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 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.