Abstract
The antifingerprint properties of a range of surfaces produced with different technologies (in-mould decoration, in-mould labeling, and painted) were objectively evaluated by depositing on them in standard conditions an artificial fingerprint for direct determination of its visibility. The artificial fingerprint behaves similarly to the real human fingerprints. A classification method is then proposed to classify surfaces on the base of antifingerprint properties by measuring the roughness profile (Ra) and calculating the % variation of gloss (GU 20 and 60°), haze, luminance (L), and diffuse reflectance (R) values after fingerprint deposition. This approach provides an objective and quantitative test method to determine visual antifingerprint properties of coated surfaces, instead of the “easy-to-clean” properties commonly evaluated. The data acquired provides a design guideline for fabricating visually fingerprint-free surfaces by controlling roughness, texture, color, and transparency of surfaces, with the aim of optically masking fingerprints.
Highlights
Today, most research is focused on improving easy-to-clean properties and self-cleaning properties of the surfaces used in most industrial sectors [1]
The antifingerprint properties of a range of surfaces produced with different technologies were objectively evaluated by depositing on them in standard conditions an artificial fingerprint for direct determination of its visibility
Antifingerprint properties are required on surfaces resulting from new technologies such as in-mould decoration (IMD) and in-mould labelling (IML), alternatives of the conventional injection molding process
Summary
Most research is focused on improving easy-to-clean properties and self-cleaning (antistaining, antisoiling) properties of the surfaces used in most industrial sectors [1] These properties are very important on surfaces touched and manipulated by the user such as touch screen displays since fingerprints stick on them; as a consequence, their optical quality is impaired and information becomes quite difficult to read. For this reason, the fingerprint problem on surfaces is a pressing issue in the automotive sector. Antifingerprint properties are required on surfaces resulting from new technologies such as in-mould decoration (IMD) and in-mould labelling (IML), alternatives of the conventional injection molding process. The development of new effective products with controlled characteristics depends strictly on the knowledge of what governs the antifingerprint properties of the surfaces
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