CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims benefit to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/319,947 filed April 8, 2016, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

[0002] The present subject matter relates to hot melt adhesives, and particularly those exhibiting clear or transparent optical properties. The present subject matter also relates to label assemblies including such adhesives, and labeled articles such as containers.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Hot melt adhesives are used in numerous applications such as labelling and packaging. When used in certain labelling applications, many hot melt adhesives exhibit poor aesthetics as the adhesives are opaque/yellowish or exhibit poor optical clarity. Furthermore, many clear or generally transparent hot melt adhesives tend to undergo yellowing as the adhesive ages and/or upon exposure to UV light. Such yellowing is undesirable particularly for applications involving transparent labels. [0004] Generally, hot melt adhesives and particularly those based on styrenic block copolymers, exhibit good adhesion at low temperatures if the adhesives contains an oil plasticizer. However, inclusion of an oil plasticizer leads to other undesirable properties, namely chemical reaction with filmic face material like swelling. For film face applications such as labelling of food or beverage containers that will be subjected to refrigeration or freezer temperatures, such hot melt adhesives containing oil plasticizers are entirely unacceptable.

[0005] For at least these reasons and others, a need exists for improved hot melt adhesives that are clear and which exhibit excellent adhesive performance at low temperatures.

SUMMARY

[0006] The difficulties and drawbacks associated with previous approaches are addressed in the present subject matter as follows.

[0007] In one aspect, the present subject matter provides a hot melt adhesive comprising styrene butadiene block copolymer, olefin block copolymer, and water white hydrocarbon resin.

[0008] In another aspect, the present subject matter provides a label comprising a polymeric film defining a first face and an oppositely directed second face. The label also comprises adhesive disposed on the first face of the film, the adhesive including (i) styrene butadiene block copolymer, (ii) olefin block copolymer, and (iii) water white hydrocarbon resin.

[0009] In yet another aspect, the present subject matter provides a labeled article comprising an article defining an outer surface, a polymeric film, and adhesive disposed between the outer surface of the article and the polymeric film. The adhesive includes (i) styrene butadiene block copolymer, (ii) olefin block copolymer, and (iii) water white hydrocarbon resin. [0010] As will be realized, the subject matter described herein is capable of other and different embodiments and its several details are capable of modifications in various respects, all without departing from the claimed subject matter. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative and not restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 is a schematic cross section of a label assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0012] Figure 2 schematically illustrates a cross section of another label assembly in accordance with the present subject matter.

[0013] Figure 3 is a schematic view of a labeled container in accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0014] Figure 4 is a schematic cross section of a portion of the container wall and label depicted in Figure 3.

[0015] Figure 5 illustrates several rheology parameters as a function of temperature for an embodiment adhesive designated as Sample A.

[0016] Figure 6 illustrates several rheology parameters as a function of temperature for an embodiment adhesive designated as Sample B.

[0017] Figure 7 illustrates several rheology parameters as a function of temperature for an embodiment adhesive designated as Sample C.

[0018] Figure 8 illustrates several rheology parameters as a function of temperature for an embodiment adhesive designated as Sample D.

[0019] Figure 9 illustrates several rheology parameters as a function of temperature for an embodiment adhesive designated as Sample E. [0020] Figure 10 illustrates several rheology parameters as a function of temperature for an embodiment adhesive designated as Sample F.

[0021] Figure 11 illustrates several rheology parameters as a function of temperature for an embodiment adhesive designated as Sample G.

[0022] Figure 12 illustrates several rheology parameters as a function of temperature for an embodiment adhesive designated as Sample H.

[0023] Figure 13 illustrates several rheology parameters as a function of temperature for an embodiment adhesive designated as Sample I.

[0024] Figure 14 illustrates several rheology parameters as a function of temperature for an embodiment adhesive designated as Sample J.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0025] The present subject matter generally relates to clear hot melt adhesives comprising styrene butadiene copolymer(s), olefin block copolymer(s) (OBC), water white hydrogenated hydrocarbon resin(s), polybutene plasticizer(s), and antioxidant. In many embodiments, the styrene butadiene copolymer is poly(styrene-butadiene-butadiene-styrene) polymer. The adhesives of the present subject matter exhibit excellent low temperature adhesion and/or good optical properties, e.g., the adhesive is optically clear.

[0026] The present subject matter also relates to laminates of the adhesives coated or otherwise applied to polymeric films such as for example face stock films. Non-limiting examples of such laminates include adhesive labels and/or label assemblies that are applied to containers such as beverage containers. And, the present subject matter additionally relates to articles or goods such as containers having labels adhered thereto using the adhesives. Additional details of the present subject matter and its various aspects are provided herein. Adhesives

Styrene Butadiene Block Copolymer

[0027] The adhesives of the present subject matter include one or more styrene butadiene block copolymers. The styrene block copolymer is based on an A-B-A structure, i.e., styrene moieties or components are provided at terminal ends of the polymer as A blocks, and include one or more interior B block(s) which includes 1,3-butadiene monomer, which is located between the A blocks.

[0028] Suitable styrenes useful for the polystyrene A blocks of the styrene butadiene block copolymer of the present subject matter are for example styrene, o-methylstyrene, p-methylstyrene, m- methylstyrene, p-tert-butylstyrene, dimethylstyrene, and various other alkyl-substituted styrenes, alkoxy-substituted styrenes, vinylnaphthalene and vinyl xylene. Combinations of any of these can be used. The alkyl and alkoxy groups of the alkyl-substituted or alkoxy-substituted styrenes respectively, include in certain embodiments, from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, and particularly from 1 to 4 carbon atoms. It will be noted that this description is merely illustrative and the present subject matter is not limited to such.The polystyrene A blocks may comprise minor amounts (e.g. up to about 5 % by weight) of other copolymerizable monomers. Non-limiting examples of other copolymerizable monomers styrenes, other dienes, and mixtures thereof.

[0029] Suitable butadienes useful for the butadiene B block of the styrene butadiene block copolymer of the present subject matter are for example butadiene, butadiene-butylene, butylene- butadiene, substituted butadienes, substituted butadiene-butylenes, and substituted butylene- butadienes. Combinations of these can be used. In particular embodiments, the butadiene block includes alkyl-substituted butadienes, alkyl-substituted butylenes, and/or combinations thereof. The butadiene B block may comprise minor amounts (e.g., up to about 5% by weight) of other copolymerizable monomers. Non-limiting examples of other copolymerizable monomers include butadiene, isoprene, and mixtures thereof. It will be understood that this description is merely representative, and the present subject matter includes the use of other butadiene block groups or moieties in the styrene butadiene block copolymers.

[0030] In many embodiments, the styrene butadiene block copolymer(s) used in the adhesives of the present subject matter have a polystyrene content within a range of from about 5% to about 35%, or about 10% to about 30%, or about 20% to about 30%, or about 12% to about 18%.

[0031] In particular embodiments, the styrene butadiene block copolymer is an "SBBS polymer." The term "SBBS polymer" as used herein includes styrene-butadiene-butadiene-styrene polymers and styrene-butadiene-butylene-styrene polymers and includes those designated as styrene- butylene-butadiene-styrene.

[0032] An example of a commercially available styrene butadiene block copolymer suitable for use in the present subject matter adhesives is K ATON G1657 M Polymer, available from Kraton North America. KRATON G1657 M is a clear, linear triblock copolymer based on styrene and ethylene/butylene with a polystyrene content of about 13%. Another example of a commercially available styrene butadiene block, copolymer suitable for use in the present subject matter adhesives is ASAPRENE N515 and TUFTEC P1500 both available from Asahi Kasei. These are partially hydrogenated SBBS polymers. The ASAPRENE N515 polymer is believed to have a polystyrene content of about 15%. The TUFTEC P1500 polymer is believed to have a styrene content of about 30%. In particular versions of the present subject matter, combinations of styrene butadiene block copolymers are used such as for example a 1:1 weight ratio of the N515 and P1500 materials.The styrene butadiene block copolymer of the present subject matter includes at least one of a fully hydrogenated styrene butadiene block copolymer, a partially hydrogenated styrene butadiene block copolymer, and combinations thereof.

[0033] In many embodiments, the hot melt adhesives of the present subject matter include styrene butadiene block copolymer content within a range of from about 5% to about 35%, or about 10% to about 30%, or about 10% to about 25%, or about 15% to about 25%, and/or about 15% to about 20%.

[0034] Representative and non-limiting examples of ranges of glass transition temperatures (Tg) for the styrene butadiene block copolymer of the present subject matter are from about -92° C to about 68° C, or from about -92° C to about -40° C, and/or from about -62° C to about -40° C.

Olefin Block Copolymer

[0035] A wide variety of olefinic block copolymer materials are suitable for use in the adhesives of the present subject matter. Particularly suitable are olefinic block copolymers that comprise at least one crystalline ethylene hard block and at least one soft block comprising at least one C ₃ -C ₂₀ alpha-olefin. Generally, the suitable olefinic block copolymers are copolymers in which the at least one crystalline ethylene hard block comprises less than about 30% by weight of the olefinic block copolymer. In particular embodiments, the at least one crystalline ethylene hard block comprises less than about 15% by weight of the olefinic block copolymer.

[0036] In some embodiments, the olefinic block copolymer has a density of less than 0.90 g/cm ³ and/or a melt temperature of from about 100° C to about 120° C. In certain embodiments, the melt temperature is from about 110° C to about 120° C. It has been found that olefinic block copolymers with these parameters are particularly suitable for both hot melt processing as well as good pressure sensitive adhesive properties.

[0037] Examples of suitable olefinic block copolymer materials are described in PCT Patent Publication No. WO 2009/029476 (Dow Global Technologies, Inc.) and are prepared using the INSITE catalyst "chain shuttling technology" as described, for example in PCT Patent Publication Nos. WO 2005/090427, WO 2005/090426, and WO 2005/090425, and US Patent Publication No 2006/199939. Particularly suitable materials include those polymers commercially available from DOW Chemical Company, Midland, Mich, under the trade name INFUSE. Suitable materials include the INFUSE block copolymerswith INFUSE 9807 being particularly suitable. INFUSE 9807 has a density of 0.866 g/cm ³ and a melt temperature of 118° C.The olefin block copolymer of the present subject matter includes a fully hydrogenated olefin block copolymer.

[0038] In many embodiments, the hot melt adhesives of the present subject matter include olefinic block copolymer content within a range of from 5% to about 35%, or about 10% to about 30%, or about 10% to about 20%, or about 10% to about 25%, or about 15% to about 25%, or about 15% to about 20%, and/or about 12% to about 18%.

[0039] Representative and non-limiting examples of ranges of glass transition temperatures (Tg) for the olefinic block copolymer of the present subject matter are from about -65° C to about -50° C, or from about -64° C to about -53° C, and/or from about -63° C to about -61° C.

Water White Hydrogenated Resin

[0040] The adhesives of the present subject matter include at least one water white hydrogenated resin(s). This resin can include one or more aromatic hydrocarbon(s), one or more aliphatic hydrocarbon(s), and/or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the water white hydrogenated resin is a cycloaliphatic hydrocarbon resin.

[0041] Suitable resins have an average molecular weight ranging from about 350 to about 1800 g/mol, or between about 350 and about 1500 g/mol, or from about 400 to about 1200 g/mol. These average molecular weights are weight average molecular weights (Mw).

[0042] In many embodiments, the resins also have a narrow molecular weight distribution with a polydispersity (Mw/Mn) or less than about 2.5, or less than about 2.1, or less than about 1.9. [0043] The softening points (Ring and Ball softening points as determined by ASTM E-28 and D 6493) of these resins typically fall within a range of about 40° C to about 140° C, and in certain embodiments from about 65° C to about 105° C.

[0044] The resins, after hydrogenation, are water white. A "water white" resin is defined herein as a resin having a molten Gardner color of less than about 2. In certain embodiments, the resin has a molten Gardner color of less than 1. Gardner color is determined by ASTM D 6166.

[0045] Non-limiting examples of water white hydrogenated resins that can be used in the adhesives of the present subject matter include ESCOREZ 5300, ESCOREZ 5320, ESCOREZ 5340, ESCOREZ 5380, ESCOREZ 5400, ESCOREZ 5415, ESCOREZ 5600, ESCOREZ 5615, ESCOREZ 5637, and ESCOREZ 5690, all available from Exxon Mobil; and REGALITE R1100 and REGALITE S5100 both available from Eastman Chemical. In many versions, ESCOREZ 5300 can be used. Additional examples of suitable water white hydrogenated resins include SYLVARES SAlOOavailable from Arizona Chemical. ESCOREZ 5300 exhibits a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 410 g/mol, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 670 g/mol, a polydispersity of 1.63; and softening point of 105° C. REGALITE R1100 exhibits a number average molecular weight of 600 g/mole, a weight average molecular weight of 850 g/mol, a polydispersity of 1.4, and a softening point of 100° C. REGALITE S5100 exhibits a number average molecular weight of 600 g/mol, a weight average molecular weight of 900 g/mol, a polydispersity of 1.5, and a softening point of 100° C.

[0046] In many embodiments, the hot melt adhesives of the present subject matter includewater white hydrogenated resins content within a range of from about 30% to about 70%, or about 30% to about 60%, or about 30% to about 50%, or about 40% to about 50%, and/or about 40% to about 48%. [0047] Representative and non-limiting examples of ranges of glass transition temperatures (Tg) for the water white hydrogenated resins of the present subject matter are from about 30° C to about 100° C, or about 36° C to about 86° C, or about 44° C to about 74° C, and/or about 50° C to about 60° C.

Plasticizer

[0048] In many embodiments of the present subject matter, the adhesives include one or more plasticizers. Non-limiting examples of such plasticizers include polybutene. A polybutene polymer comprises a polymer resulting from the polymerization of major proportions of a monomer selected from at least one of l-butene,2-butene, isobutylene (2-methyl-propene), butadiene, and/or mixtures thereof. Such polymers are typically viscous liquids having a Saybolt kinematic viscosity (measured by ASTM D 2161) of at least 100 cST at 100° C, and in certain embodiments from about 200 to about 20,000cST at 100° C. Such polymers also have a molecular weight (Mn) at least 300 to about 5,000 g/mol, and in certain embodiments from about 900 to about 2500 g/mol.

[0049] Non-limiting examples of commercially available polybutylene plasticizers that can be used in the adhesives of the present subject matter include INDOPOL H-100, H-1200, and H-2100 all available from various suppliers. Additional examples are the polybutenes or polyisobutenes available from TER Chemicals as grades 950, 1300, 1700, and 2600. INDOPOL H-100 polybutene exhibits a Saybolt viscosity of 1025 at 100° C and a molecular weight of 910 g/mol. INDOPOL H-1200 polybutene exhibits a Saybolt viscosity of 11,650 and 100° C and a molecular weight of 2100 g/mol. INDOPOL H-2100 polybutene exhibits a Saybolt viscosity of 19,800 at 100° C and a molecular weight of 2500 g/mol. The noted polybutenes from TER Chemicals exhibit a kinematic viscosity within a range of from 200 to 4600 cST at 100° C. [0050] In many embodiments, the hot melt adhesives of the present subject matter includeplasticizer content within a range of from about 0.1% to about 35%, about 0.1% to about 30%,or about 5% to about 35%, or about 10% to about 30%, or about 15% to about 25%, and/or about 18% to about 22%.

[0051] Representative and non-limiting examples of ranges of glass transition temperatures (Tg) for the plasticizer of the present subject matter are from about -60° C to about -80° C, or from about -65° C to about -75° C, and/or from about -68° C to about -72° C.

Antioxidant

[0052] The adhesives of the present subject matter may additionally comprise one or more antioxidants. A wide array of antioxidants and combinations of antioxidants can be used in the adhesives. In certain embodiments, a combination of a high molecular weight hindered phenolic antioxidant is used in combination with a phosphite antioxidant. A non-limiting example for the high molecular weight hindered phenolic antioxidant includestetrakis[methylene-3-(3.5-di-tert-butyl-4- hydroxyphenyl)propionate] methane (available as SONGNOX 1010 from SongWon Industrial Co., Ltd.). A non-limiting example for the phosphite antioxidant include stris(2.4-di-tert-butylphenyl) phosphite (available as SONGNOX 1680 from SongWon Industrial Co., Ltd.). It will be appreciated that the present subject matter includes the use of other antioxidants and is not limited to these representative antioxidants.

[0053] In many embodiments, the hot melt adhesives of the present subject matter includeantioxidant content within a range of from about 0.1% to about 7.5%, or about 0.5% to about 5%, or less than or equal to about 0.8%.

[0054] The present subject matter adhesives may optionally comprise additional components such as but not limited to various ancillary tackifiers, plasticizers, waxes, stabilizers, fillers, and like agents. The incorporation of one or more polyolefins such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polymenthylpentene, and/or polybutene-lis also contemplated.

[0055] The present subject matter adhesives may comprise such optional components as long as the incorporation of such components does not detract or negatively impact the final properties and/or characteristics of the adhesives. A wide array of tackifiers could potentially be used. Non- limiting examples of such other agents include SYLVA ES XL 105 from Arizona Chemical, which is a low color rosin ester tackifier; and QUINTONE DX395 from Mitsui Zeon, which is a hydrocarbon resin.

[0056] In many embodiments, the adhesives of the present subject matter are free of oil plasticizers. In other embodiments, the adhesives are substantially free of oil plasticizers, i.e., and contain less than 1.0% and more particularly less than 0.5% of oil plasticizers.

[0057] In certain embodiments, the adhesives of the present subject matter meet the Dahlquist criteria, indicating their suitability as a pressure sensitive adhesive. According to what has come to be known as the Dahlquist criteria, to be a pressure sensitive adhesive, the formulation must have a plateau shear modulus at 25° C at 1 radian per second that is between lxl0 ⁵ and 6x10 ^s dynes/cm ² , preferably from lxl0 ⁵ and 3x10 ^s dynes/cm ² as determined by dynamic mechanical spectroscopy. A material stiffer than this, that is, a material that has a plateau shear modulus at 25° C of lxlO ⁷ dynes/cm ² will not exhibit surface tack at room temperature (about 20° C to about 25° C). A material less stiff than this, that is, a material that has a plateau shear modulus at 25° C of lxl0 ⁴ dynes/cm ² will lack sufficient cohesive strength to be useful as a pressure sensitive adhesive.

[0058] Representative and non-limiting examples of ranges of glass transition temperatures (Tg) for the hot melt adhesive of the present subject matter are from about -50° C to about 10° C, or from about -20° C to about 0° C, and/or from about -13° C to about -8° C. Labels

[0059] The present subject matter also relates to labels, label assemblies, and/or laminates having a layer or region of adhesive as described herein. Generally, the labels comprise one or more polymeric films and one or more layers of adhesive. The labels may additionally comprise one or more release liners or liner assemblies.

Films

[0060] The label assemblies include a facestock film or layer to provide support for the label. The facestock layer can be formed from a wide array of materials such as polyester film materials, polyolefin film materials or paper, cardboard, or other paper-based materials. Representative materials for the layer include, but are not limited to, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), both oriented and nonoriented, and copolymers thereof. Another example of a potentially suitable film for the facestock is a layer of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and copolymers thereof. Additional materials include, but are not limited to, ortho-phthalaldehyde (OPA). For many applications, PET is preferred. In addition, it may be preferred to utilize a biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) material. These materials provide cost savings as they are relatively inexpensive, and they have sufficient stiffness to dispense well.

[0061] The facestock can be utilized at various thicknesses in the label assembly. The facestock can have a typical thickness of from about 10 to about 120 microns, and in many embodiments, a thickness of from about 25 to about 85 microns.

[0062] In many embodiments, the facestock layer is transparent or substantially so. Generally, the transmittance of the facestock layer is at least 80%, more particularly at least 90%, and most particularly at least 95%. The term "transmittance" as used herein refers to the percentage of light that passes through the facestock layer in a single pass in the visible spectral region.

[0063] Since the outer face of the facestock will likely constitute the outermost surface of the label, in certain embodiments, the material selected for the facestock, at least along this outwardly directed face, in many embodiments exhibits attractive printability characteristics.

[0064] Printability is typically defined by the sharpness and brightness of the image and by ink anchorage. The sharpness is closely related to the surface tension of the print surface. The ink anchorage is often tested by a tape test (Finat test: FTM21). In general, PVC is printable with a variety of inks intended to be used with PVC. In most occasions the inks are water-based (especially in the US) or designed for UV drying (especially in Europe). In general, all polyolefin films can be printed with UV inks after on-press corona treatment, polyethylene being better than propylene mainly on ink adhesion. For waterbased inks an additional primer or topcoat is preferred to achieve good ink anchorage.

[0065] In certain embodiments, the facestock layer may include an optional printing layer and/or topcoat disposed on an outer face of the facestock or below the outer face of the facestock. Conventional topcoat formulations can be used.

Adhesive

[0066] Details of the adhesives for use in the label assemblies are provided herein. The thickness of the adhesive layer typically ranges from about 5 to about 40 microns and in many embodiments from about 15 to about 22 microns. It will be understood however, that the present subject matter includes laminates and/or labels using thicknesses greater than or lesser than these thicknesses for the adhesive layer. Optional Release Liner

[0067] In accordance with another embodiment of the subject matter, the label assemblies include an optional release or liner layer. In many embodiments, the release layer is disposed immediately adjacent to the adhesive layer in the label. The release layer provides a release surface which is immediately adjacent to, and in contact with, the adhesive layer.

[0068] A wide variety of release materials such as those typically used for pressure sensitive tapes and labels are known, including silicones, alkyds, stearyl derivatives of vinyl polymers (such as polyvinyl stearylcarbamate), stearate chromic chloride, stearamides and the like. Fluorocarbon polymer coated release liners are also known but are relatively expensive. For most pressure sensitive adhesive applications, silicones are by far the most frequently used materials. Silicone release coatings have easy release at both high and low peel rates, making them suitable for a variety of production methods and applications.

[0069] Known silicone release coating systems generally include a reactive silicone polymer, e.g., an organopolysiloxane (often referred to as a "polysiloxane," or simply, "siloxane"); a cross-linker; and a catalyst. After being applied to the adjacent layer or other substrate, the coating generally must be cured to cross-link the silicone polymer chains, either thermally or radiatively (by, e.g., ultraviolet or electron beam irradiation).

[0070] Based on the manner in which they are applied, three basic types of silicone release coatings used in the pressure sensitive adhesive industry are known: solvent borne, water borne emulsions, and solvent free coatings. Each type has advantages and disadvantages. Solvent borne silicone release coatings have been used extensively but, because they employ a hydrocarbon solvent, their use in recent years has tapered off due to increasingly strict air pollution regulations, high energy requirements, and high cost. Indeed, the energy requirements of solvent recovery or incineration generally exceed that of the coating operation itself. [0071] Water borne silicone emulsion release systems are as well-known as solvent systems, and have been used on a variety of pressure sensitive products, including tapes, floor tiles, and vinyl wall coverings. Their use has been limited, however, by problems associated with applying them to paper substrates. Water swells paper fibers, destroying the dimensional stability of the release liner backing and causing sheet curling and subsequent processing difficulties.

[0072] Solventless or solvent free silicone release coatings have grown in recent years and now represent a major segment of the silicone release coating market. Like other silicone coatings, they must be cured after being applied to the flexible liner substrate. Curing produces a cross-linked film that resists penetration by the pressure sensitive adhesive.

[0073] Informative descriptions of various release materials, their characteristics, and incorporation in laminate assemblies are provided in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,728,469; 6,486,267; and U.S. Published Patent Application 2005/0074549, owned by the assignee of the present application. It is also contemplated that various waxes known in the art could be used for the release material or utilized in the release layer.

[0074] The preferred labels utilize release layers that are relatively thin. For example, a typical release layer thickness is from about 1 to about 4 microns. Preferably, the thickness of the release layer is from about 1 to about 2 microns.

Additional Optional Layers

[0075] It is also contemplated that the various embodiment label assemblies or laminates can also comprise one or more additional layers such as a secondary substrate, a topcoat, a sealing layer, a protective layer, and combinations thereof.

[0076] Figure 1 is a schematic cross sectional view of a label assembly 10 in accordance with the present subject matter. The label 10 comprises a film 30 defining a first face 32 and an oppositely directed second face 34. The label also comprises a layer or region of adhesive 20 disposed on the film 30 such as on the first face 32. The layer of adhesive 20 defines an adhesive face 22.

[0077] Figure 2 is a schematic cross sectional view of another label assembly 15 in accordance with the present subject matter. The label 15 comprises adhesive 20 disposed on film 30 as previously described in association with Figure 1, and additionally comprises a liner 40 disposed on the adhesive face 22. The liner 40 defines a liner face 42.

[0078] The present subject matter also provides methods of forming or producing the noted label assemblies and methods of using the label assemblies.

[0079] In many embodiments, a method of forming the label assemblies described herein comprises providing a web or layer of the facestock material. Ink or other agent such as pigment is obtained and then applied to a face or region of the facestock. Application of the ink is typically by any known liquid application technique and in many embodiments by spraying, roll coating, or printing the ink onto the facestock. The ink is then dried or at least partially dried. An effective amount of an adhesive is then applied to the ink and underlying facestock. Any known technique typically used for applying the adhesive can be utilized. One or more optional layers can be applied or otherwise incorporated into the laminate assembly.

[0080] It is also contemplated that instead of applying the ink to the facestock, the ink could be applied onto the adhesive layer. After sufficient drying of the ink, if necessary, a facestock layer could be applied onto the ink and underlying adhesive layer.

[0081] The subject matter also includes other variants in which all or a portion of the ink is applied onto the adhesive layer and an optional remaining portion of the ink applied to the facestock layer. The facestock layer with an optional portion of the ink is then mated with the adhesive layer also carrying a portion of the ink. [0082] In still other embodiments, all or a portion of the ink, or the pigment, agent or material, can be incorporated in the adhesive layer. For example, all or a portion of the pigment, agent or material could be blended in the adhesive and then upon applying the adhesive and forming the adhesive layer, the pigment, agent or material is dispersed throughout the adhesive layer. This strategy can be used in conjunction with providing a layer of ink which can include the same or different pigment, agent or material.

Labeled Articles

[0083] The present subject matter also relates to articles or goods in combination with the adhesives described herein and particularly the label assemblies described herein. Typically, the articles include one or more labels, tags, printed members, or other item that is adhered to the article using the present subject matter adhesives. In many embodiments, the label is adhered to an outer surface of the article. A wide array of articles can be utilized such as but not limited to containers such as bottles (both plastic and glass), liquid containers, food and/or beverage containers, and personal care products.

[0084] Figures 3 and 4 schematically depict a labeled container 100 in accordance with the present subject matter. The labeled container 100 includes a container 50 which has the label 10 adhered to an outer surface 52 of the container 50. Figure 4 illustrates the adhesive layer 20 adhering label film 30 to the outer surface 52 of the container 50. It is contemplated that one or more additional labels could be adhered to an oppositely directed face 54 of the container 50 or other substrate.

[0085] As noted herein, the adhesives of the present subject matter are clear or substantially so. This means that upon application of the adhesive to form an adhesive layer at the thicknesses described herein, the transmittance of the adhesive layer is at least 80%, more particularly at least 90%, and in many embodiments, at least 95%. And in particular embodiments, the adhesives do not exhibit yellowing after aging and/or exposure to UV light for one week. In some embodiments the adhesive of the present subject matter has a haze of less than 2% measured using an instrument such as BYK-Gardner Haze-Gard Plus according to AST D-1003.

[0086] The adhesives of the present subject matter also exhibit good adhesion characteristics at relatively low temperatures such as below about 15° C, more particularly below about 8° C, and for certain embodiments at temperatures of about 0° C.

Examples

[0087] A series of evaluations were conducted to assess various characteristics of several adhesives of the present subject matter. Specifically, Samples A-J were prepared as set forth below in Table 2. The values in Table 2 are parts by weight.

Table 2 - Adhesive Samples A-J

[0088] Each of the adhesive samples was prepared by conventional mixing or blending techniques. Each adhesive sample was then coated onto filmic material and subjected to various testing and/or measurements as follows. Looptack

[0089] Looptack was assessed by Finat Test Method (FTM) 9. The FTM 9 test is described in the FINAT technical manual, Laan Copes Van Cattenbubch 79, NL 2585 EW, THE HAGUE (1995) (HMPSA). The FTM 9 measures tack of a pressure sensitive adhesive and allows comparison of "initial grab" or "application tack" of adhesives. The Looptack value is expressed as the force in Newtons per inch (N/in) required to separate, at a specified speed, a loop of material with adhesive facing outward, which has been brought into contact with a specific area of a standard or test surface. Using a tensile tester a loop of a sample approximately 25 mm wide is caused to descend and then be immediately removed from the test surface. The rate is 300 mm per minute. The area of contact is approximately 25 mm ^χ 25 mm. The Looptack test is conducted at a temperature of 23° C ± 2° C and at a 50% ± 5% RH. Various looptack evaluations were performed using different test surfaces, namely glass, high density polyethylene (HDPE), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The results of this testing are reported in Table 3, below, as "LT (test surface)."

90° Peel Adhesion

[0090] 90° Peel Adhesion was determined by FTM 2. FTM 2 also employs a sample 25 mm wide. Its adhesive coating surface is applied to a selected test surface with light finger pressure and rolled with a standard FINAT test roller to obtain intimate contact between adhesive mass and the test surface. After a predetermined recorded period of time, i.e., either 20 minutes or 24 hours, the test strip is peeled from the surface at an angle of 90° to the surface at the rate of 300 mm per minute and reported in Newtons per inch. The 90° Peel Adhesion test is conducted at a temperature of 23° C ± 2° C and at a 50% Relative Humidity ±5% (RH). These measurements are provided in Table 3 as "(test surface)-(time period)," in which the test surface is glass (GL), HDPE, or PET; and the time period is either 20 minutes or 24 hours. Temperature Looptack

[0091] Temperature Looptack was performed using a modified FTM 9 test in which the looptack evaluation is performed at different temperatures, i.e., 1° C, 5° C, 10° C, 15° C, 23° C, and 40° C. These measurements are provided in Table 3 as "LT (test surface) (temperature)."

Static Shear

[0092] Static Shear was performed using FTM 8. This test is described as FTM 8, "Resistance to shear from a standard surface," FINAT Technical Handbook, 7th Ed., 2005. Static shear is reported in Table 3.

Dynamic Shear

[0093] Dynamic Shear was performed using FTM 18. This test is described as FTM 18, "Dynamic Shear," FINAT Technical Handbook, 7th Ed., 2005. Dynamic shear is reported in Table 3.

Haze & Clarity Test

[0094] Haze and clarity were evaluated according to FTM 6. Haze and Clarity measurements are reported in Table 3.

Mandrel 10 mm and 15 mm

[0095] Mandrel 10 mm and 15 mm testing was performed by FTM 24. Two different test surfaces were evaluated: glass (GL), and HDPE. Time periods of 1 day, 7 days, and 14 days were used. These measurements are reported in Table 3 as "(test surface) (time period) (10 mm or 15 mm)." Mandrel on Beer Bottle

[0096] Mandrel on Beer Bottle testing was performed using a modified FTM 24 procedure in which the samples in the form of labels are applied onto a beer bottle.Time periods of 1 day, 7 days, and 14 days were used. The test surface was glass, and these measurements are reported in Table 3 as "GL (time period) (beer bottle)."

Viscosity at 160° C

[0097] Viscosity at 160° C was measured using Brookfield cone and plate viscosity at 160° C. These values are reported in Table 3.

Rheology

[0098] Rheology was measured using a rheometer to measure temperature sweep and frequency sweep from the adhesive.

Yellowing Test

[0099] Samples A-J were subjected to aging tests in which the samples were aged and exposed to UV light for a time period of one week, i.e., 7 days. All samples exhibited acceptable characteristics, i.e., did not undergo significant yellowing. Samples E and J exhibited excellent performance and no appreciable yellowing was observed, as reported in Table 3.

[00100] Table 3 set forth below summarizes results of the various testing and measurements of each of Samples A-J. Table 3 - Summary of Testing Results of Samples A-J

Component Sample Sample Sample Sample Sample Sample Sample Sample Sample 1 Sample A B C D E F G H J

GL-7d (10mm) 7.4 0.0 5.7 0.2 1.8 6.5 0.0 0.0 0.8 3.0

GL-14d (10mm) 8.0 0.0 7.2 0.4 2.2 7.0 0.0 0.0 1.4 3.6

HDPE-ld

(10mm) 0.0 0.0 1.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 4.4 0.0 0.0

HDPE-7d

(10mm) 0.0 0.0 4.5 0.5 0.4 0.3 0.0 5.8 1.2 0.5

HDPE-14d

(10mm) 0.0 0.0 5.2 1.0 0.6 0.4 0.0 6.1 1.7 0.9

GL-ld (15mm) 4.9 0.0 7.9 0.2 0.0 0.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

GL-7d (15mm) 6.6 0.0 8.8 0.4 0.0 1.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

GL-14d (15mm) 7.0 0.0 9.0 0.6 0.0 1.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

HDPE-ld

(15mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.4 0.0 0.0

HDPE-7d

(15mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.4 0.0 0.0

HDPE-14d

(15mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.9 0.0 0.0

GL-ld (beer

bottle) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

GL-7d (beer

bottle) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

GL-14d (beer

bottle) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Yellowish UV- light lweek 0 0

[00101] Figures 5-14 are rheology plots showing G', G", and Tan(Delta) for each of Samples A-J, respectively. All adhesive Samples A-J exhibited pressure sensitive adhesive properties in which the G' curve crosses Dahlquist criterion in a desired area and the glass transition temperature (Tg) equals Tan(Delta) peak or maximum also in a desired area.

[00102] Many other benefits will no doubt become apparent from future application and development of this technology.

[00103] All patents, applications, standards,and articles noted herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[00104] The present subject matter includes all operable combinations of featuresand aspects described herein. Thus, for example if one feature is described in association with an embodiment and another feature is described in association with another embodiment, it will be understood that the present subject matter includes embodiments having a combination of these features.

[00105] As described hereinabove, the present subject matter solves many problems associated with previousstrategies,systems and/or devices. However, it will be appreciated that various changes in the details, materials and arrangements of components, which have been herein described and illustrated in order to explain the nature of the present subject matter, may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the principle and scope of the claimed subject matter, as expressed in the appended claims.