Abstract: A semi-transparent holographic transfer foil film for application to a substrate such as a security device. The film is comprised of a thermally stable carrier for supporting multiple layers of thermoplastic or thermoset coatings, wherein a heat sensitive release layer is applied to the carrier to enable separation of the carrier from the multiple layers of coatings under appropriate circumstances. A wear-resistant transparent top coat is applied over the release layer to act as an outer surface for the holographic film, the top coat may be treated or cured so as to increase its tenacity. An embossable coating is applied over the top coat, and is adapted to retain the impression of a holographically embossed image. A semi-transparent reflective layer of zinc sulfide is applied over the embossable coating for reflecting the holographically embossed image while at the same time enabling indicia found on a substrate or document to which the film will be applied to be viewed.

Abstract: A metalized polyester film for application to a substrate to be used as a trim component for automobiles and the like. The film is comprised of a thermally stable extensible polyester carrier for supporting multiple layers of metallic and thermoplastic coatings. Prior to application of a metallic coating, the film is cleaned by means of exposure to an inert gas such as argon in order to remove moisture and other impurities. A layer of aluminum or other metal is then deposited on the carrier film thereby forming a superior bond with the cleaned surface. A tie coat primer is applied over the aluminum which is followed by an adhesive. The metalized film is adhesively applied to a formable substrate which is configured into an end component part by means of vacuum forming or pressure forming. The formed laminated substrate is next attached to a piece of support plastic, wherein the composite part can be applied as trim. A protective lacquer coat is applied to the polyester film as a final step.

Abstract: A method of making a die and the die itself for establishing through embossing or micro-embossing a seamless pattern, preferably a holographic pattern, on a decorative medium such as a metallized film is provided. A cylindrical embossing or micro-embossing die is provided with a layer of an embossable material, preferably pure silver, a silver alloy or any other suitable embossable material. The cylindrical die is an integral member in which a pattern is recombined thereon by a step and repeat embossing or micro-embossing process as opposed an intricate lathe-type machine-turning operation, and can thus accept, carry and maintain complex patterns with the integrity required for producing a repeating holographic pattern.

Abstract: A method for the preparation of selectively decorated resin films comprises applying a first primer coat to the entire area of the base film, then applying either a masking coat alone or one or more color coats followed by the masking coat, the masking coat applied to an area of the base film that will define the final selective decoration. The masking coated surface is thereafter metalized and the resulting composite is joined to a mask-removing film bearing a pressure-sensitive adhesive having a limited peel strength known as "soft peel". The process is completed by the separation of the respective films, with the mask removing film withdrawing from the base film the unwanted portions of the metal coat and its underlying masking coat, to leave a crisp, patterned decoration.The present process requires no solvents and is therefore environmentally preferred.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for the preparation of a hot transfer film that is pre-cut and pre-positioned for continuous application during the forming of plastic articles by an in-mold decorating technique. A carrier film is first bonded to the transfer film from which the hot transfer is prepared, to form a releasable laminate. The laminate is then printed with appropriate decorating indicia on the free surface of the transfer film component thereof. Printing may be single-stage or multi-stage, depending upon the indicia desired, and a subsequent metalization of the transfer film surface may be performed.The fully printed laminate is then indexed into position and die-cut under conditions controlled to assure full penetration of the transfer film by the die, without penetration of the adjacent surface of the carrier film.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for the preparation of a thermoformable transfer film that may be pre-cut or is pre-positioned for continuous application during the forming of plastic articles by an insert molding decorating technique. A carrier film is first bonded to the transfer film from which the transfer is prepared, to form a composite. The composite is then printed with appropriate decorating indicia on the free surface of the transfer film component thereof. Printing may be single-stage or multi-stage, depending upon the indicia desired, and a subsequent metalization of the transfer film may be performed.The fully printed composite is then indexed into position and thermoformed to form the insert which later may be indexed directly into the mold chamber. The insert may be die-cut after its formation or prior to thermoforming.The present method facilitates the decoration of insert molded products in a manner which eliminates the need for conventional insert molding.

Abstract: A glossy black reflective metal coating with improved durability is prepared as a film of an intrinsically blackened chromium-containing metal. A laminate may be prepared with the metal coating bonded to at least one transferable resin film. A particular laminate includes at least one top coat and at least one base coat, with the metal coating located in sandwich relationship therebetween.

Abstract: A method for producing a metalized paper or board product having a bright surface and improved scratch resistance, comprises a transfer metalization technique utilizing a tie coat applied to the metal layer and a pressure-sensitive, adhesive coat applied to the tie coat, the adhesive coat binding the metalized composite to the paper or board base. The adhesive coat is applied to the paper or board base in the dry state and in combination with the adjacent tie coat, forms a hard, stable bond with the base that favorably withstands subsequent deformation of the paper or board product. A top coat utilizing a particular solvent mixture, offers consistent wettability of adhesive release coats, and provides a smooth, continuous outer surface for the final product.

Abstract: A decorative metallized laminate having improved brilliance, reflectance and weatherability comprises a base layer prepared from a thermo-formable resin film, with both surfaces thereof coated with vapor deposited metal layers. An outer protective capping layer prepared from a film having at least one surface treated for receptivity to adhesive bonding and resistance to attack by ultra-violet radiation, is adhesively bonded to one of the metallized surfaces of the base layer. A pressure and heat sensitive elastomeric adhesive coating is disposed between the capping layer and the metallized surface of the base layer, to form the bond between the two layers. A compatible thermo-formable resin backing layer may be laminated to the free metallized surface of the base layer, to provide a composite laminate suitable for thermo-forming and injection molding to manufacture a variety of products.A method for preparing the metallized laminate is also disclosed.

Abstract: The method for producing foil paper and foil board with a bright surface, by first metalizing a transfer-carrier, applying a compatible tacky dress to the metalized carrier, pressing the metalized carrier at its tacky surface against a base of paper or board; then separating the carrier from the metalized portion transferred to the base of paper or board, and curing it at an elevated temperature.