JP5786064B2 - Halogen-free flame retardant thermoplastic composition for wire and cable applications - Google Patents

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the invention relate to compositions for wire and cable (W & C) applications. In one aspect, the present invention relates to thermoplastic compositions for use in W & C exteriors, such as protective jackets and insulators, which are flame retardant and halogen free.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION A major challenge in the wire and cable (W & C) flame retardant exterior market is to provide a flame retardant composition for flexible wiring use in low voltage consumer electronics applications,
For example, mobile phone charger wire and computer data, power supply and associated cord. Current insulation can provide a balance between mechanical properties and elasticity, but the residual elongation after high temperature heat aging is low and wet electrical resistance is low.

Compositions made using single polymer systems such as polyolefins, or thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), such as thermoplastic urethanes, meet the specifications required to meet all requirements of the flame retardant (FR) insulation market. Lack. Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) -based halogen-free flame retardant (HFFR) compositions are typically used in wire insulation / cable jackets for home appliances, replacing halogen-containing polymeric materials. TPU flame retardant (FR)
Cable sheaths formed from polymer compositions are generally important for certain W & C applications.
The thermal deformation test at 0 ° C. (UL-1581) is met, and this requirement is generally not achievable with an exterior formed from a non-crosslinked polyolefin as the matrix polymer. However, the main drawbacks of TPU-based FR compositions are insulation resistance (IR) failure, poor smoke concentration, high material density, and high cost of TPU as a raw material.

The use of polyolefins instead of TPU may solve the problems of TPU-based FR compositions. However, polyolefin or polyolefin elastomer-based HFFR compositions typically suffer from a dramatic decrease in heat distortion properties, particularly at high temperatures, for example at 150 ° C., due to the lower melting point compared to TPU-based FR compositions. Furthermore, the use of a polyolefin component reduces the overall FR performance, typically due to the carbon-hydrogen structure. As a result, it is difficult for polyolefin-based HFFR compositions to provide high levels of flame retardancy with balanced mechanical properties.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In an embodiment of the present invention, a halogen-free flame retardant composition is provided, which is VW-1.
While easily handling the manufacture of wire and cable (W & C) sheaths that pass both flame retardant testing and 150 ° C UL1581-2001 thermal deformation testing, at the same time 35000p
It has a secant modulus less than si and exhibits good tensile and elastic properties and provides high wet electrical (insulation) resistance. In one embodiment, the composition comprises
A. As a main phase, a propylene polymer, such as a propylene homopolymer, a propylene random copolymer (RCP), a propylene impact modified polymer (ICP), or a polyolefin-based resin based on a mixture thereof, at least 5% by weight of the formulation Resin, more preferably more than 10% by weight;
B. One or more thermoplastic elastomers (TPE);
C. A flame retardant system based on a nitrogen and / or phosphorus based expandable halogen-free flame retardant containing a piperazine component; Includes optional additive package.

In one embodiment of the composition, the polyolefin-based resin of component “A” is at least 5 wt%, preferably greater than 10 wt%, and the TPE of component “B” is about 1-80 wt%, preferably at least 10% by weight, the flame retardant system of component “C” is at least 10% by weight, preferably at least 20% by weight, and any additive of component “D”, if present, is 0
. 1 to 20% by weight, the weight percent being based on the total weight of the formulation.

The present invention relates to PV in the wire and cable (W & C) insulation applications and the non-polyvinyl chloride (PVC) halogen-free and / or halogen-free flame retardant market.
A halogen-free flame retardant polymer composition for use as an alternative to the C composition is provided. The composition is particularly useful for flexible wiring applications such as household appliances such as cell phone charger wires. The composition of the present invention overcomes the shortcomings of the existing technology, has mechanical properties, high flame retardancy and processability (including good thermal stability and high elasticity), and greatly improved wet insulation resistance and wet electricity Provides the desired balance of properties, heat aging performance and thermal deformation.

Polyolefins containing propylene and thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) in combination with an expandable nitrogen-phosphorus (NP) type non-halogen flame retardant (FR) addition system containing a piperazine component, for example random copolymers and block copolymers of polyolefins The blend achieves an unexpected synergy and provides a wire and cable (W & C) sheath made from the FR composition of the present invention with exceptionally well-balanced mechanical properties,
The mechanical properties are higher than 150% and 200% (ASTM D638) tensile elongation, higher than 10 Mpa tensile stress compared to other non-halogen FR compositions used for W & C insulation,
And tensile strength higher than 800 psi, excellent FR performance to pass VW-1 test, ease of extrusion, improved thermal deformation performance to pass UL1581-2001 test up to 150 ° C (
Less than 50%), improved wet electrical resistance, good heat aging performance, elasticity and low smoke concentration solution. The PP / TPE composition of the present invention has superior mechanical properties and elasticity compared to TPU-based halogen-free flame retardant materials, and has a much lower density than TPU-based halogen-free flame retardant (HFFR) compositions and With high wet insulation (electrical) resistance, raw material costs are significantly reduced.
Metal hydrate-based TPU, TPE or polyolefin compounds, and expanded polyolefin compounds are thermally deformed and wet-insulated, such as blends of the polyolefins such as polypropylene and elastomers or PO random or block copolymers as defined herein. It does not provide an adequate balance of FR performance and mechanical properties with resistance. The composition passes the criteria for W & C applications, passes the VW-1 flame retardant test, measures secant modulus (elasticity) below 35000 psi, at least 80 ° C., and in certain embodiments at 121 ° C. and 150 ° C. Thermal deformation <50%. The halogen-free FR thermoplastic composition also meets North American, European and Japanese specifications, including but not limited to UL-62, HD21.14 and JCS4509 standards and specifications.

The composition advantageously does not require a compatibilizer (eg, a functional polymer) of PP and a thermoplastic elastomer component, and is not included in embodiments, which is another composition that requires a different functional polymer as a compatibilizer. Provide a cost-effective solution to the goods and methods to obtain the blend.
The compositions of the present invention do not use any cross-linking steps (ie neither post-curing nor dynamic cross-linking), thus providing a simpler method and improved material processability than other techniques using cross-linking mechanisms. Expandable nitrogen-phosphorus FR addition systems by replacing a portion of the single polymer content (PP and / or other TPE) of other known formulations with thermoplastic elastomers (eg, random or block polyolefin copolymers) Blends in combination with mechanical properties (e.g.
Elongation> 150%, tensile strength> 800 psi), improved heat distortion temperature, good combustion performance,
And provides an excellent balance of improved wet electrical performance. In addition, blending TPE with low cost polyolefins significantly reduces the cost of plastics, allowing new compounding latitude for both TPE and polyolefin end uses for halogen-free FR plastics. The compositions of the present invention also provide a solution for polyolefin-based HFFR products without compromising overall FR performance by providing excellent mechanical properties and thermal deformation performance.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments Definitions Any reference to the Periodic Table of Elements can be found in CRC Press, Inc. , 2003, which is a copyrighted periodic table of elements. Also, any reference to a family should be reflected in the periodic table of elements using an IUPAC system that numbers the family. Unless stated to the contrary, all parts and percentages implicitly in context or by convention in the field (
%) Is based on weight and all test methods are accepted as of the filing date of the present disclosure. For purposes of US patent practice, the contents of any patents, patent applications, or publications referred to include, inter alia, synthetic techniques, products and process designs, polymers, catalysts, definitions (any definitions specifically set forth in this disclosure). To the extent not inconsistent) and with respect to common sense disclosure in the field, it is incorporated by reference in its entirety (or its equivalent US version is thus incorporated by reference).

The numerical ranges in this disclosure are approximate and may include values outside the ranges unless otherwise indicated.
The numerical range includes every value from the lower and upper values and both values in increments of one unit, provided that there is an interval of at least 2 units between any lower value and any upper value. As an example,
Composition characteristics, physical properties or other properties such as molecular weight, weight percent, etc. from 100 to 1
Up to 1,000, all individual values, such as 100, 101, 102, and subranges, such as 100 to 144, 155 to 170, 197 to 200, etc. are intended to be explicitly listed. Ranges containing values less than 1 or decimals greater than 1 (eg 1.1
, 1.5, etc.), one unit is appropriately 0.0001, 0.001, 0.0
It is considered 1 or 0.1. A range that includes a single digit number less than 10 (eg, 1 to 5
), One unit is typically considered to be 0.1. These are merely examples of what is specifically intended, and all possible combinations of numerical values between the lowest and highest values listed should be considered as explicitly described in this disclosure. In particular, numerical ranges are defined within this disclosure for the amounts of the various components in the compositions of the invention, the amounts of the various components in the FR components of the compositions of the invention, and the various features and characteristics of these compositions. And W & C sheathing made from these compositions is defined.

"Cable" and like terms mean at least one wire or optical fiber inside a sheath, such as an insulation coating or a protective outer jacket. Typically, the cable is typically bundled together in a common insulation and / or protective jacket 2
Or more wires or optical fibers. Individual wires or fibers inside the sheath may be bare, coated or insulated. The coupling cable may include both electrical wires and optical fibers. Cables and the like can be designed for low, medium and high voltage applications. Typical cable designs are described in US Pat. Nos. 5,246,783 and 6,496,629.
And No. 6,714,707.

“Composition”, “formulation” and like terms mean a mixture or blend of two or more components.

An “elastomer” is a rubber-like polymer that stretches to at least twice its original length and shrinks to its original length very rapidly when the force on the extension is removed. Elastomers have an elastic modulus of about 10,000 psi (68.95 MPa) or less and typically have an elongation greater than 200% at room temperature in the uncrosslinked state using the ASTM D638-72 method.

“Halogen-free” and like terms means that the composition of the invention does not contain a halogen content,
Or substantially free, i.e. containing <2000 mg / kg of halogen as determined by ion chromatography (IC) or similar analytical methods. Halogen content below this amount is considered unimportant for the effectiveness of the composition as a wire or cable coating.

“Interpolymer” means a polymer prepared by the polymerization of at least two different monomers. This generic term includes copolymers (usually used to refer to polymers prepared from two different monomers) and polymers prepared from more than two different monomers, such as terpolymers, tetrapolymers, and the like.

“Expandable flame retardant” and like terms mean a flame retardant that produces foamed char that forms on the surface of the polymer material during fire heating.

"Olefinic polymer" and like terms mean a polymer containing a majority weight percent (wt%) of an olefin, such as ethylene or propylene, in polymerized form, based on the total weight of the polymer. Non-limiting examples of olefin-based polymers include ethylene-based polymers and propylene-based polymers.

The term “polymer” (and similar terms) is a polymeric compound prepared by reacting (ie polymerizing) the same or different monomers. “Polymer” includes homopolymers and interpolymers.

“Polymer blend” and like terms mean a blend of two or more polymers. Such a blend may or may not be miscible. Such a blend may or may not be phase separated. Such blends may or may not include one or more domain configurations measured from transmission electron microscopy, light scattering, x-ray scattering, and any other method known in the art.

“Polyolefin”, “PO” and like terms mean a polymer derived from a single olefin. Many polyolefins are thermoplastic and may include a rubber phase for purposes of the present invention. Exemplary polyolefins include polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutene, polyisoprene, and various interpolymers thereof.

“Resistance” is defined as the repulsion of a material against current flow based on the shape (area and length) and resistivity of the material. Resistance indicates the degree of electrical conduction across the surface or from the surface to ground and may also indicate the ability of the object to dissipate charge. The term “surface resistance”
It is defined as the ratio of the dc voltage to the current flowing between two electrodes in a particular configuration that contacts the same side of the material. Resistance and surface resistance are expressed in ohms.

“Surface resistivity” is defined as the ratio of the dc voltage drop per unit length to the surface flow per unit width for the current flowing across the surface. The surface resistivity is a material parameter when the material is a thin film having a constant thickness. In effect, the surface resistivity is the resistance between the two opposite sides of the square and is independent of the square size (the magnitude is greater than the film thickness) or its dimensional units. Surface resistivity is expressed in ohms per square (Ω / sq) and is traditionally used to evaluate insulating materials for electrical applications.

Tensile elongation at break is measured according to ASTM D638. Tensile strength at break is ASTM
Measured according to D638.

“Volume resistance” is defined as the ratio of the dc voltage to the current passing between two electrodes (in a particular configuration) in contact with the opposite side of the material under test. Volume resistance is reported in ohms.

“Volume resistivity” is defined as the ratio of the dc voltage drop per unit thickness to the amount of current per unit area passing through the material. Volume resistivity indicates how easily a material conducts electricity through most of the material. The volume resistivity is expressed in ohm-centimeter (Ω-cm).

"VW-1" is the American Insurer Safety Laboratory (UL) for wire and insulation tubes
Burning grade, meaning the highest burning grade of “vertical wire, grade 1”, the wire or insulation tube may be UL1441 specification. The test is carried out by placing the wire or insulating tube in a vertical position. The flame is placed at the bottom for a period of time and then removed, taking note of the characteristics of the insulating tube. The VW-1 burn test can be measured according to UL-1581 method 1080.

“Wire” and like terms mean a single-stranded conductive metal, such as copper or aluminum, or a single-stranded optical fiber.

In embodiments of the present invention, the composition comprises a polyolefin resin, including but not limited to a polypropylene polymer as component (A) main phase, component (C) flame retardant (FR) system and optionally component (D) optional. Component (B) thermoplastic elastomer blended with the additive of (
TPE) 2 resin system. The FR system includes a nitrogen / phosphorous expandable halogen-free flame retardant containing a piperazine component (eg, FP2100J and Budit 3167). Optional additive packages include one or more conventional additives such as antioxidants, UV stabilizers, colorants, processing aids, etc. for compositions that prepare flame retardant wire and cable sheaths. Can be included.

Polyolefin (PO) resin / base material. Polyolefin (PO) resin (base material) component (
A) contains a propylene polymer (also called polypropylene) as the main phase. The polyolefin-based resin component is at least 5, at least 10, and preferably at least 20% by weight of the composition, and typically 5-80%, 10-80%, 10-4%
It is 0% by weight, and preferably in the range of 20-40% by weight.

“Propylene polymer”, “propylene” and like terms mean a polymer containing a majority weight percent of polymerized propylene monomer (based on the total amount of polymerizable monomers) and may optionally contain at least one polymerized comonomer. The propylene polymers of the present invention include propylene homopolymers and random and impact modified copolymers of propylene, and mixtures thereof. The propylene polymer can be isotactic, syndiotactic or atactic polypropylene. “Propylene homopolymer” and similar terms mean a polymer consisting entirely or essentially of units derived from more than 65% by weight of propylene monomer. "Propylene copolymer" and similar terms mean a polymer comprising units derived from propylene and ethylene and / or one or more unsaturated comonomers. The term “copolymer” includes terpolymers, tetrapolymers, and the like. For propylene copolymers, the comonomer content is preferably 35% by weight.
Less than, preferably 2 to 30% by weight, and preferably 5 to 20% by weight. Propylene polymer melt flow rate (MFR, 230 ° C / 2.16 kg, ASTM D1
Is preferably less than 20 g / 10 min, preferably at least 1, 1.5, and most preferably at least 1.9 g / 10 min, in order to achieve a good balance of workability and mechanical properties And typically up to 2, 5, 7 and most preferably 12 g /
Up to 10 minutes. The propylene polymer is preferably 100 as measured by DSC.
It exhibits a peak melting point (T _max ) of ˜170 ° C., preferably higher than 140 ° C. Propylene homopolymers are commercially available, especially DOW polypropylene homopolymer resin DO.
W 5D49 (MFR = 38 g / 10 min), DOW 5D98 (MFR = 3.4 g / 10)
Min), DOW 5E16S (MFR = 35 g / 10 min), and DOW 5E89 (MF
R = 4.0 g / 10 min), all the Dow Chemical Compan
available from y.

Propylene homopolymer is a readily available and price competitive material. However, random and impact copolymers are compatible with propylene and ethylene polymers,
As well as improving the physical and mechanical properties of the resulting product (eg, improving film tearing, drop impact, or fracture resistance). Compared to propylene homopolymers, random propylene copolymers exhibit improved optical properties (ie transparency and haze), improved impact resistance, improved elasticity, and lower melting point. Random propylene copolymers are used in a number of applications and typically require improved transparency and / or impact resistance (compared to propylene homopolymer).

“Random copolymer” means a copolymer in which the monomers are randomly distributed in the polymer chain. Random propylene copolymers are typically derived from propylene 90
Or more mole% units, the remainder of the units being derived from at least one α-olefin unit. The presence of comonomers in the copolymer changes the crystallinity of propylene and thus the physical properties. The α-olefin component of the random propylene copolymer is preferably ethylene (considered an α-olefin for purposes of the present invention) or a C _4-20 linear, branched or cyclic α-olefin. Examples of C _4-20 α-olefins are 1-butene, 4-methyl-1-pentene, 1-hexene, 1-octene, 1-decene, 1-dodecene, 1-tetradecene, 1-hexadecene, and 1-hexene. Contains octadecene. α-Olefins also contain cyclic structures such as cyclohexane or cyclopentane and can yield α-olefins such as 3-cyclohexyl-1-propene (allylcyclohexane) and vinylcyclohexane. Although not an α-olefin in the traditional meaning of the term, for the purposes of the present invention, certain cyclic olefins such as norbornene and related olefins, particularly 5-ethylidene-2-norbornene, are α-olefins, -It can be used in place of some or all of the olefins. Similarly, styrene and its related olefins (eg,
α-methylstyrene and the like) are α-olefins for the purposes of the present invention. Illustrative random polypropylene copolymers include, but are not limited to, propylene / ethylene, propylene / 1-butene, propylene / 1-hexene, propylene / 1-octene, and the like. Random copolymer polypropylene is commercially available, especially DOW random copolymer polypropylene resins DS6D82 (MFR = 7.0 g / 10 min), 6D83K (
MFR = 1.9 g / 10 min), C715-12NHP (MFR = 12 g / 10 min), all available from The Dow Chemical Company.

The term “impact copolymer” refers to a heterophasic propylene copolymer, where polypropylene is the continuous phase (matrix) and the elastomer phase is uniformly dispersed therein. The impact copolymer is a physical blend of a homopolymer and an elastomer and can be produced by the use of a mechanical blend or a multi-stage reactor. Typically, impact copolymers are formed in a two-stage or multi-stage process. In some embodiments, the impact copolymer is at least 5,
It has at least 6, and preferably at least 7, up to 35, up to 15, and preferably up to 9% by weight ethylene comonomer. Illustrative impact-modified propylene copolymers are C766-03 (MFR = 3 g / 10 min), C7057-07 (MFR = 7 g / min).
10 minutes), C7061-01N (MFR = 1.5 g / 10 minutes), C706-21NA H
The Dow Chemical Com with trade name of P (MFR = 21g / 10min)
Including those commercially available from pany.

Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). The thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) of component “B” is
(1) It has the characteristics of an elastomer and has the ability to be stretched beyond its original length. When released, it substantially shrinks to its original length, and (2) it can be processed in the same way as thermoplastic and is exposed to heat. It is a polyolefin (PO) that has the ability to soften when it is cooled and that substantially returns to its original state when cooled to room temperature. The TPE includes at least two sections, one is thermoplastic and the other is an elastomer.

The composition can be formulated with one or more TPE resins to enhance the balance of the overall properties of the composition as a dispersed phase within a polyolefin (PO) based resin (matrix),
Or it can exist as a co-continuous phase interspersed with the PO phase or as a co-continuous phase with PP and one or more other TPEs dispersed therein. TPE is 5 to 80 of the composition
%, Preferably 10 to 50%, 10 to 40%, and preferably 20 to 40% by weight. Preferred TPE is a melting temperature of 50 to 130 ° C. (DSC Tm
Peak). Non-limiting examples of suitable TPEs of the present invention include styrene block copolymers (eg SEBS), propylene based elastomer / plastomers (eg VERSI
FY ™ propylene-ethylene copolymer) and olefin block copolymers (OBC) (eg, INFUSE ™ 9507 or 9100OBC).

In general, styrene block copolymers suitable for the present invention comprise at least two monoalkenyl arene blocks, preferably two polystyrene blocks, separated by a block of saturated conjugated dienes, preferably saturated polybutadiene blocks. Preferred styrene block copolymers have a linear structure, but in some embodiments,
Branched or radial polymers, or functional block copolymers are useful compounds.
When the styrene block copolymer has a linear structure, the total number average molecular weight of the copolymer is preferably 30,000 to 250,000. Such block copolymers typically have an average polystyrene content of 6 to 65%, more typically 10 to 40% by weight of the copolymer. Examples of styrene block copolymers suitable for the present invention are European Patent No. 0712892, WO2004 / 041538, US Pat. No. 6,582,
No. 829, No. 4,789,699, No. 5,093,422 and No. 5,332.
, 613, and US Patent Application Publication Nos. 2004/0087235, 2004 /
No. 0122408, No. 2004/0122409 and No. 2006/021181
It is described in No.9. Non-limiting examples of suitable styrene block copolymers include styrene / butadiene (SB) copolymers, styrene / ethylene / butadiene / styrene (SEB).
S) terpolymer, styrene / butadiene / styrene (SBS) terpolymer, hydrogenated S
BS or SEBS, styrene / isoprene (SI), and styrene / ethylene / propylene / styrene (SEPS) terpolymers. Commercial sources of styrene block copolymers are Kraton Polymers (SEBS G1643M, G165).
1 ES), Asahi Kasei Chemicals Corporation, and Kuraray America.

"Polypropylene plastomer" (PBP) or "Propylene elastomer (P
The term “BE)” includes reactor grade propylene / α-olefin copolymers having a heat of fusion of <100 J / g and a MWD <3.5. PBP generally has a heat of fusion of <100 J / g, while PBE generally has a heat of fusion of <40 J / g. PBP typically has a weight percent ethylene in the range of 3 to 15 weight percent, and the elastomer PBE is 10 to 15 weight percent ethylene.

In selected embodiments, the TPE polymer is formed from an ethylene / α-olefin copolymer or a propylene / α-olefin copolymer. In one embodiment, T
The PE polymer includes one or more nonpolar polyolefins. In certain embodiments, the TPE polymer is a propylene / α-olefin copolymer and is characterized as having a substantially isotactic propylene sequence. “Substantially isotactic propylene sequence” means isotactic as measured by ¹³ C NMR with sequences>0.85,>0.90,> 0.92, and in other alternatives> 0.93 Means having a tick triad (mm). Isotactic triads are known in the art and are described, for example, in US Pat. No. 5,504,172 and WO 2000/01745, which
^It refers to an isotactic arrangement in terms of triad units in the copolymer molecular chain measured by ¹³ C NMR spectrum.

The propylene / α-olefin copolymer is ASTM D-1238 (230 ° C./2.
Melt flow rate in the range of 0.1 to 25 g / 10 min measured according to 16 kg)
MFR). All individual values and subranges from 0.1 to 25 g / 10 min are included and disclosed herein; for example, the MFR ranges from a lower limit of 0.1, 0.2, or 0.5 to 2
It can be up to an upper limit of 5, 15, 10, 8, or 5 g / 10 minutes. For example, propylene /
α-olefin copolymer ranges from 0.1 to 10 or alternatively 0.2 to 10 g
You may have an MFR of / 10 minutes.

The propylene / α-olefin copolymer has a crystallinity in the range of at least 1 to 30% by weight (heat of fusion of at least 2 to less than 50 joules / gram (J / g)), all individual values and parts thereof Ranges are included and disclosed herein. For example, the crystallinity is 1,
3 to the lower limit of 2.5, or 3% by weight (at least 2, 4, or 5 J / g, respectively)
It can be up to an upper limit of 0, 24, 15 or 7% by weight (less than 50, 40, 24.8 or 11 J / g, respectively). For example, the propylene / α-olefin copolymer can be at least 1 to 24, 15, 7 or 5% by weight (at least 2 to 40, 24.8, 1
1 or less than 8.3 J / g). The crystallinity is determined by DS as described above.
It is measured by C method. Propylene / α-olefin copolymers comprise units derived from propylene and polymer units derived from one or more α-olefin comonomers. Exemplary comonomers, _{C 10} alpha-olefins _{C 2,} and _{C 4; e.g., C 2,} C ₄
, C ₆ and C ₈ α-olefins.

The propylene / α-olefin copolymer is 1 to 40% by weight of one or more α
-Containing olefin comonomers. All individual values and subranges from 1 to 40% by weight are included and disclosed herein; for example, the comonomer content ranges from a lower limit of 1, 3, 4, 5, 7 or 9% by weight to 40, 35, It can be up to an upper limit of 30, 27, 20, 15, 12, or 9% by weight. For example, the propylene / α-olefin copolymer comprises 1 to 35% by weight, or alternatively 1 to 30, 3 to 27, 3 to 20, or 3 to 15% by weight of one or more α-olefin comonomers.

Propylene / α-olefin copolymer is 3.5 or less;
Or less; or another alternative having a molecular weight distribution (MWD) from 1.8 to 3.0, defined as the weight average molecular weight divided by the number average molecular weight (M _w / M _n ) .

Such propylene / α-olefin copolymers are described in detail in US Pat. Nos. 6,960,635 and 6,525,157, which are further incorporated herein by reference. Such propylene / α-olefin copolymers are known as The Dow.
Under the trademark VERSIFY from the Chemical Company or ExxonMob
It is commercially available from il Chemical Company under the trademark VISTAMAXX.

In one embodiment, the propylene / α-olefin copolymer further comprises (A) 60 to less than 100, 80 to 99, more preferably 85 to 99% by weight derived from propylene.
And from (B) above zero derived from at least one of ethylene and / or C _4-10 α-olefin, preferably from 1 to 20, from 4 to 16, and even more preferably from 4 to 15 weights % Units; at least 0.001, at least 0.
Characterized as comprising an average of 005 and more preferably at least 0.01 long chain branches / 1000 total carbons, the term long chain branch being a chain length of at least 1 (1) carbon more than a short chain branch Short chain branching refers to a chain length of 2 (2) carbons less than the carbon number of the comonomer.
For example, propylene / 1-octene interpolymers have backbones with long chain branches that are at least 7 (7) carbon in length, but these backbones are short chain branches that are only 6 (6) carbon in length. Also have. The maximum number of long chain branches of the propylene interpolymer is not critical to the definition of this embodiment of the invention, but typically does not exceed 3 long chain branches / 1000 total carbons. Such propylene / α-olefin copolymers are further described in US Provisional Application No. 60 / 988,999 and PCT / US08 / 082599, which are incorporated herein by reference.

“Olefin block copolymer”, “olefin block interpolymer”, “multiblock interpolymer” and like terms preferably include two or more chemically distinct regions or moieties that are linearly linked (Called "block")
With respect to the functionality of the polymerized olefin, preferably ethylene,
Refers to a polymer that contains chemically-identified units that bind end to end rather than in a sagging or grafting manner. In preferred embodiments, the block comprises the amount or type of comonomer incorporated, density, amount of crystals, crystal size due to the polymer of such composition, type or degree of stereoregularity (isotactic or syndiotactic). , Regioregularity or regioregularity, branching amount (including long chain branching or hyperbranching), uniformity or any other chemical or physical property. Sequential monomer addition, fluid catalyst (fluxio
Compared to prior art block interpolymers, including interpolymers produced by nal catalyst, or anionic polymerization techniques, the multiblock interpolymers used in the present invention are polydisperse (PDI or M _w / _Mn or MWD)
The unique distribution, block length distribution, and / or block number distribution in the preferred embodiment are characterized by the effect of a shuttling agent in combination with multiple catalysts used in these preparations. More specifically, when produced in a continuous process, the polymer is 1.7 to 3.5.
, Preferably 1.8 to 3, 1.8 to 2.5, and most preferably 1.8 to 2.2
It is desirable to have PDI. When produced in a batch or semi-batch process, the polymer has a PDI of 1.0 to 3.5, preferably 1.3 to 3, 1.4 to 2.5, and most preferably 1.4 to 2. It is desirable.

The term “ethylene multiblock interpolymer” means that ethylene and one or more copolymerizable comonomers are preferably at least 90 mol% of the block,
By means of a multi-block interpolymer comprising at least 95 mol% and most preferably at least 98 mol%, the ethylene comprises a plurality of polymerized monomer units of at least one block or part in the polymer. Based on the total polymer weight, the ethylene multiblock interpolymer used in the practice of this invention is preferably 25 to 97%, 40 to 9
It has an ethylene content of 6%, 55 to 95%, and most preferably 65 to 85%.

The polymer cannot be fully fractionated using standard selective extraction techniques because each distinguishable portion or block formed from two or more monomers binds to a single polymer chain. For example, a polymer that includes regions that are relatively crystalline (high density portions) and regions that are relatively amorphous (low density portions) cannot be selectively extracted or fractionated using different solvents. In preferred embodiments, the amount of extractable polymer using either a dialkyl ether or an alkane solvent is <10%, <7%, <5% and most preferably <2% of the total polymer weight.

Furthermore, it is desirable that the multi-block interpolymer used in the practice of the present invention possess a PDI that fits a Schulz-Flory distribution rather than a Poisson distribution. Use of the polymerization method described in WO 2005/090427 and USSN 11 / 376,835 results in products having both a polydisperse block distribution and a polydisperse distribution of block sizes. This results in the formation of a polymer product with improved and distinguishable physical properties. The theoretical benefits of polydisperse block distributions were previously modeled by Potemkin, Physi
cal Review E (1998) 57 (6), pp. 6902-6912, and Dobrynin, J. Chem. Phvs. (1997) 107 (21), p.
Discussed on p9234-9238.

In further embodiments, multi-block interpolymers, especially those produced in continuous solution polymerization reactors, have the most probable distribution of block lengths. In an embodiment of the present invention, the ethylene multiblock interpolymer is defined as having:
(A) M _w / M _n of about 1.7 to about 3.5, at least one melting point T _m at Celsius temperature, and a density d of grams / cubic centimeter, where the numerical values of T _m and d are T _m > -20
Corresponding to the relationship of 22.9 + 4538.5 (d) -2422.2 (d) ² , or (B) M _w / M _n of about 1.7 to about 3.5, and heat of fusion ΔH (J / g ) And the delta amount ΔT (degrees Celsius defined as the temperature difference between the highest DSC peak and the highest CRYSTAF peak), the values of ΔT and ΔH have the following relationship: ΔH greater than zero and up to 130 J / g ΔT> −0.1299 (ΔH) +62.81, 130J
ΔT ≧ 48C for ΔH greater than / g, where the CRYSTAF peak is determined using at least 5% of the cumulative polymer, and if less than 5% of the polymer has an identifiable CRYSTAF peak, the CRYSTAF temperature is 30 ° C. Or (C) an elastic recovery Re (%) at 300% strain and one cycle measured using a compression molded film of ethylene / α-olefin interpolymer, and a density d (g / cc), ethylene Re when the / α-olefin interpolymer is substantially free of cross-linked phase
The numerical values of and d satisfy the following relationship: Re> 1481-1629 (d); or (D) The molecular weight fraction eluted at 40 ° C. to 130 ° C. when fractionated using TREF is:
Characterized in that the fraction has a content that is at least 5% higher than the comonomer molar content of the equivalent random ethylene interpolymer fraction eluting between the same temperatures, the equivalent random ethylene interpolymer being identical Having a melt index, density and comonomer molar content (based on total polymer) within 10% of the ethylene / α-olefin interpolymer; or (E) a storage modulus G ′ at 25 ° C. (25 ° C), and storage modulus G ′ of 100 ° C. (100
And the ratio of G ′ (25 ° C.) to G ′ (100 ° C.) is in the range of about 1: 1 to about 9: 1.

Ethylene / α-olefin multiblock interpolymer
(F) When fractionating with TREF, the molecular fraction eluting at 40 ° C. to 130 ° C. has a block index of at least 0.5 to about 1 and a molecular weight distribution M _w greater than about 1.3. / characterized in that it has a _{M n;} or (G) a molecular weight greater than the average block index and about 1.3 to about 1.0 greater than zero distribution, _M w / _{M n,}
May also have.

Monomers suitable for use in preparing the ethylene multiblock interpolymer for use in the present invention include ethylene and one or more addition polymerizable monomers other than ethylene. Examples of suitable comonomers are linear or branched α-olefins of 3 to 30, preferably 3 to 20 carbon atoms, such as propylene, 1-butene, 1-pentene, 3-methyl-1-butene, 1- Hexene, 4-methyl-1-pentene, 3-methyl-1-pentene, 1-octene, 1-decene, 1-dodecene, 1-tetradecene, 1-hexadecene,
1-octadecene and 1-eicocene; cyclo-olefins of 3 to 30, preferably 3 to 20, carbon atoms such as cyclopentene, cycloheptene, norbornene, 5-methyl-2-norbornene, tetracyclododecene, and 2-methyl- 1,4,5,8-
Dimethano-1,2,3,4,4a, 5,8,8a-octahydronaphthalene; di- and polyolefins such as butadiene, isoprene, 4-methyl-1,3-pentadiene,
1,3-pentadiene, 1,4-pentadiene, 1,5-hexadiene, 1,4-hexadiene, 1,3-hexadiene, 1,3-octadiene, 1,4-octadiene, 1,5
-Octadiene, 1,6-octadiene, 1,7-octadiene, ethylidene norbornene, vinyl norbornene, dicyclopentadiene, 7-methyl-1,6-octadiene,
4-ethylidene-8-methyl-1,7-nonadiene, and 5,9-dimethyl-1,4
8-decatriene; and 3-phenylpropene, 4-phenylpropene, 1,2-difluoroethylene, tetrafluoroethylene, and 3,3,3-trifluoro-1-propene.

Other ethylene multiblock interpolymers that can be used in the present invention are ethylene,
Elastic interpolymers of C _3-20 α-olefins, especially propylene, and optionally one or more diene monomers. Preferred α-olefins for use in this embodiment are defined by the formula CH ₂ ═CHR ^* , where R ^* is a linear or branched alkyl group of 1 to 12 carbon atoms. Examples of suitable α-olefins are propylene, isobutylene, 1-butene, 1-pentene, 1-hexene, 4-methyl-1-pentene, and 1-
Including but not limited to octene. One particularly preferred α-olefin is propylene. Propylene-based polymers are generally referred to in the art as EP or EPDM polymers. Suitable dienes for use in preparing such polymers, especially multiblock EPDM type polymers, are conjugated or non-conjugated, linear or branched, cyclic or polycyclic containing 4 to 20 carbon atoms. Including diene. Preferred dienes are 1,4-pentadiene, 1,
4-hexadiene, 5-ethylidene-2-norbornene, dicyclopentadiene, cyclohexadiene, and 5-butylidene-2-norbornene. One particularly preferred diene is 5-ethylidene-2-norbornene.

Since the polymer containing the diene contains alternating parts or blocks containing more or less the amount of the diene (containing nothing) and the α-olefin (containing nothing), the total amount of diene and α-olefin is then Without loss of polymer properties. That is, the diene and α-olefin monomers are used more efficiently because they are preferentially incorporated into one of the polymer blocks rather than uniformly or randomly incorporated throughout the polymer, followed by the crosslink density of the polymer. Can be better controlled. Such crosslinkable elastomers and cured products have advantageous properties including higher tensile strength and better elastic recovery.

Ethylene multiblock interpolymers useful in the practice of the present invention are less than 0.90, preferably less than 0.89, less than 0.885, less than 0.88, and even more preferably less than 0.875 g / cc. Has a density. The ethylene multiblock interpolymer typically has a density of less than 0.85 g / cc, and more preferably less than 0.86 g / cc. Density is measured by the procedure of ASTM D-792. Low density ethylene multiblock interpolymers are generally characterized as amorphous, elastic and have good optical properties such as high transmission of visible and UV light and low haze. Ethylene multiblock interpolymers useful in the present invention are typically ASTM D1238 (
Having an MFR of 1-10 g / 10 min as measured by 190 ° C./2.16 kg). An ethylene multiblock interpolymer useful in the practice of the present invention is ASTM D-882.
As measured by the -02 procedure, it has a 2% secant modulus of <150, preferably <140, <120, and even more preferably <100 mPa. Ethylene multi-block
Interpolymers typically have a 2% secant modulus greater than zero, but the lower the coefficient, the better the interpolymer is suitable for use in the present invention. The secant coefficient is the slope of the straight line from the origin of the stress-strain diagram, intersects the curve at the point of interest, and is used to describe the stiffness of the material in the inelastic region of the diagram. Low modulus ethylene multiblock interpolymers are particularly well suited for use in the present invention because they provide stability under stress and are less prone to cracking under, for example, stress or shrinkage. Ethylene multiblock interpolymers useful in the present invention typically have a melting point of less than about 125 ° C. Melting point is WO2005 / 09
It is measured by the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) method described in 0427 (US Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0199930). Ethylene multiblock interpolymers with a low melting point often exhibit desirable elastic and thermoplastic properties useful in the manufacture of the wire and cable sheaths of the present invention. The ethylene multiblock interpolymers used in the practice of this invention and their preparation and use are described in US Pat. Nos. 7,579,408, 7,355,089, and 7,524,911. No. 7,514,517, No. 7
582, 716 and 7,504,347.

Olefin block copolymers useful in the practice of this invention are The Dow Che.
INFUSE® OBC available from the mical Company, for example I
NFUSE OBC D9100 (1MI, 0.877, 74A Shore), D95
00 (5MI, 0.877, 74A Shore), D9507 or D9530 (5M
I, 0.887, 85A Shore).

Other TPE polymers. Other TPE polymers include, for example, thermoplastic urethanes (among others)
TPU), ethylene / vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer (eg Elvax 4
0L-03 (40% VA, 3MI) (DuPont)), ethylene / ethyl acrylate (EEA) copolymer (eg AMPLIFY) and ethylene acrylic acid (EAA)
Copolymer (eg PRIMACOR) (The Dow Chemical Comp)
any), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), epoxy resin, styrene acrylonitrile (SAN) rubber, and Noryl® modified PPE resin (an amorphous blend of polyphenylene oxide (PPO) and polystyrene (PS) by SABIC) It is not limited to these. For example, very low density polyethylene (VLDPE) (eg FL
EXOMER® ethylene / 1-hexene polyethylene, The Dow C
chemical Company), a homogeneously branched linear ethylene / α-olefin copolymer (eg, Mitsui Petrochemicals Company Li)
TAFMER® by Mited and E by DEXPlastomers
XACT®), and homogeneously branched substantially linear ethylene / α-olefin polymers (eg, AFFINITY® ethylene-octene plastomer (eg, EG8200 (PE)) and ENGAGE ( Also useful are olefin elastomers, including registered trademark polyolefin elastomers, The Dow Chemical Company). Substantially linear ethylene copolymers are described in US Pat. No. 5,272,272.
No. 236, No. 5,278,272 and No. 5,986,028. Additional olefin interpolymers useful in the present invention include homogeneously branched ethylene-based interpolymers, linear medium density polyethylene (LMDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), and ultra low density polyethylene (ULDPE). Including, but not limited to. Commercially available polymers are DOWLEX ™ polymer, ATTANE ™ polymer, FLEXOMER ™, HPDE3364 and HPDE8007 polymer (The Dow Chemical Company), ESCORENE ™ and EXCEED ™ polymer (Exxon Mobile Chem).
)including. Non-limiting examples of suitable TPUs include PELLETHANE ™ elastomer (L
ublizol Corp. (Eg TPU2103-90A); ESTANE ™
, TECOFLEX ™, CARBOTHANE ™, TECOPHILIC (
™, TECOPLAST ™ and TECOTHANE ™ (Noveon)
); Including ELASTOLLAN ™ etc. (BASF), commercially available TPU is Baye
r, Huntsman, the Lubrizol Corporation and Me
Available from rquinsa.

The ethylene interpolymers useful in the present invention are typically at least 5 wt%, more typically at least 15 wt%, and even more typically at least about 20 wt%, based on the weight of the interpolymer. An ethylene / α-olefin interpolymer having an α-olefin content is included. These interpolymers are typically <90, more typically <75, and even more typically <5, based on the weight of the interpolymer.
It has an α-olefin content of 0% by weight. The α-olefin content is Randall (Re
v. Macromol. Chem. Phys. , C29 (2 & 3)), by ¹³ C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The α-olefin is preferably a C _3-20 linear, branched or cyclic α-olefin such as propene, 1-butene,
4-methyl-1-pentene, 1-hexene, 1-octene, 1-decene, 1-dodecene,
1-tetradecene, 1-hexadecene, and 1-octadecene. α-olefins also contain cyclic structures such as cyclohexane or cyclopentane,
For example, 3-cyclohexyl-1-propene (allylcyclohexane) and vinylcyclohexane are obtained. Although not an α-olefin in the traditional sense of the term, for the purposes of the present invention, certain cyclic olefins such as norbornene and related olefins, especially 5-ethylidene-2-norbornene, are α-olefins, Can be used in place of some or all of the α-olefins. Similarly, styrene and its related olefins (eg, α-methylstyrene, etc.) are α-olefins for purposes of the present invention. Illustrative polyolefin copolymers include ethylene / propylene, ethylene / butene, ethylene / 1-hexene, ethylene / 1-octene, ethylene / styrene, and the like. Illustrative terpolymers are ethylene / propylene / 1-octene, ethylene / propylene / butene, ethylene / butene / 1-
Contains octene, ethylene / propylene / diene monomer (EPDM) and ethylene / butene / styrene. The copolymer can be random or block.

Flame retardant (FR) system. The flame retardant (FR) system of component “C” used in the practice of the present invention includes one or more organophosphorus and / or nitrogen based expandable FRs and includes a piperazine component. Preferred amounts of nitrogen / phosphorus based FR used in the compositions of the present invention are at least 1 wt%, 10 wt%, 15 wt%, and most preferably at least 2 based on the weight of the present invention.
0% by weight. The typical maximum amount of organic nitrogen / phosphorous FR does not exceed 70, 60, 50, and more preferably does not exceed 45% by weight of the composition. The FR system may include 1-99% by weight piperazine-based FR and 1-99% by weight of other flame retardants based on the total weight of the FR system.
Preferred amounts of piperazine-based FR are at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%
% By weight, 40% by weight and at least 50% by weight. In certain embodiments, FR
The system may include 55-65 wt% piperazine-based FR and 35-45 wt% other flame retardant (e.g., non-metallic salt of phosphoric acid).

Organic nitrogen and / or phosphorus based expansible FRs are organic phosphonic acids, phosphonates, phosphinates, phosphonites, phosphinites, phosphine oxides, phosphines, phosphites or phosphates, phosphonitriles Chloride, phosphoric ester amide, phosphoric amide, phosphonic acid amide, phosphinic acid amide, and melamine and melamine derivatives (
Melamine polyphosphate, melamine pyrophosphate, and melamine cyanurate), and mixtures of two or more of these materials. Examples include phenyl bis dodecyl phosphate, phenyl bis neopentyl phosphate, phenyl ethylene hydrogen phosphate, phenyl-bis-3,5,5'-trimethylhexyl phosphate, ethyl diphenyl phosphate, 2-ethylhexyl di (p-tolyl)
Phosphate, diphenyl hydrogen phosphate, bis (2-ethyl-hexyl) p-tolyl phosphate, tolyl phosphate, bis (2-ethylhexyl) -phenyl phosphate, tri (nonylphenyl) phosphate, phenylmethyl hydrogen phosphate, di (dodecyl) ) P
-Tolyl phosphate, tricresyl phosphate, triphenyl phosphate, triphenyl phosphate, dibutyl phenyl phosphate, 2-chloroethyl diphenyl phosphate, p-tolylbis (2,5,5'-trimethylhexyl) phosphate, 2-ethylhexyl diphenyl phosphate, And diphenyl hydrogen phosphate. The types of phosphate esters described in US Pat. No. 6,404,971 are examples of phosphorus FRs. Additional examples include liquid phosphates such as bisphenol A diphosphate (BAPP) (A
deka Palmarole) and / or resorcinol bis (diphenyl phosphate) (Fyroflex RDP) (Supresta, ICI), and solid phosphorus such as ammonium polyphosphate (APP), piperazine pyrophosphate, piperazine orthophosphate, and piperazine polyphosphate. APP is mostly used with flame retardant co-additives such as melamine derivatives. Melafine (DSM)
(2,4,6-triamino-1,3,5-triazine; finely divided melamine) is also useful.

Examples of FR-based piperazine components include compounds such as piperazine pyrophosphate, piperazine orthophosphate and piperazine polyphosphate. Additional examples include polytriazinyl compounds or oligomers or polymer 1,3,5-triazine derivatives (including piperazine groups), as described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0281215 and WO 2009/016129, and these The disclosure is incorporated herein by reference.

Embodiments of the FR system are one or more non-metallic salts of phosphoric acid (eg APP,
Melamine and / or melamine derivatives such as melamine pyrophosphate and melamine polyphosphate, and one or more piperazine components (eg piperazine compounds such as piperazine pyrophosphate, piperazine orthophosphate, piperazine polyphosphate, piperazine groups) Polytriazinyl compounds including, and / or oligomeric or polymeric 1,3,5-triazine derivatives including, but not limited to, piperazine groups). In certain embodiments, the FR system is
Blends of APP, melamine and / or melamine derivatives and piperazine compounds such as piperazine pyrophosphate, piperazine orthophosphate, and / or piperazine polyphosphate. In other embodiments, the FR system is a blend of APP, melamine and / or melamine derivatives and oligomeric or polymeric 1,3,5-triazine derivatives comprising piperazine groups. In some embodiments, the FR material includes a melamine-based coating. Such blends of organic nitrogen / phosphorus based expandable materials are FP-
Amfine Chemical as 2200 and FP-2100J intumescent flame retardant
Corporation (USA) (Adeka Palmarole SAS) and as Budit 3167 Budenheim Iberica Comercia
l, S. A. (Spain).

PP / TPE / expandable FR blends of the present invention, particularly FP21 as the main FR chemical
Blends with 00J and / or Budit 3167 show excellent combustion performance and VW
-1 excellent flame retardancy and tensile properties sufficient to pass test requirements (UL 1581) (tensile stress greater than 8 megapascals (MPa) and tensile elongation greater than 200% (ASTM)
D638), thermal deformation at 150 ° C. <50% (UL1581-2001), and good elasticity and softness (2% linearity <250 MPa (ASTM D638)); <95 (AS
A synergistic balance with the Shore A hardness of TM D2240).

Optional additive package. The additional additive of component “D” is 0.1 to 20% by weight of the composition
Can be included. PP / TPE / FR compositions are used in PP / TPE applications (eg, antioxidants (eg, hindered phenols such as IRGANOX ™ 1010 (Ciba / BASF)), thermal (melt processing) stabilizers, hydrolytic stability. Enhancers, heat stabilizers, scavengers, colorants or dyes, UV stabilizers, UV absorbers, nucleating agents, processing aids (eg, organic acids such as oil, stearic acid, metal salts of organic acids), Antistatic agent, smoke proofing agent, anti-dripping agent, toughening agent,
Plasticizers (eg dioctyl phthalate or epoxidized soybean oil), lubricants, emulsifiers, optical brighteners, coupling agents, silanes (as free form or filler surface modifiers), cement, urea, polyalcohols such as pentaerythritol , Minerals, peroxides, light stabilizers (eg, hindered amines), mold release agents, waxes (eg, polyethylene wax), viscosity modifiers, and other additives, but are found to be useful. One or more of the released stabilizers and / or additives can be incorporated to the extent that these additives do not interfere with the desired physical or mechanical properties of the product made from the composition of the present invention. . These additives are used in known amounts and in known ways, but typically the additive package, if present, is greater than zero weight percent of the final composition, for example 0.01
To 2% by weight, more typically 0.1 to 1% by weight. Examples of useful viscosity modifiers include
Polyether polyols such as Voranol 3010 and Voranol 222-029 available from The Dow Chemical Company. Useful commercially available anti-dripping agents are triglycidyl isocyanurate (TGIC), VIKOFLE.
X7010 (methyl epoxy soyate (epoxidized ester family)), and V
IKOLOX alpha-olefin epoxy (C-16) (1,2-epoxyhexadecane (> 95 wt%) and 1-hexadecene (<5 wt%) mixture, both eFA
Available from ME). A useful dispersant / metal chelator is n-octylphosphonic acid (UNIPLEX OPA).

In preferred embodiments, the composition of the present invention comprises a functionalized compatibilizer or modifier, such as a maleic anhydride olefin polymer or polyolefin (eg, PE-g-MAH
, MAH-g-EVA, etc.). The composition comprises a compatibilizer / coupling agent such as an ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer (eg, ELVA by DuPont).
X 40L-03 (40% VA, 3MI)), aminated OBC (eg, The Dow
INFUSE 9807) from the Chemical Company. Examples of other coupling agents include polysiloxanes containing vinyl and ethoxy groups (
For example, Dynasylan 6498 (oligomer vinyl silane)) and hydroxy-terminated dimethylsiloxane (<0.1 vinyl acetate).

In some applications, the FR system may optionally combine trace amounts (less than 5% by weight of the composition, preferably less than 2% by weight) of inorganic non-halogenated flame retardants (fillers) and synergists in combination with the FR system. Can be included. Inorganic non-halogenated FR fillers are, for example, metal hydrates such as aluminum hydrate and magnesium hydrate, metal hydroxides such as magnesium hydroxide (Mg (OH) ₂ ) and aluminum trihydroxide (ATH). ) (For example, Apyral4
0CD (Nabeltec)), metal oxides such as titanium dioxide, silica, alumina,
Huntite, antimony trioxide, potassium oxide, zirconium oxide, zinc oxide and magnesium oxide, carbon black, carbon fiber, expanded graphite, talc, clay, organically modified clay, calcium carbonate, red phosphorus, wollastonite, mica, ammonium octamolybdate , Frit,
Includes hollow glass microspheres, glass fibers, expanded graphite and the like.

In a preferred embodiment, the composition of the present invention does not contain silicone oil (polydimethylsiloxane), but for certain applications, a minor amount (<5% by weight of the composition, preferably <2% by weight) of silicone oil is processed. Can be included as auxiliary and flame retardant booster. In preferred embodiments, the composition of the present invention comprises other polymers such as polyolefin-rubber elastomers, olefin-octene or olefin-alkyl acrylate copolymer based elastomers, functional polymers (eg, carboxylic acid or anhydride groups). Containing), olefinic polymers / polyolefins modified with anhydrides, or polyolefin elastomers grafted with polar groups, not blended or diluted. However, in some embodiments, propylene and TPE adjust the balance between properties and extrusion performance, so in a preferred mode, propylene component “A” is at least 5% of the composition.
% By weight, at least 10% by weight, and more preferably at least 20% by weight;
The PE component “B” can be blended or diluted with one or more other polymers to the extent that it comprises at least 5%, at least 10%, and more preferably at least 20% by weight of the composition.

Relative amount of PP, TPE and FR. Propylene polymer (PP) and thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) are blended with each other in any convenient manner, and polymer matrix such as PP as a continuous phase and TPE component as a discontinuous or dispersed phase, or co-continuous with PP Form one or more TPEs as a phase and one or more TPEs as a discontinuous or dispersed phase. Blends of either propylene or TPE can be used in the present invention. While the relative amounts of propylene polymer (PP), TPE and FR in the composition can vary widely, typically PP is 5 to 60 wt%, 7.5 to 40 wt%, and more typically 10 to 40% by weight, TPE 5 to 60% by weight, 10 to 55%
%, And more typically 20 to 50% by weight, and FR is 10 to 7 of the composition
It accounts for 0 wt%, 15 to 50 wt%, and more typically 20 to 45 wt%.

The composition of the present invention comprises PP, TPE (eg, styrene block copolymer, olefinic TPE, OBC, etc.) and piperazine component (eg, Adeka FP2100).
An expandable NP flame retardant (FR) system containing J) is mixed to form an HFFR package. In an embodiment, the present invention provides a PP / TPE-based HFFR that utilizes a polyolefin or a thermoplastic elastomer alone, and surprisingly, an organic NP comprising the described piperazine component.
With the system expandable FR system (especially FP2100J and / or Buddit 3167), this combination exhibits a combustion synergistic effect, exceptional flame retardancy, and at the same time good mechanical properties and
Excellent thermal deformation performance of 50 ° C is obtained. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises a HFFR blend of PP and TPE for W & C applications, such as a VERSIFY polypropylene / ethylene copolymer, and a piperazine component (eg, FP2100J or Budit 3167).
NP-based expansive FR system containing

Formulation / manufacturing. Formulation of the composition of the present invention can be carried out by standard means known to those skilled in the art. Examples of compounding equipment are internal batch mixers, such as Banbury or Bolling internal mixers. Alternatively, continuous single or twin screw mixers can be used, such as Farrel continuous mixers, Werner and Pfleiderer twin screw mixers, or Buss kneading continuous extruders. The type of mixer utilized and the operating conditions of the mixer affect the properties of the composition, such as viscosity, volume resistivity, and smoothness of the extruded surface. The compounding temperature for PP / TPE polymer blends with FR and optional additive packages is typically 1
20 to 220 ° C, more typically 160 to 200 ° C. The various components of the final composition can be added in any order or simultaneously and can be blended together, but typically the compatibilizer (if included) is first blended with PP and TPE is first blended with one of the FR packages. Blended with further ingredients, the two mixtures are blended together with the remaining optional ingredients and optional additives of the FR package. In some embodiments, the additive is added as a premixed masterbatch, generally by dispersing the additive separately or together in one of the internal plastic resins, such as plastic matrix components or low density polyethylene. It is formed. The masterbatch is conveniently formed by a melt compounding method.

Products. In certain embodiments, the polymer composition is applied to a cable, such as a sheath, jacket or insulating layer, as a coating, in known amounts and in known manner (US Pat. No. 5,246).
, 783 and 4,144,202). Typically, the composition is prepared in a reactor-extruder equipped with a cable coating die, and after the ingredients have been formulated, the composition is extruded onto the cable as the cable is drawn through the die. The sheath is then exposed to cure time, typically at temperatures from ambient temperature to below the melting point of the composition, until the product reaches the desired degree of crosslinking. Curing may be initiated in a reactor-extruder.

The composition of the present invention can be used for W & C and other market areas in a wide range of non-halogen or halogen-free FR applications that require high flame retardancy and good elasticity, use for PVC replacement, etc.
It is particularly well suited for applications that require high elasticity and / or high flame resistance with good wet insulation resistance. Non-limiting examples of articles of manufacture that can be prepared from the compositions of the present invention include AC plugs and SR connectors, wire insulation / cable jackets, watch straps, handles, grips, among others.
Soft-to-touch products and buttons, gap fillers, automotive applications (including glass, run, channel seals, interior panels, seals, gaskets, window seals and extruded profiles), household appliance applications, and low voltage applications Including. These products can be manufactured using known equipment and techniques.

The invention is explained in more detail through the following examples. Unless otherwise noted, all parts and percentages are by weight.

Specific embodiments Materials. The following materials are used in the examples below. The material is dried or otherwise processed, if any, as described. MFR (dg / min) (ASTM D-123
8; 2.16 kg, 230 ° C. unless otherwise specified). Density (d) (g / cm ³ ) (AS
TM D-792).

Melt mixing / melt blending. Resin batch is CW Braben with Cam Blade
der model Prep-Mixer® / measuring head experimental electric batch mixer,
Prepared using a large mixer / measuring head, a 3-piece design with two heating zones, and a 350/420 ml volume depending on the blade placement of the mixer. The actual volume of the chamber with Cam Blade inserted is 420 ml, the batch size is corrected for the composition density, and the following calculation can be used to provide an appropriate amount of mixing balls: Batch weight = calculated SG ^* (500 / 1.58) (formula "a"). The empirical relationship is about 500g batch weight,
Based on a relatively good mixing with a SG of about 1.58, with a fill factor of 75%. With a constant mixer volume, the batch weight is adjusted by changing SG of each batch to mix well. V = mass / density; when V is a constant, M ₁ / D ₁ = M ₂ / D ₂ or M ₂ = M ₁ D ₂ / D ₁ . In the composition of this study, this provides a batch size of about 360 to 400 g. The Cam Blade design as a medium shear rate blade imposes milling, mixing and shear forces on the test sample, alternately compressing and removing the material in the chamber. The mixer gear offset is
3: 2 drive blade to drive blade gear ratio (every 3 rotations of the drive blade, 2 rotations of the drive blade), and the drive blade is driven directly into the mixing ball by the drive motor and the drive blade rotating on the gearing structure Powered.

First, the base resin was added to a mixing ball equipped with a blade rotating at 15 rpm. The processing temperature set point for both bands was 170 to 180 ° C., depending on the melting temperature of the compound.
The rotor speed was then increased to 40 rpm until sufficient flow was reached. Mixing speed is 20 rp
The remaining ingredients (ie, antioxidants, other liquid ingredients) were added. Once the additive was charged, the ram arm closure assembly was lowered and the mixing speed increased to 40 rpm. The duration of the mixing cycle was 3 minutes. When complete, the molten material was removed from the mixer using tweezers, collected, placed between two Mylar sheets, and pressed and flattened at room temperature.
The cooled samples were cut into small squares and pieces for plaque preparation and granulation using a # 3 Armature Greener Arbor press and a large blade. Additional blending was also performed using a Haake mixer. The mixing stage or blending stage is as follows. First, a specific ratio of PP and TPE is fed to a Haake mixer at 190 ° C (about 3 minutes)
The polymer was dissolved. FR (FP2100J) was added and mixed for an additional 3 minutes until a uniform blend was obtained. The mixture is removed and cooled to room temperature as well as the Haoli of the molding machine
XLB-D350 ^* 350 ^* 1 (Changzhou No. 1 Plastic a
nd Rubber Equipment Ltd. Co. ) In accordance with the requirements of the following test methods.

Plaque preparation. Samples are operated in manual mode Green Hydrolayer
It was compression molded using a steam press (equipped with a rapid cooling capacity). One 8x8 per sample
50-mil plaques were prepared. The press was preheated to 180 ° C. (± 5 ° C.). Total 8
5 g of material was placed in the center of a 50-mil stainless steel plaque between a pre-weighed and demolded Mylar and aluminum sheet mold assembly. The filled mold was then placed in the press at 500 psi for 3 minutes and the pressure was increased to 2,200 psi for 3 minutes. Steam / water switching occurred 15 seconds before the 3 minute mark and the sample was quenched and cooled at a high pressure setting for 5 minutes.

Granulation. The sample is a Thomas-Whiley ED Model 4-knife mill (a milling chamber with a rotor that operates the blade against a blade with four adjustable cutting blades having four fixed blades; the gap between the fixed blade and the preparation blade Was set to 0.030 inch; the operating speed of the rotary head was set to 1,200 rpm; 6-mm screen). The particulate material was collected in a product receiver at the bottom of the facility for extrusion or plaque preparation.

Material drying. Prior to experimental extrusion or sample preparation, the granular material is vacuum dried (at 85 ° C for at least 6 hours, high vacuum (<2.0 "Hg)) to remove free moisture that can cause porosity or material degradation, Wrapped in a foil bag and cooled to room temperature before the experimental extrusion operation.

Brabender tape extruder. A3-barrel strip, 25: 1 L / D, 3/4 "Bra
A bender extruder (with 1 "x 0.020""coat hanger slit" type tape die) was used with a 3: 1 compression ratio metering screw. No breaker plate or screen pack was used. The zone temperature is 170 from the supply port to the die.
175, 180 and 180 ° C. The vacuum-dried tape sample was extruded with a screw speed starting at 20 rpm, and a tape sample of about 6 meters was collected on a moving Teflon-coated conveyor belt (about 1 m bed length and 1 m / min speed capability). . The screw and conveyor belt speeds were adjusted to a tape thickness of about 0.018 "(0.457 mm).

Tensile test sample. Extruded tape samples were 73.4 ° F. (+/− 6 ° F.) and 50% (+/−
-5%) After adjusting for 40 hours (control environment) with relative humidity (RH), cut with arbor press, ASTM-D638IV type tensile specimen (under 4.5 "condition) is 0.250 'width test Stop at full length (11.43 cm) of dogbone sample with band (7.62 cm).

Mini wire line. A3-barrel strip, 25: 1 L / D, 3/4 "Brabend
The er extruder (0.050 "tip (1.27 mm); 0.080 die) was used with a 3: 1 compression ratio metering screw. No breaker plate or screen pack was used. 18AWG with a nominal diameter of .046 inches (1.168 mm)
/ 41 chain. The band temperature was set to 180 ° C. for the entire band including the die. The wire-coated sample was cooled with a 4-5 inch (10-13 cm) water tank from the die. 25 vacuum dried samples
Was extruded at a screw speed of 30 rpm and adjusted to a 0.085 "(2.16 mm or 85 mil) target diameter to about 0.020" (20 mil) wire coating thickness. A minimum of 60 feet (18 m) of wire-coated sample is a moving conveyor belt (15 feet / minute (4.
Collected at a speed of 57 m / min).

Tensile test. Tensile tests were performed using INSTRON Renew 4201 65/16 and 4
It was performed on a 202 65/16 instrument using a special 2-speed protocol, and the secant modulus followed by tensile and elongation at break measurements. Tensile testing is performed at room temperature according to ASTM D638. The time-based displacement method is used to measure the secant modulus distortion level and eliminates the difficulties associated with extensometer misalignment and lack of decomposition at the low extension level used in modulus testing. For the ASTM type IV dogbone used, the strain is estimated to occur over a 2.0 "effective length (50 mm). Thus, a 1% strain increment corresponds to a 0.50-mm jaw movement and 5
Equivalent to 0.010 minutes (0.6 seconds) at 0 mm / min test speed. To remove the “start-up” noise and pretension of the sample, the secant factor of “starting load” is calculated in 0.4 seconds, 1% load measurement in 1 second, 2% load in 1.6 seconds, and The load was 5% in 3.4 seconds. 1% secant load equals 1 second load minus 0.4 second load; 2% secant load equals 1.6 second load minus 0.4 second load, etc. This load is used in the calculation of the standard secant factor; for example 2% secant factor = (2
% Secant load) Measurement sample cross-sectional area). 18 seconds (30% elongation), test speed is automatically 500m
After increasing to m / min, part of the test was broken to complete the tension. The standard deviation of 5 replicates with a 1% secant is typically <5% of the mean value using the time-based strain method, whereas the standard deviation is the strain based on the previous extensometer. Usually over 25% of the average value using the method. Since the INSTRON program for this test is based on a 2.0 "(50 mm) effective strain length (type IV dogbone), values were calculated for each trial run.

Thermal deformation / wire. This test was used to establish resistance to wire or cable insulation or jacket deformation at elevated temperatures. The equipment consists of a forced circulation air oven, a temperature measuring device with an accuracy of ± 1 ° C., and an anvil and 6.4 ± 0.2 mm (0.25 ± 0.0 mm).
It consists of a dial micrometer that has a flat surface at both ends of the spindle with a diameter of 1 inch and exerts a force of 300 g (weight specified in the product specification). The test sample (mini wire line with coating, length 25 mm (1 ″)) is the weight end (foot)
of the weight) was marked and the initial thickness was measured. The test equipment and samples were conditioned for 1 hour in a specific temperature air oven unless specified otherwise. The sample in the oven is then placed at the end of the weight at the mark location for 1 hour, and then removed within 15 seconds from the weight end unless otherwise specified, and the thickness at the mark location is measured. The thermal deformation test can be performed according to UL1581-2001. For each formulation, two parallel sample plaques were preheated in an oven (1 hour) at 150 ° C., pressed with the same load at 150 ° C. (1 hour),
Without removing the weight, it was placed in an ASTM room (23 ° C.) for 1 hour, the change in the thickness of the plaque was recorded, and the thermal deformation rate was calculated. Deformation rate (HD%) at a predetermined test temperature is expressed by the formula: HD% = (T1
-T2) / T1 ^* 100 (formula "b"), where T1 is the original sample thickness before the test (
mm (inch)), and T2 represents the sample thickness (mm (inch)) before deformation.

Thermal deformation / plaque. The thermal deformation test is performed according to UL1581-2001. Test samples are cut from compression molded (190 ° C.) plaques (1.44 mm thick). For each formulation, two parallel sample plaques are preheated in an oven (150 ° C., 1 hour) and are loaded at the same load (150 ° C., 1 hour).
Time) and put in an ASTM room (23 ° C.) for 1 hour without removing the weight. The change in plaque thickness is recorded and the thermal deformation rate is calculated according to HD% = (D ₀ −D ₁ ) / D ₀ ^* 100%, where D ₀ = original sample thickness and D ₁ = It is the sample thickness after the deformation process. The calculated ratio of two parallel samples is averaged.

VW-1 combustion. This test is performed on production wire or cable samples in accordance with UL-1581 test standard VW-1 burn test section 1080 to confirm resistance to vertical flame propagation and dripping of combustion particles. Settings include methane flame (ASTM 2556 standard) and special Bunsen burner. A nominal 20 ″ long test sample (50.8 cm) is supported in a vertical position, a 500 watt burner flame strikes near the base at an angle of 45 °, and the base cotton bed confirms the failure due to combustion dripping, with a flag at the top Indicates a failure at a predetermined measurement length and measures the failure due to the propagation of the flame.The ignition of the sample is due to 15 seconds exposure of 5 burners.
The sample is self-digesting within 60 seconds of burner removal. Typically 3 per sample
Examples are evaluated for formulation screening studies. Wire or cable samples from the mini-wire line are conditioned at room temperature (minutes, 24 hours) and straightened. A piece of kraft paper (width 12.5 ± 1mm (0.5 ± 0.1 ")) is once wrapped around the rubber side toward the sample with the sample, and the lower edge acts on the sample with the internal blue cone of flame. About 254 ± 2mm (10
± 0.1 "), both ends are evenly applied and trimmed to form an indicator flag that protrudes approximately 20 mm (0.75 inch) opposite the side to which the flame is applied. The flag protrudes from the center of the wide surface of the sample, the sample, device, and ambient air are at room temperature, and the lower sample support is at least 50 mm (2 inches) from the point where the flame's internal blue cone acts on the sample. Below, the upper support is at least 50mm from the top edge of the kraft paper flag
(2 inches) above. A continuous horizontal layer of cotton is placed on the floor of the test chamber and is centered on the vertical axis of the test sample and extends outwards from 75 to 100 mm (3 to 4 inches) in all directions except the direction of the burner, with the top surface being flame From the point where the tip of the inner blue cone of the sample acts on the sample.
Below ± 6 mm (9.25 ± 0.25 inch). Burner vertical, test flame height is 1
Adjust to 25 ± 10 mm (5.0 ± 0.4 inches) and the inner blue cone is 40 ± 2 mm long (1
. 5 ± 0.1 inches). The burner is then placed in an angle block and its barrel is at an angle of 20 ° vertically. The angle block moves to the tip of the flame's internal blue cone acting on the outer surface of the sample for 15 seconds and away for 15 seconds; this cycle uses the smooth and quick movement of the angle block and minimal disturbance of the chamber air, Repeat with 5 flame applications. If the burning of the sample lasts longer than 15 seconds after removing the burner flame, the burner flame will not be reapplied until immediately after the combustion stops. After the test is complete, the exhaust system is activated and removes smoke and flame from the chamber. During and after the test, record the following: a)% non-carbonized indicator flag (from the flag to the first visible sign of physical damage other than just scorching or scorching): The part of the kraft paper that is in contact with the sample is B) Ignition of cotton; flameless carbonization of cotton is typically neglected; and c) Time for sample burning after each application of burner flame to self digest. Results include indications when the sample burns for more than 60 seconds after removal of non-carbonized length, cotton ignition, and burner flame after optional application.

Flame resistance (FR). The simulated VW-1FR test characterizing FR performance is performed in a UL94 chamber with a sample size limited to 200 ^* 2.7 ^* 1.9 mm. The sample hangs down the vertical axis clamp by applying a 50 g weight to the distal end. Apply one paper flag (2 ^* 0.5cm) to the top of the wire. Flame bottom (burner oracle
The distance from the highest point of r oracle) to the bottom of the flag is 18 cm. The flame is applied for 45 seconds continuously. Afterflame time (AFT), non-carbonized wire length (UCL), and non-carbonized flag area percentage (non-carbonized flag) are recorded during and after combustion. Four or five cases are tested for each sample. All of the following correspond to “fail”: (1) Cotton under the sample ignites, (
2) The flag burns out, and (3) It drops with the flame.

Volume resistance (VR). Hewlett-Packard High Resistivi
ty Meter is used to measure volume resistance. The conductivity or resistance of a material is determined from current or voltage drop measurements under specified conditions. By using an appropriate electrode system, the surface and volume resistance may be measured separately. The resistivity is calculated using the sample dimensions. Product samples are visually tested for surface voids, wrinkles, blurring, and cracks prior to drilling; these defects in the plaque are avoided. 50 cut into 3.5 inch diameter disks
Mill plaques are typically used. The test voltage is set to 500V. For all VR measurements, two samples were prepared and tested in a three-step sequence: (1) vacuum dried and tested at 80 ° C (overnight), (2) soaked in distilled water for 2 hours (test sample) (# 1 only), and (3) Soaked for 48 hours and tested (test sample # 1 only). Sample # 2 was directly performed 48 hours after immersion in water at room temperature. This is done to reduce the workload and optimize the experimental efficiency to almost 33% without loosing important details.

（式中、ρ_０は絶縁体積抵抗であり、オームミリメートルで表され；Ｌは試験試料の浸漬
長であり（ミリメートル）；Ｒは測定絶縁抵抗であり（オーム）；Ｄは外部ケーブル直径
（ミリメートル）であり；ｄは導体直径（ミリメートル）であり；ならびにｌｇは１０を
底とする対数である）。 Wet insulation resistance. An approximately 10 meter long wire sample prepared by a Brabender tape extruder was tested for insulation resistance / wet insulation resistance (IR / wet IR). Before the test, peel off about 1.5 cm at both ends of the jacket, and match the copper together. Soak the sample in distilled water,
500 V DC was applied between the conductor and the water during both IR and wet IR tests. In the IR test, the wire sample was measured with a withstand voltage tester after DC application for 1 minute. In the wet IR test, a wire sample was soaked in water previously grounded for 1 hour and then measured in the same manner according to the following:

Where ρ ₀ is the insulation volume resistance, expressed in ohm millimeters; L is the immersion length of the test sample (millimeters); R is the measured insulation resistance (ohms); D is the external cable diameter (millimeters) D is the conductor diameter (millimeter); and lg is the logarithm with base 10).

Tables A and B (below) list the properties of the following composites of formulation and polypropylene / thermoplastic elastomer / flame retardant compound (PP / TPE / FR). The IE example is an example of the present invention, and the CE is a comparative example. The formulation ingredients are reported as weight percent of the composition.

As shown in Tables A and B, Inventive Example (IE) is PP blended with FP2100J N / P based intumescent flame retardant containing TPE and piperazine components, exceptional mechanical properties and flame retardant performance Indicates. Each invention example (IE1-12) passed the simulated VW-1 flame resistance (FR) test. Surprisingly, IE1-12 each has excellent tensile strength (> 9 MPa) and elongation (> 200%) simultaneously with thermal deformation at 150 ° C. of less than 50%. In contrast, a comparative composite made of FR without PP, TPE and piperazine components (
CE1-4) did not pass the simulated VW-1 flame resistance (FR) test. In addition, as shown in Table A, CE-5 made with PP and FP2100J but without TPE is a simulated V
Passed the W-1FR test but has a very high 5% secant modulus of 47850 psi, poor elongation (<15%) and poor thermal deformation. In Examples IE-1 to IE-12, TP
In the presence of E (VERSIFY and / or SEBS), the 5% secant modulus is 150 ° C.
It was reduced to less than 33000 psi without losing thermal deformation at.

Important customer specifications for halogen-free flame retardant (HFFR) wire and cable compositions include tensile stress> 5.8 MPa, tensile elongation> 200% and thermal deformation ratio <50% (150 ° C.). The sample (IE) of the present invention is produced by the Haake mixing method, and the elongation is further increased by the twin screw extrusion method.

Tables C and D (below) list the properties of the formulations and PP / TPE / FR compound composites.

Typical criteria used in W & C applications are passing the VW-1 test for flame retardancy, 12
Includes thermal deformation <50% at 1 ° C. and elasticity <35,000 psi. In Table C, I
E1 and IE2 exhibit overall balanced properties including good elasticity, high flame resistance, high thermal deformation and good wet electrical properties. CE1 to CE3 produced in the FR system without TPE and piperazine showed unbalanced properties. OBC and VERSIF
CE1, a blend of Y, resulted in low tensile strength and poor flame resistance. ULDP
CE2, a blend of E and VERSIFY, had low tensile strength and poor thermal deformation. IE1 also demonstrates that the use of BAPP with other solid expandable FRs provides good flame resistance and good elasticity. CE3 is the only resin system that showed poor thermal deformation performance at 121 ° C.

In Table D (below), IE3 to IE6, like IE1 and IE2, exhibit balanced properties and unexpectedly have a lower linear number than IE1, but have comparable thermal deformation performance. Versify 3200, Versify 3300, Versify 2
400 is the main resin in IE2 to IE4 and has a melting temperature (melting point m.p.
pt. It was unexpected that the blend of) with the main phase showed good thermal deformation at a high temperature of 121 ° C.

IE3 to IE5 inflatable FR load levels are in the form of inflatable N- containing no piperazine component.
Much lower than the typical load level required for VW-1 performance of other polyolefin-based formulations consisting of PFR. Surprisingly, the good flame resistance from IE3 to IE5 is from IE3 to IE5.
5 shows a combustion synergistic effect between the polymer resin used in 5 and the FR package. This effect is further demonstrated by CE4 using alternating swellable FR (without piperazine component), the FR
Exhibited poor flame resistance and did not meet VW-1 performance requirements. Compared to the high volume resistance of IE3 to IE5, CE4 also showed poor wet electrical properties.

Although the present invention has been described in some detail throughout the foregoing specific embodiments, this detail is primarily for purposes of illustration. Numerous variations and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as described in the following claims.
The present invention includes the following aspects.
[1] A halogen-free flame retardant polymer composition,
A. Propylene polymer;
B. A thermoplastic elastomer (TPE); and
C. Intumescent flame retardant system containing piperazine component
A composition comprising
[2] The composition of claim 1 having a 5% secant modulus up to 35,000 psi.
[3] The composition of [1], wherein the flame retardant system comprises an organophosphate-type expandable halogen-free flame retardant.
[4] The piperazine component is selected from the group consisting of piperazine pyrophosphate, piperazine orthophosphate, piperazine polyphosphate, a polytriazinyl compound containing a piperazine group, and an oligomer or polymer 1,3,5-triazine derivative containing a piperazine group. The composition according to [1].
[5] The composition of [1], wherein the flame retardant system comprises FR2100J, Budit 3167, or a combination thereof.
[6] In [1], the thermoplastic elastomer is selected from the group consisting of a styrene block copolymer, a propylene / α-olefin copolymer, an ethylene / α-olefin copolymer, an ethylene interpolymer, and an olefin block copolymer. The composition as described.
[7] 5-60% by weight of component “A” propylene polymer, 5-50% by weight of component “B” thermoplastic elastomer, 10-70% by weight of component “C” based on the total weight of the composition The composition according to [1], comprising a flame retardant system.
[8] The component “C” flame retardant system comprises 1-99 wt% piperazine flame retardant and 1-99 wt% other flame retardant, based on the total weight of the component “C” flame retardant system, [7] The composition according to [7].
[9] A wire or cable sheath produced from the composition of [1] above.
[10] The wire or cable sheath according to [9], which has flame retardancy effective for passing the VW-1 test and thermal deformation effective for passing the UL1581-2001 test at a minimum of 80 ° C.
[11] The composition according to [10], which has a thermal deformation effective for passing the UL1581-2001 test at 121 ° C or 150 ° C.

Claims (9)

A halogen-free flame retardant polymer composition comprising:
(A) a random propylene copolymer is selected from the group consisting of impact modified propylene copolymer, and combinations thereof, 20 to 40 wt% propylene polymer and (B) 20 to 40 wt% of a thermoplastic propylene / ethylene copolymer A propylene blend consisting of : and at least 10% by weight of an expandable flame retardant system comprising an organophosphate type expandable halogen-free flame retardant and a piperazine component;
A composition having a 5% secant modulus up to 35,000 psi.   The piperazine component is selected from the group consisting of piperazine pyrophosphate, piperazine orthophosphate, piperazine polyphosphate, a polytriazinyl compound containing a piperazine group, and an oligomer or polymer 1,3,5-triazine derivative containing a piperazine group. A composition according to 1. The flame retardant system comprises an N / P based intumescent flame retardant (FR) containing piperazine pyrophosphate, an intumescent FR filler (APP / piperazine component / melamine coating) , or a combination thereof. Composition.   The composition of claim 1, wherein the flame retardant system comprises 1-99 wt% piperazine flame retardant and 1-99 wt% other flame retardant based on the total weight of the flame retardant system.   A sheath of wire or cable made from the composition of claim 1.   The wire or cable sheath of claim 5 having flame retardancy effective to pass the VW-1 test and thermal deformation effective to pass the UL1581-2001 test at a minimum of 80C.   The composition of claim 6 having a thermal deformation effective to pass the UL1581-2001 test at 121 ° C or 150 ° C.   The composition of claim 1 having a tensile stress greater than 8 MPa and a tensile elongation greater than 200%.   The composition of claim 1, wherein the thermoplastic propylene / ethylene copolymer has a molecular weight distribution of 3.5 or less.