Apparatus and method for de-inking printed surfaces
US8980012B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 2, 2012 |
| Grant date | Mar 17, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 2, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41M2205/18
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Apparatus and method for removing an ink image from a plastic substrate, particularly a plastic container such as a cup, are provided. A solvent capable of solvating the ink image is utilized in order to de-ink articles so that they can be recycled and re-imprinted thereby reducing waste associated with printing line start up. As the articles may be intended for use with food and beverage products, a safe and non-toxic solvent may be selected. However, to ensure that the article is not contaminated with foreign materials prior to human use, the de-inked article may undergo a rinse and drying operation to remove solvent residues and UV light treatment to eliminate any harmful microorganisms that may be present on the article's surfaces.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.