Abstract: Retroreflective appliques comprising a monolayer of retroreflective elements partially embedded in and protruding from the front surface of a binder layer and an optional layer of adhesive on the rear surface of the binder layer, wherein the binder layer, the adhesive layer, or both contain a metal-azo dye to camouflage the color of any exposed portions of said binder layer. Appliques comprising micropheres with aluminum reflectors as retroreflective elements and a black metal-azo dye in the binder layer will exhibit a pleasing silver appearance even after portions of the binder layer have been visibly exposed due to degradation of the aluminum reflectors, typically as a result of subjecting the applique to harsh laundering conditions.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
September 30, 1992
Date of Patent:
August 16, 1994
Assignee:
Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
Abstract: Retroreflective appliques comprising a monolayer of retroreflective elements partially embedded in and protruding from the front surface of a binder layer and an optional layer of adhesive on the rear surface of the binder layer for securing the applique to a garment, wherein the binder layer comprises an electron-beam cured polymer selected from the group consisting of chlorosulfonated polyethylenes, ethylene copolymers comprising at least about 70 weight percent of polyethylene, and EPDM polymers.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
September 28, 1992
Date of Patent:
February 1, 1994
Assignee:
Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
Abstract: A two-part system and method for increasing the reflex-reflectivity of a substrate is disclosed wherein a first aerosol dispensing means containing a first coating composition capable of forming a base coating on a substrate and a second aerosol dispensing means containing a second coating composition capable of imparting reflex-reflectivity to the base coating is employed. The first coating composition comprises a binder resin and a solvent in which the binder resin is dissolved and the second coating composition contains transparent microspheres having a particle size from about 45 to about 90 microns and a carrier in which the transparent microspheres are dispersible. The substrate is coated first with the first coating composition via aerosol means to form a base coating which is subsequently coated with the second coating to impart reflex-reflectivity to the base coating.