US20230138219A1

US20230138219A1 - Golf ball and method of making same

Info

Publication number: US20230138219A1
Application number: US17/517,815
Authority: US
Inventors: Manjari Kuntimaddi; Douglas E. Jones
Original assignee: Acushnet Co
Current assignee: Acushnet Co
Priority date: 2021-11-03
Filing date: 2021-11-03
Publication date: 2023-05-04

Abstract

Golf ball comprising a core, a cover, a first matte coating layer formed from a first matte coating composition, and a second matte coating layer formed from a second matte coating composition; wherein the first matte coating composition is different than the second matte coating composition.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The field of the invention broadly comprises golf ball constructions that create unique visual appearances without sacrificing durability and other desirable playing characteristics, and methods of making such golf balls.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Today, both professional and amateur golfers alike use multi-piece, solid golf balls. A single or multi-layered core is encapsulated by at least one layer such as a single or multi-layered cover, and optionally one or more intermediate layers may be disposed there between to complete the golf ball construction.
Golf ball manufacturers pre-select the materials for each layer to target and impart desirable golf ball performance properties. Currently, a broad range of options are available for strategically incorporating and coordinating layers within each golf ball construction. In multi-layered golf balls, each of the core, intermediate layer and cover properties, such as hardness, compression, resilience, specific gravity, outer diameter, and thickness can be preselected and coordinated to target play characteristics such as spin, initial velocity and feel of the resulting golf ball.
Furthermore, while conventional golf balls are white, some golfers enjoy distinguishing themselves on the course by playing a golf ball having a unique visual appearance. Thus, golf ball manufacturers seek to develop novel golf ball constructions that satisfy this demand without sacrificing color stability, durability and other desirable playing characteristics.
It is with respect to these and other general considerations that the aspects disclosed herein have been made. Also, although relatively specific problems may be discussed, it should be understood that the examples should not be limited to solving the specific problems identified in the background or elsewhere in this disclosure.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, a golf ball of the invention comprises a core, a cover, a first matte coating layer formed from a first matte coating composition, and a second matte coating layer formed from a second matte coating composition; wherein the first matte coating composition is different than the second matte coating composition.
In one embodiment, the first matte coating composition comprises a first matting agent;
the second matte coating composition comprises a second matting agent; and the first matting agent and the second matting agent are different.
In another embodiment, the first matte coating composition comprises a first matting agent; the second matte coating composition comprises a second matting agent; and the first matting agent and the second matting agent are the same.
In a particular embodiment, the first matte coating composition comprises a base resin, a matting agent, a water-based solvent and a crosslinker; and the second matte coating composition comprises a base resin, a matting agent, a non-water-based solvent, and a hardener.
In a specific embodiment, the first matte coating composition has a first gloss value GV_CM1as measured at a first angle of incidence using a gloss meter in accordance with ASTM D523; the second matte coating composition has a second gloss value GV_CM2as measured at a second angle of incidence using a gloss meter in accordance with ASTM D523; the first angle of incidence is the same as the second angle of incidence; and GV_CM1is different than GV_CM2.
In one such embodiment, the first matte coating composition and the second matte coating composition, combined, have a gloss value GV_CBas measured at a third angle of incidence using a gloss meter in accordance with ASTM D523; the third angle of incidence is the same as each of the first angle of incidence and the second angle of incidence; and GV_CBis different than one or more of GV_CM1or GV_CM2.
In a specific embodiment, GV_CBis less than one or more of GV_CM1or GV_CM2.
In a one embodiment, the second matte coating layer is formed about and adjacent to the first matte coating layer; and GV_CM2is less than GV_CM1.
In an alternative embodiment, the second matte coating layer is formed about and adjacent to the first matte coating layer; and GV_CM2is greater than GV_CM1.
In preferred embodiments, each of GV_CM1and GV_CM2is up to 20 gloss units (GU), or up to 15 GU, or up to 10 GU, or up to 5 GU.
Meanwhile, in specific embodiments, GV_CM1and GV_CM2differ by at least 3 GU, or by at least 5 GU, or by at least 7 GU, or by up to 12 GU.
In one embodiment, the angle of incidence is 60°. In another embodiment, the angle of incidence is 85°.
In a particular embodiment, the first matte coating composition has a chroma C*_CM1as defined in the CIELAB color space; the second matte coating composition has a chroma C*_CM2as defined in the CIELAB color space; the golf ball has an overall golf ball color appearance having a chroma C*_GBas defined in the CIELAB color space; and C*_GBis different than one or more of C*_CM1or C*_CM1.
The invention also relates to a method of making a golf ball of the invention comprising the steps of: providing a subassembly; forming a first matte coating layer about an outer surface of the subassembly; forming a second matte coating layer about an outer surface of the first matte coating layer; wherein: the first matte coating layer is formed from a first matte coating composition; the second matte coating layer is formed from a second matte coating composition; and the first matte coating composition is different than the second matte coating composition.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A golf ball of the invention comprises a core, a cover, a first matte coating layer formed from a first matte coating composition, and a second matte coating layer formed from a second matte coating composition; wherein the first matte coating composition is different than the second matte coating composition.
Herein, each matte coating layer and respective matte coating composition contains a matting agent. In this regard, the term “matting agent” refers to any ingredient or combination of ingredients that reduces the gloss value of a coating composition, wherein gloss value is measured using a gloss meter according to ASTM D523 and is expressed as gloss units “GU”.
Non-limiting examples of suitable matting agents include alumina, magnesia, titania, zirconia, zircon; metal hydroxides and metal oxides such as aluminum oxide, magnesium oxide, tin oxide, titanium dioxide, and zirconium dioxide; metal stearates such as aluminum stearate, calcium stearates, magnesium stearate, and zinc stearate; silicas such as amorphous silica, fuming silica, silica gel, and pyrogenic silica; (meth)acrylic compounds; waxes, such as micronized wax, polypropylene waxes, and wax-treated silica; microbeads, such as polyamide microbeads, polyurethane microbeads, and silicone microbeads; silicon-based matting agents; condensates such as polyether condensate and urea-formaldehyde condensate; polyethylene; polypropylene; polytetrafluoroethylene; or mixtures thereof.
In one embodiment, the first matte coating composition comprises a first matting agent; the second matte coating composition comprises a second matting agent; and the first matting agent and the second matting agent are different.
In this regard, two given matting agents differ, for example, if the two given matting agents are different types of matting agents, have different formulations, have different average particle sizes, are surface treated versus not surface treated, have different surface treatments, have different physical properties, and/or are identical but are included in two given matte coating compositions in different relative amounts/dosages.
The chemical and physical properties of a matting agent will impact its matting effect. For example, the gloss value of a matte coating composition generally reduces as the concentration/dosage of the matting agent is increased in the matte coating composition. Meanwhile, generally, the larger the particles of a matting agent, the more effective is the matting effect of the matte coating composition. Moreover, high pore volume (the number of internal voids in matting particles) can influence the rheology of the coating. And surface treatment of matting particles will generally alter/adjust the physical and/or properties of the matting agent.
In another embodiment, the first matte coating composition comprises a first matting agent; the second matte coating composition comprises a second matting agent; and the first matting agent and the second matting agent are the same.
In this regard, two given matting agents are considered to be the same matting agent if the two given matting agents are the same type of matting agents and have the same formulations and have the same chemical and physical properties and are included in two given matte coating compositions in the same amounts/dosages/concentrations.
The first matte coating composition and the second matte coating composition may also or alternatively differ with respect to ingredients or properties unrelated to the matting agent. For example, the first matte coating composition and the second matte coating composition may differ with respect to presence of coloring agent versus being colorless; including crosslinker versus including hardener; type of crosslinker; type of hardener; type of solvent included; type of base resin included; inclusion versus exclusion of color effects; type of color effect included; inclusion versus exclusion of processing aid; type of processing aid included; inclusion versus exclusion of UV stabilizer; type of UV stabilizer included; inclusion versus exclusion of adhesion promoting agent; type of adhesion promoting agent included; degree of transparency; degree of translucency; etc.—with the one limitation being that each of the differing matte coating compositions and resultant matte coating layers (whether colored or colorless) has a gloss value that is categorized as being matte when measured using a gloss meter in accordance with ASTM D523 and expressed in units GU.
The first matte coating composition may be waterborne (incorporates a water-based solvent) or solvent-borne (incorporates a non-water-based solvent such as but not limited to acetone, ketones, acetates or propanediols).
Non-limiting examples of ketones include methyl ethyl ketone, methyl amyl ketone, dimethyl heptanone, methyl pentanone, methyl isobutyl ketone, methyl isoamyl ketone, or cyclohexanone. Non-limiting examples of acetates include methyl acetate, ethyl acetate, monomethyl ether acetate, or butyl acetate. A non-limiting example of a suitable propanediol is propylene glycol.
Typically, a waterborne coating incorporates a crosslinker such as but not limited to CX-100, available from DSM Coating Resins LLC., which is an active polyfunctional aziridine liquid crosslinker.
In turn, a solvent-borne coating typically incorporates a hardener such as a polyisocyanate-based hardener.
Thus, in a particular embodiment, the first matte coating composition comprises a base resin, a matting agent, a water-based solvent and a crosslinker; and the second matte coating composition comprises a base resin, a matting agent; a non-water-based solvent, and a hardener. The base resins may be the same or different polyurethanes, for example. In this embodiment, the hardener may include, for example, a polyisocyanate resin having at least two isocyanate groups.
Coating layers, and preferably the top or outermost coating layer may include an optical brightener that absorbs at least some UV light at wavelengths greater than about 350 nm, and emits visible light, and a stabilizer package. A light stabilizer package may include at least one UV light absorber and, optionally, at least one light stabilizer, such as a hindered amine light stabilizer.
Examples of suitable UV absorbers include triazines, benzoxazinones, benzotriazoles, benzophenones, benzoates, formamidines, cinnamates/propenoates, aromatic propanediones, benzimidazoles, cycloaliphatic ketones, formanilides, cyanoacrylates, benzopyranones, and mixtures thereof.
The UV absorber is preferably present in an amount between about 0.1 weight percent and about 6.0 weight percent and more preferably, in an amount between about 1.0 weight % to about 5.0 weight % based on the total weight of the matte coating composition. Most preferably, the UV absorber is present in an amount between about 3.0 weight % and about 5.0 weight %.
Light stabilizers may include for example bis-(substituted) heteropolycyclicdione; N,N′-1,6-hexanediylbis {N-(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinyl)-formamide}; dimethyl succinate polymer with 4-hydroxy-2,2,6,6-tetra-methyl-1-piperidine ethanol; bis-(1,2,2,6,6-pentamethyl-4-piperidinyl) sebacate; hindered amine; 3-dodecyl-1-(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl-pyrrolidin-2,5-dione; poly-methylpropyl-3-oxy-[4(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl)piperidinyl]siloxane; bis-(1,2,2,6,6-pentamethyl-4-piperidinyl)-sebacate; bis-(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinyl)-sebacate; bis-(1-octyloxy-2,2,6,6,tetramethyl-4-piperidinyl) sebacate; n-butyl-(3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxybenzyl)bis-(1,2,2,6-pentamethyl-4-piperidinyl) malonate; bis-(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinyl) sebacate; compounds containing at least one of the following structure:
or mixtures thereof.
For example, the light stabilizer may be present in an amount between about 0.01 weight % and about 3 weight %. Preferably, the light stabilizer is present in an amount between about 0.05 weight % and about 2 weight % and most preferably, in an amount between about 0.1 weight % and about 1.0 weight % based on the total weight of the matte coating composition.
One or more of the differing matte coating compositions of a golf ball of the invention may be a latex, a lacquer, and/or an enamel. In turn, one or more of the differing matte coating compositions of a golf ball of the invention may comprise an acrylic, an epoxy, a urethane, a polyester, a urethane acrylate, a polyester acrylate, and/or an alkyd.
In some embodiments, the first matte coating layer and the second matte coating layer may differ with respect to coating layer thickness. Each matte coating layer may have any known thickness and may be applied via any known process. In this regard, the thickness of each matte coating layer can be adjusted as desired. For example, each coating layer may have a thickness of from 0.1 mil to 35.0 mils, or from 0.1 mil to 15.0 mils, or from 0.1 mil to 10.0 mils, or from 0.1 mil to 5.0 mils, or from 0.1 mil to 3.0 mils.
The gloss value of each matte coating composition may be measured according to ASTM D523 by spraying or otherwise providing the matte coating composition on a test panel, directing a constant intensity light beam, at a fixed angle, onto the test panel, and monitoring the amount of reflected light from the same angle. This specular reflectance is measured using the gloss meter. Gloss measurement is based on the amount of light reflected on the surface relative to a polished glass reference standard, measured in gloss units, expressed as GU. The amount of light that is reflected on the surface is dependent on the angle of incidence and the properties of the surface.
Gloss values range from 0 GU (perfectly matte) to 100 or greater (very glossy). Matte coating compositions have gloss values that are generally within the lower end of this range and vary depending on the type, properties and amount of matting agent included in the matte coating composition. Gloss value of a matte coating composition is measured according to ASTM D523 by setting the gloss meter at a 60° angle of incidence or an 85° angle of incidence. Preferably, the gloss value of a given matte coating composition is measured at each of a 60° angle of incidence setting and an 85° angle of incidence setting in order to acquire a complete understanding of the gloss value of each given matte coating composition.
Herein, two given matte coating compositions are considered to have different gloss values if their gloss values differ by 1 GU or greater when measured in accordance with ASTM D523 at the same 60° angle of incidence setting or the same 85° angle of incidence setting.
Accordingly, in a specific embodiment, the first matte coating composition has a first gloss value GV_CM1as measured at a first angle of incidence using a gloss meter in accordance with ASTM D523; the second matte coating composition has a second gloss value GV_CM2as measured at a second angle of incidence using a gloss meter in accordance with ASTM D523; the first angle of incidence is the same as the second angle of incidence; and GV_CM1is different than GV_CM2.
In one embodiment, the angle of incidence is 60°. In another embodiment, the angle of incidence is 85°.
In one specific embodiment, the first matte coating composition and the second matte coating composition, combined, have a gloss value GV_CBas measured at a third angle of incidence using a gloss meter in accordance with ASTM D523; the third angle of incidence is the same as the first angle of incidence and the second angle of incidence; and GV_CBis different than one or more of GV_CM1or GV_CM2.
In this regard, the gloss value of the first matte coating composition and the second matte coating, combined, is measured as follows. If the first matte coating composition is the innermost matte coating layer on the golf ball, then the first matte coating composition is sprayed on a test panel, followed by spraying the second matte coating composition onto the first coating composition. In turn, if the second matte coating composition is the innermost matte coating layer of the golf ball, then the second matte coating composition is sprayed on a test panel, followed by spraying the first matte coating composition onto the second matte coating composition. Next, a constant intensity light beam is directed, at a fixed angle, onto the test panel, and the amount of reflected light from the same angle is monitored. Just as when measuring the gloss values of the first matte coating composition or second matte coating composition, singularly, this specular reflectance is measured using the gloss meter, wherein the gloss measurement is based on the amount of light reflected on the surface relative to a polished glass reference standard, measured in gloss units, expressed as GU. The amount of light that is reflected on the surface is dependent on the angle of incidence and the properties of the surface.
Thus, a different value for GV_CBmay result when the first matte coating composition is the innermost matte coating layer on the golf ball (i.e., the first matte coating composition is sprayed on the test panel followed by spraying the second matte coating composition onto the first matte coating composition) versus when the second matte coating composition is the innermost matte coating layer of the golf ball (i.e., the second matte coating composition is sprayed on the test panel followed by spraying the first matte coating composition onto the second coating composition).
In a specific embodiment, GV_CBis less than one or more of GV_CM1or GV_CM2.
In a particular embodiment, the second matte coating layer is formed about and adjacent to the first matte coating layer, and GV_CM2is less than GV_CM1. In an alternative embodiment, the second matte coating layer is formed about and adjacent to the first matte coating layer, and GV_CM2is greater than GV_CM1.
It is envisioned that each of GV_CM1and GV_CM2may have any gloss value expressed in units GU known to be categorized as a matte gloss value when measured using the gloss meter in accordance with ASTM D523, whether determined at a measurement angle of 60° or determined at a measurement angle of 85°.
In non-limiting examples, each of GV_CM1and GV_CM2may be up to 20 GU, or up to 15 GU, or up to 10 GU, or up to 5 GU.
In some embodiments, GV_CM1may be up to 20 GU, while GV_CM2is up to 15 GU, or up to 10 GU, or up to 5 GU. Alternatively, GV_CM2may be up to 20 GU, while GV_CM1is up to 15 GU, or up to 10 GU, or up to 5 GU.
In other embodiments, GV_CM1may be up to 15 GU, while GV_CM2is up to 10 GU, or up to 5 GU. Alternatively, GV_CM2may be up to 15 GU, while GV_CM1is up to 10 GU, or up to 5 GU.
In still other embodiments, GV_CM1may be up to 10 GU, while GV_CM2is up to 5 GU.
Alternatively, GV_CM2may be up to 10 GU, while GV_CM1is up to 5 GU.
In other non-limiting examples, GV_CM1and GV_CM2may differ, wherein each of GV_CM1and GV_CM2is within the range of from 7 GU to 10 GU, or within the range of from greater than 10 GU to 14 GU, or within the range of from 3 GU to 7 GU, or within the range of from greater than 7 GU to 15 GU, or within the range of from greater than 15 GU up to 20 GU, or within the range of from greater than 15 GU up to 20 GU, or within the range of from 3 GU to 17 GU, or within the range of from 1 GU to 20 GU.
Meanwhile, in non-limiting examples, GV_CM1and GV_CM2may differ by at least 2 GU, or by at least 3 GU, or by at least 5 GU, or by at least 7 GU, or by up to 12 GU, or by up to 17 GU.
A resulting golf ball of the invention as well as the differing matte coating compositions may have any known color coordinates L*, a*, b* in the CIELAB color space, wherein the L* value represents lightness, the a* value represents the degree of redness (positive a* to 100) and greenness (negative a* to −100), and the b* value represents the degree of yellowness (positive b* up to 100) and blueness (negative b* to −100).
The color difference between two given colors may be quantified by ΔE*_abaccording to the following equation:
ΔE* _ab=√{square root over ((L* ₂ −L* ₁)²+(a* ₂ +a* ₁)²+(b* ₂ +b* ₁)²)}.
Meanwhile, the h° value in the CIELAB color space represents a hue angle (h°) of from 0° to 360° on the CIELAB diagram which may be quantified by h° according to the following equation:
h°=arctan(b*/a*).
In turn, the C* value in the CIELAB color space represents chroma, the amount of saturation of a color. Chroma is the distance of the color point to the L*-axis. Colors of high chroma are said to be clearer, brighter or more brilliant than colors having a lower chroma. Chroma as used herein can be quantified by C* according to the following equation:
C*=√{square root over (a* ² +b* ²)}.
In a particular embodiment, the first matte coating composition has a chroma C*_CM1as defined in the CIELAB color space; the second matte coating composition has a chroma C*_CM2as defined in the CIELAB color space; and the golf ball has an overall golf ball color appearance having a chroma C*_GBas defined in the CIELAB color space; wherein C*_GBis different than one or more of C*_CM1or C*_CM2.
The invention also relates to a method of making a golf ball of the invention comprising the steps of: providing a subassembly; forming a first matte coating layer about an outer surface of the subassembly; forming a second matte coating layer about an outer surface of the first matte coating layer; wherein the first matte coating layer is formed from a first matte coating composition, the second matte coating layer is formed from a second matte coating composition, and the first matte coating composition is different than the second matte coating composition.
The subassembly about which the first and second differing matte coating layers are formed may have any known construction such as being one-piece or multi-piece/multi-layered.
It is envisioned that subassemblies may have any known construction such as being be solid, hollow, foamed, and/or fluid filled and be formed from any known golf ball composition.
Non-limiting examples of multi-piece/multi-layered subassembly constructions include single cores, or cores having multiple layers, that are surrounded by a cover and optionally one or more intermediate layer such as a casing layer, mantle layer, film, moisture barrier layer, and/or inner cover layer.
A golf ball of the invention may be even more fully understood with reference to but not limited by the following examples and accompanying TABLES I, II and III set forth below.
In this regard, an equal number of golf balls were made for each of experimental golf ball groups Ex. 1, Ex. 2, Ex. 3, and Ex. 4 depicted in TABLE I and comparative golf balls Titleist®TruFeel™ Red (2019) and Titleist®Velocity™ Pink (2019).
Inventive golf balls Ex. 1, Ex. 2, Ex. 3, and Ex. 4 and the comparative golf balls were identical except that inventive golf balls Ex. 1, Ex. 2, Ex. 3, and Ex. 4 incorporated a matte coating system of the invention with two matte coating layers, wherein each matte coating layer comprised a different matte coating composition (TABLE I), whereas the comparative golf balls were entirely either Titleist®TruFeel™ Red (2019) or Titleist®Velocity™ Pink (2019) golf balls.

	TABLE I

	Example No.

Components	Ex. 1	Ex. 2	Ex. 3	Ex. 4

Golf Ball	Titleist ®	Titleist ®	Titleist ®	Titleist ®
Construction	TruFeel ™	TruFeel ™	Velocity ™	Velocity ™
	Red⁴	Red	Pink⁵	Pink
Matte	X		X
Primer A¹
Matte		X		X
Primer B²
Matte	X	X	X	X
Topcoat ³
Marking	Titleist 2	Titleist 4	Titleist 2	Titleist 4
System

¹Matte Primer A (WPU60499N) was provided by PPG Industries; wherein ratio of paint:CX-100(crosslinker):water(solvent) was 100:1.8:7.3; wherein CX-100 is a 100% active polyfunctional aziridine liquid crosslinker;
²Matte Primer B (WPU-MP-EXP3) was provided by PPG Industries; wherein ratio of paint:CX-100:water was 100:1.8:9.0;
³Matte Topcoat (SPU-MT-EXP3) was provided by PPG Industries; wherein ratio of Resin:Hardener was 2.2:1 by weight;
⁴Titleist ®TruFeel ™ Red 2019 core-cover construction incorporating inventive coating system disclosed and claimed herein; and
⁵Titleist ®Velocity ™ Pink 2019 core-cover construction incorporating inventive coating system disclosed and claimed herein.

Specifically, golf balls Ex. 1 and Ex. 2 included the same Titleist®TruFeel™ Red 2019 core/cover construction.
Additionally, golf balls Ex. 1 and golf balls Ex. 2 included the same matte Topcoat, but golf balls Ex. 1 and golf balls Ex. 2 differed in that golf balls Ex. 1 incorporated matte Primer A, whereas golf balls Ex. 2 incorporated matte Primer B.
Meanwhile, golf balls Ex. 3, and Ex. 4 included the same Titleist®Velocity™ Pink 2019 core/cover construction.
Additionally, golf balls Ex. 3 and golf balls Ex. 4 included the same matte Topcoat, but golf balls Ex. 3 and golf balls Ex. 4 differed in that golf balls Ex. 3 incorporated matte Primer A, whereas golf balls Ex. 4 incorporated matte Primer B.
The coating layers were formed about each cover as follows.
First, Matte Primer A or Matte Primer B (the first matte coating composition) was applied about each cover via spraying under the conditions set forth in TABLE II below and allowed to dry.
The resulting first matte coating layers were then inspected and observed to have a matte appearance.
Next, the matte Topcoat (second matte coating composition) was applied about each first matte coating layer to form a second matte coating layer and allowed to age for at least seven days.

TABLE II

Coating	Coating Conditions

Parameters	WPU60499	WPU-MP-EXP3	SPU-MT-EXP3

Viscosity	27 sec.	54 sec.	26 sec.
	#2 Zahn	#2 Zahn	#2 Zahn
Atomization	32 psi	32 psi	34 psi
cc	2.8	2.8	3
Tank pressure	10 psi	10 psi	11 psi
3 ball wt.	0.18 g-0.17 g	0.17 g-0.16 g	0.35 g-0.33 g

All golf balls were then inspected and visually compared with their respective comparative golf balls.
A visual comparison of inventive golf balls Ex. 1, Ex. 2, Ex. 3 and Ex. 4 with their respective comparative golf balls revealed that each golf ball golf Ex. 1, Ex. 2, Ex. 3 and Ex. 4 possessed a visibly different and unique overall matte golf ball appearance than the respective comparative golf ball.
Each golf ball was also visually inspected for defects prior to subjecting the golf balls to the following testing in order to confirm the durability and color stability of golf balls of the invention.
The results of the following testing appear in TABLE III further below.

A. Dual Pendulum Durability:

Every inventive golf ball Ex. 1, Ex. 2, Ex. 3 and Ex. 4, was struck 200 times using a Titleist-made Rotating Pendulum Testing Machine.
The machine is configured to strike golf balls repeatedly with a grooved-metal face-plate, rotating at 1100 rpm, positioned 13.5 inches from the drive motor, and angled at approximately 13 degrees.
An assessment of failure was made every 50 hits using a black light to monitor whether a failure of the matte coating compositions or the marking ink began to occur.
After 200 hits, each golf ball was then evaluated for crazing of the outermost coating (cracks or lines that appear in the coating once dried) via Graphite Rub Test.
Crazing can occur/result if the top layer of the coating dries faster than the underlying layer, which is therefore still wet.
The top layer of coating forms a skin as it hardens and continues to stretch, and when it hardens too fast, the skin can break, leaving cracks, ridges, bumps, holes and tears that produce unwanted textures in the coating.
The same procedure was followed with respect to the corresponding comparative golf balls.
As shown in TABLE III, the results of this test for inventive golf balls Ex. 1, Ex. 2, Ex. 3 and Ex. 4 incorporating inventive matte Primer A/matte Topcoat coating system or the matte Primer B/matte Topcoat coating system were as good as the corresponding results for comparative golf ball 2019 Titleist®TruFeel™ Red and comparative golf ball 2019 Titleist®Velocity™ Pink.
Performing the Graphite Rub Test, pencil graphite shavings were rubbed on the surface of each golf ball, followed by inspecting each golf ball to observe whether cracks/spider webbing occurred on the golf ball.
The same procedure was followed with respect to the corresponding comparative golf balls.
As shown in TABLE III, the results of this test for inventive golf balls Ex. 1, Ex. 2, Ex. 3 and Ex. 4 incorporating inventive matte Primer A/matte Topcoat coating system or the matte Primer B/matte Topcoat coating system were as good as the corresponding results for comparative golf ball 2019 Titleist®TruFeel™ Red and comparative golf ball 2019 Titleist®Velocity™ Pink.

B. Cold Crack:

One dozen of each of golf balls Ex. 1, Ex. 2, Ex. 3 and Ex. 4 were conditioned at −5° F. in a refrigerator.
Each of the golf balls was hit on a CoR (coefficient of restitution) machine once a day for 5 days @ 125 ft/sec. and inspected for coating cracking.
In this regard, each golf ball was fired from an air cannon at the given velocity, travelled toward a steel plate, made impact with the steel plate, and rebounded.
The same procedure was followed with respect to the corresponding comparative golf balls.
As shown in TABLE III, the results of this test for inventive golf balls Ex. 1, Ex. 2, Ex. 3 and Ex. 4 incorporating inventive matte Primer A/matte Topcoat coating system or the matte Primer B/matte Topcoat coating system were as good as the corresponding results for comparative golf ball 2019 Titleist®TruFeel™ Red and comparative golf ball 2019 Titleist®Velocity™ Pink.

C. Water Immersion Test:

Each of two paint cans were filled with 1800-2000 g of water. A dozen golf balls of each of inventive golf ball groups Ex. 1, Ex. 2, Ex. 3 and Ex. 4 were immersed within the water of the two paint cans in groups of two dozen golf balls per paint can.
The date/time that the golf balls were immersed in the paint cans was noted.
Following 5 days of immersion, all golf balls were removed from the paint cans and visually observed for paint blisters/peeling/other changes.
The same procedure was followed with respect to the corresponding comparative golf balls.
As shown in TABLE III, the results of this test for inventive golf balls Ex. 1, Ex. 2, Ex. 3 and Ex. 4 incorporating inventive matte Primer A/matte Topcoat coating system or the matte Primer B/matte Topcoat coating system were as good as the corresponding results for comparative golf ball 2019 Titleist®TruFeel™ Red and comparative golf ball 2019 Titleist®Velocity™ Pink.

D. Fertilizer Immersion Test:

Each of two paint cans were filled with 200 g (grams) of fertilizer combined with 2000 g of water. A dozen golf balls of each of inventive golf ball groups Ex. 1, Ex. 2, Ex. 3 and Ex. 4 were immersed within the combined fertilizer and water in groups of two dozen golf balls per can. The date/time that the golf balls were immersed in the paint cans was noted.
Following 5 days of immersion, all golf balls were removed from the paint cans and inspected under black light for paint blisters or peeling.
The same procedure was followed with respect to the corresponding comparative golf balls.
As shown in TABLE III, the results of this test for inventive golf balls Ex. 1, Ex. 2, Ex. 3 and Ex. 4 incorporating inventive matte Primer A/matte Topcoat coating system or the matte Primer B/matte Topcoat coating system were as good as the corresponding results for comparative golf ball 2019 Titleist®TruFeel™ Red and comparative golf ball 2019 Titleist®Velocity™ Pink.

E. Oven Aging:

One dozen of each of golf balls Ex. 1, Ex. 2, Ex. 3 and Ex. 4 were placed in an oven and heated at 150° F. for 16 hours and then inspected under black light for defects.
The same procedure was followed with respect to the corresponding comparative golf balls.
As shown in TABLE III, the results of this test for inventive golf balls Ex. 1, Ex. 2, Ex. 3 and Ex. 4 incorporating inventive matte Primer A/matte Topcoat coating system or the matte Primer B/matte Topcoat coating system were as good as the corresponding results for comparative golf ball 2019 Titleist®TruFeel™ Red and comparative golf ball 2019 Titleist®Velocity™ Pink.

F. QUV:

A dozen of each of golf balls Ex. 1, Ex. 2, Ex. 3, Ex. 4, were tested for accelerated light stability on days 1,3 and 5 using a Xenon tester model Q-SUN Xe-3HS, with the values for color coordinates L*, a*, b*, C* and h° being ascertained for all golf balls at each of these time intervals via colorimetry.
Deltas (change in) lightness (DL*cmc), chroma (DC*cmc), hue (DH*cmc) and “distance” between two colors (DE*cmc) were then be derived between time interval Time (0) and Time (day 1), Time (day 3), Time (day 5) for each golf ball group using the relevant well known equations in the CIELAB color space.
The same procedure was followed with respect to the corresponding comparative golf balls.
The color change (DYI) at day 5 was compared with that of the corresponding comparative golf ball.
Additionally, any wrinkling of the coating as subjected to humidity, temperature and UV light was also noted.
As shown in TABLE III, the results of this test for inventive golf balls Ex. 1, Ex. 2, Ex. 3 and Ex. 4 incorporating inventive matte Primer A/matte Topcoat coating system or the matte Primer B/matte Topcoat coating system were as good as the corresponding results for comparative golf ball 2019 Titleist®TruFeel™ Red and comparative golf ball 2019 Titleist®Velocity™ Pink.

	TABLE III

	Test	Example No.

conducted	Ex. 1	Ex. 2	Ex. 3	Ex. 4

Dual	X	X	X	X
pendulum
Cold cracks	X	X	X	X
Water	X	X	X	X
Immersion
Fertilizer	X	X	X	X
Oven aging	X	X	X	X
Xenon	X	X	X	X

X = result of test was the same as result of test conducted with respect to non-matte coating comparative golf ball 2019 Titleist ®TruFeel ™ Red and non-matte coating comparative golf ball 2019 Titleist ®Velocity ™ Pink.

Accordingly, golf balls Ex. 1, Ex. 2, Ex. 3 and Ex. 4 of the invention possess and create a unique overall golf ball matte appearance and meanwhile are as durable and color-stable as non-matte coating comparative golf ball 2019 Titleist®TruFeel™ Red and non-matte coating comparative golf ball 2019 Titleist®Velocity™ Pink.
It is also envisioned that one or more additional coating layers (clear, clear-colored, clear colorless, translucent) may be applied about an outer surface of any layer of the golf ball of the invention to further develop the unique overall golf ball matte appearance. Furthermore, it is envisioned that such additional coating layers may be positioned adjacent one of the matte coating layers or between two given differing matte coating layers.
Embodiments are envisioned wherein any known additional color effects may be added to a matte coating composition as desired. Embodiments are also envisioned wherein a matte coating layer may be solvent-borne, water-borne and/or powdered, as long as at least two matte coating layers are formed from different matte coating compositions.
A golf ball of the invention incorporating a first matte coating layer formed from a first matte coating composition, and a second matte coating layer formed from a second matte coating composition; wherein the first matte coating composition is different than the second matte coating composition has sufficient hardness to withstand the great force and impact of a club face striking the golf ball. In this regard, ASTM D2134 and a Sward-type hardness rocker can be used to confirm that each of the first coating layer, formed from the first matte coating composition, and the second coating layer, formed from the second matte coating composition, has a Sward-type hardness that is within a suitable range. Non-limiting examples of suitable Sward Rocker Hardness values include a Sward Rocker Hardness value of about 5 or greater, or a Sward Rocker Hardness value of about 10 or greater, or a Sward Rocker Hardness value of from about 30 to 80, or a Sward Rocker Hardness value of from about 40 to 70, or a Sward Rocker Hardness value of from about 45 to 60, or a Sward Rocker Hardness value of less than about 40, or a Sward Rocker Hardness value of less than about 35, or a Sward Rocker Hardness value of at least 40, and/or a Sward Rocker Hardness value of at least 45.
Additionally, ASTM D3363 can be used to confirm that each of the first matte coating layer, formed from the first matte coating composition, and the second matte coating layer, formed from the second matte coating composition, has sufficient pencil hardness. In this regard, suitable pencil hardnesses include, for example: in excess of 3H on the scale, a pencil hardness rating of from about 3H to about 7H on the scale, a pencil hardness of HB on the scale, a pencil hardness of less than about HB on the scale, a pencil hardness of B on the scale, or a pencil hardness of 2B.
Meanwhile, in some embodiments, the moisture barrier properties of each of the first matte coating layer, formed from the first matte coating composition, and the second matte coating layer, formed from the second matte coating composition, may be targeted. In such embodiments, these moisture barrier properties may be confirmed by ascertaining the normalized moisture vapor transition rate (nMVTR) thereof. Normalized MVTRs compare the ability of materials to resist moisture penetration irrespective of the thickness of the material and can be determined by the equation VTR(g·mm/m²·day)·(1/thickness (mm)) or g/(m²·day). Non-limiting examples of suitable nMVTRs include an nMVTR of less than about 5.0, an nMVTR in the range of 3.9 to 6.3, an nMVTR in the range of less than 9.0, and/or or an nMVTR of from 9.0 to 12.0.
Golf balls of the present invention may have any known construction, so long as a first matte coating layer, formed from a first matte coating composition, and a second matte coating layer, formed from a second matte coating composition, is incorporated therein wherein the first matte coating composition is different than the second matte coating composition such as disclosed herein.
Otherwise, golf balls of the invention may contain any number of other layers comprising any known composition and have any known dimensions and possess any known golf properties. Golf balls of the invention may have any known dimple count.
Thus, golf balls of the invention may have any known diameter; cores of golf ball of the invention may have any known diameter; and golf ball layer(s), including golf ball layer(s) formed from a matte coating composition, may have any known thickness. Non-limiting examples of suitable core diameters range from less than 0.5 inches up to about 1.8 inches. Non-limiting examples of suitable coating layer thicknesses range from 0.1 mil to 35.0 mils, or from 0.1 mil to 15.0 mils, or from 0.1 mil to 10.0 mils, or from 0.1 mil to 5.0 mils, or from 0.1 mil to 3.0 mils. Non-limiting examples of suitable non-coating layer thicknesses range from 0.005 inches to 0.750 inches.
Logo(s) or other print such as UV print may be provided on any layer surface of a golf ball of the invention.
Furthermore, golf ball layers may be applied or molded using any known suitable process in view of the particular polymer composition selected for the given matte coating composition, the pre-selected layer thickness, and/or the specific layer-type (inner core, intermediate layer, outer cover, coating layer) being formed from the matte coating composition. For example, the golf ball layers, including a layer formed from a matte coating composition, may be formed using at least one of compression molding, flip molding, injection molding, retractable pin injection molding, reaction injection molding (RIM), liquid injection molding (LIM), casting, vacuum forming, particle coating, flow coating, spin coating, dipping, spraying, and the like. Conventionally, compression molding and injection molding are applied to thermoplastic materials, whereas RIM, liquid injection molding, and casting are employed on thermoset materials.
Layers of golf balls of the invention other than coating layers may have various hardnesses and hardness gradients as known in the golf ball art depending on the particular golf ball playing characteristics being targeted. Non-limiting examples of suitable hardness ranges include from 35 Shore C to about 98 Shore C, or 50 Shore C to about 90 Shore C, or 60 Shore C to about 85 Shore C, or 45 Shore C to about 75 Shore C, or 40 Shore C to about 85 Shore C, or from about 20 Shore D to about 90 Shore D, or from about 30 Shore D to about 60 Shore D, or from about 40 Shore D to about 50 Shore D, or 50 Shore D or less, or greater than 50 Shore D.
Of course, advantageously, a resulting golf ball of the invention created using the method of the invention may have any known hardness gradient and in any known hardness scale in the golf ball art such as Shore C, Shore D, Shore M, etc.
Thermoset and thermoplastic layers herein may be treated in such a manner as to create a positive or negative hardness gradient within and between golf ball layers. In golf ball layers of the present invention wherein a thermosetting rubber is used, gradient-producing processes and/or gradient-producing rubber formulation may be employed. Gradient-producing processes and formulations are disclosed more fully, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,678,312; 7,537,530; 7,537,529; 7,429,221; and 7,410,429; the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
Golf balls of the invention and the materials of layers thereof may have a Coefficient of Restitution (CoR) of at least 0.700, or 0.750 or greater, or at least 0.800. CoR is determined according to a known procedure, wherein a golf ball or golf ball sub-assembly (for example, a golf ball core) is fired from an air cannon at two given velocities and a velocity of 125 ft/s is used for the calculations. Ballistic light screens are located between the air cannon and steel plate at a fixed distance to measure ball velocity. As the ball travels toward the steel plate, it activates each light screen and the ball's time period at each light screen is measured. This provides an incoming transit time period which is inversely proportional to the ball's incoming velocity. The ball makes impact with the steel plate and rebounds so it passes again through the light screens. As the rebounding ball activates each light screen, the ball's time period at each screen is measured. This provides an outgoing transit time period which is inversely proportional to the ball's outgoing velocity. The CoR is then calculated as the ratio of the ball's outgoing transit time period to the ball's incoming transit time period (COR=V_out/V_in=T_in/T_out).
Additional examples of other suitable golf ball compositions, dimensions, golf properties methods for measuring properties of golf balls of the invention and methods for making golf balls of the invention are disclosed in the following co-owned patents/publications, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety: U.S. Pat. Nos. 11,040,250, 10,933,285, 10,596,419, 10,016,659, 10,661,123, 10,967,225, 10,821,327, 10,252,113, 10,918,912, 10,814,180, 10,773,129, 10,682,553, 10,500,444, 10,500,443, 10,427,004, 10,119,008, 10,105,576, 10,105,575, 10,933,285, 10,933,285, 10,933,285, 10,933,285, 10,933,285, 9,095,748, 10,428,216 and U.S. Publ. No. 2021/0094209.
For each embodiment of a golf ball and/or method of the invention disclosed herein, alternative embodiments are indeed also envisioned wherein “comprises” (e.g., “comprise”, “comprised of”, “comprising”, etc.) may be replaced with “consists essentially of” (e.g., “consist essentially of”, “consisting essentially of”, etc.) and/or “consists of” (e.g., “consist of”, “consisting of”, etc.).
Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art of this disclosure. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the specification and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. Well known functions or constructions may not be described in detail for brevity or clarity.
Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as possible. Any numerical value, however, inherently contains certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements. Furthermore, when numerical ranges of varying scope are set forth herein, it is contemplated that any combination of these values inclusive of the recited values may be used.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well (i.e., at least one of whatever the article modifies), unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
The golf balls described and claimed herein are not to be limited in scope by the specific embodiments herein disclosed, since these embodiments are intended as illustrations of several aspects of the disclosure. Any equivalent embodiments are intended to be within the scope of this disclosure. Indeed, various modifications of the device in addition to those shown and described herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. Such modifications are also intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. All patents and patent applications cited in the foregoing text are expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Any section headings herein are provided only for consistency with the suggestions of 37 C.F.R. § 1.77 or otherwise to provide organizational queues. These headings shall not limit or characterize the invention(s) set forth herein.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A golf ball comprising a core, a cover, a first matte coating layer formed from a first matte coating composition, and a second matte coating layer formed from a second matte coating composition;

wherein the first matte coating composition is different than the second matte coating composition.

2. The golf ball of claim 1, wherein:

the first matte coating composition comprises a first matting agent;

the second matte coating composition comprises a second matting agent; and

the first matting agent and the second matting agent are different.

3. The golf ball of claim 1, wherein:

the first matte coating composition comprises a first matting agent;

the second matte coating composition comprises a second matting agent; and

the first matting agent and the second matting agent are the same.

4. The golf ball of claim 1, wherein:

the first matte coating composition comprises a base resin, a matting agent, a water-based solvent and a crosslinker; and

the second matte coating composition comprises a base resin, a matting agent, a non-water-based solvent, and a hardener.

5. The golf ball of claim 1, wherein:

the first matte coating composition has a first gloss value GV_CM1as measured at a first angle of incidence using a gloss meter in accordance with ASTM D523;

the second matte coating composition has a second gloss value GV_CM2as measured at a second angle of incidence using a gloss meter in accordance with ASTM D523;

the first angle of incidence is the same as the second angle of incidence; and

GV_CM1is different than GV_CM2.

6. The golf ball of claim 5, wherein:

the first matte coating composition and the second matte coating composition, combined, have a gloss value GV_CBas measured at a third angle of incidence using a gloss meter in accordance with ASTM D523;

the third angle of incidence is the same as each of the first angle of incidence and the second angle of incidence; and

GV_CBis different than one or more of GV_CM1or GV_CM2.

7. The golf ball of claim 6, wherein GV_CBis less than one or more of GV_CM1or GV_CM2.

8. The golf ball of claim 5, wherein:

the second matte coating layer is formed about and adjacent to the first matte coating layer; and

GV_CM2is less than GV_CM1.

9. The golf ball of claim 5, wherein:

GV_CM2is greater than GV_CM1.

10. The golf ball of claim 5, wherein each of GV_CM1and GV_CM2is up to 20 GU.

11. The golf ball of claim 5, wherein each of GV_CM1and GV_CM2is up to 15 GU.

12. The golf ball of claim 5, wherein each of GV_CM1and GV_CM2is up to 10 GU.

13. The golf ball of claim 5, wherein each of GV_CM1and GV_CM2is up to 5 GU.

14. The golf ball of claim 5, wherein GV_CM1and GV_CM2differ by at least 3 GU.

15. The golf ball of claim 5, wherein GV_CM1and GV_CM2differ by at least 5 GU.

16. The golf ball of claim 5, wherein GV_CM1and GV_CM2differ by at least 7 GU.

17. The golf ball of claim 5, wherein GV_CM1and GV_CM2differ by up to 12 GU.

18. The golf ball of claim 5, wherein each angle of incidence is 60°.

19. The golf ball of claim 5, wherein each angle of incidence is 85°.

20. The golf ball of claim 6, wherein:

the first matte coating composition has a chroma C*_CM1as defined in the CIELAB color space;

the second matte coating composition has a chroma C*_CM2as defined in the CIELAB color space; and

the golf ball has an overall golf ball color appearance having a chroma C*_GBas defined in the CIELAB color space; and

C*_GBis different than one or more of C*_CM1or C*_CM2.