LOW CONDUCTIVITY BALLOONS AND METHODS OF PRODUCING SAME
The present invention relates to articles and methods for producing non-latex balloons with low surface electrical conductivities and an extended product life. In a preferred embodiment, a multilayer composite film having an exposed metalized layer is coated with an elastomeric sealant layer that increases electrical resistivity of the balloon product to greater than 1.0 8 Ohms/sq. The invention relates to articles and methods for producing needed bonds and seal strength required to manufacture non latex balloons. The balloons of this invention have an extended product life because they are more resistant to common defects like pin holing and stress cracks than conventional balloon systems.
1 . A method of manufacturing a balloon product comprising, in combination,
a. providing a polymeric film having first and second sides;
b. applying a metalized layer overlaying the second side of the multilayered composite film, where the metalized layer has an exposed side;
c. extrusion coating an elastomeric sealant layer over the exposed side of the metalized layer sealant layer to form a laminate; and
d. thermally die cutting and welding the laminate using a mechanically driven process to form a balloon product,
wherein the balloon product has a surface electrical resistivity of greater than 1.0 8 Ohms/sq.
2 . The method of claim 1 wherein a coating of primer is applied to the exposed side of the metalized layer prior to the extrusion coating of the elastomeric sealant layer
3 . The method of claim 2 wherein the primed metalized layer is dried prior to extrusion coating the elastomeric sealant layer.