DE102021100143A1 - Transfer foil, use of a transfer foil, method for producing a transfer foil, method for decorating a plastic article and plastic article - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a transfer film (1), the use of a transfer film (1), a method for producing a transfer film (1), a method for producing a transfer film (1), a method for decorating a plastic article (10) and a plastic article ( 10). The transfer film (1) for application to a base body (9) comprises a carrier layer (2) and a transfer layer (3) and a first layer (4), the surface of the first layer (4) after application to the base body (9) can be touched by a person at least in regions, and wherein the first layer (4) has at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect.

Description

The invention relates to a transfer film, the use of a transfer film, a method for producing a transfer film, a method for decorating a plastic article and a plastic article.

Plastic foils are used for the surface decoration of plastic parts. Plastic parts decorated in this way are used, for example, in automotive construction for automotive interior parts such as door strips, strips in instrument panels and center console covers, in the consumer electronics sector for decorative strips on television sets or in the electronics and telecommunications sector for housing shells of portable devices such as mobile phones or laptops. When decorating the surface of plastic parts, when using IMD technology (IMD = In-Mould Decoration) or IML technology (IML = In-Mould Labelling), a plastic film is placed in an injection mold and then back-injected with an injection molding compound. Plastic parts decorated in this way have a surface that can be touched by a person at least in certain areas. This means that, for example, people who use a decorated plastic part can touch the surface at least in certain areas. Since high demands are placed on the surfaces of plastic moldings decorated in this way, it is known to protect them against mechanical, physical and chemical environmental influences that occur in daily use, for example by means of a protective lacquer layer on the surface of the plastic molding. However, further protective measures that go beyond this have not yet been implemented in transfer films.

It is known to subsequently provide surfaces with an antibacterial coating from areas in which special requirements are placed on sterility, such as food packaging or banknotes. That's it U.S. 2005/0175712 A1 an information carrier, such as a banknote or an ID card, is known, the surface of which is subsequently provided with a biocidal agent. Alternatively, surfaces can be irradiated with UV radiation or treated with antibiotics (preferably in medical technology) and/or fungicides. With these methods, too, the surface is only subsequently treated with an antibacterial agent, for example. Another disadvantage here is that it is a one-time treatment and therefore not a permanent solution. Undesirable resistance to the antibiotics can also develop. Fungicides in particular and their residues can also be harmful to human health.

The object of the invention is now to provide an improved transfer film and an improved method for decorating a plastic article.

This object is achieved by a transfer film for application to a base body and comprising a carrier layer and a transfer layer, the transfer film having a first layer whose surface can be touched by a person at least in regions after application to the base body, and the first layer at least contains a substance with an antimicrobial effect.

• - Bereitstellen der Trägerlage;
• - Aufbringen der ersten Schicht auf die Trägerlage, insbesondere mittels Drucken;
• - Aufbringen der Transferlage auf die Trägerlage und/oder auf die erste Schicht, insbesondere mittels Drucken, Gießen, Laminieren oder Prägen.

This object is further achieved by a method for producing a transfer film, in particular according to one of Claims 1 to 18, comprising a carrier layer, a transfer layer and a first layer, the surface of the first layer being at least partially removed by a person after it has been applied to a base body is touchable, wherein the first layer has at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect, and wherein the method comprises the following steps, in particular those which are carried out in the following order:

• - Providing the support layer;
• - Application of the first layer to the carrier layer, in particular by means of printing;
• - Applying the transfer layer to the carrier layer and/or to the first layer, in particular by means of printing, casting, laminating or embossing.

Furthermore, this object is achieved by using a transfer film according to any one of claims 1 to 18 as a hot stamping film and / or in-mold film, in particular as an in-mold decoration film (IMD film), insert molding film, In -Mould-Labeling-Foil (IML-Foil) and/or Print-Mould-Design-Foil.

• - Bereitstellen einer Transferfolie, insbesondere nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 18, umfassend eine Trägerlage, eine Transferlage und eine erste Schicht, wobei die Oberfläche der ersten Schicht nach dem Aufbringen auf den Grundkörper von einer Person zumindest bereichsweise berührbar ist und wobei die erste Schicht zumindest eine Substanz mit antimikrobieller Wirkung aufweist;
• - Anordnen der Transferfolie in einer Spritzgussform;
• - Hinterspritzen der in der Spritzgussform angeordneten Transferfolie mit der Kunststoffspritzmasse, derart, dass durch die Kunststoffspritzmasse der Grundkörper ausgebildet wird und sich der Grundkörper mit der Transferfolie verbindet;
• - optional Entfernen der Trägerlage, insbesondere von dem dekorierten Kunststoffartikel;
• - optional Entnehmen des dekorierten Kunststoffartikels aus der Spritzgussform.

This object is also achieved by a method for decorating a plastic article with a base body formed from a plastic injection molding compound, comprising the following steps, which are carried out in the following order in particular:

• - Providing a transfer film, in particular according to one of Claims 1 to 18, comprising a carrier layer, a transfer layer and a first layer, wherein the surface of the first layer can be touched by a person at least in regions after it has been applied to the base body and wherein the first layer is at least contains a substance with an antimicrobial effect;
• - Arranging the transfer film in an injection mold;
• - back-injection molding of the transfer film arranged in the injection mold with the plastic injection molding compound in such a way that the base body is formed by the plastic injection molding compound and the base body is connected to the transfer film;
• - optionally removing the carrier layer, in particular from the decorated plastic article;
• - optional removal of the decorated plastic item from the injection mold.

Furthermore, this object is also achieved by a plastic article, in particular produced by the method according to one of Claims 27 to 29, comprising a base body formed from a plastic injection molding compound and a first layer, wherein the first layer can be touched by a person at least in certain areas and at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect.

It has been shown here that the properties of plastic articles can be improved and at the same time the production process can be simplified by the transfer foil according to the invention, the use of the transfer foil, the method for producing the transfer foil, the method for decorating a plastic article and the plastic article. Due to the fact that the transfer film, in particular the first layer, already has an antimicrobial effect, the plastic article decorated with the transfer film has a surface that can be touched at least partially by a person and has an antimicrobial effect. This protects people who touch this surface against bacterial contamination, in particular from microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi or viruses. Furthermore, for example, a conventional injection molding process can be used to apply the transfer film, so that complex and expensive further processing steps, which would be produced in particular by the subsequent application of an antimicrobial layer, can be omitted. In addition, existing injection molding devices can be used to apply the transfer film to a base body, since this is a transfer film that can be processed in the known and therefore familiar manner, although this offers the advantage of producing an antimicrobial effect directly. Thus, in comparison to conventional transfer foils, the protective measures are expanded to include the additional antimicrobial effect, while at the same time the production process of correspondingly improved plastic articles is further simplified.

It is also conceivable to provide a transfer film, in particular an in-mold decoration film (IMD film) or an insert molding film (insert film), the transfer film having a first layer, and the first layer at least contains a substance with an antimicrobial effect. The transfer film preferably comprises a carrier layer and a transfer layer. It is possible here for the transfer layer to comprise the first layer and/or for the carrier layer to comprise the first layer.

The transfer film is particularly preferably an in-mould decoration film (IMD film) or an insert molding film. It is thus preferably possible for the transfer film to be an in-mould decoration film (IMD film) or an insert molding film. However, it is also possible for the transfer film to be a hot stamping film and/or in-mold film, in particular an in-mold labeling film (IML film) and/or a print-mold design film. It is also possible for the transfer film to be a cold embossing film, which is applied to a substrate in particular by means of radiation-curable adhesives.

The first layer preferably forms the outermost and/or uppermost layer, in particular after application to a base body. In other words, it is possible for the first layer to form the outside, in particular which is accessible to a person. It is advantageous if the surface of the first layer can be touched by a person at least in regions, in particular after it has been applied to a base body. It is also expedient if the first layer forms the layer of the transfer film facing a person. The transfer layer is preferably configured in one or more layers.

A substance with an antimicrobial effect is understood as meaning substances which reduce the ability to reproduce or the infectivity of microorganisms or kill and/or inactivate them.

It is also possible that a substance with an antimicrobial effect is a substance with an antibacterial (against bacteria) and/or antifungal (against fungi and pathogenic yeasts) and/or antieukaryotic (against algae) and/or antiviral (against viruses) effect.

• - Bereitstellen einer erfindungsgemäßen Transferfolie, bevorzugt nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 18, weiter bevorzugt umfassend eine Trägerlage, eine Transferlage und eine erste Schicht, wobei die Oberfläche der ersten Schicht nach dem Aufbringen auf den Grundkörper von einer Person zumindest bereichsweise berührbar ist, und wobei die erste Schicht zumindest eine Substanz mit antimikrobieller Wirkung aufweist;
• - Applizieren der Transferfolie auf den Grundkörper, insbesondere derart, dass sich der Grundkörper mit der Transferfolie verbindet.

It is also conceivable to provide a method for decorating an article with a base body, the method comprising the following steps, which are carried out in the following order in particular:

• - Providing a transfer film according to the invention, preferably according to one of Claims 1 to 18, more preferably comprising a carrier layer, a transfer layer and a first layer, wherein the surface of the first layer can be touched by a person at least in regions after it has been applied to the base body, and wherein the first layer has at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect;
• - Applying the transfer film to the base body, in particular in such a way that the base body is connected to the transfer film.

It is advantageous here if the step of applying the transfer film to the base body takes place or is carried out by or by means of lamination, hot embossing and/or injection molding or back injection molding.

• - Anordnen der Transferfolie in einer Spritzgussform;
• - Hinterspritzen der in der Spritzgussform angeordneten Transferfolie mit einer Kunststoffspritzmasse, derart, dass durch die Kunststoffspritzmasse der Grundkörper ausgebildet wird und sich der Grundkörper mit der Transferfolie verbindet;
• - optional Entfernen der Trägerlage von dem dekorierten Artikel;
• - optional Entnehmen des dekorierten Artikels aus der Spritzgussform.

In the case of injection molding or back injection molding, it is also advantageous if the method also includes at least one of the following steps:

• - Arranging the transfer film in an injection mold;
• - back-injection molding of the transfer film arranged in the injection mold with a plastic injection molding compound in such a way that the base body is formed by the plastic injection molding compound and the base body is connected to the transfer film;
• - optionally removing the carrier layer from the decorated article;
• - optional removal of the decorated item from the injection mold.

It is also conceivable to provide an article, in particular a plastic article, wherein the article, in particular the plastic article, comprises a transfer film according to the invention, in particular according to one of claims 1 to 18. It is also conceivable to provide an article, in particular a plastic article, wherein the article, in particular the plastic article, comprises the transfer layer and/or the carrier layer of the transfer film, in particular according to the invention, in particular wherein the first layer can be touched by a person at least in places and at least contains a substance with an antimicrobial effect.

The article is preferably a plastic article, more preferably an injection molded article. In other words, it is possible that the article is a plastic article, in particular an injection molded article, and/or that the method for decorating an article is a method for decorating a plastic article, in particular an injection molded article.

It is also preferred if the plastic article is an injection molded article. It is thus possible for the plastic article to be an injection molded article and/or for the method for decorating a plastic article to be a method for decorating an injection molded article.

In addition to a base body made of plastic, it is also possible for the base body to include paper, wood and/or metal. It is also possible for the base body to be made of paper, wood, stone, cardboard or metal, for example. For example, it is possible for the base body to be paper, cardboard or sheet metal.

It is expedient if the base body comprises plastic, paper and/or metal.

• - Bereitstellen der Trägerlage;
• - Aufbringen der ersten Schicht auf die Trägerlage, insbesondere wobei die Transferlage die erste Schicht umfasst;
• - optional Aufbringen einer Dekorlage, einer Haftvermittlerschicht und/oder einer Grundierungsschicht, insbesondere wobei die Transferlage die Dekorlage, die Haftvermittlerschicht und/oder die Grundierungsschicht umfasst und/oder wobei die erste Schicht zwischen der Trägerlage und der Dekorlage, der Haftvermittlerschicht und/oder der Grundierungsschicht angeordnet ist.

It is also conceivable to provide a method for producing a transfer film, in particular according to one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the transfer film comprises a first layer, preferably wherein the transfer film further comprises a carrier layer and a transfer layer, with more preferably the surface of the first After being applied to a base body, the layer can be touched by a person at least in certain areas, the first layer having at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect, and the method comprising the following steps, in particular those carried out in the following order:

• - Providing the support layer;
• - applying the first layer to the carrier layer, in particular the transfer layer comprising the first layer;
• - optional application of a decorative layer, an adhesion promoter layer and/or a primer layer, in particular wherein the transfer layer comprises the decorative layer, the adhesion promoter layer and/or the primer layer and/or wherein the first layer is between the carrier layer and the decorative layer, the adhesion promoter layer and/or the primer layer is arranged.

The layers or plies are preferably applied in particular by means of printing, casting, laminating or embossing.

• - Bereitstellen der Trägerlage;
• - Aufbringen der ersten Schicht auf die Trägerlage, insbesondere wobei die Trägerlage die erste Schicht umfasst;
• - optional Aufbringen einer Dekorlage, einer Haftvermittlerschicht und/oder einer Grundierungsschicht, insbesondere wobei die Transferlage die Dekorlage, die Haftvermittlerschicht und/oder die Grundierungsschicht umfasst.

It is also conceivable to provide a method for producing a transfer film, in particular according to one of claims 1 to 18, in which the transfer film comprises a first layer, preferably in which the transfer film further comprises a carrier layer and a transfer layer, with more preferably the surface of the first Layer can be touched by a person at least in regions after it has been applied to a base body, the first layer having at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect, and the method comprising the following steps, in particular those which are carried out in the following order:

• - Providing the support layer;
• - applying the first layer to the carrier layer, in particular the carrier layer comprising the first layer;
• - optionally applying a decorative layer, an adhesion promoter layer and/or a primer layer, in particular the transfer layer comprising the decorative layer, the adhesion promoter layer and/or the primer layer.

The layers or plies are preferably applied in particular by means of printing, casting, laminating or embossing.

Further advantageous refinements of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

It is advantageous that the transfer layer can be detached from the carrier layer. This ensures that, in particular when the first layer is part of the transfer layer and/or when the first layer is arranged between the carrier layer and transfer layer, the first layer forms the uppermost layer, in particular so that the first layer and/or its surface can be touched by a person at least in certain areas after being applied to the base body.

It is further preferred that the first layer is arranged between the carrier layer and the transfer layer.

Furthermore, it is expedient if the transfer film comprises a detachment layer, in particular which is arranged between the carrier layer and the transfer layer, in particular the detachable one.

• - Aufbringen einer Ablöseschicht, vorzugsweise derart, dass die Ablöseschicht zwischen der Trägerlage und der, insbesondere ablösbaren, Transferlage angeordnet ist.

It is also expedient if the method also includes the following step, in particular that is carried out between the step of providing the carrier layer and the step of applying the transfer layer to the carrier layer:

• - Application of a detachment layer, preferably in such a way that the detachment layer is arranged between the carrier layer and the transfer layer, which is in particular detachable.

The detachment layer preferably has a layer thickness of between 0.01 μm and 10 μm, preferably between 0.1 μm and 5 μm, and/or has components that are selected individually or in combination from: waxes, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), cellulose derivatives, poly(organo)siloxanes.

• - Abziehen der oder einer Trägerlage von der Transferfolie.

It is also preferred if, in particular after the step of in-moulding the transfer film arranged in the injection mold with the plastic injection molding compound, the following further step is carried out:

• - Pulling off the carrier layer or layers from the transfer film.

It is also possible for the first layer to be arranged on that side of the carrier layer which is remote from the transfer layer.

Furthermore, it is also possible for the carrier layer to have at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect.

It is thus possible for the carrier layer to have the first layer and/or for the transfer layer to have the first layer. In other words, it is possible for the first layer to be comprised by the carrier layer and/or for the first layer to be comprised by the transfer layer, in particular for the first layer to form part of the carrier layer and/or for the first layer to form part of the transfer layer .

Depending on the design and position of the first layer, it is also possible for the transfer film to be a laminating film. If, for example, the carrier layer is also transferred to the base body or if it remains on the plastic article, then the transfer film is used in the sense of a laminating film.

Furthermore, it is expedient if the first layer is applied in such a way that the first layer is arranged between the carrier layer and the transfer layer and/or that the first layer is arranged on the carrier layer.

The carrier layer is preferably selected from the group ABS (=acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), ABS/PC, PET (=polyethylene terephthalate), PC (=polycarbonate), PMMA (=polymethyl methacrylate), PE (=polyethylene), PP (=polypropylene). ) and/or PPP (= polyether polycarbonate polyols). The layer thickness of the carrier layer is advantageously between 5 μm and 5000 μm, more advantageously between 6 μm and 500 μm, in particular between 10 μm and 100 μm.

It is also expedient if the carrier layer is transparent, in particular if the carrier layer has a transmission, in particular in the wavelength range between 380 nm and 780 nm, of at least 25%, preferably at least 35%, more preferably at least 85%.

The at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect is preferably or comprises a heavy metal, preferably silver (Ag), more preferably colloidal silver (Ag(0)) and/or bound silver (Ag ⁺ ). In other words, it is possible that the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect is a heavy metal, preferably silver (Ag), more preferably colloidal silver (Ag(0)) and/or bound silver (Ag ⁺ ) , acts.

The advantage here is that, as explained below, on the one hand a very high antimicrobial effect is produced and on the other hand good processing of the transfer film is ensured. Furthermore, such a transfer film is largely free from harmful side effects for the user and is also characterized by a high level of environmental compatibility. In other words, effects that are harmful to human health can be reduced and/or avoided as a result, particularly when used appropriately.

Colloidal silver is preferably ultrafine particles of elemental silver (nanosilver) or poorly soluble silver compounds and/or their liquid dispersions.

The particle size of the colloidal silver is advantageously between 1 nm and 100 nm, in particular the particle size of the colloidal silver is less than 20 nm. It is also possible, for example, that the particle size of the colloidal silver is 8 nm for approx. 1/3 of the particles and for about 2/3 of the particles is 18 nm. The individual particles more preferably contain about 1000 to 10,000,000,000 silver atoms or molecules of the corresponding silver compound.

Colloidal silver is preferably produced by reducing silver ions in solution in the presence of stabilizers such as polyethylene glycol (PEG). It is possible for the colloidal silver to be "dissolved" in a solution, particularly where the solution contains complexing agents (stabilizers) and solvents. It is preferred here that the complexing agents are at the same time the solvent. Examples of such complexing agents, which are also the solvent, are polysorbate and PEG.

Bound silver is advantageously produced by applying a silver solution to a carrier material, with the carrier material binding the silver ions to its surface, in particular so that bound silver is formed.

Preferably, bound silver is or comprises Ag ₂ O-Ca _α Zn _β Al _y (PO ₄ ) ₆ . In other words, it is possible that the bound silver is Ag ₂ O-Ca _α Zn _β Al _γ (PO ₄ ) ₆ .

• - Mischen der zumindest einen Substanz mit antimikrobieller Wirkung in das Ausgangsmaterial der ersten Schicht, insbesondere wobei die zumindest eine Substanz mit antimikrobieller Wirkung in Lösung vorliegt.

It is thus possible for the method to further include the following step, in particular which is carried out before the step of applying the first layer to the transfer layer and/or carrier layer:

• - Mixing the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the starting material of the first layer, in particular the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect being in solution.

• - Zerkleinern und/oder Dispergieren der zumindest einen Substanz mit antimikrobieller Wirkung, insbesondere mittels Mühlen, bspw. mittels Korbmühlen.

The method preferably further comprises the following step, which is carried out in particular before the step of applying the first layer to the transfer layer and/or carrier layer:

• - Crushing and/or dispersing the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect, in particular by means of mills, for example by means of basket mills.

The antimicrobial mode of action of colloidal silver (Ag(0)) and/or bound silver (Ag ⁺ ) is illustrated below using silver oxide (AgO ₂ ) as an example. In order to be able to develop its effectiveness, free silver ions (Ag ⁺ ) must first be formed. This usually works via the presence of moisture and/or water. Using the example of silver oxide (AgO ₂ ), the following then applies: AgO ₂ + H ₂ O → 2Ag ⁺ + 20H ^- , so that the required silver ions (Ag ⁺ ) are present.

• - Silberionen (Ag⁺) binden insbesondere an Schwefelwasserstoffgruppen (SH-Gruppen) des Enzymsystems an, so dass der Energiestoffwechsel und der Elektronentransport inaktiviert wird. Der hieraus resultierende Elektrolyt- und Flüssigkeitsmangel führt zum Austrocknen der Bakterien.
• - Silberionen (Ag⁺) binden insbesondere an Enzymsysteme, die für die Atmungskette verantwortlich sind, so dass das Enzymsystem blockiert wird.
• - Silberionen (Ag⁺) binden an die DNA, so dass die Replikation unterbunden wird.

The silver ions (Ag ⁺ ) formed in this way in particular kill or inactivate bacteria, for example, as follows:

• - Silver ions (Ag ⁺ ) bind in particular to hydrogen sulfide groups (SH groups) of the enzyme system, so that the energy metabolism and electron transport is inactivated. The resulting lack of electrolytes and fluids causes the bacteria to dry out.
• - Silver ions (Ag ⁺ ) bind in particular to enzyme systems that are responsible for the respiratory chain, so that the enzyme system is blocked.
• - Silver ions (Ag ⁺ ) bind to the DNA so that replication is stopped.

Less preferably, the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect is or comprises copper (Cu/Cu ²⁺ ) and/or mercury (Hg/Hg ²⁺ ). Mercury (Hg/Hg ²⁺ ) in particular is hardly suitable for humans due to its toxicity. The antimicrobial effect is caused in particular by the respective metal ion (Cu ²⁺ , Hg ²⁺ , Ag ⁺ ).

It is also conceivable that the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect is or includes an antibiotic, such as docycline or teicolanine, and/or is or includes a fungicide, such as triclosan.

The percentage of the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer is preferably between 0.01% and 10%, preferably between 0.1% and 5%, more preferably between 1% and 2%. These values preferably relate to the solid (FSK), i.e. to the dried and/or partially dried first layer and not to the liquid starting material of the first layer. It is thus possible for the percentage of the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer to be between 0.01% and 10%, preferably between 0.1% and 5%, more preferably between 1% and 2%, in the solid ( FSK) is.

It is also possible that at least a first area of the first layer has at least one first substance with an antimicrobial effect and at least a second area of the first layer has at least one second substance with an antimicrobial effect, in particular with the at least one first substance with an antimicrobial effect being colloidal silver ( Ag(0)) is or includes and the at least one second substance with an antimicrobial effect is or includes bound silver (Ag ⁺ ). However, it is also possible, for example, that the at least one first substance with an antimicrobial effect is or includes, for example, copper (Cu) and the at least one second substance with an antimicrobial effect is or includes, for example, silver (Ag).

In this context, area is understood to mean a defined area of a layer or ply, which is occupied when viewed perpendicularly to a plane spanned by the transfer film. For example, the transfer film has one or more areas, each of the areas occupying a defined area when viewed perpendicularly to a plane spanned by the transfer film.

It is also advantageous that the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect results in a mean logarithmic reduction R, in particular based on a reference sample after 24 hours, preferably in accordance with the ISO 22196 standard (ISO 22196:2011 (E), “Measurement of antibacterial activity on plastics and other non-porous surfaces", Second edition, issue date: 2011-08-01), of at least 4, preferably of at least 5, more preferably between 4 and 8, even more preferably between 5 and 7, and/or that the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect achieves a mean logarithmic reduction Ro, in particular based on a reference sample at time 0, preferably according to the ISO 22196 standard, of at least 4, preferably at least 6, more preferably between 4 and 7.

As a result, a particularly good antimicrobial and/or antibacterial effectiveness can be demonstrated.

wobei R die mittlere logarithmische Reduktion bezogen auf eine Referenzprobe nach 24 h, Ut der Logarithmus der gemittelten Anzahl lebensfähiger Bakterien pro cm², bei den unbehandelten Prüfmustern nach 24 h und At der Logarithmus der gemittelten Anzahl lebensfähiger Bakterien pro cm², bei den Prüfmustern mit antimikrobieller und/oder antibakterieller Ausstattung ist.The antimicrobial and/or antibacterial effectiveness is preferably determined according to the ISO 22196 standard, in particular using the mean logarithmic reduction R and/or R ₀ . R is calculated as follows: $$\text{R}={\text{u}}_{\text{t}}-{\text{A}}_{\text{t}},$$

where R is the mean logarithmic reduction relative to a reference sample after 24 hours, Ut is the logarithm of the mean number of viable bacteria per cm ² for the untreated samples after 24 hours and At is the logarithm of the mean number of viable bacteria per cm ² for the samples with antimicrobial and/or antibacterial finish.

R ₀ is the mean logarithmic reduction relative to the mean number of viable bacteria at time 0 (initial concentration). In other words, R ₀ is the mean logarithmic reduction based on a reference sample at time 0. Since there is little or no multiplication of the cells with a high antimicrobial and/or antibacterial effectiveness, it can be particularly useful to calculate the mean logarithmic reduction in relation to the to determine the initial concentration.

The values Ut and At are given here in the unit CFU/cm ² . A colony-forming unit (CFU) per cm ² refers in particular to one or more connected individuals of microorganisms which preferably form a colony by multiplying in or on a gel nutrient medium.

It is also preferred if the first layer is not yet fully cured, at least in some areas.

• - Härten, insbesondere vollständiges Aushärten, der ersten Schicht, insbesondere mittels UV-Strahlung.

It is also possible if the method for decorating an article, in particular a plastic article, comprises the further following step, in particular the step after the step of back-injection molding of the transfer film arranged in the injection mold with the plastic injection compound:

• - Curing, in particular complete curing, of the first layer, in particular by means of UV radiation.

It is thus possible if the first layer is and/or is fully cured only after it has been applied to the base body. It is also possible if the first layer is and/or is fully cured after the step of in-moulding the transfer film arranged in the injection mold with the plastic injection molding compound.

It is also expedient for the first layer to be radiation-curable, in particular UV-curable, and/or for the first layer to be thermally curable and/or chemically crosslinkable.

It is thus possible for the first layer to be UV-curable and/or UV-crosslinkable, in particular by means of UV radiation from the wavelength range between 100 nm and 380 nm, preferably between 200 nm and 380 nm, more preferably between 200 nm and 300 nm, and/or that the first layer can be thermally cured and/or chemically crosslinked. Here it is convenient if the hardening of the first layer by means of UV radiation, in particular in the painting machine for applying the first layer. Furthermore, it is also possible for the first layer to be curable by means of electron beams. Alternatively or additionally, the first layer can be cured by means of high-energy radiation such as UV radiation or electron beams in one or more subsequent process steps, which can follow immediately after the application and/or can follow with a time delay.

It is also possible that the first layer can be pre-cured chemically, thermally or by means of radiation, in particular by means of UV radiation, and can be completely cured chemically, thermally or by means of radiation, in particular by means of UV radiation, preferably after application to the base body.

In particular, before complete curing, the first layer, which is not yet completely cured at least in some areas, is still relatively flexible and the transfer film can therefore advantageously be processed well overall. In particular, however, the resistance to the effects of chemicals is not yet given. In particular, only after curing, z. B. by means of UV radiation, the at least one fully cured first layer, e.g. B. as a protective lacquer layer, the desired properties such as special surface hardness, resistance to sunscreen ingredients, DEET (eg Autan ^® ) and / or solvents, and at the same time the desired antimicrobial effect.

The first layer preferably has colloidal silver (Ag(0)) as the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect, in particular if it can be precured chemically, thermally or by means of radiation, in particular by means of UV radiation. In other words, a so-called “precure (transfer) film” preferably has colloidal silver (Ag(0)) as the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect. It is further preferred if the first layer, in particular if this can be completely cured chemically, thermally or by means of radiation, in particular by means of UV radiation, has silver (Ag ⁺ ) bound as the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect. In other words, a so-called “post-cure (transfer) film” preferably has bound silver (Ag ⁺ ) as the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect. It is also possible that a thermoplastic transfer film, in particular a thermoplastic in-mould decoration film (IMD film), and/or a chemically crosslinkable transfer film, in particular a chemically crosslinkable in-mould decoration film (IMD film ), ie in particular transfer foils which do not require UV curing, have colloidal silver (Ag(0)) as the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect.

The first layer is advantageously a protective lacquer layer, in particular which has a layer thickness of between 1 μm and 15 μm, preferably between 2 μm and 8 μm, and/or which has isocyanate groups with hydroxyl groups, melamine resins with hydroxyl groups, polyisocyanates with hydroxyl-containing polymers or melamine resins with hydroxyl-containing polymers .

It is also advantageous that the first layer has an application weight of between 1 g/m ² and 20 g/m ² , preferably between 2 g/m ² and 15 g/m ² , preferably between 2 g/m ² and 15 g /m ² , more preferably between 3 g/m ² and 10 g/m ² , even more preferably between 4 g/m ² and 8 g/m ² .

Polyisocyanates preferably include components which contain at least two isocyanate groups, in particular where the isocyanate groups contain at least one group selected from diisocyanate monomer, diisocyanate oligomer, diisocyanate-terminated prepolymer, diisocyanate-terminated polymer, polyisocyanate monomer, polyisocyanate oligomer, polyisocyanate-terminated prepolymer, and/or polyisocyanate-terminated polymer, and/or mixtures thereof. It is also possible here for the diisocyanate-comprising component to comprise at least one polyurethane or polyurea oligomer, prepolymer, polymer, or mixtures thereof. The term "polyisocyanate" is preferably used to designate essentially components with more than two isocyanate groups, including triisocyanates and more highly functionalized isocyanates.

More preferably, the components comprising at least two isocyanate groups comprise at least one group of a hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI), isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), toluene diisocyanate (TDI), phenylene diisocyanate, naphthalene diisocyanate (NDI), diphenyl sulfone diisocyanate, ethylene diisocyanate, propylene diisocyanate, dimer of these diisocyanates , trimers of these diisocyanates, triphenylmethane triisocyanate, polyphenylmethane polyisocyanate (polymerized MDI), or mixtures thereof.

The hydroxyl groups, in particular hydroxyl-functional acrylic components, preferably comprise at least one hydroxy monoacrylate, one hydroxy diacrylate, one hydroxy polyacrylate, one hydroxyl functional aliphatic polyether urethane monoacrylate, one hydroxyl functional aliphatic polyester urethane monoacrylate, one hydroxyl functional aromatic polyether urethane monoacrylate, one hydroxyl functional aromatic polyester urethane monoacrylate, one hydroxyl functional polyester monoacrylate, one hydroxyl functional polyether monoacrylate, one hydroxyl functional epoxy monoacrylate , a hydroxyl functional acrylated acrylic monoacrylate, a hydroxyl functional aliphatic polyether urethane diacrylate, a hydroxyl functional aliphatic polyester urethane diacrylate, a hydroxyl functional aromatic polyether urethane diacrylate, a hydroxyl functional aromatic polyester urethane diacrylate, a hydroxyl functional polyester diacrylate, a hydroxyl functional polyether dia crilate, a hydroxyl functional epoxy diacrylate, an acrylated acrylic diacrylate, a hydroxyl functional aliphatic polyether urethane polyacrylate, a hydroxyl functional aliphatic polyester urethane polyacrylate, a hydroxyl functional aromatic polyether urethane polyacrylate, a hydroxyl functional aromatic polyester urethane polyacrylate, a hydroxyl functional polyester polyacrylate, a hydroxyl functional polyether polyacrylate, a hydroxyl functional epoxy polyacrylate, a hydroxyl functional acrylated acrylic polyacrylate, or mixtures thereof.

Melamine resins preferably include resins obtained by reacting melamine with aldehydes, in particular formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, isobutyraldehyde and glyoxal. It is also possible for such resins to be partially or completely modified, for example by etherification of the methylol groups obtained with monohydric or polyhydric alcohols. In other words, particularly suitable melamine resins are those which can be obtained by reacting melamine with aldehydes and can optionally be partially or completely modified. Formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, isobutyraldehyde and glyoxal are particularly suitable as aldehydes. Preference is given to melamine-formaldehyde resins, reaction products of the reaction of melamine with aldehydes, e.g. B. the above aldehydes, especially formaldehyde. If appropriate, the methylol groups obtained are preferably modified by etherification with monohydric or polyhydric alcohols.

It is also advantageous that the first layer comprises mixtures of UV-curable monomers and/or oligomers, selected individually or in combination from the group consisting of polyurethanes, polyacrylates, polymethacrylates, polyester resins, polycarbonates, phenolic resins, epoxy resins, polyureas and/or melamine resins, particularly further preferably selected from the group of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyester, polycarbonate (PC), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF).

Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) is in particular a fluoroplastic, preferably made from hydrogen fluoride and methylchloroform, preferably with polyvinylidene fluoride having particularly good thermal and chemical resistance and mechanical strength coupled with high elasticity. Advantageously, polyvinylidene fluoride is also chemically very inert (does not react with anything) and has a very vapor and moisture repellent effect (it is not attacked by anything).

The protective lacquer layer is preferably transparent and/or has a transmission, in particular in the wavelength range between 380 nm and 780 nm, of at least 25%, preferably at least 35%, more preferably at least 85%.

It is also possible that the protective lacquer layer is colored, in particular that the protective lacquer layer is colored by means of dye pigments, and/or that the degree of pigmentation of the protective lacquer layer is less than 15%, preferably less than 10%, more preferably less than 5%. It is also possible for the protective lacquer layer to be colorless and/or for the degree of pigmentation of the protective lacquer layer to be 0%. It is thus possible for the protective lacquer layer to be and/or form a clear lacquer layer, in particular an unpigmented one.

It is preferred if the transfer layer has a decorative layer, in particular wherein the decorative layer has one or more, preferably opaque, translucent or transparent layers and/or colored lacquer layers and/or replication lacquer layers and/or metal layers.

It is expedient here if the decorative layer has one or more layers. It is thus possible, for example, for the decorative layer to comprise one or more colored lacquer layers which are shaped in such a way that they form a decorative colored pattern or element when they interact.

It is also advantageous if at least one colored lacquer layer of the one or more colored lacquer layers of the decorative layer provides a background color.

It is also possible for the decorative layer to be formed over the entire surface or in the form of a pattern, for example in the form of alphanumeric characters, patterns, symbols or motifs. It is also expedient if the decorative layer has further optically variable layers, for example with pigments, holograms, optical diffraction structures, lenses, prisms, thin-film layers or crosslinked liquid crystals. It is advantageous if the decorative layer has at least one layer with a decorative effect.

The layers of the decorative layer, in particular pattern-shaped elements contained therein, can in particular also be in register with one another with their different optical and/or functional properties, in particular with regard to reflection, absorption and/or refractive index.

Register or register and/or register accuracy or register accuracy is to be understood as meaning a positional accuracy of two or more elements and/or layers relative to one another. The register accuracy should move within a specified tolerance and be as low as possible. At the same time, the register accuracy of several elements and/or layers to one another is an important feature in order to increase process reliability. In this case, the positionally accurate positioning can take place in particular by means of sensory, preferably optically detectable fiducial marks or register marks. These registration marks or register marks can either represent special separate elements or areas or layers or themselves be part of the elements or areas or layers to be positioned.

The layer thickness of the decorative layer is preferably between 0.5 μm and 100 μm, more preferably between 1 μm and 50 μm.

It is also preferred if the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer causes a color deviation ΔE of less than 3.0, preferably less than 1.0, more preferably less than 0.5, even more preferably less than 0. 15, is generated. It is also possible if the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer causes a color deviation ΔE of less than 1.0, preferably less than 0.5, more preferably less than 0.2, even more preferably less than 0. 15, is generated.

The color deviation ΔE preferably relates to a color impression of the transfer film and/or the first layer, in particular in comparison to a transfer film and/or the first layer without the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer, with the transfer films more preferably being otherwise identical are trained.

wobei bevorzugt der Farbort mit dem Subscript v einer Transferfolie mit der zumindest einen Substanz mit antimikrobieller Wirkung in der ersten Schicht und der Farbort mit dem Subscript p einer Transferfolie ohne der zumindest einen Substanz mit antimikrobieller Wirkung in der ersten Schicht entspricht, wobei weiter bevorzugt die Transferfolien ansonsten identisch ausgebildet sind.The color deviation ΔE is a measure of the perceived color difference between two color locations p = (L _p , a _p , b _p ) and v = (L _v , a _v , b _v ) and depends on the application weight of the first layer, especially the protective lacquer layer , and/or the substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer. Here, in particular, L _p,v is the brightness, a _p,v is the color value on the red-green axis and b _p,v is the color value on the yellow-blue axis of the two color locations. The color deviation ΔE _pv between two color locations is calculated as follows: $$\mathrm{\Delta }{E}_{pv}=\sqrt{{\left(L_p-L_v\right)}^2+{\left(a_p-a_v\right)}^2+{\left(b_p-b_v\right)}^2},$$

where preferably the color locus with the subscript v corresponds to a transfer film with the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer and the color locus with the subscript p corresponds to a transfer film without the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer, with more preferably the transfer films are otherwise identical.

For the human eye in particular, a color deviation from ΔE = 1.0 can be perceived at the earliest.

Measurements have shown that, in particular if the first layer, preferably the protective lacquer layer, has bound silver (Ag+) as the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect, there is a slight color deviation of ΔE at application weights between 4 g/m ² and 8 g/m ² of less than 3.0, preferably less than 1.0, more preferably less than 0.5, even more preferably less than 0.15. On the other hand, colloidal silver (Ag(0)) in particular produces a larger color deviation ΔE with the same application weights.

It is also useful if the decorative layer is designed in such a way that a color deviation ΔE of the optical impression of the transfer film and/or the first layer caused by the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer, preferably by varying the decorative layer, more preferably the one or more, preferably opaque, translucent or transparent, colored lacquer layers of the decorative layer is compensated.

• - Anpassung einer Dekorlage derart, dass die von der zumindest einen Substanz mit antimikrobieller Wirkung in der ersten Schicht hervorgerufene Farbabweichung ΔE des optischen Eindrucks der Transferfolie und/oder der ersten Schicht, bevorzugt durch Variation der Dekorlage, weiter bevorzugt der ein oder mehreren, vorzugsweise opaken, transluzenten oder transparenten, Farblackschichten der Dekorlage, kompensiert wird.

So it makes sense that the procedure further includes the following step:

• - Adaptation of a decorative layer in such a way that the color deviation ΔE of the optical impression of the transfer film and/or the first layer caused by the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer, preferably by varying the decorative layer, more preferably the one or more, preferably opaque , translucent or transparent, colored lacquer layers of the decorative layer, is compensated.

It is preferred that when compensating for the color deviation ΔE of the optical impression of the transfer film and/or the first layer caused by the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer, one or more of the following parameters of the decorative layer, in particular the one or more , preferably opaque, translucent or transparent, colored lacquer layers, replication lacquer layers and/or metal layers of the decorative layer can be varied: layer thickness, degree of pigmentation, degree of color saturation, material composition, dispersion of the pigments (depending on the degree of grinding of the pigments), type of dispersing additives, pigment composition, pigment mixture, pigment layer thickness, metal layer thickness, metal type.

So it is preferred that the one or more parameters between 0% and 50%, preferably between 2% and 30%, compared to parameters of a transfer film without the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer, in particular which the desired optical impression made for the person are varied.

This makes it possible, for example, to compensate for a color deviation ΔE caused by the use of colloidal silver (Ag(0)) as the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect, so that the advantages of colloidal silver (Ag(0)), in particular with regard to Haze, can be used without having to accept a color deviation ΔE.

• - Aufbringen einer Dekorlage, insbesondere wobei die Dekorlage eine oder mehrere, vorzugsweise opake, transluzente oder transparente, Farblackschichten, Replizierlackschichten und/oder Metallschichten aufweist;
• - Aufbringen einer Haftvermittlerschicht, insbesondere derart, dass die Haftvermittlerschicht zwischen der ersten Schicht und der Dekorlage angeordnet ist;
• - Aufbringen einer Grundierungsschicht, insbesondere derart, dass die Grundierungsschicht die der Person abgewandte Seite der Transferfolie bildet.

It is advantageous if the step of applying the transfer layer also includes at least one of the following steps:

• - Application of a decorative layer, in particular wherein the decorative layer has one or more, preferably opaque, translucent or transparent, colored lacquer layers, replication lacquer layers and/or metal layers;
• - Application of an adhesion promoter layer, in particular such that the adhesion promoter layer is arranged between the first layer and the decorative layer;
• - Application of a primer layer, in particular such that the primer layer forms the side of the transfer film facing away from the person.

• - eine Dekorlage, wobei die Dekorlage bevorzugt eine oder mehrere, vorzugsweise opake, transluzente oder transparente, Farblackschichten, Replizierlackschichten und/oder Metallschichten aufweist und wobei die Dekorlage weiter bevorzugt zwischen der ersten Schicht und dem Grundkörper angeordnet ist;
• - eine Grundierungsschicht, insbesondere wobei die Grundierungsschicht zwischen der ersten Schicht und dem Grundkörper und/oder zwischen der Dekorlage und dem Grundkörper angeordnet ist;
• - eine Haftvermittlerschicht, insbesondere wobei die Haftvermittlerschicht zwischen der ersten Schicht und der Dekorlage angeordnet ist und/oder wobei die Haftvermittlerschicht bevorzugt in Form einer Zwischenschicht innerhalb der Transferlage angeordnet sein kann;
• - eine, bevorzugt ablösbare, Trägerlage, insbesondere wobei die Trägerlage auf der dem Grundkörper abgewandten Seite der ersten Schicht angeordnet ist oder wobei die Trägerlage zwischen der ersten Schicht und dem Grundkörper angeordnet ist.

According to a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the article, in particular the plastic article, also has at least one of the following layers:

• - a decorative layer, wherein the decorative layer preferably has one or more, preferably opaque, translucent or transparent, colored lacquer layers, replication lacquer layers and/or metal layers and wherein the decorative layer is further preferably arranged between the first layer and the base body;
• - a primer layer, in particular wherein the primer layer is arranged between the first layer and the base body and/or between the decorative layer and the base body;
• - an adhesion promoter layer, in particular wherein the adhesion promoter layer is arranged between the first layer and the decorative layer and/or wherein the adhesion promoter layer can be arranged preferably in the form of an intermediate layer within the transfer layer;
• a preferably detachable carrier layer, in particular wherein the carrier layer is arranged on the side of the first layer facing away from the base body or wherein the carrier layer is arranged between the first layer and the base body.

Furthermore, it is advantageous that the transfer layer has a priming layer, in particular with the priming layer forming the side of the transfer film facing away from the person.

It is expedient if the primer layer is arranged on the side of the transfer layer facing away from the carrier layer.

It is also useful if the primer layer has polymers and/or copolymers, in particular selected individually or in combination from: acrylates (such as PMMA), polyester, PU, PVC.

The primer layer expediently has a layer thickness of between 0.1 μm and 50 μm, preferably between 0.5 μm and 7 μm, more preferably between 2.5 μm and 3.0 μm.

It is also possible for the transfer layer to have an adhesion promoter layer, in particular with the adhesion promoter layer being arranged between the first layer and the decorative layer.

The adhesion promoter layer preferably has a layer thickness of between 0.1 μm and 100 μm, preferably between 0.5 μm and 50 μm, more preferably between 1 μm and 20 μm.

It is advantageous here if the adhesion promoter layer has components, in particular selected individually or in combination from: PMMA, PVC, polyester, polyurethanes, acrylates, chlorinated polyolefins, polypropylene, epoxy resins, polyurethane polyols, inorganic fillers. These components can be used crosslinked and/or uncrosslinked, with isocyanates, melamines, alcohols and aziridines preferably being used as crosslinking components.

It is also conceivable that the transfer film also has an overprint varnish, in particular partial overprint varnish, in particular which is arranged on the first layer, preferably the side facing the person, and with the carrier layer preferably already having been removed.

Advantageously, the overprint varnish is a printed layer, in particular which is designed in the form of a pattern for the formation of alphanumeric characters, patterns and/or symbols. It is thus possible for the overprint lacquer layer to be formed in certain areas. The patterned overprint varnish can in particular be arranged in register with other patterned elements of the decorative layer.

• - Aufbringen einer weiteren Schicht auf den dekorierten Spritzgussartikel, insbesondere mittels Digitaldruck und/oder Tampondruck.

It is also possible that the method for decorating an article, in particular a plastic article, also comprises the following step, in particular the step carried out after the step of back-injecting the transfer film arranged in the injection mold with the plastic injection molding compound:

• - Application of a further layer to the decorated injection molded article, in particular by means of digital printing and/or pad printing.

For example, it is possible to apply an individualization, such as a symbol, a pattern and/or alphanumeric characters, to the decorated article, in particular a plastic article, in particular to the first layer. In addition to applying the further layer by means of digital printing, other methods such as hot embossing, cold embossing, pad printing or painting are also conceivable. The digital printing and/or hot embossed elements and/or cold embossed elements and/or lacquered elements can in particular be arranged in register with other patterned elements of the decorative layer and/or in register with the patterned overprint varnish.

Patterned and/or alphanumeric elements of the decorative layer in combination with the overprint varnish and/or in combination with the digital print can jointly form complementary information and/or complementary further patterned elements that are arranged in register with one another.

The decorative layer, the adhesion promoter layer, the first layer, the protective lacquer layer and/or the primer layer preferably form the transfer layer of the transfer film. In other words, it is possible for the decorative layer, the adhesion promoter layer, the first layer, the protective lacquer layer and/or the primer layer to be a partial layer of the transfer layer.

According to a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the transfer film or the first layer diffusely scatters transmitted light, in particular light in the wavelength range between 380 nm and 780 nm, and/or the transfer film or the first layer has a haze value of at most 30, preferably of at most 20, even more preferably at most 15, furthermore even more preferably at most 12.

In particular if the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect is or includes colloidal silver (Ag(0)), the first layer has an optically clear appearance. In particular if the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect is or comprises bound silver (Ag+), the first layer has an optically milky-cloudy appearance.

Optically clear is preferably understood here to mean that the first layer deflects transmitted light, in particular light in the wavelength range between 380 nm and 780 nm, by less than 8%, preferably by less than 4%, by scattering. Optically milky-cloudy is preferably understood here to mean that the first layer contains more than 30%, preferably more than 45%, more preferably more than 65%, of the transmitted light, in particular from the wavelength range between 380 nm and 780 nm, by more than 2.5° from the direction of the incident light beam.

In particular, if the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect is or includes colloidal silver (Ag(0)), it is possible for the transfer film and/or the first layer to have a haze value between 5 and 25, preferably between 10 and 20, more preferably between 10 and 15.

In particular, if the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect is or comprises bound silver (Ag+), it is possible for the transfer film and/or the first layer to have a Haze value between 20 and 40, preferably between 20 and 30 preferably between 25 and 30.

The haze value is preferably determined in haze units according to the ASTM D1003 standard (ASTM D1003-13, “Standard Test Method for Haze and Luminous Transmittance of Transparent Plastics”, date of issue: 2013). Here, a distinction is advantageously made between gloss measurement and haze measurement. For example, the haze value is measured with the "BYK haze-gard i" measuring device from Byk-Gardener, Geretsried, Germany. When measuring the gloss, a precisely defined beam of light is directed at a paint surface and/or the transfer film or the first layer at a 20° angle and a reflectometer on the opposite side measures how much light is reflected at a 20° angle (glancing angle). In the haze measurement, a precisely defined beam of light is directed at a paint surface and/or the transfer foil or the first layer at an angle of 20° and a reflectometer on the opposite side measures the diffuse scattered light component, which is in the range between 1° and 3° next to the glancing angle ( 20° angle). The gloss is advantageously calibrated to 100 GU (gloss units) (=100%) using a standard. The highest achievable gloss is therefore preferably 100 GU. The Haze is also advantageously calibrated to 100 HU (Hazeunits) (=100%) using a standard. The highest achievable Haze is 100 HU. The haze value and/or the gloss value is advantageously specified in percent (%). Therefore, it is convenient if the unit of the haze value and/or the gloss value is percent (%) in this case. The value range of the haze value and/or the gloss value is therefore preferably 0-100%. Thus, the haze units and/or the gloss units are advantageously percentage values and/or the haze units and/or the gloss units are advantageously percentage values Haze, the lower the shine. In the ideal case, it is preferred that GU and HU together result in 100 units and/or percent.

Haze is therefore preferably understood here to mean diffuse scattering, which in particular brings about a reduction in contrast and/or an optically milky-cloudy appearance, with this effect preferably being referred to as haze or turbidity. The haze value is preferably a measure of the turbidity of samples, for example plastic layers or films.

It is particularly advantageous if the transfer film can be shaped, in particular shaped by means of injection molding and/or deep drawing. It is thus advantageously possible for the transfer film to be reshaped with the plastic injection molding compound during the step of back-injection molding of the transfer film arranged in the injection mold. In other words, it is preferred if the transfer film is thermoformable, in particular which can be thermoformed by means of injection molding and/or by means of deep drawing and/or by means of high-pressure forming.

It is advantageous if the transfer film can be shaped, in particular with the shaping taking place by means of a shaping technique selected from the group: injection molding, shaping, deep-drawing, high-pressure forming.

As a result, a transfer film is provided which can be easily processed, in particular by means of injection molding, and enables flexible design of an injection molded article.

Expediently, the transfer film does not differ in its physical, chemical and/or haptic properties from a transfer film without the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer, which is otherwise in particular identical, except that the transfer film described here also has an antimicrobial effect having. In particular, the transfer film can be processed in the same way as, for example, a transfer film without the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer. Furthermore, the transfer film preferably has the same durability and the same haptic properties as, for example, a transfer film without the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer.

It is advantageous if the transfer film has an adhesive strength that has a characteristic value of GT 0 and/or 5B, preferably determined according to DIN EN ISO 2409:2013-06 ("Coating materials - cross-cut test (ISO 2409:2013), German version of EN ISO 2409:2013, Issue Date: 2013-06) and/or ASTM D3359-09 (“Standard Test Methods for Measuring Adhesion by Tape Test”, Issue Date: 2009), Test Method B.

In particular, the adhesive strength of transfer foils is an important property with regard to their applicability.

The adhesive strength of the transfer film can preferably be determined with a cross-cut according to DIN EN ISO 2409:2013-06 ("Coating materials - cross-cut test (ISO 2409:2013), German version of EN ISO 2409:2013", issue date: 2013-06).

The evaluation is also carried out in accordance with DIN EN ISO 2409:2013-06 by visual assessment of the measuring surface and classification into cross-cut characteristic values from 0 (very good adhesion) to 5 (very poor adhesion), abbreviated GT 0 to GT 5.

In addition, an evaluation according to ASTM D3359-09 (“Standard Test Methods for Measuring Adhesion by Tape Test”, issue date: 2009), test method B, is possible, with the characteristic values from 5B (very good adhesive strength) to 0B (very poor adhesion) are classified.

Cross-cut characteristic values of GT 0 and/or 5B preferably result in the case of the transfer film according to the invention.

It is also preferred if the first layer, in particular the protective lacquer layer, further protects against mechanical, physical and/or chemical environmental influences, in particular the layers below the first layer, in particular the protective lacquer layer, as seen from a person's point of view. In other words, it is expedient if the transfer film is resistant to mechanical, physical and/or chemical environmental influences.

These properties can be tested, for example, by means of a suds test, preferably with resistance to a suds test at 70° C., an abrasion test, preferably using the “Taber Abrasion Test”, and/or by means of resistance to chemicals, in particular with the transfer film being tested does not differ in its physical, chemical and/or haptic properties from a transfer film without the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer, which is otherwise, in particular, identical.

• Es ist möglich, dass der Artikel, insbesondere der Kunststoffartikel, folgenden Schichtaufbau aufweist, insbesondere wobei die zuerst genannte Schicht die der Person zugewandte Seite bildet:
  • - Trägerlage, insbesondere die von der Transferlage ablösbar ist;
  • - optional Ablöseschicht;
  • - erste Schicht, die von einer Person zumindest bereichsweise berührbar ist und zumindest eine Substanz mit antimikrobieller Wirkung aufweist;
  • - optional Haftvermittlerschicht, Dekorlage, und/oder Grundierungsschicht;
  • - Grundkörper, insbesondere aus einer Kunststoffspritzmasse gebildeter Grundkörper.

Particularly further preferred configurations of the article, in particular of the plastic article, are described below, among other things:

• It is possible for the article, in particular the plastic article, to have the following layer structure, in particular with the first-mentioned layer forming the side facing the person:
  • - Carrier layer, in particular detachable from the transfer layer;
  • - optional release layer;
  • - First layer, which can be touched by a person at least in regions and has at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect;
  • - optional adhesion promoter layer, decorative layer, and/or primer layer;
  • - Base body, in particular formed from a plastic injection molding body.

• - erste Schicht, die von einer Person zumindest bereichsweise berührbar ist und zumindest eine Substanz mit antimikrobieller Wirkung aufweist;
• - Trägerlage;
• - optional Haftvermittlerschicht, Dekorlage, und/oder Grundierungsschicht;
• - Grundkörper, insbesondere aus einer Kunststoffspritzmasse gebildeter Grundkörper.

It is also possible for the article, in particular the plastic article, to have the following layer structure, in particular with the first-mentioned layer forming the side facing the person:

• - First layer, which can be touched by a person at least in regions and has at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect;
• - carrier layer;
• - optional adhesion promoter layer, decorative layer, and/or primer layer;
• - Base body, in particular formed from a plastic injection molding body.

The features, effects and advantages described in connection with the transfer film can also be transferred analogously to the use of a transfer film, the method for producing a transfer film, the method for decorating an article or plastic article and the article or plastic article and are therefore considered to be included disclosed. The same applies in the opposite direction: features, effects and advantages that are described in connection with the method, the use or the article or plastic article can also be transferred to the transfer film and are considered to be disclosed as well.

• 1a und 1b zeigen schematisch Schnittdarstellungen einer Transferfolie
• 2a und 2b zeigen schematisch Schnittdarstellungen von Transferfolien
• 3a und 3b zeigen schematisch Schnittdarstellungen einer Transferfolie
• 4a bis 4c zeigen schematisch Schnittdarstellungen einer Transferfolie
• 5 zeigt schematisch eine Schnittdarstellung eines Kunststoffartikels

Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained below with the aid of the attached figures, which are not true to scale.

• 1a and 1b show schematic sectional views of a transfer film
• 2a and 2 B show schematic sectional views of transfer foils
• 3a and 3b show schematic sectional views of a transfer film
• 4a until 4c show schematic sectional views of a transfer film
• 5 shows a schematic sectional view of a plastic article

1a and 1b show schematic sectional views of a transfer film 1.

In the 1a The transfer film 1 shown, in particular for application to a base body, comprises a carrier layer 2 and a transfer layer 3, the transfer film having a first layer 4, in particular the surface of which can be touched by a person at least in regions after it has been applied to the base body, and the first Layer 4 has at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect.

In the 1a shown transfer film 1, so has a first layer 4, which has at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect. As in 1a shown, the transfer film 1 comprises a carrier layer 2 and a transfer layer 3, in particular where, as in 1a shown, the transfer layer 3 comprises the first layer 4 .

The transfer film 1 is preferably an in-mold decoration film (IMD film) or an insert molding film (insert film). However, it is also possible for the transfer film to be a hot stamping film and/or in-mold film, in particular an in-mold labeling film (IML film) and/or a print-mold design film. It is particularly advantageous if the transfer film 1 can be shaped, in particular by means of injection molding and/or deep drawing.

As in the 1a and 1b shown, the transfer layer 3 can be detached from the carrier layer 2 . For this purpose, the transfer film 1 expediently has a 1a and 1b detachment layer, not shown, in particular which is arranged between the carrier layer 2 and the detachable transfer layer 3 .

The release layer preferably has a layer thickness between 0.01 μm and 10 μm, preferably between 0.1 μm and 5 μm, and/or consists of waxes, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), cellulose derivatives and/or poly (organo)siloxanes.

The carrier layer 2 is preferably made of ABS (=acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), ABS/PC, PET (=polyethylene terephthalate), PC (=polycarbonate), PMMA (=polymethyl methacrylate), PE (=polyethylene), PP (=polypropylene) and / or PPP (= polyether polycarbonate polyols) formed. The layer thickness of the carrier layer 2 is advantageously between 5 μm and 500 μm, in particular between 6 μm and 100 μm. At the in 1a Carrier layer 2 shown is, for example, a carrier layer made of PET with a layer thickness of 50 μm.

The at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect is preferably or comprises a heavy metal, preferably silver (Ag), more preferably colloidal silver (Ag(0)) and/or bound silver (Ag+). In the 1a The transfer film shown has, for example, bound silver (Ag+) as the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer, in particular Ag ₂ O-Ca _α Zn _β Al _γ (PO ₄ ) ₆ being used as the bound silver.

The percentage of the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer 4 is preferably between 0.01% and 10%, preferably between 0.1% and 5%, more preferably between 1% and 2%. At the in 1a shown transfer film 1 is the percentage of at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer 4, for example 2%.

It is also preferred if the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer 4 causes a color deviation ΔE of less than 3.0, preferably less than 1.0, more preferably less than 0.5, even more preferably less than 0 ,15, is generated. For example, the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer 4, in 1a , produces a color deviation ΔE of 0.05.

With regard to other possible configurations of the first layer and/or the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect, reference is made here to the statements above.

It is also advantageous that the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect results in a mean logarithmic reduction R, in particular based on a reference sample after 24 hours, preferably according to the ISO 22196 standard, of at least 4, preferably at least 5, more preferably between 4 and 8 , even more preferably between 5 and 7, is achieved and/or that the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect produces a mean logarithmic reduction Ro, in particular based on a reference sample at time 0, preferably according to the ISO 22196 standard, of at least 4 of at least 6, more preferably between 4 and 7, is achieved. For example, through the in 1a Transfer film 1 shown achieves a mean logarithmic reduction R of 7.0 and/or a mean logarithmic reduction R ₀ of 6.3.

With regard to the mean logarithmic reductions R and R ₀ and the antimicrobial effect, reference is also made to the statements above.

Advantageously, the first layer 4 is a protective lacquer layer, in particular in particular protecting the layers below the first layer 4, in particular the protective lacquer layer 4, from mechanical, physical and/or chemical environmental influences when viewed from a person. The first layer 4 preferably has a layer thickness between 1 μm and 15 μm, preferably between 2 μm and 8 μm. At the in 1a The first layer 4 shown is, for example, a protective lacquer layer 4 with a layer thickness of 5 μm.

With regard to other possible configurations of the first layer 4 and/or the protective lacquer layer 4, reference is made here to the statements above.

In the 1a The first layer 4 shown is not yet fully cured, at least in some areas, so that the first layer 4 is and/or will be fully cured in particular only after the back-injection step. It is therefore expedient for the first layer 4 to be radiation-curable, in particular UV-curable. In the 1a First layer 4 shown is, for example, by means of UV radiation from the wavelength range between 100 nm and 380 nm, preferably between 200 nm to 380 nm, more preferably between 200 nm to 300 nm, curable. In the 1a The first layer 4 shown here has, for example, isocyanate groups and hydroxyl groups and/or melamine resins and hydroxyl groups.

With regard to other possible configurations of the first layer 4, in particular with regard to embodiments in which the first layer 4 can be precured chemically, thermally or by means of radiation, in particular by means of UV radiation, and, preferably after the back-injection step, chemically, thermally or by means of radiation , in particular by means of UV radiation, is completely curable, reference is also made here to the above statements.

As in 1a shown, the transfer film 1, in particular the transfer layer 3, further comprises a decorative layer 5. The decorative layer 5 preferably has one or more, preferably opaque, translucent or transparent, colored lacquer layers, replication lacquer layers and/or metal layers.

It is expedient here if the decorative layer 5 has one or more layers. For example, it is possible for the decorative layer 5 to comprise one or more colored lacquer layers which are shaped in such a way that they interact to form a decorative colored pattern or element.

It is also possible for the decorative layer 5 to be formed over the entire surface or in the form of a pattern, for example in the form of alphanumeric characters or motifs. It is also expedient if the decorative layer 5 has further optically variable layers, for example with pigments, holograms, optical diffraction structures, lenses, prisms, thin-film layers or crosslinked liquid crystals. It is advantageous if the decorative layer 5 has at least one layer with a decorative effect.

The layer thickness of the decorative layer 5 is preferably between 0.5 μm and 100 μm, more preferably between 1 μm and 50 μm.

At the in 1a The decorative layer 5 shown is, for example, a single-layer decorative layer 5 with a layer thickness of 5 μm, which includes a colored lacquer layer for producing a decorative colored element.

In the 1a The transfer layer 3 shown has a total layer thickness of 15 μm.

It is also useful if the decorative layer 5 is designed in such a way that a color deviation ΔE of the visual impression of the transfer film 1 caused by the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer 4, preferably by varying the decorative layer 5, more preferably one or several, preferably opaque, translucent or transparent, colored lacquer layers of the decorative layer 5, is compensated.

In this case, it is preferred that when compensating for the color deviation ΔE of the optical impression of the transfer film 1 caused by the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer 4, one or more of the following parameters of the decorative layer 5, in particular the one or more, preferably opaque , translucent or transparent, colored lacquer layers, replication lacquer layers and/or metal layers of the decorative layer 5 can be varied: layer thickness, degree of pigmentation, degree of color saturation, material composition, dispersion of the pigments (depending on the degree of grinding of the pigments), type of dispersing additives, pigment composition, pigment mixture, pigment layer thickness, metal layer thickness, metal type.

It is therefore preferred that the one or more parameters are between 0% and 50%, preferably between 2% and 30%, compared to parameters of a transfer film 1 without the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer 4, in particular which desired visual impression achieved for the person are varied.

Furthermore, as in 1a shown, the transfer film 1, in particular the transfer layer 3 of the transfer film 1, has a primer layer 6, in particular the primer layer 6 forming the side of the transfer foil 1 facing away from a person. It is expedient if the primer layer 6 is arranged on the side of the decorative layer 5 facing away from the carrier layer 2 .

It is also useful if the primer layer 6 is a layer made of polymers and/or copolymers, in particular comprising polyacrylates and/or acrylates, for example PMMA, polyester, PU or PVC. The primer layer 6 expediently has a layer thickness between 0.1 μm and 50 μm μm, preferably between 0.5 μm and 7 μm, more preferably between 2.5 μm and 3.0 μm. This is the case, for example, with the in 1 shown primer layer 6 to a layer of polymers comprising PMMA with a layer thickness of 7 microns.

In the 1a The transfer film 1 shown and/or the first layer 4 preferably has a Haze value between 20 and 40, preferably between 20 and 30, more preferably between 25 and 30, and more preferably has a milky-cloudy appearance. With regard to the haze value, its determination and other relevant configurations of the transfer film, reference is made to the statements above.

• - Bereitstellen der Trägerlage 2;
• - Aufbringen der Transferlage 3 auf die Trägerlage 2, insbesondere mittels Drucken, Gießen, Laminieren oder Prägen, wobei der Schritt des Aufbringens der Transferlage 3 auf die Trägerlage das Aufbringen der ersten Schicht 4, insbesondere mittels Drucken, umfasst.

In the 1a The transfer film 1 shown, comprising a carrier layer 2, a transfer layer 3 and a first layer 4, wherein the surface of the first layer 4 can be touched by a person at least in regions after it has been applied to a base body, and wherein the first layer 4 has at least one substance with an antimicrobial has an effect is preferably produced by means of the following process steps:

• - Providing the carrier layer 2;
• - Application of the transfer layer 3 to the carrier layer 2, in particular by means of printing, casting, laminating or embossing, the step of applying the transfer layer 3 to the carrier layer comprising the application of the first layer 4, in particular by means of printing.

• - Aufbringen einer Ablöseschicht, vorzugsweise derart, dass die Ablöseschicht zwischen der Trägerlage 2 und der, insbesondere ablösbaren, Transferlage 3 angeordnet ist.

It is also expedient here if the method also includes the following step, in particular that is carried out between the step of providing the carrier layer 2 and the step of applying the transfer layer 3 to the carrier layer 2:

• - Application of a detachment layer, preferably in such a way that the detachment layer is arranged between the carrier layer 2 and the transfer layer 3, which is in particular detachable.

• - Aufbringen einer Dekorlage 5, insbesondere wobei die Dekorlage 5 eine oder mehrere, vorzugsweise opake, transluzente oder transparente, Farblackschichten, Replizierlackschichten und/oder Metallschichten aufweist;
• - Aufbringen einer Haftvermittlerschicht, insbesondere derart, dass die Haftvermittlerschicht zwischen der ersten Schicht und der Dekorlage 5 angeordnet ist;
• - Aufbringen einer Grundierungsschicht 6, insbesondere derart, dass die Grundierungsschicht 6 die der Person abgewandte Seite der Transferfolie 1 bildet.

It is also advantageous here if the step of applying the transfer layer 3 also includes at least one of the following steps:

• - Application of a decorative layer 5, in particular wherein the decorative layer 5 has one or more, preferably opaque, translucent or transparent, colored lacquer layers, replication lacquer layers and/or metal layers;
• - Application of an adhesion promoter layer, in particular such that the adhesion promoter layer is arranged between the first layer and the decorative layer 5;
• - Application of a primer layer 6, in particular such that the primer layer 6 forms the side of the transfer film 1 facing away from the person.

With regard to further configurations of the method for producing a transfer film 1, reference is made here to the above statements.

In the 1b The sectional view shown corresponds to that in 1a shown sectional view with the difference that the carrier layer 2 was removed. Therefore, with regard to the configuration of the layers 4, 5 and 6, reference is made here to the above statements.

2a and 2 B show schematic sectional views of transfer films 1. So shows 2a a schematic sectional view of a transfer film 1.

As in 2a shown, comprises the transfer film 1, a first layer 4, a carrier layer 2, a decorative layer 5 and a primer layer 6.

In the 2a The transfer foil shown corresponds to that in 1a shown transfer film 1 with the difference that the first layer 4, as in 2a shown, is arranged on the side of the carrier layer 2 facing away from the decorative layer 5, in particular the transfer layer 3. The first layer 4 is thus applied to the side of the carrier layer 2 facing away from the transfer layer 3 . Furthermore, the 2a The transfer film 1 shown preferably has no release layer, so that the transfer layer 3, which includes the decorative layer 3 and the primer layer 6, cannot be easily removed. However, it is also possible that the in 2a The transfer film 2 shown nevertheless has a detachment layer, which is preferably arranged between the carrier layer 2 and the transfer layer 3 . At the in 2a The transfer film 1 shown thus has the carrier layer 2 on the first layer 4 .

Both at the in 1a as well as the in 2a The transfer film shown forms, in particular after the transfer film 1 has been applied to a base body, the first layer 4 which faces a person and is therefore the top and/or outermost layer, in particular in such a way that the surface of the first layer 4 can be touched by a person at least in regions. At the in 1a shown transfer foil 1, this is done as in 1b shown, achieved by pulling and / or detaching the carrier layer 2 and in which 2a shown transfer film 1, the carrier layer 2 remains with the first layer 4 located thereon.

Further it is also possible that at the in 2a shown transfer film 1, the carrier layer 2 itself or additionally has at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect.

With regard to the further development of the 2a In the layers 2, 4, 5 and 6 shown, which the transfer film 1 comprises, reference is made here to the above statements.

In the 2 B The transfer film 1 shown corresponds to that in 2a shown transfer foil 1 with the difference that the in 2 B Transfer film 1 shown has no primer layer 6. In the 2 B The transfer film 1 shown has a carrier layer 2, preferably made of polycarbonate (PC) with a layer thickness between 750 μm and 1000 μm. Next is the in 2 B shown transfer film 1 also possible that this further one or more, not in the 2 B shown, having functional layers. Advantageously, the one or more functional layers are arranged on the side of the decorative layer 5 facing away from the carrier layer 2 . It is thus possible for the one or more functional layers to be arranged on the side of the transfer film 1 facing away from the person. The one or more functional layers are preferably electrical functional layers, which more preferably comprise electrical components such as sensors and/or lighting means.

Especially with the in 2a and 2 B With the transfer films 1 shown, the carrier layer 2 is also transferred to the base body or the carrier layer 2 remains after application to the base body, so that the transfer film 1 is used here in the sense of a laminating film. In other words, it is possible that the in 2a and 2 B shown transfer film 1 is a laminating film.

3a and 3b show schematic sectional views of a transfer film 1.

In the 3a Transfer film 1 shown comprises a carrier layer 2, a first layer 4, an adhesion promoter layer 7, decorative layers 5 and 5a and a primer layer 6. As in 3a shown, the layers 4, 7, 5, 5a and 6 form the transfer layer 3, which, as explained above, is preferably detachable from the carrier layer 2. It is possible here for the transfer film 1 to further have a release layer, which is arranged in particular between the carrier layer 2 and the first layer 4 .

As already in the context of 1a explained, the first layer 4 is a layer whose surface can be touched by a person at least in some areas after it has been applied to a base body and which also has at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect. It is also preferably a protective lacquer layer 4. With regard to the configuration of the first layer 4 and/or the protective lacquer layer 4 and their mode of action, reference is made here to the above statements.

The adhesion promoter layer 7 is as in 3a shown, arranged between the first layer 4 and the decorative layers 5 and 5a. The adhesion promoter layer 7 preferably has a layer thickness between 0.1 μm and 100 μm, preferably between 0.5 μm and 50 μm, more preferably between 1 μm and 20 μm. It is advantageous here if the adhesion promoter layer 7 is a layer of PMMA, PVC, polyester, polyurethanes, acrylates, chlorinated polyolefins, polypropylene, epoxy resins, polyurethane polyols, inorganic fillers, these can be used crosslinked and / or uncrosslinked, as Crosslinking component preferably isocyanates, melamines, alcohols and aziridines can be used. At the in 3a The adhesion promoter layer 7 shown is a layer of acrylate, which has a layer thickness of 3 μm.

As in 3a shown, decorative layers 5 and 5a are multilayer decorative layers. At the in 3a Decorative layer 5 shown is, for example, an opaque colored lacquer layer which is applied in certain areas and forms a pattern, for example in the form of a symbol. It is also possible for the decorative layer 5 to be, for example, a metal layer formed in certain areas, for example made of aluminum, which also forms a pattern, for example in the form of alphanumeric characters. The decorative layer 5a is also a colored lacquer layer, which is formed over the entire surface, for example, and a background color for the decorative layer formed in certain areas 5 trains. However, it is also possible for the decorative layer 5 to be transparent, so that the decorative layer 5a also represents a background color in this case and/or the decorative layer 5a and the decorative layer 5 generate a mixed color for a person viewing.

With regard to the configuration of the further layers 2 and 4, reference is made here to the statements above.

It is also useful if the transfer film 1 has an adhesive strength that has a characteristic value of GT 0 and/or 5B, preferably determined according to DIN EN ISO 2409:2013-06 ("Coating materials - cross-cut test (ISO 2409:2013), German version of EN ISO 2409:2013 "Issue date: 2013-06) and/or according to ASTM D3359-09 ("Standard Test Methods for Measuring Adhesion by Tape Test", issue date: 2009), test method B.

The adhesive strength of the transfer film 1 was checked, for example, by means of a cross-cut according to DIN EN ISO 2409: 2013-06.

A knife and preferably a template were used to make 6 vertical cuts and 6 horizontal cuts (at an angle of 90° to the vertical cuts) in the coating down to the substrate. The width of the cut depended on the layer thickness of the coating. In the case of coatings with a layer thickness of less than 60 μm, the distance between the cuts is preferably about 1 mm.

A transparent adhesive tape or a masking tape with an adhesive strength of 6 N/25 mm to 10 N/25 mm was stuck onto the resulting square of the cuts (measuring area). This was peeled off at an angle of 60° in a time of 0.5 to 1 second.

The evaluation was carried out according to DIN EN ISO 2409: 2013-06 by visual assessment of the measuring surface and classification into cross-cut characteristic values from 0 (very good adhesion) to 5 (very poor adhesion), abbreviated GT 0 to GT 5, or according to ASTM D 3359 - 09, test method B

In the 3b The sectional view shown corresponds to that in 3a shown sectional view with the difference that the carrier layer 2 was removed. Therefore, with regard to the configuration of the layers 4, 7, 5, 5a and 6, reference is made here to the above statements.

4a until 4c show schematic sectional views of a transfer film 1. So shows 4a a schematic sectional view of a transfer film 1.

In the 4a The transfer film 1 shown comprises a carrier layer 2, a release layer 11, a first layer 4, decorative layers 5b, 5c and 5d and a primer layer 6.

At the in 4a The transfer film 1 shown is an in-mold decoration film (IMD film) or an insert molding film (insert film). The first layer 4 has at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect. Furthermore, the first layer 4 forms the outermost and/or uppermost layer, in particular after application to a base body. In other words, it is possible for the first layer 4 in an injection molded article decorated with the transfer film and after the carrier layer 2 has been pulled off to form the outside, in particular which is accessible to a person.

As in 4a shown, the transfer film 1 comprises a carrier layer 2 and a transfer layer 3, the transfer layer, as in 4 shown, in this case the layers 8, 4, 5d, 5c, 5b and 6 comprises.

In the 4a The transfer film 1 shown has a carrier layer 2 made of PET (= polyethylene terephthalate) with a layer thickness of 50 µm, a release layer 3 arranged on the carrier layer 2 and made of a polyethylene wax (melting range 80°C to 100°C) and one on the carrier layer 2 Facing away from the release layer 3 arranged transfer layer 3, wherein the transfer layer forms in particular a decorative element for decorating a base body and / or an injection molded article, and wherein the decorative element has multiple layers.

As in 4a shown, the transfer layer 3 has a first layer 4 adjacent to the release layer 11 . As explained above, the first layer 4 comprises at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect. Next is the in 4 shown first layer 4 to a protective lacquer layer 4, which has a layer thickness between 2 µm and 5 µm. The protective lacquer layer 4 is here, for example, a so-called “dual cure system” based on a hydroxyl-containing polyacrylic acrylate crosslinked with melamine resin. The protective lacquer layer 4 therefore has the following composition, for example, with the numerical values being in percentages by weight, based on the liquid lacquer: melamine formaldehyde resin 0.1 - 1.5 catalyst 0.1 - 1.5 ethanol 15-20 diacetone alcohol 15-20 Hydroxyl-containing polyacrylic acrylate, 60% 20 - 30 polyacrylic acrylate 4-6 Amorphous Silica 2-5 cyclohexanone 10-20 methyl ethyl ketone 10 - 12 photoinitiator 0.1 - 1

The first layer 4 and/or the protective lacquer layer 4 has 0.28% colloidal silver (Ag(0)) as the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect. This value relates in particular to the solid (FSK), ie the dried protective lacquer layer. In other words, based on the solid (FSK) means that the proportion of the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect, here in particular colloidal silver (Ag (0)) is only determined when the first layer 4 and / or the protective coating has dried. for the inside 4a First layer 4 shown and/or the protective lacquer layer 4 was added in particular 0.05 kg of a 50% (colloidal) silver solution to 41.12 kg of protective lacquer, which means 0.025 kg of a 100% silver solution to 41.12 kg of protective lacquer. For example, the protective coating has an FSK of 21.45%, so that 41.12 kg weighs 8.8 kg after drying. These 8.8 kg contain in particular the above-mentioned 0.025 kg of silver and/or colloidal silver (Ag(0)), so that the percentage of at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect, here in particular silver and/or colloidal silver (Ag (0)), which is 0.28% here, especially in the FSK. It is also possible to extend this recipe by 0.1% to 0.25% of a 50% (colloidal) silver solution. This protective varnish was developed for the in 4a shown transfer film 1 printed with 3-4 g / m ² application weight and thermally dried.

As in 4a shown, the decorative layers 5d, 5c and 5b are arranged adjacent to the protective lacquer layer 4 provided with at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect on the side facing away from the carrier layer 2 of the protective lacquer layer 4 provided with the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect colored lacquer layers. Again adjacent to the decorative layers 5d, 5c and 5b, on the side of the decorative layers 5d, 5c and 5b facing away from the carrier layer 2, there is a primer layer 6 made of PVC copolymers and PMMA (MW 60000 g/mol) (PVC=polyvinyl chloride, PMMA=polymethyl methacrylate , MW = molecular weight).

In the 4a The transfer film 1 shown is suitable for use in an IMD process for producing a decorated injection molded article. It is therefore also advantageous if the transfer film 1 can be (thermo-)formed, in particular (thermo-)formed by means of injection molding and/or deep-drawing.

4b shows the in 4a shown transfer film 1, wherein the carrier layer 2 and the release layer 11 have been removed, ie 4b shows the transfer film 1, in particular after it has been applied to a base body, which is 4b however, is not shown. As in 4b shown, therefore now forms the protective lacquer layer 4, the outermost and / or top layer. In other words, the protective lacquer layer 4 in a plastic article decorated with the transfer film and after the carrier layer 2 has been pulled off forms the outside which is accessible to a person.

4c show the 4b shown transfer film 1, also after application to a base body, wherein an overprint varnish 8, ie an overprintable varnish layer 8, is applied to the protective varnish layer 4 in a further step. Like the 4a until 4c can be seen, the overprint varnish 8 is preferably only applied to the decorated with the transfer film 1 after the carrier layer 2 has been pulled off, for example Plastic items applied. The overprint varnish 8 is as in 4c shown, partially or regionally applied to the protective lacquer layer 4 and further arranged on the side facing the person.

Due to the fact that the overprint varnish 8 is partially applied, the protective varnish layer 4 can still be touched by a person at least in some areas and can therefore continue to have an antimicrobial effect.

The overprint varnish 8 is applied as a further layer, for example by means of digital printing and/or pad printing. Advantageously, the overprint varnish 8 is a printed layer, in particular which is designed in the form of a pattern for the formation of alphanumeric characters, patterns and/or symbols. The patterned overprint varnish 8 can in particular be arranged in register with other patterned elements of the decorative layers 5d, 5c and 5b.

5 shows a schematic sectional view of a plastic article 11.

the inside 5 The plastic article 10 shown comprises a base body 9 formed from a plastic injection molding compound and a transfer film 1, the transfer film 1 being configured as set out above. In particular, it is possible here that the transfer film 1, for example, according to the transfer film 1 according to one of 1a , 1b , 2a , 2 B , 3a , 3b or the 4a until 4c is designed. It is also possible that the carrier layer 2, as in 1b , 3b , 4b and 4c shown, is pulled off or that the carrier layer 2, as shown in 1a , 2a , 2 B , 3b and 4a shown, is still present and/or will only be deducted later.

the inside 5 The plastic article 10 shown thus comprises a base body 9 formed from a plastic injection molding compound and a first layer 4, wherein the first layer 4 can be touched by a person at least in regions, in particular after the carrier layer 2 has been pulled off, and has at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect. It is also possible here for the first layer 4, as explained above, to be a protective lacquer layer.

• - eine Dekorlage 5, wobei die Dekorlage 5 bevorzugt eine oder mehrere, vorzugsweise opake, transluzente oder transparente, Farblackschichten 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, Replizierlackschichten und/oder Metallschichten aufweist und wobei die Dekorlage weiter bevorzugt zwischen der ersten Schicht 4 und dem Grundkörper 9 angeordnet ist;
• - eine Grundierungsschicht 6, insbesondere wobei die Grundierungsschicht 6 zwischen der ersten Schicht 4 und dem Grundkörper 9 und/oder zwischen der Dekorlage 5 und dem Grundkörper 9 angeordnet ist;
• - eine Haftvermittlerschicht 7, insbesondere wobei die Haftvermittlerschicht 7 zwischen der ersten Schicht 4 und der Dekorlage 5 angeordnet ist;
• - eine, bevorzugt ablösbare, Trägerlage 2, insbesondere wobei die Trägerlage auf der dem Grundkörper 9 abgewandten Seite der ersten Schicht 4 angeordnet ist oder wobei die Trägerlage 2 zwischen ersten Schicht 4 und dem Grundkörper 9 angeordnet ist.

It is also possible for the plastic article 10 to have at least one of the following layers:

• - a decorative layer 5, the decorative layer 5 preferably having one or more, preferably opaque, translucent or transparent, colored lacquer layers 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, replication lacquer layers and/or metal layers, and the decorative layer more preferably between the first layer 4 and the base body 9 is arranged;
• - A primer layer 6, in particular wherein the primer layer 6 is arranged between the first layer 4 and the base body 9 and/or between the decorative layer 5 and the base body 9;
• - An adhesion promoter layer 7, in particular wherein the adhesion promoter layer 7 is arranged between the first layer 4 and the decorative layer 5;
• a preferably detachable backing layer 2, in particular wherein the backing layer is arranged on the side of the first layer 4 facing away from the base body 9 or wherein the backing layer 2 is arranged between the first layer 4 and the base body 9.

With regard to further possible configurations of these layers, reference is made here to the statements above.

• - Bereitstellen einer Transferfolie 1 umfassend eine Trägerlage 2, eine Transferlage 3 und eine erste Schicht 4, wobei die Oberfläche der ersten Schicht 4 nach dem Aufbringen auf den Grundkörper 9 von einer Person zumindest bereichsweise berührbar ist, und wobei die erste Schicht zumindest eine Substanz mit antimikrobieller Wirkung aufweist;
• - Anordnen der Transferfolie 1 in einer Spritzgussform;
• - Hinterspritzen der in der Spritzgussform angeordneten Transferfolie 1 mit der Kunststoffspritzmasse, derart, dass durch die Kunststoffspritzmasse der Grundkörper 9 ausgebildet wird und sich der Grundkörper 9 mit der Transferfolie 1 verbindet;
• - optional Entfernen der Trägerlage 2 von dem dekorierten Kunststoffartikel 10;
• - optional Entnehmen des dekorierten Kunststoffartikels 10 aus der Spritzgussform.

Such a plastic article 10 is preferably produced using a method for decorating a plastic article 10, the method comprising the following steps, which are carried out in particular in the following order:

• - Provision of a transfer film 1 comprising a carrier layer 2, a transfer layer 3 and a first layer 4, wherein the surface of the first layer 4 can be touched by a person at least in regions after it has been applied to the base body 9, and wherein the first layer contains at least one substance has an antimicrobial effect;
• - Arranging the transfer film 1 in an injection mold;
• Back injection molding of the transfer film 1 arranged in the injection mold with the plastic injection molding compound in such a way that the base body 9 is formed by the plastic injection molding compound and the base body 9 is connected to the transfer film 1;
• - optionally removing the carrier layer 2 from the decorated plastic article 10;
• - optional removal of the decorated plastic article 10 from the injection mold.

• - Abziehen der Trägerlage 2 von der Transferfolie 3.

It is also preferred if, in particular after the step of in-moulding the transfer film 1 arranged in the injection mold with the plastic injection molding compound, the following step is carried out:

• - Peel off the carrier layer 2 from the transfer film 3.

It is also possible, as in connection with the 4a until 4c set out to apply an overprint varnish layer to the first layer 4, in particular after the carrier layer 2 has been peeled off.

With regard to further possible configurations of the plastic article 10 and the method for decorating a plastic article 10, reference is made here to the above statements.

Reference List

1

transfer film

2

backing layer

3

transfer location

4

first layer, protective varnish layer

5

decor layer

5a, 5b, 5c, 5d

colored lacquer layers

6

primer layer

7

adhesion promoter layer

8th

overprint varnish

9

body

10

plastic items

11

release layer

QUOTES INCLUDED IN DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents cited by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent Literature Cited

• US 2005/0175712 A1 [0003]

Claims (32)

Transfer film (1) for application to a base body (10) and comprising a carrier layer (2) and a transfer layer (3), characterized in that the transfer film (1) has a first layer (4), the surface of which after application to the The base body (10) can be touched by a person at least in regions, and that the first layer (4) has at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect. Transfer foil (1) after claim 1 , characterized in that the transfer layer (3) can be detached from the carrier layer (2). Transfer foil (1) after claim 2 , characterized in that the transfer film (1) comprises a detachment layer (11), in particular which is arranged between the carrier layer (2) and the, in particular detachable, transfer layer (3). Transfer film (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first layer (4) is arranged between the carrier layer (2) and the transfer layer (3) and/or that the first layer (4) on the carrier layer (2) is arranged. Transfer film (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect is a heavy metal, preferably silver (Ag), more preferably colloidal silver (Ag(0)) and/or bound silver (Ag+). or includes. Transfer film (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the percentage of at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer (4) is between 0.01% and 10%, preferably between 0.1% and 5% preferably between 1% and 2%. Transfer film (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect results in a mean logarithmic reduction R, in particular based on a reference sample after 24 hours, preferably according to the ISO 22196 standard, of at least 4, preferably of at least 5, more preferably between 4 and 8, even more preferably between 5 and 7, is achieved and/or that the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect results in a mean logarithmic reduction Ro, in particular based on a reference sample at time 0, preferably according to the standard ISO 22196 of at least 4, preferably at least 6, more preferably between 4 and 7 is achieved. Transfer film (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first layer (4) is not yet fully cured, at least in some areas. Transfer film (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first layer (4) is radiation-curable, in particular UV-curable, and/or that the first layer is thermally curable and/or chemically crosslinkable. Transfer film (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first layer (4) is a protective lacquer layer (4), in particular which has a layer thickness between 1 µm and 15 µm, preferably between 2 µm and 8 µm, and/ or which has isocyanate groups with hydroxyl groups, melamine resins with hydroxyl groups, polyisocyanates with hydroxyl-containing polymers or melamine resins with hydroxyl-containing polymers. Transfer film (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer causes a color deviation ΔE of less than 3.0, preferably less than 1.0, more preferably less than 0.5 , more preferably less than 0.15. Transfer film (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transfer layer (3) has a decorative layer (5), in particular wherein the decorative layer has one or more, preferably opaque, translucent or transparent, colored lacquer layers (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d ), Replication lacquer layers and/or metal layers. Transfer foil (1) after claim 12 , characterized in that the decorative layer (5) is designed in such a way that a color deviation ΔE of the optical impression of the transfer film (1) caused by the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer (4), preferably by varying the decorative layer (5 ), More preferably the one or more, preferably opaque, translucent or transparent, colored lacquer layers (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) of the decorative layer (5) is compensated. Transfer foil (1) after Claim 13 , characterized in that when compensating for the color deviation ΔE of the optical impression of the transfer film (1) caused by the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer (4), one or more of the following parameters of the decorative layer (5), in particular the one or several, preferably opaque, translucent or transparent, colored lacquer layers (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d), replication lacquer layers and/or metal layers of the decorative layer (5) can be varied: layer thickness, degree of pigmentation, degree of color saturation, material composition, dispersion of the pigments (depending on the degree of grinding of pigments), type of dispersing additives, pigment composition, pigment mixture, pigment layer thickness, metal layer thickness, metal type. Transfer film (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transfer layer (3) has a primer layer (6), in particular the primer layer (6) forming the side of the transfer foil (1) facing away from the person. Transfer film (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transfer layer (1) has an adhesion promoter layer (7), in particular the adhesion promoter layer (7) being arranged between the first layer (4) and the decorative layer (5). Transfer film (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transfer film (1) or the first layer (4) diffusely scatters transmitted light, in particular light in the wavelength range between 380 nm and 780 nm, and/or that the transfer film ( 1) or the first layer (4) has a Haze value of at most 30, preferably at most 20, even more preferably at most 15. Transfer film (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transfer film (1) can be shaped, in particular by means of injection molding and/or deep drawing. Use of a transfer film (1) according to one of Claims 1 until 18 as hot stamping foil and/or in-mold foil, in particular as in-mold decoration foil (IMD foil), insert molding foil, in-mold labeling foil (IML foil) and/or print mold - Design slide. Method for producing a transfer film (1), in particular according to one of Claims 1 until 18 , comprising a carrier layer (2), a transfer layer (3) and a first layer (4), wherein the surface of the first layer can be touched by a person at least in regions after it has been applied to a base body, the first layer having at least one substance with an antimicrobial having an effect, and wherein the method comprises the following steps: - providing the carrier layer (2); - Applying the first layer (4) to the carrier layer (2), in particular by means of printing; - Applying the transfer layer (3) to the carrier layer (2) and/or the first layer (4), in particular by means of printing, casting, laminating or embossing. procedure after claim 20 , characterized in that the method further comprises the following step, in particular which is carried out before the step of applying the first layer (4) to the transfer layer (3) and/or carrier layer (2): - Mixing the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect into the starting material of the first layer (4), in particular the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect being in solution. Procedure according to one of claims 20 or 21 , characterized in that the first layer (4) is applied in such a way that the first layer (4) is arranged between the carrier layer (2) and the transfer layer (3) and/or that the first layer (4) on the carrier layer ( 2) is arranged. Procedure according to one of claims 20 until 22 , characterized in that the method further includes the following step, in particular the step before the step of applying the first layer (4). the carrier layer (2) is carried out, comprising: - dispersing the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect, in particular by means of mills. Procedure according to one of claims 20 until 23 , characterized in that the first layer (4) is not yet fully cured, at least in some areas. Procedure according to one of claims 20 until 24 , characterized in that the method further comprises the following step: - Adaptation of a decorative layer (5) in such a way that the color deviation ΔE of the optical impression of the transfer film (1) caused by the at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect in the first layer (4) , preferably by varying the decorative layer (5), more preferably the one or more, preferably opaque, translucent or transparent, colored lacquer layers (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) of the decorative layer (5) is compensated. Procedure according to one of claims 20 until 25 , characterized in that the first layer with an application weight between 1 g/m ² and 20 g/m ² , preferably between 2 g/m ² and 15 g/m ² , preferably between 2 g/m ² and 15 g/m ² , more preferably between 3 g/m ² and 10 g/m ² , even more preferably between 4 g/m ² and 8 g/m ² . Method for decorating a plastic article (10) with a base body (9) formed from a plastic injection molding compound, comprising the following steps, which are carried out in particular in the following order: - providing a transfer film (1), in particular according to one of Claims 1 until 18 , comprising a carrier layer (2), a transfer layer (3) and a first layer (4), wherein the surface of the first layer (4) can be touched by a person at least in regions after it has been applied to the base body (9), and wherein the first layer has at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect; - Arranging the transfer film (1) in an injection mold; - Back injection molding of the transfer film (1) arranged in the injection mold with the plastic injection molding compound in such a way that the base body (9) is formed by the plastic injection molding compound and the base body (9) is connected to the transfer film (1); - optionally removing the carrier layer (2), in particular from the decorated plastic article (10); - Optional removal of the decorated plastic item (10) from the injection mold. procedure after Claim 27 , characterized in that the method further comprises the following step, in particular that carried out after the step of back-injection molding of the transfer film (1) arranged in the injection mold with the plastic injection molding compound: - Hardening, in particular complete hardening, of the first layer (4), in particular by means of UV radiation. Procedure according to one of claims 27 or 28 , characterized in that the method further comprises the following step, in particular that carried out after the step of back-injection molding of the transfer film (1) arranged in the injection mold with the plastic injection molding compound: - Application of a further layer to the decorated injection molded article (10), in particular by means of Digital printing and/or pad printing. Plastic article (10), in particular produced by the method according to one of claims 27 until 29 , comprising a base body (9) formed from a plastic injection molding compound and a first layer (4), wherein the first layer (4) can be touched by a person at least in regions and has at least one substance with an antimicrobial effect. Plastic items (10) after Claim 30 , characterized in that the plastic article (10) also has at least one of the following layers: - a decorative layer (5), the decorative layer (5) preferably having one or more, preferably opaque, translucent or transparent, colored lacquer layers (5a, 5b, 5c , 5d), replication lacquer layers and/or metal layers and wherein the decorative layer is further preferably arranged between the first layer (4) and the base body (9); - A primer layer (6), in particular wherein the primer layer (6) is arranged between the first layer (4) and the base body (9) and/or between the decorative layer (5) and the base body (9); - An adhesion promoter layer (7), in particular the adhesion promoter layer (7) being arranged between the first layer (4) and the decorative layer (5); - a preferably detachable carrier layer (2), in particular wherein the carrier layer (2) is arranged on the side of the first layer (4) facing away from the base body (9) or wherein the carrier layer (2) is located between the first layer (4) and the Base body (9) is arranged. Plastic article (10) according to one of claims 30 or 31 , characterized in that the first layer (4) is a protective lacquer layer (4), in particular which has a layer thickness between 1 µm and 15 µm, preferably between 2 µm and 8 µm, and/or which has isocyanate groups with hydroxyl groups, melamine resins with hydroxyl groups Having polyisocyanates with hydroxyl-containing polymers or melamine hardness with hydroxyl-containing polymers.

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