Abstract: A laminate including a plurality of layers, wherein one of the layers is a heat-activatable expandable layer including a thermally expandable composition. The heat-activatable expandable layer includes a plurality of microcapsules containing the thermally expandable composition. This thermally expandable composition includes an easily volatilizable hydrocarbon, and a binder resin. When subjected to high temperatures during the process of applying a label, the microcapsules rupture and the thermally expandable composition “foams,” which can be used to provide a texture to the label, and can raise or surround the graphics of the label.

Abstract: An insulating label, including a first layer, being a printable film layer; a second layer, being an insulating layer; and a third layer, being a lamination layer. The third layer may be disposed between the first layer and the second layer to operatively couple the first layer and the second layer. The insulating label may alternatively include a first layer, being a printable layer; and a second layer operatively coupled to the first layer and incorporating an expandable coating.

Abstract: A heat-transfer label (11) including a non-wax, non-silicone release layer or coating (17) for use in decorating an article, such as a glass container, without leaving a visually discernible release residue on the decorated article. In a preferred embodiment, the label includes a transfer portion (21), the transfer portion comprising a protective lacquer layer (23), an ink design layer (25) over the protective lacquer layer, and a heat-activatable adhesive layer (27) over the ink design and protective lacquer layers. The label also includes a support portion (13), the transfer portion being positioned over the support portion for transfer of the transfer portion from the support portion to an article under conditions of heat and pressure. The support portion comprising a carrier layer (15) and a release layer or coating.

Abstract: An apparatus for decorating an object with the heat-transfer label of a heat-transfer label assembly includes a decorating unit for applying the heat-transfer label onto the object during an extended period of decoration a conveying mechanism for continuously, rotationally advancing and supporting the object during the extended period of decoration. The decorating unit includes a preheater for heating the heat-transfer label assembly before the period of decoration, a generally flat, heated contact plate which is adapted to pivot so as to continuously urge the heat-transfer label into contact with the object throughout the extended period of decoration and a transport assembly for advancing the heat-transfer label assembly from the preheater to the heated contact plate. The heated contact plate includes a rubber layer constructed of an 80 durometer silicone and a 0.10 inches thick, TEFLON fiberglass cloth covering mounted on the rubber layer.