such materials will depend on the type and adhesion of the individual adhesives. In one example, talc particles with an average particle size of about 0.1 mm are applied, in an amount of about 2 to about 6 g / m², to sufficiently reduce initial adhesion and allow repositioning to be carried out without a proportional decrease in final adhesion. In another example, silicon dioxide particles with an average particle size of about 25 nm are applied, in an amount of about 1 to about 3 g / m². In a further example, titanium dioxide particles with an average particle size of about 50 nm are applied, in an amount of about 1 to 3 g / m². The blocking agent can be applied in a uniform or non-uniform pattern, as desired.

ES 2 339 641 T3

In one embodiment of the articles of the invention, the sheet of dry colorant is permanently adhered to the surface so that it cannot be removed without damaging the sheet of dry color component. In a further embodiment of the articles of the invention, the dry dye sheet is permanently adhered to the surface so that it cannot be removed by occasional contact, washing or the like, although it can be removed without substantial destruction of the surface. sheet.

In one embodiment, the dry color component sheet 12 may further include a coating of a release agent on its outer surface 15, that is, on the surface of the sheet 12 opposite, that is, not adjacent, to the adhesive 14, such as shown in Figure 1. Suitable release agents are described in detail below. Alternatively or additionally, the dry color component sheet 12 may include on its surface a top or outer, exposed film or coating, hereinafter referred to as an "outer coating". The outer coating may comprise a transparent, translucent, pearlescent or opaque formulation, or other type of formulation, as necessary, to obtain the desired optical effect and / or to provide the sheet of dry color component with protection, rigidity and / or superior structural support. For example, the outer coating can be used to obtain a desired gloss from the dry color component, i.e. matte, satin, semi-matte, semi-gloss, or glossy, to increase the opacity, diffusion, or reflection of the dry color component when applied in a surface, or similar. In other embodiments, the exterior coating may include one or more additional components that provide the dry color component sheet with superior durability, peel resistance, washability, stain repellency, fade resistance, including resistance to UV light fading, fluorescence, phosphorescence, bactericidal properties, fragrance, odor removal, non-permanent writing (allowing it to be erased or washed to remove it), sound and / or thermal insulation, conductivity, static dissipation and / or interaction with the environment, for example, allowing changes in tone or color based on temperature or similar.

The outer coating is disposed on the outer surface of the sheet 12, and can be permanently or temporarily adhered to the underlying layer. Figure 1B shows an article 10B comprising a dry color component sheet 12B and an adhesive 14B. The sheet 12B includes a dry color component layer 13B and an outer coating 17. Similarly, the outer coating 17 may be provided with a release agent coating on its outer surface 19. The outer coating can be formed of any suitable material, including examples thereof, polymers, for example, polyurethanes, polyvinylchlorides, polyvinylidene fluorides, polyacrylates, cellulosic materials, and the like, as well as mixtures thereof and optimally, various particles to alter the optical effects or surface texture of the dry color component sheet. Specific examples of exterior coatings include polyurethane and mixtures of polyacrylate and polyvinylidene chloride. The outer coating can be transparent. In other embodiments, the outer coating can be translucent, or at least partially opaque. Other exterior skin materials suitable for use in the present invention will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art.

In one embodiment, the outer coating is configured, microscopically or macroscopically, so that the sheet of dry color component and the adhesive allow to obtain a surface coverage with a desired VTVA, for example, greater than 1 g-pm / cm²/ 24 hrs, with a relative humidity of 100% and at 40 ° C, measured according to ASTM F1249-90. For example, the outer coating can be provided with perforations, pores, holes or the like, or it can be formed of a material having said VTVA. In one embodiment, the outer coating is formed of a polymeric coating, for example, but not limited to, a polyurethane coating, with a sufficiently small thickness, for example, of about 0.013 mm (0.5 mils) or less and , in a further embodiment, about 0.007 mm (0.25 mils) or less, to allow the desired VTVA to be obtained.

Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of another embodiment of an article for applying color to a surface according to the invention. Article 20 includes a dry color component sheet 22, an adhesive 24 on the surface 26 of the dry color sheet, and a removable liner 28. The dry color component sheet 22 is disposed between the removable coating 28 and the adhesive. 24. The removable liner 28 may be included to provide the dry color component sheet 22 with structural support and / or strength, for example, when the liner is present in film form, and / or to facilitate handling of the article during its use. manufacture, storage and use. The removable liner is adapted to be removed from the dry color component sheet prior to or during application of the dry color component sheet to a surface to be colored. Typically, the removable liner will be removed from the dried paint sheet by separating it from the sheet. As shown in Figure 2, the removable liner may be provided with a tab 32 that extends beyond the dry color component sheet to facilitate separation of the coating 28 from the dry color component sheet 22 . Alternatively, the removable liner can be removed using an adhesive tape, which can be applied to the corner (on the other edge) of the removable liner, then pulling it, for example, after the dry dye sheet has been applied to a surface. The adhesive tape pulls the removable liner away from the dry dye sheet, leaving the dry dye sheet attached to the surface. The masking tape does not damage the surface of the dry colorant sheet or adjacent dry colorant sheets. An example of a suitable adhesive tape is the Temp RL product^TM, marketed by Saint Gobain. In another embodiment, the articles may be adapted for use with a simple separation tool, which facilitates the separation of the removable coating from the dry dye sheet. Such a tool can be provided with at least one straight edge, which acts to separate the removable liner at one edge of the article.

ES 2 339 641 T3

In one embodiment, the articles of the invention include a removable liner adjacent to the dry color component sheet and, in the flat configuration of the articles shown in Figure 2, they are free of a removable coating on the adhesive. Therefore, in the embodiment of Figure 2, the upper surface of the adhesive 24 is free of a removable liner when the article has a flat, unrolled configuration. When an article such as that shown in Figure 2 is in the form of a roll, the removable liner 28 will be located adjacent to, and possibly in contact with, the exposed adhesive 24, and thus it will be possible to obtain a removable surface that allows the article to be unrolled without interference with the adhesive, as described in more detail below.

In other embodiments, the articles may comprise two or more removable liners. For example, article 20A of Figure 2A comprises a dry color component sheet 22A, including a dry color component layer 23 and an outer skin layer 27, and an adhesive 24A, in combination with a removable liner 28A. on the surface of the dry color component sheet 22A opposite that of the adhesive 24A, as well as a removable liner 36 on the adhesive 24A. The outer coating layer 27 of the dry color component sheet 22A can provide the color component with additional properties, as described above, between the sheet 22A and the removable coating 28A.

The removable liner can be formed of any material that allows to obtain the desired structural support or strength for the sheet of dry color component, to facilitate the manufacture, handling and / or application of the article on a desired surface. Typically, the removable liner will have a combination of weight per unit area, thickness, and stiffness to achieve the desired structural strength and / or support for the article. For example, the removable liner may be formed of a polymer material, for example, as a thin polymeric film, such as a woven sheet or as a non-woven sheet, or of a fibrous lignocellulosic material, such as paper. In one embodiment, the removable liner comprises a polymer film. Advantageously, the dry color component sheet can be formed into the polymer film, for example, by printing the color component directly on the surface of the polymer film or coating it thereon. The removable surface can be relatively flat and smooth, although it can also have a three-dimensional texture or configuration by etching, micro-etching, heat and pressure thermoforming, vacuum forming, or other applications known to one skilled in the art.

In one embodiment, the removable liner is formed of a material that is inherently removable with respect to the dry color component sheet. Suitable materials that may be used to form an inherently removable coating include, but are not limited to, silicone-based polymers, including copolymers thereof, fluorocarbon polymers, including copolymers thereof, fluoroacrylate polymers, including copolymers of the same, and polymers, including copolymers, that include a release additive, for example, a silicone or fluorocarbon additive. Examples of polymers containing such additives include polyolefins, for example, homopolymers and copolymers of polyethylene, homopolymers and copolymers of polypropylene, and homopolymers and copolymers of polymethylpentene, homopolymers and copolymers of polystyrene, homopolymers and copolymers of polyester, for example, polypropylene terephthalates, for example, polypropylene terephthalates. (PET), and polyamide homopolymers and copolymers, including one or more non-stick additives, such as silicone oils, silicone surfactants, silicone homopolymers and copolymers, fluorocarbon oils, fluorocarbon surfactants, fluorocarbon homopolymers and copolymers, eg, fluoroacrylate homopolymers and copolymers, and mixtures thereof. Suitable release additives can be liquid or solid only at room temperature. Suitable release additives can be liquid or solid at room temperature. Patents US-5,476,901 and US-5,641,835 disclose examples of silicone-polyolefin copolymers suitable for use in forming a removable coating for articles of the present invention. US5,728,469 discloses block copolymer release materials suitable for pressure sensitive adhesives. Likewise, European patent application EP 1 018 533 A2 discloses a silicone-containing resin, suitable for use as a release layer.

Alternatively or additionally, a release agent may be disposed between the release liner and the dry color component sheet, to facilitate separation of the release coating from the dry color component sheet. For example, in the article of Figure 2, the release agent is disposed at the interface 30 between the sheet 22 of dry color component and the removable liner 28. The release agent can be included in the article as a coating or as a separate film layer. In a specific embodiment, the release agent is included as a coating on one or both surfaces of the interface between the sheet of dry color component and the removable coating. Various release agents are known in the art that are suitable for use in the present invention, including, but not limited to, silicone oil, silicone surfactant, silicone homopolymer or copolymer, fluorocarbon oil, fluorocarbon surfactant, fluorocarbon homopolymer or copolymer, eg, fluoroacrylate homopolymers and copolymers, and mixtures thereof. The release agent may be included as a coating on the surface of the dry color component sheet, at the interface 30 adjacent to the release liner, as a coating on the surface of the removable coating, at the interface 30 adjacent to the component sheet dry color, as a layer between the dry color component sheet and the removable liner, or as any combination thereof. Such coatings can be continuous or non-continuous, as necessary, so that the coating can be separated from the dry color component sheet without damaging the surface of the dry color component sheet. In one embodiment, the release agent comprises a

ES 2 339 641 T3 polymeric material, eg, a polysilicone, which is applied as a continuous or non-continuous coating on the surface of removable liner 28, at interface 30.

In one embodiment, the removable liner may further include a release agent on its outer surface 34, that is, on the surface of the liner that is opposite, that is, not adjacent, to the dry color component sheet. In the embodiment of the article of Figure 2, in which the release liner 28 is provided with a release agent on the surface 34 opposite the dry color component sheet, the release agent provided on the surface 34 prevents the surface 34 from adheres to adhesive 24 during storage, handling and use of the article. For example, the provision of a release agent on surface 34 facilitates storage of the article in a rolled fashion. Similarly, in the embodiment of Figure 1, the surface 15 of the dry color component sheet 12 may be provided with a release agent, to prevent adhesion of the surface 15 to the adhesive 14 during storage, handling and use of the article

10. Release agents of the type described above are suitable for application to surface 15 or surface 34.

In the embodiment of Figure 2, the adhesive 14 may include a blocking agent of the type described above, making the blocking agent that the adhesive can be activated by pressure, so that the adhesion of the adhesive is reduced at low application pressures, to allow initial repositioning of the article on a surface to be colored, and, by applying higher pressure, The adhesive permanently bonds the dry color component sheet to the surface.

In an alternative embodiment, removable liner 28 is disposed on the surface of dry color component sheet 22, at interface 30, without any additional layer, coating, or component therebetween. In the present embodiment, removable liner 28 is preferably formed of a material that inherently separates from the surface of dry color component sheet 22 at interface 30. The present embodiment removes any release agent residue on the surface of the dry color component sheet 22 after the release liner 28 has been removed therefrom.

Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of yet another embodiment of an article for applying color to a surface according to the invention. The article 40 includes a dry color component sheet 42, which includes a dry color component layer 43 and a support layer 45 on a surface 46 of the dry color component layer 43. An adhesive 44 is disposed on the surface 47 of the support layer 45. The article comprising the sheet 42 and the adhesive 44 has a thickness of about 0.08 mm (3 mils) or less, more specifically, about 0.05 mm (2 mils) or less, and still more specific, approximately 0.3 mm (1 mil) or less. Therefore, the article of the present embodiment is significantly thinner than conventional wallpaper products, which normally have significantly thicker carrier substrates. For example, the backing layer 45 may be included to provide support and / or structural strength for the dry color component sheet 42, to obtain additional opacification, whitening or color intensification effects and / or to facilitate handling of the article during its storage and use. The backing layer can be formed of any suitable thin material, for example, but not limited to, paper and other cellulosic materials, polymer films and woven or non-woven fabrics, textile fabrics, glass or ceramic fabrics, a layer or metallized layers and the like. In one embodiment, the backing layer may allow for greater opacity of the article when applied to a surface to be colored. For example, the support layer can include titanium dioxide, metal filler, or the like, to increase opacity. Preferably, the support layer will exhibit sufficient flexibility to allow folding and rolling of the article and other similar manipulations with the article.

In one embodiment, the support layer comprises a metallized film, that is, a laminate of two or more polymer films with a metallized layer or coating disposed between the two internal surfaces thereof. As shown in Figure 3, the support layer 45 may comprise a laminate of two polymer films 50, 52, for example, formed by polyethylene terephthalate, with a metallized coating 54, for example, formed by ink of silver, metal oxide, aluminum, stainless steel or the like, arranged between them. An example of aluminum ink is the Metalure product^®, sold by Eckart America Division (Painesville, Ohio, USA) of Eckart Werke GmbH and Company (manufactured by Avery Dennison Corp.). The metallized coating may be continuous or discontinuous, and may or may not be patterned, as desired. Preferably, polymer film 52 is very thin and may comprise a sheet bonding layer or coating of dry color component. The polymer film 50 can provide a surface for the metallized coating 54, and a structural support for the article. In one embodiment, the dry color component sheet 42 may further include a release agent coating on its outer surface, that is, on the surface of the sheet 42 that is opposite, that is, not adjacent, to the surface. which includes the support layer 45. In yet another embodiment, it is possible to dispense with one of the polymer film layers 50 or 52, obtaining an article that is even thinner and remains opaque at the same time.

The size of the articles according to the present invention, as regards width and length, can vary according to the dimension of the surfaces to be colored. For example, the articles may comprise relatively long lengths, suitable for coloring a full length or several lengths of an interior architectural surface. Sheets of these lengths can be stored in roll form. Alternatively, the articles may comprise smaller sheets, for example the size of a tile, to accommodate larger areas.

ES 2 339 641 T3 small. Similarly, the articles may comprise a strip shape or smaller size for use in smaller areas, for example, as trims around moldings, borders, decorative elements (for example, templates), power outlets, corners and areas adjacent to surfaces where the application of color is not intended. Smaller items can also be beneficial for repairing damaged areas.

Articles according to the present invention allow color to be applied to a surface by applying a dry color component to the surface. More specifically, the articles allow a substantially permanent color effect to be obtained on a surface. Advantageously, the dry color component is applied to the surface without the use of wet tools to apply the color component, for example, without the use of wet paint application devices such as paint brushes, sprayers or paint rollers, or paint trays, without the use of stain protections such as tapes or covers, without the use of color component cleaning materials, normally necessary to wash paint application devices, and / or without the use of liquid volatile organic vehicle carriers, such as oil-based solvents, for the color component. Consequently, it is possible to obtain a color effect more quickly and easily, while avoiding numerous problems associated with wet application, as described herein.

Therefore, in one embodiment of the present methods, an article comprising a dry color component is applied to an architectural surface. After application, and when removing any removable coating included in the article, the remaining part of the article, for example, the dry color component and any adhesion medium, that is, the adhesive, has a thickness of approximately 0.08 mm (3 mils) or less.

In a preferred embodiment of the present methods, the dry color component is applied to the surface as a sheet of the dry color component, as described above. Preferably, the dry color component sheet has an adhesive on one surface thereof. Methods according to the invention may also comprise the step of initially adhering the applied dry color component to the surface, for example by exerting slight pressure on the dry color component sheet, to temporarily bond the dry color component sheet to the surface to be colored, optionally adjusting the position or alignment of the foil, and exerting greater pressure on the sheet of dry color component to permanently affix the sheet of dry color component to the surface to be colored. For example, when the dry color component sheet is included in an article 10 as described in Figure 1, it is possible to apply pressure on the surface 15 of the article, to adhere the adhesive 14 to a surface to be colored. In article 20 of Figure 2, pressure is applied on surface 34, as adhesive 24 contacts the surface to be colored, to adhere article 20, including sheet 22 of dry color component, to a surface to color.

The articles of the invention can be applied to a surface by simply placing them manually or by using a simple applicator, for example, a roller and / or a wallpaper dispenser or other tool. Similarly, the pressure necessary for adhesion of the articles can be applied manually or by means of a tool. This pressure can be applied in a single pass or by two or more passes over the article.

Articles and methods according to the invention make it possible to obtain improved means for applying color to a surface, for example an architectural surface, such as an interior wall, avoiding many of the drawbacks associated with conventional painting and wallpapering of walls in damp. The risk of paint spills and splatters and the risk of painting unwanted surfaces are eliminated, since the dried color component, such as paint, is immobilized or contained before and during application. Therefore, the use of tapes, covers and other protective measures normally used for floors, furniture and adjacent areas is not necessary. Also, the articles and methods allow to obtain the coloration in increments of time, and do not require a long and continuous period of time to act. Similarly, the application can be interrupted without problems. Furthermore, because the color component is immobilized or contained in the articles according to the invention, the total amount of color component necessary to obtain the desired result is decreased compared to conventional wet painting, in which various adjacent surfaces of application devices, masking tapes, coatings and the like get overpainted. Also, because the articles can be repositioned before their permanent fixation, precise positioning is possible and, because the articles are practically free of liquid vehicles, shrinkage of the sheets after application is avoided, such as it usually happens with wallpaper. Therefore, it is possible to obtain an easy fit between the edges of the adjacent sheets. Alternatively, it is possible to avoid problems related to the fit between the edges by simply overlapping the adjacent sheets.

With the foregoing in mind, it will be apparent that articles according to the present invention can be shaped by various methods and techniques. Such a method is described herein, for illustrative purposes only. More specifically, referring to Figure 4, a small, semi-automated, laboratory scale process is shown. A removable liner 100, in roll form, which is unwound to travel through a unit 102, is supplied by rollers 104, 106, 108, 110, 112 and 114, to form a complete article 116, which is rolled into a roll 118. As will be described in more detail below, cut portions 120 are directed toward roll 122. The removable liner 100 is moved as a band 101 through the unit by a combination of rolls 118

ES 2 339 641 T3 and 122 and a conveyor 124, for example a vacuum conveyor. A suitable vacuum conveyor may comprise a continuous conveyor belt with two pulleys and having a series of separate holes that are exposed with respect to the vacuum chamber immediately below. A forced air fan creates negative pressure (vacuum). As the tape passes over the chamber, a negative pressure is created in each hole so that the removable liner 100 is securely attached to the tape as it passes over the tape. This effect helps prevent wrinkling of the removable coating 100 when the applied color component dries. The speed of the vacuum conveyor belt can be adjusted to that of the drive rolls 118 and 122, driven by a transmission mechanism 119. The shaft of a roller 126 from which the removable liner 100 is supplied is connected to a friction clutch 128, which can be adjusted to obtain sufficient tension on the web 101 for smooth movement through the process. A Fife guide unit 130 may be provided to guide the web movement through the unit.

A color component, such as wet paint, is applied to the removable coating strip 101, on the adjacent roller 106, by an applicator 132. The paint or other color component may be water-based or solvent-based, as desired. . In one embodiment, applicator 132 comprises a no. 50, which can be held against roller 106 by elastic tension or the like, so that web 101 passes between roller 106 and applicator 132. The color component, such as a paint, is introduced into the upstream side of the helical dispenser applicator 132 through a manifold 134. The manifold is fed by tubes 136 from a peristaltic pump 138, which collects the wet paint. of a reservoir 140. To form the dry color component sheet, the paint is dried on the belt 101, for example, as it passes through the vacuum conveyor 124, by use of dryers. In the embodiment of Figure 4, the dryers comprise two infrared heaters 142, which are assisted by a forced ambient air duct 144. Advantageously, the air conduit 144 can drive the exhaust air from the vacuum conveyor 124. To one skilled in the art, it will be apparent that it is possible to collect and recycle the solvent or other vehicle removed during the drying process, as desired. Therefore, a dry color component sheet is formed on the removable liner strip.

Next, an adhesive is applied to the dry color component sheet, on the surface opposite the removable liner. For example, in unit 102 of Figure 4, the adhesive is applied to the surface of the sheet of dry color component of web 101 on roll 108, by an application device 148, which may comprise, for example, a helical dispenser no. twenty. The helical dispenser applicator 148 may be held against the roller 108 by elastic tension or the like, so that the web 101 passes between the roller and the applicator. The liquid adhesive is introduced to the upstream side of the helical dispenser applicator 148, through a manifold 146. The manifold 146 is fed by tubes 150 from a peristaltic pump 152, which collects the liquid adhesive from a reservoir 154. The liquid adhesive contained in the reservoir 154 is continuously stirred by a mixer 156. With the adhesive applied thereto, the web 101 travels towards an oscillating roller 158 covered by a fabric, which moves back and forth, in the machine direction, on a skid plate 160, to convey a texture to the liquid adhesive applied to the sheet of dry color component of the web 101. A textured adhesive may allow the item to be repositioned more easily prior to permanent attachment. The adhesive is then dried, for example, by passing the web 101 under an infrared heater 162, on the roll 110.

In a preferred embodiment, web 101 runs through rollers 112 and 114, one of which is preferably a rotary cutting knife. In a more specific embodiment, the roller 114 comprises two rotating cutting knives, which are arranged adjacent to the edges of the web, to cut the edges of the web and obtain a final article with homogeneous edges. In another embodiment, roller 114 comprises a plurality of rotary cutting knife assemblies, which are arranged to cut the web into two or more strips, to obtain articles of smaller size, adapted to apply color in smaller areas, such as described above. The resulting article 116 is then wound onto roll 118, while cut edges 120 are wound onto roll 122. As discussed above, the unit 102 and the preparation process described are illustrative only, and modifications thereto will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, the process may include the incorporation of release agents in the form of coatings, layers, or the like. Additionally, the dry color component sheet can form part of the final article without a removable liner. For example, the dry color component sheet can be formed into a processing web or a forming web, then being separated from the processing web or forming web prior to storage in roll or sheet form.

In an alternative embodiment, articles according to the invention, for example, as described in Figure 2A, can be formed by using a modified version of the process described above, in which two strips of removable lining are used. For example, referring to Figure 2A, it is possible to apply an outer coating composition to a removable coating strip to form an outer coating layer 27, by reverse roll, extrusion coating or similar techniques, then drying it, for example , with heat. Subsequently, a color component can be applied to the dry outer coating layer, for example, by reverse roll, gravure coating, printing or similar techniques, then drying it, for example, with heat. The adhesive can then be applied to a second strip of removable liner, then laminating the assembly consisting of the removable coating, the outer coating and the dry color component with the assembly consisting of the adhesive and the removable coating, with the component dry color and adhesive facing each other. It is possible to apply heat throughout the process described,

ES 2 339 641 T3 by any suitable means, including convection or radiation, for example infrared, ultraviolet or the like. A person of ordinary skill in the art will also understand that this method can be used to obtain an article that includes a single removable liner, for example, as described in Figure 2, simply by removing the second removable liner from the adhesive once they have been removed. together the set formed by the removable lining, the outer covering and the dry color component and the set formed by the adhesive and the removable lining.

Additional or alternative devices and / or process steps will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in light of the present disclosure, and are included within the scope of the present invention. For example, the color component or adhesive could be applied as a single layer or in multiple layers, using various known application techniques, including extrusion, spraying, printing, reverse roll, etch coating, roll application, and other known techniques. The layers may have the same properties, or it is possible to use several different layers to combine various properties, such as color, strength, opacity, and the like. A blocking agent as described above can be applied to the surface of the adhesive and / or can be mixed with the adhesive. Heating can be carried out by means of an infrared, convection or radiation device, or by other known techniques. Texturing can be done on one or more layers of the article.