EP4698596A2 - Cyclobutanediol copolyester compositions having improved paint, chemical and weathering resistance - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a copolyester composition comprising an impact modifier component that comprises a polymer or polymers containing ethylene, alkyl acrylate and glycidyl (meth)acrylate (E-AA-G(M)A), and that has improved chemical and/or UV resistance while retaining thermal and impact properties including when molded into thick sections, methods of making the copolyester composition and articles made from the copolyester composition.

Description

CYCLOBUTANEDIOL COPOLYESTER COMPOSITIONS HAVING IMPROVED PAINT, CHEMICAL AND WEATHERING RESISTANCE

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the use of a combination of certain additives in a copolyester to improve the resistance to degradation of certain properties of the copolyester composition after exposure to certain paints, chemicals and/or exposure to sunlight. More specifically, the present invention relates to the use of combinations of certain impact modifiers in copolyesters to improve resistance to degradation of toughness (after exposure to certain paints, chemicals and/or exposure to sunlight), maintain a high heat deflection temperature, and provide good toughness when molded into thick sections.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Copolyesters containing cyclobutanediol residues have been commercialized that show outstanding toughness as measured by a notched Izod impact test, a standard method for measuring toughness. However, these copolyesters can be caused to fail in a brittle manner under certain circumstances, such as when painted with certain paints, when exposed to certain chemicals, after exposure to sunlight, or when molded in thick sections. [0003] There exists a need for improved copolyester compositions that have resistance to degradation of certain properties of the copolyester composition after exposure to certain paints, chemicals, sunlight or when molded in thick sections.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Applicants have unexpectedly discovered an improved copolyester composition comprising an effective amount of a combination of certain impact modifiers useful for making articles such as films, sheets, molded parts, or profiles which can eliminate embrittlement that may be caused when such articles are painted with certain paints, or exposed to certain chemicals, or after exposure to sunlight, or when molded in thick sections.

[0005] In one aspect, a copolyester composition is provided that comprises:

(a) from about 50 to about 95 weight % of a copolyester, the copolyester comprising:

(i) a diacid component comprising from 70 to 100 mole % residues of terephthalic acid, from 0 to 30 mole % residues of a modifying aromatic diacid having from 8 to 12 carbon atoms, and from 0 to 10 mole % residues of an aliphatic dicarboxylic acid; and

(ii) a glycol component comprising from 45 to 95 mole % cyclohexanedimethanol (CHDM) residues from 5 to 65 mole % 2,2,4,4-tetramethylcyclobutane-1 ,3-diol (TMCD) residues, and from 0 to 10 mole% of a modifying glycol having 2 to 20 carbon atoms; wherein the inherent viscosity of the copolyester is from 0.5 to 1.2 dL/g as determined in 60/40 (wt/wt) phenol/tetrachloroethane at a concentration of 0.5 g/100 ml at 25°C, wherein the weight % is based on the weight of the copolyester, and wherein the total mole % of the dicarboxylic acid component is 100 mole % and the total mole % of the glycol component is 100 mole %; and

(b) from about 5 to about 20 weight % of an impact modifier component that comprises a polymer or combination of polymers, said polymer or polymers comprising ethylene (E), alkyl acrylate (AA) and glycidyl (meth)acrylate (GMA and/or GA) groups wherein the weight ratio of alkyl acrylate to glycidyl (meth)acrylate is from about 3.0:1 to about 9.0:1 ; wherein the copolyester composition has a heat deflection temperature (HDT) of at least 75C; and wherein the copolyester composition has a notched Izod impact strength of 600 Joules/m or greater, or 700 Joules/m or greater, measured according to ASTM D256.

[0006] In embodiments, the ethylene, alkyl acrylate, glycidyl (meth)acrylate containing impact modifier component is present in an amount from 5 to less than 20 wt%, or 5 to 15 wt%, or 5 to 14 wt%, or 5 to 13 wt%, or 5 to 12 wt%, or 5 to 11 wt%, or 5 to 10 wt%, or 5 to 9 wt%, or 5 to 8 wt%, or 5 to 7 wt%, of the copolyester composition. In embodiments, the impact modifier component is present in an amount from 5 to 10 wt%, or 5 to 9 wt%, or 5 to 8 wt%, or 5 to 7 wt%, of the copolyester composition, and the ratio of alkyl acrylate to glycidyl (meth)acrylate in the ethylene, alkyl acrylate, glycidyl (meth)acrylate impact modifier component is from about 3.0:1 to about 9.0:1 , or about 4.0:1 to about 8.0:1 , or about 5.0:1 to about 7.0:1 , or about 3.0:1 to about 6.0:1 .

[0007] In embodiments, the AA group is a radical formed from a compound having the structure: wherein Ri is an alkyl group with 1 -8 carbon atoms, preferably 1 -4 carbon atoms, more preferably 1 -2 carbon atoms, and most preferably 1 carbon atom, and

R₂ is H, CH₃ or C₂ H₅, preferably H or CH₃, and most preferably H.

[0008] In embodiments, the AA group is a radical formed from methyl acrylate.

[0009] In embodiments, the GMA and/or GA (also designated as "G(M)A") group is a radical of glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) or glycidyl acrylate (GA). In embodiments, the GMA and/or GA group is a radical of glycidyl methacrylate (GMA).

[0010] In embodiments, the impact modifier comprises a terpolymer of ethylene, alkyl acrylate, and glycidyl methacrylate (E-AA-GMA). In embodiments, the impact modifier is a terpolymer of ethylene, alkyl acrylate, and glycidyl methacrylate (E-AA-GMA). the E-AA-GMA terpolymer is a terpolymer of ethylene, methyl acrylate, and glycidyl methacrylate (E-MA- GMA).

[0011] In embodiments, the ethylene, alkyl acrylate, glycidyl methacrylate impact modifier component is obtained by blending a terpolymer of ethylene, alkyl acrylate and glycidyl methacrylate (E-AA-GMA) with a copolymer of ethylene and alkyl acrylate (E-AA). In embodiments, the ethylene, alkyl acrylate, glycidyl methacrylate impact modifier component is obtained by blending a terpolymer of ethylene, methyl acrylate and glycidyl methacrylate (E- MA-GMA) with a copolymer of ethylene and methyl acrylate (E-MA).

[0012] In embodiments, the E-AA-GMA terpolymer contains 10 to 40 wt%, or 14 to 34 wt%, or 16 to 32 wt%, or 18 to 30 wt%, or 20 to 28 wt%, or 22 to 26 wt% of alkyl acrylate, e.g., methyl acrylate, content. In embodiments, the E-AA-GMA terpolymer contains 1 to 25 wt%, or 2 to 20 wt%, or 2 to 18 wt%, or 2 to 16 wt%, or 2 to 14 wt%, or 4 to 12 wt%, or 6 to 10 wt%, glycidyl methacrylate content. In embodiments, the E-AA copolymer contains 10 to 40 wt%, or 14 to 34 wt%, or 16 to 32 wt%, or 18 to 30 wt%, or 20 to 28 wt%, or 22 to 26 wt% of alkyl acrylate, e.g., methyl acrylate, content.

[0013] In embodiments, the ethylene, alkyl acrylate, glycidyl methacrylate impact modifier component is present in an amount from 5 to 10 wt%, or 5 to 9 wt%, or 5 to 8 wt%, or 5 to 7 wt%, of the copolyester composition, and the weight ratio of E-AA-GMA terpolymer to E-AA copolymer is 0.7 to 2.0:1 , or 0.7 to 1.5:1 , or 0.7 to 1.1 :1 , or 0.8 to 2.0:1 , or 0.8 to 1 .5:1 , or 0.8 to 1.1 :1 , or 0.9 to 2.0:1 , or 0.9 to 1 .5:1 , or 0.9 to 1 .1 :1 .

[0014] In embodiments, the impact modifier component does not contain a core shell impact modifier. In embodiments, the copolyester composition does contain a core shell impact modifier.

[0015] In embodiments, the glycol component comprises from 60 to 95 mole % cyclohexanedimethanol residues and from 5 to 40 mole % of 2, 2,4,4- tetramethylcyclobutane-1 ,3-diol residues. In certain embodiments, the glycol component comprises from 70 to 95 mole % cyclohexanedimethanol residues and from 5 to 30, or 10 to 30, or 15 to 30, or 20 to 30, or 15 to 25 mole % of 2,2,4,4-tetramethylcyclobutane-1 ,3-diol residues. In certain embodiments, the glycol component comprises from 60 to 75 mole % cyclohexanedimethanol residues and from 25 to 40, or 30 to 40 mole % of 2, 2,4,4- tetramethylcyclobutane-1 ,3-diol residues.

[0016] In embodiments, the inherent viscosity of the copolyester is from 0.55 to 0.85, or 0.55 to 0.65, or 0.60 to 0.70, or 0.65 to 0.80, or 0.65 to 0.75 dL/g.

[0017] In embodiments, the copolyester composition further comprises a chain extender. In certain embodiments, the chain extender comprises a multifunctional epoxide chain extender.

[0018] In embodiments, the copolyester composition has a notched Izod impact strength of at least 700, or 725, or 750, or 775, or 800, or 825, or 850 Joules/m or greater measured according to ASTM D256. In one embodiment, the copolyester composition exhibits 100% ductile behavior when tested according to ASTM D256.

[0019] In embodiments, the copolyester composition has a notched Charpy impact strength of 400, or 500, or 600 Joules/m or greater measured using a ¹/z” thick bar according to ASTM D61 10.

[0020] In embodiments, the copolyester composition has a notched charpy impact strength of 400, or 500, or 600 Joules/m or greater using a W thick bar aged in an oven for 72 hours at 80C measured according to ASTM D61 10.

[0021] In another aspect, an article is provided that comprises a copolyester composition according to one or more of the embodiments, or a combination of any of the embodiments, described herein. In embodiments, the article is in the form of a film, sheet, molded part, or profile. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] The present invention may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of certain embodiments of the invention and the working examples.

[0023] In accordance with the purpose(s) of this invention, certain embodiments of the invention are described in the Summary of the Invention and are further described herein below. Also, other embodiments of the invention are described herein.

[0024] The present invention provides a copolyester composition that comprises a cyclobutanediol copolyester and an impact modifier component that comprises a polymer or combination of polymers, the polymer or polymers comprising ethylene, alkyl acrylate, e.g., methyl acrylate, and glycidyl (meth)acrylate, in which the copolyester composition exhibits resistance to degradation of certain properties of the copolyester composition after exposure to certain paints, chemicals, sunlight, or when molded in thick sections. In embodiments, the resistance to degradation of certain properties of the copolyester composition is resistance to embrittlement, or where the copolyester composition maintains toughness (or impact resistance) after exposure to the certain chemicals or sunlight.

[0025] In embodiments, the copolyester composition has a heat deflection temperature (HDT) of at least 75C, using a 3.2mm thick injection molded bar and a 1 .8 MPa applied stress. In embodiments, the copolyester composition has a notched Izod impact strength of 600 Joules/m or greater, or 700 Joules/m or greater, measured according to ASTM D256.

[0026] In embodiments, the invention is directed to copolyester compositions having a combination of good toughness, relatively high HDT, good flow during molding (i.e., a viscosity that permits good flow during molding, e.g., in thin molds), and that resist or avoid embrittlement after exposure to certain chemicals, e.g., acrylic paint or canola oil, or UV light (or sunlight), articles made therefrom, and methods of making the compositions and articles. [0027] The present invention involves the use of certain classes of impact modifiers to improve or retain good impact properties while avoiding embrittlement after exposure to certain chemicals, e.g., acrylic paint or canola oil, or UV light (or sunlight). The impact modifier component comprises a polymer or polymers comprising ethylene, alkyl acrylate and glycidyl (meth)acrylate. When the impact modifier is added at the appropriate concentrations with the copolyester, the copolyester composition possesses a notched Izod impact strength which is greater than about 600 Joules/m, or 650, or 700, or 750, or 800, or 850 Joules/m or greater, according to ASTM D256 while avoiding embrittlement after exposure to certain chemicals or UV light.

[0028] In embodiments, the copolyester composition contains the impact modifier component in an amount from 5 to 20, or 5 to 15, or 5 to 10 wt%, based on the total weight of the copolyester composition.

[0029] In embodiments, the weight ratio of alkyl acrylate to glycidyl (meth)acrylate, or AA:G(M)A, in the ethylene, alkyl acrylate, glycidyl (meth)acrylate impact modifier component is in a range from about 2.0:1 to about 10.0:1 , or from about 2.0:1 to about 9.0:1 , or from about 2.0:1 to about 8.0:1 , or from about 2.0:1 to about 7.0:1 , or from about 2.0:1 to about 6.0:1 , or from about 3.0:1 to about 10.0:1 , or from about 3.0:1 to about 9.0:1 , or from about 3.0:1 to about 8.0:1 , or from about 3.0:1 to about 7.0:1 , or from about 3.0:1 to about 6.0:1 , or from about 4.0:1 to about 10.0:1 , or from about 4.0:1 to about 9.0:1 , or from about 4.0:1 to about 8.0:1 , or from about 4.0:1 to about 7.0:1 , or from about 4.0:1 to about 6.0:1 , or from about 5.0:1 to about 10.0:1 , or from about 5.0:1 to about 9.0:1 , or from about 5.0:1 to about 8.0:1 , or from about 5.0:1 to about 7.0:1 , or from about 5.0:1 to about 6.0:1 , or from about 6.0:1 to about 10.0:1 , or from about 6.0:1 to about 9.0:1 , or from about 6.0:1 to about 8.0:1 , or from about 6.0:1 to about 7.0:1 , or from about 7.0:1 to about 10.0:1 , from about 7.0:1 to about 9.0:1 , or from about 7.0:1 to about 8.0:1 , or from about 8.0:1 to about 10.0:1 , or from about 8.0:1 to about 9.0:1 .

[0030] In embodiments, the weight ratio of alkyl acrylate to glycidyl (meth)acrylate, or AA:G(M)A, in the ethylene, alkyl acrylate, glycidyl (meth)acrylate impact modifier component is in a range from about 2.0:1 to about 10.0:1 , or from about 3.0:1 to about 9.0:1 , or from about 3.0:1 to about 6.0:1. In embodiments, the impact modifier component comprises ethylene, methyl acrylate, glycidyl methacrylate and the weight ratio of methyl acrylate to glycidyl methacrylate (MA:GMA) is in a range from about 2.0:1 to about 10.0:1 , or from about 3.0:1 to about 9.0:1 , or from about 3.0:1 to about 6.0:1 .

[0031] In embodiments, the ethylene, alkyl acrylate, glycidyl methacrylate impact modifier component is obtained by blending a terpolymer of ethylene, alkyl acrylate and glycidyl methacrylate (E-AA-GMA) with a copolymer of ethylene and methyl acrylate (E-AA).

[0032] In embodiments, the E-AA-G(M)A and E-AA can be present in a weight ratio of E-AA-G(M)A:E-AA in a range from 0.1 to 2.5:1 , or 0.2 to 2.5:1 , or 0.3 to 2.5:1 , or 0.4 to 2.5:1 , or 0.5 to 2.5:1 , or 0.6 to 2.5:1 , or 0.7 to 2.5:1 , or 0.8 to 2.5:1 , or 0.9 to 2.5:1 , or 1 to 2.5:1 , or 0.1 to 2:1 , or 0.2 to 2:1 , or 0.3 to 2:1 , or 0.4 to 2:1 , or 0.5 to 2:1 , or 0.6 to 2:1 , or 0.7 to 2:1 , or 0.8 to 2:1 , or 0.9 to 2:1 , or 1 to 2:1 , or 0.1 to 1 .5:1 , or 0.2 to 1 .5:1 , or 0.3 to 1 .5:1 , or 0.4 to 1.5:1 , or 0.5 to 1 .5:1 , or 0.6 to 1 .5:1 , or 0.7 to 1 .5:1 , or 0.8 to 1 .5:1 , or 0.9 to 1 .5:1 , or 1 to 1 .5:1 , or 0.1 to 1.2:1 , or 0.2 to 1 .2:1 , or 0.3 to 1 .2:1 , or 0.4 to 1 .2:1 , or 0.5 to 1.2:1 , or 0.6 to 1 .2:1 , or 0.7 to 1 .2:1 , or 0.8 to 1 .2:1 , or 0.9 to 1 .2:1 , or 1 to 1 .2:1 , or 0.1 to 1 :1 , or 0.2 to 1 :1 , or 0.3 to 1 :1 , or 0.4 to 1 :1 , or 0.5 to 1 :1 , or 0.6 to 1 :1 , or 0.7 to 1 :1 , or 0.8 to 1 :1 , or 0.9 to 1 :1.

[0033] In certain embodiments, the copolyester composition contains terpolymer of E-AA-G(M)A and copolymer of E-AA in a combined amount from 5 to 8 wt%, based on the total weight of the copolyester composition, and the E-AA-G(M)A and E-AA can be present in a weight ratio of E-AA-G(M)A:E-AA in a range from 0.5 to 2.5:1 , or 0.6 to 2.5:1 , or 0.7 to 2.5:1 , or 0.8 to 2.5:1 , or 0.9 to 2.5:1 , or 1 to 2.5:1 , or 0.5 to 2:1 , or 0.6 to 2:1 , or 0.7 to 2:1 , or 0.8 to 2:1 , or 0.9 to 2:1 , or 1 to 2:1 , or 0.5 to 1 .5:1 , or 0.6 to 1 .5:1 , or 0.7 to 1 .5:1 , or 0.8 to 1 .5:1 , or 0.9 to 1 .5:1 , or 1 to 1 .5:1 , or 0.5 to 1 .2:1 , or 0.6 to 1 .2:1 , or 0.7 to 1 .2:1 , or 0.8 to 1 .2:1 , or 0.9 to 1 .2:1 , or 1 to 1 .2:1 , or 0.5 to 1 :1 , or 0.6 to 1 :1 , or 0.7 to 1 :1 , or 0.8 to 1 :1 , or 0.9 to 1 :1. [0034] In embodiments, the copolyester composition comprises the E- AA-G(M)A and E-AA and at least one additional impact modifier that is different from the E-AA-G(M)A and E-AA.

[0035] In embodiments, the copolyester composition comprises the impact modifier component in amounts sufficient to provide compositions that reduce or avoid embrittlement after exposure to certain chemicals or UV light. In embodiments, the copolyester compositions pass the impact tests after exposure to acylic enamel paint and/or canola oil, when tested as described below in the Examples section, with three replicates showing no breaking. In embodiments, the copolyester compositions have an impact resistance of at least 40, or at least 45, or at least 50, or at least 55, or at least 60 kJ/m2 after exposure to a Xenon Arc for 168 hrs according to ASTM D6395, as described more fully below in the Examples section.

[0036] In embodiments, the alkyl acrylate can comprise an alkyl group with 1 -8 carbon atoms, preferably 1 -4 carbon atoms, more preferably 1 to 2 carbon atoms, and most preferably 1 carbon atom. In embodiments, the alkyl acrylate can comprise methyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate or butyl acrylate. In preferred embodiments, the alkyl acrylate is methyl acrylate.

[0037] In embodiments, the copolyester composition has an HDT of at least 75°C, or at least 77°C or at least 79°C, determined according to ASTM D648 using a 3.2mm thick injection molded bar and a 1 .82 MPa applied stress. [0038] In embodiments, the copolyester composition has a viscosity of less than 4000, or less than 3950, or less than 3900, or less than 3875, or less than 3850 poise, measured at 280C according to ASTM D4440 using a Rheometrics Dynamic Analyzer (RDA II) using parallel plate at a shear rate of 400 rad/s. In embodiments, the copolyester composition has a viscosity in a range from 3000 to 4000, or 3000 to 3950, or 3000 to 3900, or 3000 to 3875, or 3000 to 3850, or 3100 to 4000, or 3100 to 3950, or 3100 to 3900, or 3100 to 3875, or 3100 to 3850, or 3200 to 4000, or 3200 to 3950, or 3200 to 3900, or 3200 to 3875, or 3200 to 3850, or 3300 to 4000, or 3300 to 3950, or 3300 to 3900, or 3300 to 3875, or 3300 to 3850, or 3400 to 4000, or 3400 to 3950, or 3400 to 3900, or 3400 to 3875, or 3400 to 3850, or 3500 to 4000, or 3500 to 3950, or 3500 to 3900, or 3500 to 3875, or 3500 to 3850 poise, measured at 280C according to ASTM D4440 using a Rheometrics Dynamic Analyzer (RDA II) using parallel plate at a shear rate of 400 rad/s.

[0039] In embodiments, the copolyester composition has a flexural modulus of at least 1250, or at least 1300, or at least 1350, or at least 1400, or at least 1450 MPa, measured according to ASTM D790 Procedure A at a crosshead movement speed of 1.27 mm/minute using a 3.2mm thick injection molded bar conditioned for 48 hrs at 23C and 50%RH prior to testing. In embodiments, the copolyester composition has a flexural modulus in a range from 1250 to 1600, or 1250 to 1550, or 1300 to 1600, or 1300 to 1550, or 1350 to 1600, or 1350 to 1550, or 1400 to 1600, or 1400 to 1550, or 1450 to 1600, or 1400 to 1550 MPa, measured according to ASTM D790 Procedure A at a crosshead movement speed of 1.27 mm/minute using a 3.2mm thick injection molded bar conditioned for 48 hrs at 23C and 50%RH prior to testing.

[0040] In embodiments, the copolyester composition has a notched Izod impact strength of at least 700, or 725, or 750, or 775, or 800, or 825, or 850 Joules/m or greater measured according to ASTM D256 Test Method A using a 3.2mm thick injection molded bar, machine notched with a 0.25mm radius notch and then conditioned for 48 hrs at 23C and 50%RH after notching and prior to testing, and per the ASTM method, the hammer weight was 2.7 Joules or 13.6 Joules, depending on the inherent brittleness of the sample. In embodiments, the copolyester composition has a notched Izod impact strength in a range from 700 to 1000, or 700 to 950, or 700 to 900, or 725 to 1000, or 725 to 950, or 725 to 900, or 750 to 1000, or 750 to 950, or 750 to 900, or 775 to 1000, or 775 to 950, or 775 to 900, or 800 to 1000, or 800 to 950, or 800 to 900, or 825 to 1000, or 825 to 950, or 825 to 900, or 850 to 1000, or 850 to 950, or 850 to 900 Joules/m measured according to ASTM D256 Test Method A using a 3.2mm thick injection molded bar, machine notched with a 0.25mm radius notch and then conditioned for 48 hrs at 23C and 50%RH after notching and prior to testing, and per the ASTM method, the hammer weight was 2.7 Joules or 13.6 Joules, depending on the inherent brittleness of the sample.

[0041] In embodiments, the copolyester composition has a Charpy impact strength of at least 400, or at least 450, or at least 500, or at least 550, or at least 600, or at least 650 J/m, measured according to ASTM D6110 using a 12.7mm thick injection molded bar cut down to 63mm in length and machine notched with either a 0.10mm or 0.25mm radius notch conditioned for 48 hrs at 23C and 50%RH after notching and prior to testing, using a span of 51 mm and a hammer weight of 15 Joules. In embodiments, the copolyester composition has a Charpy impact strength in a range of 400 to 800, or 400 to 750, or 450 to 800, or 450 to 750, or 500 to 800, or 500 to 750, or 550 to 800, or 550 to 750, or 600 to 800, or 600 to 750, or 650 to 800, or 650 to 750 J/m, measured according to ASTM D6110 using a 12.7mm thick injection molded bar cut down to 63mm in length and machine notched with either a 0.10mm or 0.25mm radius notch conditioned for 48 hrs at 23C and 50%RH after notching and prior to testing, using a span of 51 mm and a hammer weight of 15 Joules.

[0042] In embodiments, the copolyester composition has a Charpy impact strength of at least 400, or at least 450, or at least 500, or at least 550, or at least 600, or at least 625, or at least 650 J/m, measured according to ASTM D6110 using a 12.7mm thick injection molded bar cut down to 63mm in length and machine notched with either a 0.10mm or 0.25mm radius notch conditioned for 72 hrs at 80C and 50%RH after notching and prior to testing, using a span of 51 mm and a hammer weight of 15 Joules. In embodiments, the copolyester composition has a Charpy impact strength in a range of 400 to 800, or 400 to 750, or 450 to 800, or 450 to 750, or 500 to 800, or 500 to 750, or 550 to 800, or 550 to 750, or 600 to 800, or 600 to 750, or 625 to 800, or 625 to 750, or 650 to 800, or 650 to 750 J/m, measured according to ASTM D6110 using a 12.7mm thick injection molded bar cut down to 63mm in length and machine notched with either a 0.10mm or 0.25mm radius notch conditioned for 72 hrs at 80C and 50%RH after notching and prior to testing, using a span of 51 mm and a hammer weight of 15 Joules. [0043] In embodiments, the E-MA-GMA terpolymer has a methyl acrylate (MA) content in a range from 14 to 34, or 16 to 32, or 18 to 30, or 20 to 28, or 22 to 26, or 23 to 25 wt%, measured by FTIR, based on the weight of the E-MA-GMA terpolymer. In embodiments, the E-MA-GMA terpolymer has a glycidal methacrylate (GMA) content in a range from 2 to 14, or 2 to 6, or 4 to 12, or 6 to 10, or 7 to 9 wt%, measured by FTIR, based on the weight of the E- MA-GMA terpolymer.

[0044] In embodiments, the E-BA-GMA terpolymer has a butyl acrylate (BA) content in a range from 14 to 34, or 16 to 32, or 18 to 30, or 20 to 28, or 22 to 26, or 23 to 25 wt%, measured by FTIR, based on the weight of the E- BA-GMA terpolymer. In embodiments, the E-BA-GMA terpolymer has a glycidal methacrylate (GMA) content in a range from 2 to 14, or 2 to 6, or 4 to 12, or 6 to 10, or 7 to 9 wt%, measured by FTIR, based on the weight of the E-BA-GMA terpolymer.

[0045] In certain embodiments, the E-MA-GMA terpolymer can be a commercially available product, such as LOTADER® AX8900, LOTADER® AX8930 (from SK Corporation) or Igetabond BF-7L or BF-7M (from Sumitomo). In certain embodiments, the E-BA-GMA terpolymer can be a commercially available product, such as LOTADER® AX8700 or LOTADER® AX8750.

[0046] In embodiments, the E-MA copolymer has a methyl acrylate (MA) content in a range from 14 to 34, or 16 to 32, or 18 to 30, or 20 to 28, or 22 to 26, or 23 to 25 wt%, measured by FTIR, based on the weight of the E-MA copolymer.

[0047] In embodiments, the E-BA copolymer has a butyl acrylate (BA) content in a range from 14 to 34, or 16 to 32, or 18 to 30, or 20 to 28, or 22 to 26, or 23 to 25 wt%, measured by FTIR, based on the weight of the E-BA copolymer.

[0048] In certain embodiments, the E-MA copolymer can be a commercially available product, such as LOTRYL® 24MA07T or 24MA02T or 24MA02 or 24MA005 or 20MA08 or 18MA02 or 29MA03T or 29MA03 or 28MA07 (from SK Corporation). In certain embodiments, the E-BA copolymer can be a commercially available product, such as LOTRYL® 28BA175 or 28BA175T or 30BA02 or 35BA40 (from SK Corporation).

[0049] In certain embodiments, the impact modifier component comprises at least one additional impact modifier. Examples of additional impact modifiers that can be included in the impact modifier component, in certain embodiments, include, core-shell polymers with cores comprised of rubbery polymers and shells comprised of styrene copolymers.

[0050] Examples of additional impact modifiers that can be used include, but are not limited to, ethylene/propylene terpolymers; styrene-based block copolymeric impact modifiers, and various acrylic core/shell type impact modifiers. Residues of such additives are also contemplated as part of the polyester composition.

[0051] Commercially available examples of additional impact modifiers include:

Modiper® 4300 and Modiper® 4400 available from Nippon Oil & Fat Corporation; Kane Ace® M300, available from Kaneka Americas Holding, Inc.; Kane Ace® B564, available from Kaneka Americas Holding, Inc.; Kane Ace® ECO 1000, available from Kaneka Americas Holding, Inc.

[0052] Copolyesters useful in the present invention comprise residues of an aromatic diacid and residues of two or more glycols.

[0053] The term “copolyester,” as used herein, is intended to include “polyesters” and is understood to mean a synthetic polymer prepared by the reaction of one or more difunctional carboxylic acids and/or multifunctional carboxylic acids with one or more difunctional hydroxyl compounds and/or multifunctional hydroxyl compounds. Typically, the difunctional carboxylic acid can be a dicarboxylic acid and the difunctional hydroxyl compound can be a dihydric alcohol such as, for example, glycols. Furthermore, as used in this application, the interchangeable terms "diacid" or “dicarboxylic acid” include multifunctional acids, such as branching agents. The term "glycol" as used in this application includes, but is not limited to, diols, glycols, and/or multifunctional hydroxyl compounds. Alternatively, the difunctional carboxylic acid may be a hydroxy carboxylic acid such as, for example, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, and the difunctional hydroxyl compound may be an aromatic nucleus bearing 2 hydroxyl substituents such as, for example, hydroquinone. The term “residue,” as used herein, means any organic structure incorporated into a polymer through a polycondensation and/or an esterification reaction from the corresponding monomer. The term “repeating unit,” as used herein, means an organic structure having a dicarboxylic acid residue and a diol residue bonded through a carbonyloxy group. Thus, for example, the dicarboxylic acid residues may be derived from a dicarboxylic acid monomer or its associated acid halides, esters, salts, anhydrides, or mixtures thereof. As used herein, therefore, the term dicarboxylic acid is intended to include dicarboxylic acids and any derivative of a dicarboxylic acid, including its associated acid halides, esters, half-esters, salts, half-salts, anhydrides, mixed anhydrides, or mixtures thereof, useful in a reaction process with a diol to make polyester. As used herein, the term "terephthalic acid" is intended to include terephthalic acid itself and residues thereof as well as any derivative of terephthalic acid, including its associated acid halides, esters, half-esters, salts, half-salts, anhydrides, mixed anhydrides, or mixtures thereof or residues thereof useful in a reaction process with a diol to make polyester. The term “modifying aromatic diacid” means an aromatic dicarboxylic acid other than terephthalic acid. The term “modifying glycol” means a glycol other than cyclohexanedimethanol (CHDM) or 2, 2,4,4- tetramethylcyclobutane-1 ,3-diol (TMCD).

[0054] In one embodiment, terephthalic acid may be used as the starting material. In another embodiment, dimethyl terephthalate may be used as the starting material. In another embodiment, mixtures of terephthalic acid and dimethyl terephthalate may be used as the starting material and/or as an intermediate material.

[0055] The copolyesters used in the present invention typically can be prepared from dicarboxylic acids and diols which react in substantially equal proportions and are incorporated into the copolyester polymer as their corresponding residues. The copolyesters of the present invention, therefore, can contain substantially equal molar proportions of acid residues (100 mole%) and diol (and/or multifunctional hydroxyl compounds) residues (100 mole%) such that the total moles of repeating units is equal to 100 mole%. The mole percentages provided in the present disclosure, therefore, may be based on the total moles of acid residues, the total moles of diol residues, or the total moles of repeating units. For example, a copolyester containing 30 mole% isophthalic acid, based on the total acid residues, means the copolyester contains 30 mole% isophthalic acid residues out of a total of 100 mole% acid residues. Thus, there are 30 moles of isophthalic acid residues among every 100 moles of acid residues. In another example, a copolyester containing 30 mole% 1 ,4- cyclohexanedimethanol, based on the total diol residues, means the copolyester contains 30 mole% 1 ,4-cyclohexanedimethanol residues out of a total of 100 mole% diol residues. Thus, there are 30 moles of 1 ,4- cyclohexanedimethanol residues among every 100 moles of diol residues.

[0056] In embodiments, the copolyesters comprise 70 to 100 mole% of terephthalic acid (TPA). Alternatively, the copolyesters comprise 80 to 100 mole% TPA, or 90 to 100 mole % TPA or 95 to 100 mole % TPA or 100 mole % TPA. For the purposes of this disclosure, the terms "terephthalic acid" and "dimethyl terephthalate" are used interchangeably herein.

[0057] In addition to terephthalic acid, the dicarboxylic acid component of the copolyester useful in the invention can comprise up to 30 mole %, up to 20 mole %, up to 10 mole %, up to 5 mole %, or up to 1 mole % of one or more modifying aromatic dicarboxylic acids. Yet another embodiment contains 0 mole % modifying aromatic dicarboxylic acids. Thus, if present, it is contemplated that the amount of one or more modifying aromatic dicarboxylic acids can range from any of these preceding endpoint values including, for example, from 0.01 to 30 mole %, 0.01 to 20 mole %, from 0.01 to 10 mole %, from 0.01 to 5 mole % and from 0.01 to 1 mole. In one embodiment, modifying aromatic dicarboxylic acids that may be used in the present invention include but are not limited to those having up to 20 carbon atoms, and which can be linear, para-oriented, or symmetrical. Examples of modifying aromatic dicarboxylic acids which may be used in this invention include, but are not limited to, isophthalic acid, 4,4'-biphenyldicarboxylic acid, 1 ,4-, 1 ,5-, 2,6-, 2,7- naphthalenedicarboxylic acid, and trans-4,4'-stilbenedicarboxylic acid, and esters thereof. In one embodiment, the modifying aromatic dicarboxylic acid is isophthalic acid.

[0058] The carboxylic acid component of the copolyesters useful in the invention can be further modified with up to 10 mole %, such as up to 5 mole % or up to 1 mole % of one or more aliphatic dicarboxylic acids containing 2-16 carbon atoms, such as, for example, malonic, succinic, glutaric, adipic, pimelic, suberic, azelaic and dodecanedioic dicarboxylic acids. Certain embodiments can also comprise 0.01 or more mole %, such as 0.1 or more mole %, 1 or more mole %, 5 or more mole %, or 10 or more mole % of one or more modifying aliphatic dicarboxylic acids. Yet another embodiment contains 0 mole % modifying aliphatic dicarboxylic acids. Thus, if present, it is contemplated that the amount of one or more modifying aliphatic dicarboxylic acids can range from any of these preceding endpoint values including, for example, from 0.01 to 10 mole % and from 0.1 to 10 mole %. The total mole % of the dicarboxylic acid component is 100 mole%.

[0059] Esters of terephthalic acid and the other modifying dicarboxylic acids or their corresponding esters and/or salts may be used instead of the dicarboxylic acids. Suitable examples of dicarboxylic acid esters include, but are not limited to, the dimethyl, diethyl, dipropyl, diisopropyl, dibutyl, and diphenyl esters. In one embodiment, the esters are chosen from at least one of the following: methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, and phenyl esters.

[0060] The copolyesters useful in the copolyesters compositions of the invention can comprise from 0 to 10 mole %, for example, from 0.01 to 5 mole %, from 0.01 to 1 mole %, from 0.05 to 5 mole %, from 0.05 to 1 mole %, or from 0.1 to 0.7 mole %, based the total mole percentages of either the diol or diacid residues; respectively, of one or more residues of a branching monomer, also referred to herein as a branching agent, having 3 or more carboxyl substituents, hydroxyl substituents, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the branching monomer or agent may be added prior to and/or during and/or after the polymerization of the polyester. The copolyester(s) useful in the invention can thus be linear or branched.

[0061] Examples of branching monomers include, but are not limited to, multifunctional acids or multifunctional alcohols such as trimellitic acid, trimellitic anhydride, pyromellitic dianhydride, trimethylolpropane, glycerol, pentaerythritol, citric acid, tartaric acid, 3-hydroxyglutaric acid and the like. In one embodiment, the branching monomer residues can comprise 0.1 to 0.7 mole % of one or more residues chosen from at least one of the following: trimellitic anhydride, pyromellitic dianhydride, glycerol, sorbitol, 1 ,2,6- hexanetriol, pentaerythritol, trimethylolethane, and/or trimesic acid. The branching monomer may be added to the polyester reaction mixture or blended with the polyester in the form of a concentrate as described, for example, in U. S. Patent Numbers 5,654,347 and 5,696,176, whose disclosure regarding branching monomers is incorporated herein by reference.

[0062] In embodiments, the CHDM can be 1 ,4-cyclohexanedimethanol. The 1 ,4-cyclohexanedimethanol may be cis, trans, or a mixture thereof, for example a cis/trans ratio of 60:40 to 40:60. In another embodiment, the trans- 1 ,4-cyclohexanedimethanol can be present in an amount of 60 to 80 mole %. Alternatively, 1 ,2- and/or 1 -3-cyclohexanedimethanol may be used individually or in combination with each other and/or 1 ,4-cyclohexanedimethanol.

[0063] The glycol component of the copolyester portion of the copolyester composition useful in the various embodiments can contain modifying glycols which are not CHDM or TMCD; in one embodiment, the copolyesters useful in the invention may contain less than 15 mole %, or 10 mole % or less, of one or more modifying glycols.

[0064] Modifying glycols useful in the copolyesters useful in embodiments refer to diols other than other than CHDM or TMCD and may contain 2 to 20, or 2 to 16, carbon atoms. Examples of suitable modifying glycols include, but are not limited to, ethylene glycol, 1 ,2-propanediol, 1 ,3- propanediol, neopentyl glycol, 1 ,4-butanediol, 1 ,5-pentanediol, 1 ,6-hexanediol, p-xylene glycol, isosorbide or mixtures thereof. In another embodiment, the modifying glycols are 1 ,3-propanediol and/or 1 ,4-butanedioL

[0065] In embodiments, the copolyester composition comprises at least one polyester, which comprises:

(a) a dicarboxylic acid component comprising: i) 70 to 100 mole % of terephthalic acid residues; ii) 0 to 30 mole % of aromatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 20 carbon atoms; and iii) 0 to 10 mole % of aliphatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 16 carbon atoms; and

(b) a glycol component comprising: i) 5 to 55 mole % of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol (TMCD) residues; and ii) 45 to 95 mole % of 1 ,4-cyclohexanedimethanol (CHDM) residues, wherein the total mole % of the dicarboxylic acid component is 100 mole %, the total mole % of the glycol component is 100 mole %; and wherein the inherent viscosity of the polyester is from 0.5 to 1 .2 dL/g as determined in 60/40 (wt/wt) phenol/tetrachloroethane at a concentration of 0.5 g/100 ml at 25° C.; and wherein the polyester has a Tg of from 100 to 200° C. [0066] In embodiments, the polyester composition comprises at least one polyester, which comprises:

(a) a dicarboxylic acid component comprising: i) 70 to 100 mole % of terephthalic acid residues; ii) 0 to 30 mole % of aromatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 20 carbon atoms; and iii) 0 to 10 mole % of aliphatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 16 carbon atoms; and

(b) a glycol component comprising: i) 20 to 40 mole % of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol residues; and ii) 60 to 80 mole % of 1 ,4-cyclohexanedimethanol residues, wherein the total mole % of the dicarboxylic acid component is 100 mole %, the total mole % of the glycol component is 100 mole %; and wherein the inherent viscosity of the polyester is from 0.35 to 0.85 dL/g as determined in 60/40 (wt/wt) phenol/tetrachloroethane at a concentration of 0.5 g/100 ml at 25° C.; and wherein the polyester has a Tg of from 100 to 120° C.

[0067] In embodiments, the polyester composition comprises at least one polyester, which comprises:

(a) a dicarboxylic acid component comprising: i) 70 to 100 mole % of terephthalic acid residues; ii) 0 to 30 mole % of aromatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 20 carbon atoms; and iii) 0 to 10 mole % of aliphatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 16 carbon atoms; and

(b) a glycol component comprising: i) 40 to 55 mole % of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol residues; and ii) 45 to 60 mole % of 1 ,4-cyclohexanedimethanol residues, wherein the total mole % of the dicarboxylic acid component is 100 mole %, the total mole % of the glycol component is 100 mole %; and wherein the inherent viscosity of the polyester is from 0.35 to 0.85 dL/g as determined in 60/40 (wt/wt) phenol/tetrachloroethane at a concentration of 0.5 g/100 ml at 25° C.; and wherein the polyester has a Tg of from 120 to 140° C.

[0068] In embodiments, the polyester composition comprises at least one polyester, which comprises:

(a) a dicarboxylic acid component comprising: i) 70 to 100 mole % of terephthalic acid residues; ii) 0 to 30 mole % of aromatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 20 carbon atoms; and iii) 0 to 10 mole % of aliphatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 16 carbon atoms; and

(b) a glycol component comprising: i) 15 to 70 mole % of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol residues; and ii) 30 to 85 mole % of 1 ,4-cyclohexanedimethanol residues, wherein the total mole % of the dicarboxylic acid component is 100 mole %, the total mole % of the glycol component is 100 mole %; and wherein the inherent viscosity of the polyester is from 0.35 to 0.85 dL/g as determined in 60/40 (wt/wt) phenol/tetrachloroethane at a concentration of 0.5 g/100 ml at 25° C.; and wherein the polyester has a Tg of from 100 to 140° C.

[0069] In embodiments, the polyester composition comprises at least one polyester, which comprises:

(a) a dicarboxylic acid component comprising: i) 70 to 100 mole % of terephthalic acid residues; ii) 0 to 30 mole % of aromatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 20 carbon atoms; and iii) 0 to 10 mole % of aliphatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 16 carbon atoms; and

(b) a glycol component comprising: i) 15 to 90 mole % of 2, 2, 4, 4-tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol residues; and ii) 10 to 85 mole % of 1 ,4-cyclohexanedimethanol residues, wherein the total mole % of the dicarboxylic acid component is 100 mole %, the total mole % of the glycol component is 100 mole %; and wherein the inherent viscosity of the polyester is from 0.1 to 1 .2 dL/g as determined in 60/40 (wt/wt) phenol/tetrachloroethane at a concentration of 0.5 g/100 ml at 25° C.; and wherein the polyester has a Tg of from 100 to 200° C. [0070] In embodiments, any one of the polyesters or polyester compositions described herein can further comprise residues of at least one branching agent. In embodiments, any one of the polyesters or polyester compositions described herein can comprise at least one thermal stabilizer or reaction products thereof.

[0071] In embodiments, the polyesters can contain less than 15 mole % ethylene glycol residues, such as, for example, 0.01 to less than 15 mole % ethylene glycol residues. In embodiments, the polyesters useful in the invention contain less than 10 mole %, or less than 5 mole %, or less than 4 mole %, or less than 2 mole %, or less than 1 mole % ethylene glycol residues, such as, for example, 0.01 to less than 10 mole %, or 0.01 to less than 5 mole %, or 0.01 to less than 4 mole %, or 0.01 to less than 2 mole %, or 0.01 to less than 1 mole %, ethylene glycol residues. In one embodiment, the polyesters useful in the invention contain no ethylene glycol residues.

[0072] In other embodiments, the glycol component for the polyesters can include but is not limited to at least one of the following combinations of ranges: 5 to less than 55 mole % 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol and greater than 45 up to 95 mole % 1 ,4-cyclohexanedimethanol; 5 to less than 50 mole % 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol and greater than 50 up to 95 mole % 1 ,4-cyclohexanedimethanol; 5 to less than 45 mole % 2, 2,4,4- tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol and greater than 55 up to 95 mole % 1 ,4- cyclohexanedimethanol; 5 to less than 40 mole % 2, 2, 4, 4-tetramethyl-1 ,3- cyclobutanediol and greater than 60 up to 95 mole % 1 ,4- cyclohexanedimethanol; 10 to 40 mole % 2, 2, 4, 4-tetramethyl-1 ,3- cyclobutanediol and 60 to 90 mole % 1 ,4-cyclohexanedimethanol; 10 to 35 mole % 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol and 65 to 90 mole % 1 ,4- cyclohexanedimethanol; 10 to 30 mole % 2, 2, 4, 4-tetramethyl-1 ,3- cyclobutanediol and 70 to 90 mole % 1 ,4-cyclohexanedimethanol; 10 to 25 mole % 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol and 75 to 90 mole % 1 ,4- cyclohexanedimethanol; 15 to 40 mole % 2, 2, 4, 4-tetramethyl-1 ,3- cyclobutanediol and 60 to 85 mole % 1 ,4-cyclohexanedimethanol; 15 to 35 mole % 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol and 65 to 85 mole % 1 ,4- cyclohexanedimethanol; 15 to 30 mole % 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1 ,3- cyclobutanediol and 70 to 85 mole % 1 ,4-cyclohexanedimethanol; 15 to 25 mole % 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol and 75 to 85 mole % 1 ,4- cyclohexanedimethanol; 15 to 20 mole % 2, 2, 4, 4-tetramethyl-1 ,3- cyclobutanediol and 75 to 80 mole % 1 ,4-cyclohexanedimethanol; and 17 to 23 mole % 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol and 77 to 83 mole % 1 ,4- cyclohexanedimethanol.

[0073] In certain embodiments, the glycol component of the polyester portion of the polyester composition can contain 25 mole % or less of one or more modifying glycols which are not 2, 2, 4, 4-tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol or 1 ,4-cyclohexanedimethanol; in one embodiment, the polyesters useful in the invention may contain less than 15 mole % of one or more modifying glycols. In another embodiment, the polyesters can contain 10 mole % or less of one or more modifying glycols. In another embodiment, the polyesters can contain 5 mole % or less of one or more modifying glycols. In another embodiment, the polyesters can contain 3 mole % or less of one or more modifying glycols. In another embodiment, the polyesters can contain 0 mole % modifying glycols. Certain embodiments can also contain 0.01 or more mole %, such as 0.1 or more mole %, 1 or more mole %, 5 or more mole %, or 10 or more mole % of one or more modifying glycols. Thus, if present, it is contemplated that the amount of one or more modifying glycols can range from any of these preceding endpoint values including, for example, from 0.01 to 15 mole % and from 0.1 to 10 mole %.

[0074] In embodiments, modifying glycols in the polyesters can refer to diols other than 2, 2, 4, 4, -tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol and 1 ,4- cyclohexanedimethanol and may contain 2 to 16 carbon atoms. Examples of suitable modifying glycols in certain embodiments include, but are not limited to, ethylene glycol, 1 ,2-propanediol, 1 ,3-propanediol, neopentyl glycol, 1 ,4- butanediol, 1 ,5-pentanediol, 1 ,6-hexanediol, p-xylene glycol or mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the modifying glycol is ethylene glycol. In another embodiment, the modifying glycols are 1 ,3-propanediol and/or 1 ,4-butanedioL In another embodiment, ethylene glycol is excluded as a modifying diol. In another embodiment, 1 ,3-propanediol and 1 ,4-butanediol are excluded as modifying diols. In another embodiment, 2, 2-dimethyl-1 ,3-propanediol is excluded as a modifying diol.

[0075] In embodiments, the mole % of cis-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1 ,3- cyclobutanediol in certain polyesters is greater than 50 mole % or greater than 55 mole % of cis-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol or greater than 70 mole % of cis-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol; wherein the total mole percentage of cis-2, 2, 4, 4-tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol and trans-2, 2, 4, 4- tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol is equal to a total of 100 mole %.

[0076] In embodiments, the mole % of the isomers of 2, 2,4,4- tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol in certain polyesters is from 30 to 70 mole % of cis-2, 2, 4, 4-tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol or from 30 to 70 mole % of trans-

2.2.4.4-tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol, or from 40 to 60 mole % of cis-2, 2,4,4- tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol or from 40 to 60 mole % of trans-2, 2,4,4- tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol, wherein the total mole percentage of cis-

2.2.4.4-tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol and trans-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1 ,3- cyclobutanediol is equal to a total of 100 mole %.

[0077] In certain embodiments, the polyesters can be amorphous or semi-crystalline. In one aspect, certain polyesters can have a relatively low crystallinity. Certain polyesters can thus have a substantially amorphous morphology, meaning that the polyesters comprise substantially unordered regions of polymer.

[0078] In embodiments, the Tg of the polyesters can be at least one of the following ranges: 100 to 200° C.; 100 to 190° C.; 100 to 180° C.; 100 to 170° C.; 100 to 160° C.; 100 to 155° C.; 100 to 150° C.; 100 to 145° C.; 100 to

140° C.; 100 to 138° C.; 100 to 135° C.; 100 to 130° C.; 100 to 125° C.; 100 to

120° C.; 100 to 115° C.; 100 to 110° C.; 105 to 200° C.; 105 to 190° C.; 105 to

180° C.; 105 to 170° C.; 105 to 160° C.; 105 to 155° C.; 105 to 150° C.; 105 to

145° C.; 105 to 140° C.; 105 to 138° C.; 105 to 135° C.; 105 to 130° C.; 105 to

125° C.; 105 to 120° C.; 105 to 115° C.; 105 to 110° C. greater than 105 to 125° C.; greater than 105 to 120° C.; greater than 105 to 1 15° C.; greater than 105 to 110° C.; 110 to 200° C.; 110 to 190° C.; 110 to 180° C.; 110 to 170° C.; 110 to 160° C.; 110 to 155° C.; 110 to 150° C.; 110 to 145° C.; 110 to 140° C.; 110 to 138° C.; 110 to 135° C.; 110 to 130° C.; 110 to 125° C.; 110 to 120° C.; 110 to 115° C.; 115to 200° C.; 115 to 190° C.; 115 to 180° C.; 115 to 170° C.; 115 to 160° C.; 115to 155° C.; 115 to 150° C.; 115 to 145° C.; 115 to 140° C.; 115 to 138° C.; 115 to 135° C.; 110 to 130° C.; 115 to 125° C.; 115 to 120° C.; 120 to 200° C.; 120 to 190° C.; 120 to 180° C.; 120 to 170° C.; 120 to 160° C.; 120 to 155° C.; 120 to 150° C.; 120 to 145° C.; 120 to 140° C.; 120 to 138° C.; 120 to 135° C.; 120 to 130° C.; 125 to 200° C.; 125 to 190° C.; 125 to 180° C.; 125 to 170° C.; 125 to 160° C; 125 to 155° C.; 125 to 150° C.; 125 to 145° C.; 125 to 140° C.; 125 to 138° C.; 125 to 135° C.; 127 to 200° C.; 127 to 190° C.; 127 to 180° C.; 127 to 170° C.; 127 to 160° C.; 127 to 150° C.; 127 to 145° C.; 127 to 140° C.; 127 to 138° C.; 127 to 135° C.; 130 to 200° C.; 130 to 190° C.; 130 to 180° C.; 130 to 170° C.; 130 to 160° C.; 130 to 155° C.; 130 to 150° C.; 130 to 145° C.; 130 to 140° C.; 130 to 138° C.; 130 to 135° C.; 135 to 200° C.; 135 to 190° C.; 135 to 180° C.; 135 to 170° C.; 135 to 160° C.; 135 to 155° C.; 135 to 150° C.; 135 to 145° C.; 135 to 140° C.; 140 to 200° C.; 140 to 190° C; 140 to 180° C.; 140 to 170° C.; 140 to 160° C.; 140 to 155° C.; 140 to 150° C.; 140 to 145° C.; 148 to 200° C.; 148 to 190° C.; 148 to 180° C.; 148 to 170° C.; 148 to 160° C.; 148 to 155° C.; 148 to 150° C.; 150 to 200° C.; 150 to 190° C.; 150 to 180° C.; 150 to 170° C.; 150 to 160; 155 to 190° C.; 155 to 180° C.; 155 to 170° C.; and 155 to 165° C.

[0079] The glass transition temperature (Tg) of the polyesters can be determined using a TA DSC 2920 from Thermal Analyst Instrument at a scan rate of 20° C./min.

[0080] In embodiments, the polyesters can have an HDT in at least one of the following ranges: 70 to 120° C.; 70 to 110° C.; 70 to 100° C.; 70 to 95° C.; 70 to 90° C.; 72 to 120° C.; 72 to 110° C.; 72 to 100° C.; 72 to 95° C.; 72 to 90° C.; 75 to 120° C.; 75 to 110° C.; 75 to 100° C.; 75 to 95° C.; 75 to 90° C.; 76 to 120° C.; 76 to 110° C.; 76 to 100° C.; 76 to 95° C.; 76 to 90° C.; 77 to 120° C.; 77 to 110° C.; 77 to 100° C.; 77 to 95° C.; 77 to 90° C.; 78 to 120° C.; 78 to 110° C.; 78 to 100° C.; 78 to 95° C.; 78 to 90° C.; 79 to 120° C.; 79 to 1 10° C.; 79 to 100° C.; 79 to 95° C.; 79 to 90° C.; 80 to 120° C.; 80 to 110° C.; 80 to 100° C.; 80 to 95° C.; 80 to 90° C. The heat deflection temperature (HDT) of the polyesters can be determined according to ASTM D648 using a 3.2mm thick injection molded bar and a 1 .82 MPa applied stress.

[0081] For certain embodiments, the polyesters may exhibit at least one of the following inherent viscosities as determined in 60/40 (wt/wt) phenol/tetrachloroethane at a concentration of 0.5 g/100 ml at 25° C.: 0.10 to 1 .2 dL/g; 0.10 to 1 .1 dL/g; 0.10 to 1 dL/g; 0.10 to less than 1 dL/g; 0.10 to 0.98 dL/g; 0.10 to 0.95 dL/g; 0.10 to 0.90 dL/g; 0.10 to 0.85 dL/g; 0.10 to 0.80 dL/g; 0.10 to 0.75 dL/g; 0.10 to less than 0.75 dL/g; 0.10 to 0.72 dL/g; 0.10 to 0.70 dL/g; 0.10 to less than 0.70 dL/g; 0.10 to 0.68 dL/g; 0.10 to less than 0.68 dL/g; 0.10 to 0.65 dL/g; 0.20 to 1.2 dL/g; 0.20 to 1.1 dL/g; 0.20 to 1 dL/g; 0.20 to less than 1 dL/g; 0.20 to 0.98 dL/g; 0.20 to 0.95 dL/g; 0.20 to 0.90 dL/g; 0.20 to 0.85 dL/g; 0.20 to 0.80 dL/g; 0.20 to 0.75 dL/g; 0.20 to less than 0.75 dL/g; 0.20 to 0.72 dL/g; 0.20 to 0.70 dL/g; 0.20 to less than 0.70 dL/g; 0.20 to 0.68 dL/g; 0.20 to less than 0.68 dL/g; 0.20 to 0.65 dL/g; 0.35 to 1 .2 dL/g; 0.35 to 1 .1 dL/g; 0.35 to 1 dL/g; 0.35 to less than 1 dL/g; 0.35 to 0.98 dL/g; 0.35 to 0.95 dL/g; 0.35 to 0.90 dL/g; 0.35 to 0.85 dL/g; 0.35 to 0.80 dL/g; 0.35 to 0.75 dL/g; 0.35 to less than 0.75 dL/g; 0.35 to 0.72 dL/g; 0.35 to 0.70 dL/g; 0.35 to less than 0.70 dL/g; 0.35 to 0.68 dL/g; 0.35 to less than 0.68 dL/g; 0.35 to 0.65 dL/g; 0.40 to 1.2 dL/g; 0.40 to 1.1 dL/g; 0.40 to 1 dL/g; 0.40 to less than 1 dL/g; 0.40 to 0.98 dL/g; 0.40 to 0.95 dL/g; 0.40 to 0.90 dL/g; 0.40 to 0.85 dL/g; 0.40 to 0.80 dL/g; 0.40 to 0.75 dL/g; 0.40 to less than 0.75 dL/g; 0.40 to 0.72 dL/g; 0.40 to 0.70 dL/g; 0.40 to less than 0.70 dL/g; 0.40 to 0.68 dL/g; 0.40 to less than 0.68 dL/g; 0.40 to 0.65 dL/g; greater than 0.42 to 1 .2 dL/g; greater than 0.42 to 1 .1 dL/g; greater than 0.42 to 1 dL/g; greater than 0.42 to less than 1 dL/g; greater than 0.42 to 0.98 dL/g; greater than 0.42 to 0.95 dL/g; greater than 0.42 to 0.90 dL/g; greater than 0.42 to 0.85 dL/g; greater than 0.42 to 0.80 dL/g; greater than 0.42 to 0.75 dL/g; greater than 0.42 to less than 0.75 dL/g; greater than 0.42 to 0.72 dL/g; greater than 0.42 to less than 0.70 dL/g; greater than 0.42 to 0.68 dL/g; greater than 0.42 to less than 0.68 dL/g; and greater than 0.42 to 0.65 dL/g.

[0082] For certain embodiments, the polyesters may exhibit at least one of the following inherent viscosities as determined in 60/40 (wt/wt) phenol/tetrachloroethane at a concentration of 0.5 g/100 ml at 25° C: 0.45 to 1 .2 dL/g; 0.45 to 1 .1 dL/g; 0.45 to 1 dL/g; 0.45 to 0.98 dL/g; 0.45 to 0.95 dL/g; 0.45 to 0.90 dL/g; 0.45 to 0.85 dL/g; 0.45 to 0.80 dL/g; 0.45 to 0.75 dL/g; 0.45 to less than 0.75 dL/g; 0.45 to 0.72 dL/g; 0.45 to 0.70 dL/g; 0.45 to less than 0.70 dL/g; 0.45 to 0.68 dL/g; 0.45 to less than 0.68 dL/g; 0.45 to 0.65 dL/g; 0.50 to 1.2 dL/g; 0.50 to 1.1 dL/g; 0.50 to 1 dL/g; 0.50 to less than 1 dL/g; 0.50 to 0.98 dL/g; 0.50 to 0.95 dL/g; 0.50 to 0.90 dL/g; 0.50 to 0.85 dL/g; 0.50 to 0.80 dL/g; 0.50 to 0.75 dL/g; 0.50 to less than 0.75 dL/g; 0.50 to 0.72 dL/g; 0.50 to 0.70 dL/g; 0.50 to less than 0.70 dL/g; 0.50 to 0.68 dL/g; 0.50 to less than 0.68 dL/g; 0.50 to 0.65 dL/g; 0.55 to 1.2 dL/g; 0.55 to 1.1 dL/g; 0.55 to 1 dL/g; 0.55 to less than 1 dL/g; 0.55 to 0.98 dL/g; 0.55 to 0.95 dL/g; 0.55 to 0.90 dL/g; 0.55 to 0.85 dL/g; 0.55 to 0.80 dL/g; 0.55 to 0.75 dL/g; 0.55 to less than 0.75 dL/g; 0.55 to 0.72 dL/g; 0.55 to 0.70 dL/g; 0.55 to less than 0.70 dL/g; 0.55 to 0.68 dL/g; 0.55 to less than 0.68 dL/g; 0.55 to 0.65 dL/g; 0.58 to 1 .2 dL/g; 0.58 to 1 .1 dL/g; 0.58 to 1 dL/g; 0.58 to less than 1 dL/g; 0.58 to 0.98 dL/g; 0.58 to 0.95 dL/g; 0.58 to 0.90 dL/g; 0.58 to 0.85 dL/g; 0.58 to 0.80 dL/g; 0.58 to 0.75 dL/g; 0.58 to less than 0.75 dL/g; 0.58 to 0.72 dL/g; 0.58 to 0.70 dL/g; 0.58 to less than 0.70 dL/g; 0.58 to 0.68 dL/g; 0.58 to less than 0.68 dL/g; 0.58 to 0.65 dL/g; 0.60 to 1.2 dL/g; 0.60 to 1.1 dL/g; 0.60 to 1 dL/g; 0.60 to less than 1 dL/g; 0.60 to 0.98 dL/g; 0.60 to 0.95 dL/g; 0.60 to 0.90 dL/g; 0.60 to 0.85 dL/g; 0.60 to 0.80 dL/g; 0.60 to 0.75 dL/g; 0.60 to less than 0.75 dL/g; 0.60 to 0.72 dL/g; 0.60 to 0.70 dL/g; 0.60 to less than 0.70 dL/g; 0.60 to 0.68 dL/g; 0.60 to less than 0.68 dL/g; 0.60 to 0.65 dL/g; 0.65 to 1.2 dL/g; 0.65 to 1.1 dL/g; 0.65 to 1 dL/g; 0.65 to less than 1 dL/g; 0.65 to 0.98 dL/g; 0.65 to 0.95 dL/g; 0.65 to 0.90 dL/g; 0.65 to 0.85 dL/g; 0.65 to 0.80 dL/g; 0.65 to 0.75 dL/g; 0.65 to less than 0.75 dL/g; 0.65 to 0.72 dL/g; 0.65 to 0.70 dL/g; 0.65 to less than 0.70 dL/g; 0.68 to 1.2 dL/g; 0.68 to 1.1 dL/g; 0.68 to 1 dL/g; 0.68 to less than 1 dL/g; 0.68 to 0.98 dL/g; 0.68 to 0.95 dL/g; 0.68 to 0.90 dL/g; 0.68 to 0.85 dL/g; 0.68 to 0.80 dL/g; 0.68 to 0.75 dL/g; 0.68 to less than 0.75 dL/g; 0.68 to 0.72 dL/g; greater than 0.76 dug to 1 .2 dL/g; greater than 0.76 dL/g to 1 .1 dL/g; greater than 0.76 dL/g to 1 dL/g; greater than 0.76 dL/g to less than 1 dL/g; greater than 0.76 dL/g to 0.98dL/g; greater than 0.76 dL/g to 0.95 dL/g; greater than 0.76 dL/g to 0.90 dL/g; greater than 0.80 dL/g to 1.2 dL/g; greater than 0.80 dL/g to 1.1 dL/g; greater than 0.80 dL/g to 1 dL/g; greater than 0.80 dL/g to less than 1 dL/g; greater than 0.80 dL/g to 1 .2 dL/g; greater than 0.80 dL/g to 0.98d L/g ; greater than 0.80 dL/g to 0.95 dL/g; greater than 0.80 dL/g to 0.90 dL/g.

[0083] In certain embodiments, it is contemplated that the polyester compositions can possess at least one of the inherent viscosity ranges described herein and at least one of the monomer ranges for the compositions described herein unless otherwise stated. It is also contemplated that the polyester compositions can possess at least one of the Tg ranges described herein and at least one of the monomer ranges for the compositions described herein unless otherwise stated. It is also contemplated that the polyester compositions can possess at least one of the Tg ranges described herein, at least one of the inherent viscosity ranges described herein, and at least one of the monomer ranges for the compositions described herein unless otherwise stated.

[0084] In embodiments, the molar ratio of cis/trans 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl- 1 ,3-cyclobutanediol can vary from the pure form of each or mixtures thereof. In certain embodiments, the molar percentages for cis and/or trans 2, 2,4,4, - tetramethyl-1 ,3-cyclobutanediol are greater than 50 mole % cis and less than 50 mole % trans; or greater than 55 mole % cis and less than 45 mole % trans; or 30 to 70 mole % cis and 70 to 30% trans; or 40 to 60 mole % cis and 60 to 40 mole % trans; or 50 to 70 mole % trans and 50 to 30% cis or 50 to 70 mole % cis and 50 to 30% trans; or 60 to 70 mole % cis and 30 to 40 mole % trans; or greater than 70 mole cis and less than 30 mole % trans; wherein the total sum of the mole percentages for cis- and trans-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1 ,3- cyclobutanediol is equal to 100 mole %. The molar ratio of cis/trans 1 ,4- cyclohexandimethanol can vary within the range of 50/50 to 0/100, such as between 40/60 to 20/80.

[0085] The polyester portion of the polyester compositions can be made by processes known from the literature such as, for example, by processes in homogenous solution, by transesterification processes in the melt, and by two phase interfacial processes. Suitable methods include those disclosed in U.S. Published Application 2006/0287484, the contents of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0086] In embodiments, the polyester can be prepared by a method that includes reacting one or more dicarboxylic acids (or derivative thereof) with one or more glycols under conditions to provide the polyester including, but are not limited to, the steps of reacting one or more dicarboxylic acids (or derivative thereof) with one or more glycols at a temperature of 100°C to 315°C at a pressure of 0.1 to 760 mm Hg for a time sufficient to form a polyester. See U.S. Pat. No. 3,772,405 for methods of producing polyesters, the disclosure regarding such methods is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

[0087] In embodiments, the polyester composition can be a polymer blend, wherein the blend comprises: (a) 5 to 95 wt % of at least one of the polyesters described herein; and (b) 5 to 95 wt % of at least one additional polymer component. Suitable examples of polymer components include, but are not limited to, nylon, polyesters different from those described herein, e.g., polyethylene or polybutylene terephthalate (PET or PBT), polyamides such as ZYTEL® from DuPont; polystyrene, polystyrene copolymers, styrene acrylonitrile copolymers, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene copolymers such as GP-35 ABS (from Ineos-Styrolution), poly(methylmethacrylate), acrylic copolymers, poly(ether-imides) such as ULTEM® (a poly(ether-imide) from General Electric); polyphenylene oxides such as poly(2,6-dimethylphenylene oxide) or poly(phenylene oxide)/polystyrene blends such as NORYL 1000® (a blend of poly(2,6-dimethylphenylene oxide) and polystyrene resins from General Electric); polyphenylene sulfides; polyphenylene sulfide/sulfones; poly(ester-carbonates); polycarbonates such as LEXAN® (a polycarbonate from General Electric) or Makrolon (a polycarbonate from Covestro); polysulfones; polysulfone ethers; and poly(ether-ketones) of aromatic dihydroxy compounds; or mixtures of any of the other foregoing polymers. The blends can be prepared by conventional processing techniques known in the art, such as melt blending or solution blending. In one embodiment, the polycarbonate is not present in the polyester composition. However, the polyester compositions useful in the invention also contemplate the exclusion of polycarbonate as well as the inclusion of polycarbonate. In embodiments, the additional polymer component is present in an amount 5 to 25, or 5 to 20, or 5 to 15, or 5 to 10 wt%, based on the total weight of the polyester composition.

[0088] In addition, the copolyester composition may further comprise one or more additional additives chosen from colorants, dyes, mold release agents, flame retardants, plasticizers, processing aids, rheology modifiers, nucleating agents, antioxidants, light stabilizers, fillers, and reinforcing materials.

[0089] In embodiments, the polyester compositions and the polymer blend compositions may also contain (in addition to the component described herein) from 0.01 to 25% by weight of the overall composition common additives such as colorants, dyes, mold release agents, flame retardants, plasticizers, nucleating agents, stabilizers, including but not limited to, UV stabilizers, thermal stabilizers and/or reaction products thereof, fillers, and other impact modifiers. For example, UV additives can be incorporated into the articles (e.g., ophthalmic product(s)) through addition to the bulk or in the hard coat.

[0090] In certain embodiments, the polyester compositions and the polymer blend compositions may contain fillers or reinforcing additives, such as glass (or other) fibers, in an amount from 1 to 45 wt%, or 1 to 40 wt%, or 1 to 35 wt%, or 1 to 30 wt%, or 5 to 45 wt%, or 5 to 40 wt%, or 5 to 35 wt%, or 5 to 30 wt%, or 10 to 45 wt%, or 10 to 40 wt%, or 10 to 35 wt%, or 10 to 30 wt%, or 15 to 45 wt%, or 15 to 40 wt%, or 15 to 35 wt%, or 15 to 30 wt%, or 20 to 45 wt%, or 20 to 40 wt%, or 20 to 35 wt%, or 20 to 30 wt%, based on the total composition. In certain embodiments that include such fillers or reinforcing additives, the polyester compositions and the polymer blend compositions may also contain (in addition to the components described herein and the fillers/reinforcing additives) from 0.01 to 25%, or 0.01 to 20%, or 0.01 to 15%, or 0.01 to 10% by weight of the overall composition other common additives, such as those discussed above.

[0091] In certain embodiments, the polyester compositions and the polymer blend compositions may contain colorants, such as TiC>2, in an amount from 1 to 40 wt%, or 1 to 35 wt%, or 1 to 30 wt%, or 1 to 25wt%, or 5 to 40 wt%, or 5 to 35 wt%, or 5 to 30 wt%, or 5 to 25 wt%, or 10 to 40 wt%, or 10 to 35 wt%, or 10 to 30 wt%, or 10 to 25 wt%, or 15 to 40 wt%, or 15 to 35 wt%, or 15 to 30 wt%, or 15 to 25 wt%, or 20 to 40 wt%, or 20 to 35 wt%, or 20 to 30 wt%, or 20 to 25 wt%, based on the total composition. In certain embodiments that include such colorants, the polyester compositions and the polymer blend compositions may also contain (in addition to the components described herein and the colorants) from 0.01 to 25%, or 0.01 to 20%, or 0.01 to 15%, or 0.01 to 10% by weight of the overall composition other common additives, such as those discussed above.

[0092] In embodiments, the polyester compositions and the polymer blend compositions may contain one or more antioxidants in an amount from 0.01 to 2 wt%, or 0.01 to 1 .5 wt%, or 0.01 to 1 wt%, or 0.01 to 0.75 wt%, or 0.01 to 0.5 wt%, or 0.01 to 0.4 wt%, or 0.01 to 0.3 wt%, based on the total composition. Examples of antioxidants can include Irganox 1010, Irgafos 168, or combinations thereof.

[0093] In one aspect, the copolyester compositions of the present invention comprise a copolyester composition comprising any of the copolyesters described above and the impact modifier component.

[0094] In embodiments, the polyesters can comprise at least one chain extender. Suitable chain extenders include, but are not limited to, multifunctional (including, but not limited to, bifunctional) isocyanates, multifunctional epoxides, including for example, epoxylated novolacs, and phenoxy resins. In certain embodiments, chain extenders may be added at the end of the polymerization process or after the polymerization process. If added after the polymerization process, chain extenders can be incorporated by compounding or by addition during conversion processes such as injection molding or extrusion. The amount of chain extender used can vary depending on the specific monomer composition used and the physical properties desired but is generally from 0.1 percent by weight to 10 percent by weight, such as from 0.1 to 5 percent by weight, based on the total weigh of the polyester.

[0095] Thermal stabilizers are compounds that stabilize polyesters during polyester manufacture and/or post polymerization, including, but not limited to, phosphorous compounds, including, but not limited to, phosphoric acid, phosphorous acid, phosphonic acid, phosphinic acid, phosphonous acid, and various esters and salts thereof. The esters can be alkyl, branched alkyl, substituted alkyl, difunctional alkyl, alkyl ethers, aryl, and substituted aryl. In one embodiment, the number of ester groups present in the particular phosphorous compound can vary from zero up to the maximum allowable based on the number of hydroxyl groups present on the thermal stabilizer used. The term “thermal stabilizer” is intended to include the reaction product(s) thereof. The term “reaction product” as used in connection with the thermal stabilizers of the invention refers to any product of a polycondensation or esterification reaction between the thermal stabilizer and any of the monomers used in making the polyester as well as the product of a polycondensation or esterification reaction between the catalyst and any other type of additive. In embodiments, these can be present in the polyester compositions.

[0096] In embodiments, reinforcing materials may be useful in the polyester compositions. The reinforcing materials may include, but are not limited to, carbon filaments, silicates, mica, clay, talc, titanium dioxide, Wollastonite, glass flakes, glass beads and fibers, and polymeric fibers and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the reinforcing materials are glass, such as, fibrous glass filaments, mixtures of glass and talc, glass and mica, and glass and polymeric fibers. [0097] In another aspect, the invention relates to copolyester compositions comprising a copolyester produced by a process comprising:

(I) heating a mixture comprising the monomers useful in any of the copolyesters in the invention in the presence of a catalyst at a temperature of 150 to 240°C for a time sufficient to produce an initial copolyester;

(II) heating the initial copolyester of step (I) at a temperature of 240 to 320°C for 1 to 4 hours; and

(III) removing any unreacted glycols.

[0098] Suitable catalysts for use in this process include, but are not limited to, organo-zinc or tin compounds. The use of this type of catalyst is well known in the art. Examples of catalysts useful in the present invention include, but are not limited to, zinc acetate, butyltin tris-2-ethylhexanoate, dibutyltin diacetate, and dibutyltin oxide. Other catalysts may include, but are not limited to, those based on titanium, zinc, manganese, lithium, germanium, and cobalt. Catalyst amounts can range from 10 ppm to 20,000 ppm or 10 to 10,000 ppm, or 10 to 5000 ppm or 10 to 1000 ppm or 10 to 500 ppm, or 10 to 300 ppm or 10 to 250 based on the catalyst metal and based on the weight of the final polymer. The process can be carried out in either a batch or continuous process.

[0099] Typically, step (I) can be carried out until 50% by weight or more of the glycol has been reacted. Step (I) may be carried out under pressure, ranging from atmospheric pressure to 100 psig. The term "reaction product" as used in connection with any of the catalysts useful in the invention refers to any product of a polycondensation or esterification reaction with the catalyst and any of the monomers used in making the polyester as well as the product of a polycondensation or esterification reaction between the catalyst and any other type of additive.

[00100] Typically, step (II) and step (III) can be conducted at the same time. These steps can be carried out by methods known in the art such as by placing the reaction mixture under a pressure ranging from 0.002 psig to below atmospheric pressure, or by blowing hot nitrogen gas over the mixture. [00101] The impact modifier component can be incorporated into the copolyester in a concentrate form by any conventional method for ultimate formation into an article.

[00102] The impact modifiers can be incorporated in a plastics compounding line such as a twin-screw compounding line to form a copolyester composition concentrate. The pellets are then fed into the throat of the extruder and melted from 430°F to 520°F (221°C to 271 °C) to produce a viscous thermoplastic material. Alternatively, the impact modifiers added together with a loss-in-weight feeder or added singly in a loss-in-weight feeder. The rotation of the two screws disperses the impact modifiers into the copolyester. The mixture is then extruded through a die to produce multiple strands. In certain embodiments, the strands are fed through a water trough to cool the pellets. Upon exiting the water trough, the strands are dried and fed into a dicer to cut the strands into pellets. Alternatively, the mixture can be extruded through a circular flat plate die with multiple openings into water. The flat plate die has a rotating cutter that slices the strands as they extrude from the die to produce pellets. The continuous flow of water cools the pellets and transports them to a drying section, typically a centrifuge to separate the pellets from the water.

[00103] Alternatively, the impact modifiers can be incorporated into a plastics compounding line such as a two-rotor continuous compounding mixer (such as a Farrell Continuous Mixer) to form a copolyester composition concentrate. In this case copolyester pellets are dried for 4 to 6 hours at 150°F to 190°F (65.6°C to 87.8°C) to reduce moisture. The copolyester pellets and the impact modifers are fed into the throat of the continuous mixer and melted into a homogenous mixture at 430°F to 520°F (221 °C to 271 ° C). The output rate of the mixer is controlled by varying the area of a discharge orifice. The melt can be sliced off into ‘loaves’ and fed to a two-roll mill or the throat of a single screw extruder. In the case of the melt being fed to a two-roll mill, the melt covers one of the rolls to form a sheet of the concentrate which is cut into strips which are fed to the throat of a single screw extruder. The mixture is then extruded through a die to produce multiple strands. The strands are fed through a water trough to cool the pellets. Upon exiting the water trough, the strands are dried and fed into a dicer to cut the strands into pellets. Alternatively, the mixture can be extruded through a circular flat plate die with multiple openings into water. The flat plate die has a rotating cutter that slices the strands as they extrude from the die to produce pellets. The continuous flow of water cools the pellets and transports them to a drying section, typically a centrifuge to separate the pellets from the water. In the case of the ‘loaves’ (relatively large portions of the concentrate) being fed to a single screw extruder, the mixture is extruded through a die to produce multiple strands. The strands can be fed through a water trough to cool the pellets. Upon exiting the water trough, the strands are dried and fed into a dicer to cut the strands into pellets. Alternatively, the mixture can be extruded through a circular flat plate die with multiple openings into water. The flat plate die has a rotating cutter that slices the strands as they extrude from the die to produce pellets. The continuous flow of water cools the pellets and transports them to a drying section, typically a centrifuge to separate the pellets from the water.

[00104] Alternatively, the impact modifiers can be incorporated in a high- intensity mixer such a Banbury® batch type mixer to form a copolyester composition concentrate. In this case, the copolyester pellets can be dried for 4 to 6 hours at 150°F to 190°F (65.6°C to 87.8°C) to reduce moisture. The copolyester pellets and the impact modifiers are charged into a high-intensity mixer and a ram lowered to compress the pellet/impact modifiers mixture into the mixing chamber. Two rotating mixer blades melt the pellets and disperse the impact modifiers into the melt. When the desired temperature is reached, a door is opened in the bottom of the mixer and the mixture is dropped onto a two-roll mill. A ribbon from the two-roll mill can then be fed to a single screw extruder. The mixture is then extruded through a die to produce multiple strands. The strands can be fed through a water trough to cool the pellets. Upon exiting the water trough, the strands are dried and fed into a dicer to cut the strands into pellets. Alternatively, the mixture can be extruded through a circular flat plate die with multiple openings into water. The flat plate die has a rotating cutter that slices the strands as they extrude from the die to produce pellets. The continuous flow of water cools the pellets and transports them to a drying section, typically a centrifuge to separate the pellets from the water.

[00105] The present invention includes plastic articles comprising the copolyester compositions. The plastic articles may be made by processes comprising, but not limited to, extrusion of the copolyester composition to produce a continuous flat sheet or profile or injection molding to create discrete articles or calendering to produce a continuous film or sheet or additive manufacturing of a powder or filament to produce a three-dimensional shape.

[00106] Films and/or sheets useful in the present invention can be of any thickness which would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. In one embodiment, the films(s) of the invention have a thickness of less than 30 mils or less than 20 mils or less than 10 mils or less than 5 mils. In one embodiment, the sheets of the invention have a thickness of greater than 30 mils. In one embodiment, the sheets of the invention have a thickness of from 30 mils to 100 mils or from 30 mils to 200 mils or from 30 mils to 500 mils.

[00107] The invention further relates to the films and/or sheets comprising the polyester compositions of the invention. The methods of forming the polyesters into films and/or sheets are well known in the art. Examples of films and/or sheets of the invention include, but are not limited to, extruded films and/or sheets, calendered films and/or sheets, compression molded films and/or sheets, injection molded films or sheets, and solution casted films and/or sheets. Methods of making film and/or sheet include but are not limited to extrusion, calendering, extrusion molding, compression molding, and solution casting. These films or sheets may be made or subjected to further processing such as orientation (uniaxial or biaxial), heat setting, surface treatment, etc.

[00108] In one embodiment of the invention comprises a flat sheet or profile. The sheet or profile is prepared by extruding the copolyester composition to produce a flat sheet or profile. In this case, pellets of the copolyester composition are dried at 150°F to 190°F (65.6°C to 87.8°C) for 4 to 6 hours and are then fed to either a single screw extruder, a twin-screw extruder, or a conical twin screw extruder. The copolyester composition pellets are conveyed and compressed by the screw(s) down the extruder barrel to melt the pellets and discharge the melt from the end of the extruder. The melt is fed through a screening device to remove debris and/or a melt pump to reduce pressure variations caused by the extruder. The melt is then fed through a die to create a continuous flat sheet or into a profile die to create a continuous shape. In one embodiment of the invention comprising a flat sheet die, the melt is extruded onto a series of metal rolls, typically three, to cool the melt and impart a finish onto the sheet. The flat sheet is then conveyed in a continuous sheet for a distance or period of time sufficient to cool the sheet. The sheet is then trimmed to the desired width and then either rolled up into a roll or sheared or sawed into sheet form of desired dimensions. A flat sheet can also be formed into a shaped article through mechanical means to form a desired shaped article and then cooled either by spraying with water, by conveying through a water trough or by blowing air on the shaped article. The article then sawed or sheared to the desired length. In the case of a profile die, the die is designed to produce the desired shape of the profile. After exiting the die, the profile is then cooled either by spraying with water, by conveying through a water trough or by blowing air on the profile. The profile is then sawed or sheared to the desired length. In the case of a fiber, the fiber can be pulled out of the extrusion die spinnerets to the desired fiber diameter and crystallized for physical property enhancement.

[00109] Another embodiment of the invention comprises mixing neat copolyester pellets with a concentrate of impact modifiers and then extruding the copolyester composition. The impact modifier concentrate can be compounded as a pellet. The pellets are dried at 150°F to 190°F (65.6°C to 87.8°C) for 4 to 6 hours before extrusion. The pellets are dried after being blended in a low-intensity mixer such as a ribbon blender, a tumbler, or conical screw blender. The pellets are then fed to an extruder including, but not limited to, a single screw extruder, a twin-screw extruder, or a conical twin screw extruder. The pellets are conveyed and compressed by the screw(s) down the extruder barrel to melt the pellets and discharge the melt from the end of the extruder. The melt is typically fed through a screening device to remove debris and/or a melt pump to reduce pressure variations caused by the extruder. The melt is then fed through a die to create a continuous flat sheet or into a profile die to create a continuous shape. In the case of the flat sheet die, the melt is extruded onto a series of metal rolls, typically three, to cool the melt and impart a finish onto the sheet. The flat sheet is then conveyed in a continuous sheet for a distance or period of time sufficient to cool the sheet. It can then be trimmed to the desired width and then either rolled up into a roll or sheared or sawed into sheet form. A flat sheet can also be formed into a shape through mechanical means to form a desired shape and then cooled either by spraying with water, through a water trough or by blowing air on the shaped article. It can then be sawed or sheared to the desired length. In the case of a film, the film may be produced and wound into a roll. In the case of a profile die, the die is designed to produce the desired shape of the article. After exiting the die, the profile can then be cooled either by spraying with water, through a water trough or by blowing air on the profile. It can then be sawed or sheared to the desired length. In the case of a fiber, the fiber can be pulled out of the extrusion die spinnerets to the desired fiber diameter and crystallized for physical property enhancement.

[00110] Another embodiment can include mixing neat copolyester pellets with impact modifier concentrate and then extruding them with either short or long strand glass fiber reinforcement or extruding them into a continuous glass fiber composite film, sheet or tape. The impact modifer can be compounded as a single pellet. The pellets are dried at 150° F to 190°F (65.6°C to 87.8°C) for 4 to 6 hours before extrusions. The pellets can be dried separately or together after being blended in a low-intensity mixer such as a ribbon blender, a tumbler, or conical screw blender. The pellets are then fed to either a single screw extruder, a twin-screw extruder, or a conical twin screw extruder. The pellets are conveyed and compressed by the screw(s) down the extruder barrel to melt the pellets and discharge the melt from the end of the extruder. The melt can be fed through a screening device to remove debris and/or a melt pump to reduce pressure variations caused by the extruder. The melt can then be fed through a die to create a continuous flat sheet or into a profile die to create a continuous shape. In the case of the flat sheet die, the melt is extruded onto a series of metal rolls, typically three, to cool the melt and impart a finish onto the sheet. The flat sheet is then conveyed in a continuous sheet to cool the sheet. It can then be trimmed to the desired width and then either rolled up into a roll or sheared or sawed into sheet form. A flat sheet can also be formed into a shape through mechanical means to form a desired shape and then cooled either by spraying with water, through a water trough or by blowing air on the profile. It can then be cut, e.g., sawed, or sheared to the desired length or a film may be produced and wound into a roll. In the case of a profile die, the die is designed to produce the desired shape of the article. After exiting the die, it can then be cooled either by spraying with water, through a water trough or by blowing air on the profile. It can then be cut or sheared to the desired length. In the case of a fiber, the fiber can be pulled out of the extrusion die spinnerets to the desired fiber diameter and crystallized for physical property enhancement. [00111] Another embodiment can comprise extruding fully compounded pellets of the copolyester composition, comprising the copolyester and impact modifiers, to produce an injection molded article. In this case, the pellets are dried at 150° F to 190°F (65.6°C to 87.8°C) for 4 to 6 hours to dry the pellets which are then fed to an injection molding machine. Once the pellets reach the desired temperature, a gate is opened at the end of the extruder and the melted plastic is pumped by the screw into a heated mold to form an article of the desired shape. Once the mold is filled, a coolant is pumped through the mold to cool it and the melted plastic. Once the plastic has solidified, the mold is opened and the article is removed from the mold.

[00112] Another embodiment can comprise mixing neat copolyester pellets with a concentrate of the impact modifiers and with or without short or long strand glass fiber to form the copolyester composition and then molding the copolyester composition to produce an injection molded article. The pellets are dried at 150°F to 190°F (65.6°C to 87.8°C) for 4 to 6 hours and are then fed to an injection molding machine. Once the pellets reach the desired temperature, a gate is opened at the end of the extruder and the melted plastic is pumped by the screw into a heated mold to form an article of the desired shape. Once the mold is filled, a coolant is pumped through the mold to cool it and the melted plastic. Once the plastic has solidified, the mold is opened and the article is removed from the mold.

[00113] Another embodiment can comprise mixing neat copolyester pellets with a concentrate of impact modifiers to form the copolyester composition and then calendering the copolyester composition to produce a film product. Calendering is a well-known process of forming a film or sheet through successive co-rotating parallel rollers. In certain calendering processes, the pellets may not need to be pre-dried if the processing temperatures are low enough (e.g., 350°F to 400°F; 177°C to 204°C). In such a case, degradation and hydrolysis of the polyester may not occur in a significant amount. The copolyester and impact modifer composition may be melted by using a high intensity mixer or extruder, including but not limited to, Buss Ko-kneader, a planetary gear extruder, Farrell continuous mixer, a twin- screw extruder, or a Banbury® type mixer. The melt is then conveyed to the calender. A calender typically consists essentially of a system of three or more large diameter heated rollers which convert high viscosity plastic into a film or sheet. The flat sheet or film is conveyed in a continuous web to cool the sheet. It can then be trimmed to the desired width and then either rolled up into a roll or sheared or sawed into sheet form.

[00114] Although the copolyester composition may be prepared by mixing or blending a concentrate of the impact modifiers and copolyester, the copolyester composition may alternatively be prepared by blending the impact modifiers directly with the copolyester, using any of the mixing or blending processed previously described for making the copolyester composition by blending the impact modifier concentrate and the copolyester. Impact modifiers may be mixed or blended with the copolyester simultaneously or sequentially. [00115] In embodiments, articles comprising any of the copolyester compositions (described herein) can include articles or components of articles configured for use or otherwise useful in any application where chemical resistance and impact resistance properties are beneficial, for example in one or more of the following applications: medical device housings or components, housings for electronic devices or peripherals, personal electronic device components, television or monitor housings or components, power tool housings or components, power adapter housings or components, home automation device components, gaming device housings or components, building and construction materials and components, furnishing and home decoration components, wiring and connector housings or components, and automotive structural or decorative components.

[00116] This invention can be further illustrated by the following examples of certain embodiments thereof, although it will be understood that these examples are included merely for purposes of illustration and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention unless otherwise specifically indicated.

EXAMPLES

[00117] The following abbreviations are used: J is Joules; J/m is Joules per meter; kJ is kilojoules; kJ/m² is kilojoules per square meter; MPa is megapascal; weight % is weight percent; CS is core-shell; IM is impact modifier; TPA is terephthalic acid; TMCD is 2,2,4,4-tetramethylcyclobutane-1 ,3-diol and 1 ,4-CHDM is 1 ,4-cyclohexanedimethanol. The materials used in testing are listed in Table 1.

Table 1 : Materials used in testing.

00118] Copolyester compositions were prepared by compounding on a Coperion ZSK-26mm co-rotating twin screw extruder. Prior to blending and compounding, TX1500HF pellets were dried for 6 hrs in 88°C desiccated air, Makrolon 2207 polycarbonate was dried for 6 hrs in 110°C desiccated air,

Terluran GP-35 ABS was dried for 6 hrs in 82°C desiccated air, and impact modifiers were not dried. Materials were fed into the extruder at the prescribed ratios using loss-in-weight gravimetric feeders. Barrel temperatures of 260- 275°C were used. [00119] Extruded strands were pelletized via a water bath/cutter or underwater pelletizer system, achieving an appropriate pellet size/shape for further processing. The formulations prepared are shown in Table 2 below.

[00120] T able 2 - Example formulations

[00121] The copolyester compositions were molded into parts/pieces for testing via an injection molding process using a Toyo 90 ton injection molding machine. Prior to molding, pellets of compounded materials were dried 6 hrs in 88 C desiccated air, and then test parts/pieces were molded under the following conditions: barrel temperatures ranged from 265-275°C with water-cooled mold temperatures ranging from 35-45°C. Test bars were molded at thicknesses of 3.2 mm (for notched Izod, HDT, flexural modulus and chemical/weathering testing) and 12.5 mm (for Charpy impact testing). Testing was performed on the Example materials and controls as described herein and the results are shown below in Table 3.

[00122] Standard Izod testing (1/8”): Standard notched Izod testing was performed according to ASTM D256 Test Method A using a 3.2mm thick injection molded bar, machine notched with a 0.25mm radius notch. Per the ASTM method, the hammer weight was 2.7 Joules or 13.6 Joules, depending on the inherent brittleness of the samples. Samples were conditioned for 48 hrs at 23C and 50%RH after notching and prior to testing. Impact resistance values are reported in units of Joules per meter of thickness (J/m). [00123] Charpy testing (1/2”) with and without aging: Charpy testing was performed according to ASTM D6110 using a 12.7mm thick injection molded bar cut down to 63mm in length and machine notched with either a 0.10mm or 0.25mm radius notch. The span was 51 mm. The hammer weight was 15 Joules. Samples were conditioned for 48 hrs at 23C and 50%RH after notching and prior to testing. One set of testing was performed on the as- molded bars, and another set was performed after ageing bars in an oven for 72 hours at 80C. Impact resistance values are reported in units of Joules per meter of thickness (J/m).

[00124] HDT: The heat deflection temperature (HDT) was determined according to ASTM D648 using a 3.2mm thick injection molded bar and a 1 .82 MPa applied stress. Samples were conditioned for 48 hrs at 23C and 50%RH after notching and prior to testing.

[00125] Flexural modulus: Flexural tangent modulus of elasticity was measured according to ASTM D790 Procedure A at a crosshead movement speed of 1 .27 mm/minute using a 3.2mm thick injection molded bar. Samples were conditioned for 48 hrs at 23C and 50%RH prior to testing.

[00126] Paint impact: To evaluate the embrittling effect of paint, 3.2mm x 12.7mm x 127mm injection molded bars were cut down to 63mm and were then spray painted with Rust-Oleum® Acrylic Enamel 2X Gloss Clear spray paint on one 12.7mm x 63mm face of the bar and left to dry for 24 hours. The bars were then mounted in a Charpy tester with the span reduced to 46mm so that the spray-painted face was opposite the striker of the hammer. The bars either broke in two (B) or bent (D) when the striker was released. Three replicates were tested.

[00127] Canola oil resistance: Embrittlement to canola oil was measured similar to ASTM D543-21 Practice B. For this test 3.2mm x 12.7mm x 127mm injection molded bars were held for 120 minutes at 1 .5% strain around a 106.4mm radius half-pipe while canola oil was placed against one 12.7mm x 127mm face of each bar. After exposure, the bars were removed from the fixture, the oil was removed from the bars, and the bars were mounted in a Charpy tester with a 102mm span so that the oil-exposed face was opposite the striker of the hammer. The bars either broke in two (B) or bent (D) when the striker was released. Three replicates were tested.

[00128] Weathering: Weathering was performed on 3.2mm thick x 12.7mm wide x 63 mm long molded bars in a Q-Lab Q-SUN Xe-3-HS weathering machine using Xenon Arc method ASTM G155 Cycle 1 , with 0.35 W/m^A2/nm @ 340 nm wavelength for 102 mins light, 63 C black panel temperature (BPT), 55% RH, 18 mins light with spray-no BPT specified. After weathering the desired interval, bars were impact tested according to ASTM D6395 Flatwise Flexural Impact Resistance method using either a 2.7 Joules or 13.6 Joules hammer, depending on the inherent brittleness of the samples. Impact resistance values are reported in units of kJ/m2.

[00129] Melt viscosity: Melt viscosity as a function of frequency was measured at 280C according to ASTM D4440 using a Rheometrics Dynamic Analyzer (RDA II) using parallel plate. The frequency ranged between 1 and 400 rad/sec. Values obtained at 280C and a frequency of 400 rad/sec, in units of Poise, are reported in table 3 below.

[00130] IV: Inherent viscosity (IV) was determined according to ASTM D4603 in 60/40 (wt/wt) phenol/tetrachloroethane at a concentration of 0.5g/100ml at 25C.

Table 3 - Test Results

[00131] A review of Table 3 reveals that compositions with a certain combination of the E-MA-GMA and E-MA additives had improved resistance to embrittlement as a result of paint, canola oil and UV exposure, while maintaining adequate viscosity, HDT, flexural modulus, Izod impact and Charpy impact, compared to the other materials tested.

[00132] The invention has been described in detail with reference to the embodiments disclosed herein, but it will be understood that variations and modifications can be affected within the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1 . A copolyester composition comprising:

(a) from about 50 to about 95 weight % of a copolyester, the copolyester comprising:

(i) a diacid component comprising from 70 to 100 mole % residues of terephthalic acid, from 0 to 30 mole % residues of a modifying aromatic diacid having from 8 to 12 carbon atoms, and from 0 to 10 mole % residues of an aliphatic dicarboxylic acid; and

(ii) a glycol component comprising from 45 to 95 mole % cyclohexanedimethanol (CHDM) residues, from 5 to 65 mole % 2,2,4,4-tetramethylcyclobutane-1 ,3-diol (TMCD) residues, and from 0 to 10 mole% of a modifying glycol having 2 to 20 carbon atoms; wherein the inherent viscosity of the copolyester is from 0.5 to 1.2 dL/g as determined in 60/40 (wt/wt) phenol/tetrachloroethane at a concentration of 0.5 g/100 ml at 25° C, and wherein the weight % is based on the weight of the copolyester, wherein the total mole % of the dicarboxylic acid component is 100 mole % and the total mole % of the glycol component is 100 mole %; and

(b) from about 5 to about 20 weight % of an impact modifier component that comprises a polymer or combination of polymers, said polymer or polymers comprising ethylene (E), alkyl acrylate (AA) and glycidyl (meth)acrylate (GMA and/or GA) groups wherein the weight ratio of alkyl acrylate to glycidyl (meth)acrylate is from about 3.0:1 to about 9.0:1 ; wherein the copolyester composition has a heat deflection temperature (HDT) of at least 75C; and wherein the copolyester composition has a notched Izod impact strength of 600 Joules/m or greater, or 700 Joules/m or greater, measured according to ASTM D256.

2. The copolyester composition according to claim 1 , wherein the copolyester composition has a notched charpy impact strength of 300, or 500, or 500 Joules/m or greater measured using a 12.7mm thick bar according to ASTM D6110.

3. The copolyester composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the copolyester composition has a notched charpy impact strength of 300, or 500, or 500 Joules/m or greater using a 12.7mm thick bar aged in an oven for 72 hours at 80C measured according to ASTM D6110.

4. The copolyester composition according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the impact modifier component comprises a E-MA-GMA terpolymer having a methyl acrylate content of 22 to 26 wt%.

5. The copolyester composition according to claim 4, wherein the impact modifier component further comprises an E-MA copolymer having a methyl acrylate content of 22 to 26 wt%.

6. The copolyester composition according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the glycol component comprises: from 60 to 95 mole % cyclohexanedimethanol residues and from 5 to 40 mole % of 2,2,4,4-tetramethylcyclobutane-1 ,3-diol residues.

7. The copolyester composition according to claim 6, wherein the glycol component comprises: from 70 to 95 mole % cyclohexanedimethanol residues and from 5 to 30, or 10 to 30, or 15 to 30, or 20 to 30, or 15 to 25 mole % of 2,2,4,4-tetramethylcyclobutane-1 ,3-diol residues.

8. The copolyester composition according to claim 6, wherein the glycol component comprises: from 60 to 75 mole % cyclohexanedimethanol residues and from 25 to 40, or 30 to 40 mole % of 2, 2,4,4- tetramethylcyclobutane-1 ,3-diol residues.

9. The copolyester composition according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the diacid component comprises: from 90 to 100 mole % residues of terephthalic acid, from 0 to 10 mole % residues of a modifying aromatic diacid having from 8 to 12 carbon atoms, and from 0 to 10 mole % residues of an aliphatic dicarboxylic acid.

10. The copolyester composition according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the inherent viscosity of the copolyester is from 0.55 to 0.85, or 0.55 to 0.65, or 0.65 to 0.80, or 0.65 to 0.75 dL/g.

1 1. The copolyester composition according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the impact modifier component is present in an amount from 5 to 15 wt%, or 5 to 10 wt% of the copolyester composition.

12. The copolyester composition according to any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the copolyester composition has a notched Izod impact strength of 750, or 775, or 800, or 825, or 850 Joules/m or greater measured according to ASTM D256.

13. The copolyester composition according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the copolyester composition has three replicates showing no breaking from impact tests after exposure to acylic enamel paint and/or canola oil, when tested as described below in the Examples.

14. The copolyester composition according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the copolyester composition has an impact resistance of at least 40, or at least 45, or at least 50, or at least 55, or at least 60 kJ/m2 after exposure to a Xenon Arc for 168 hrs according to ASTM D6395, as described in the Examples.

15. The copolyester composition according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the copolyester composition has a viscosity of less than 4000, or less than 3950, or less than 3900, or less than 3875, or less than 3850 poise, measured at 280C according to ASTM D4440 using a Rheometrics Dynamic Analyzer (RDA II) using parallel plate at a shear rate of 400 rad/s.

16. The copolyester composition according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the copolyester composition has a viscosity in a range from 3000 to 4000, or 3000 to 3950, or 3000 to 3900, or 3000 to 3875, or 3000 to 3850 poise, measured at 280C according to ASTM D4440 using a Rheometrics Dynamic Analyzer (RDA II) using parallel plate at a shear rate of 400 rad/s.

17. The copolyester composition according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the copolyester composition further comprises one or more additional additives chosen from additional polymer components, colorants, dyes, mold release agents, flame retardants, plasticizers, processing aids, rheology modifiers, nucleating agents, antioxidants, light stabilizers, fillers, and reinforcing materials.

18. An article comprising a copolyester composition according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

19. The article according to claim 18, wherein the article is in the form of a film, sheet, molded part, or profile.

20. The article according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the article is chosen from a housings for electronic devices or peripherals, personal electronic device components, television or monitor housings or components, power tool housings or components, power adapter housings or components, home automation device components, gaming device housings or components, building and construction materials and components, furnishing and home decoration components, wiring and connector housings or components, and automotive structural or decorative components.

21. The article according to claim 20, wherein the article is chosen from a power tool housing or component thereof.