Retroreflective article having a colored layer containing a dye covalently bonded to a polymer

摘要

An exposed lens retroreflective article 10 that comprises a layer of optical elements 12 that are partially embedded in a binder layer 14. A reflective layer 16 is disposed functionally behind the optical elements 12, and a colored layer 18 is disposed between the reflective layer 16 and the optical elements 12. The colored layer 18 is colored by a dye that is covalently bonded to a polymer. The exposed lens retroreflective article can retain its color and retroreflective abilities well after multiple industrial washing cycles. The article therefore may be particularly suited for use on clothing such as a fireman's jacket.