WO2023042015A1 - Articles for use with 5g radio waves - Google Patents

Articles for use with 5g radio waves Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2023042015A1
WO2023042015A1 PCT/IB2022/057917 IB2022057917W WO2023042015A1 WO 2023042015 A1 WO2023042015 A1 WO 2023042015A1 IB 2022057917 W IB2022057917 W IB 2022057917W WO 2023042015 A1 WO2023042015 A1 WO 2023042015A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
thermoplastic resin
composition
range
frequency
article
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2022/057917
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Alexander L. GULLEDGE
Ashray Manohar THOTAMBAILU
Songcheng WANG
Original Assignee
Inv Nylon Polymers Americas, Llc
Invista Textiles (U.K.) Limited
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Inv Nylon Polymers Americas, Llc, Invista Textiles (U.K.) Limited filed Critical Inv Nylon Polymers Americas, Llc
Publication of WO2023042015A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023042015A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • CCHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C08ORGANIC MACROMOLECULAR COMPOUNDS; THEIR PREPARATION OR CHEMICAL WORKING-UP; COMPOSITIONS BASED THEREON
    • C08LCOMPOSITIONS OF MACROMOLECULAR COMPOUNDS
    • C08L77/00Compositions of polyamides obtained by reactions forming a carboxylic amide link in the main chain; Compositions of derivatives of such polymers
    • C08L77/06Polyamides derived from polyamines and polycarboxylic acids
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04BTRANSMISSION
    • H04B1/00Details of transmission systems, not covered by a single one of groups H04B3/00 - H04B13/00; Details of transmission systems not characterised by the medium used for transmission
    • H04B1/38Transceivers, i.e. devices in which transmitter and receiver form a structural unit and in which at least one part is used for functions of transmitting and receiving
    • H04B1/3827Portable transceivers
    • H04B1/3888Arrangements for carrying or protecting transceivers

Definitions

  • thermoplastic resins and articles including the same suitable for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz.
  • 5G wireless communication technology in particular, is advancing at a much faster pace.
  • the 5G coverage can be separated into two regimes in the electromagnetic spectrum: i) millimeter waves (mmWave), and ii) low-/mid-band.
  • mmWave millimeter waves
  • low-/mid-band low-/mid-band.
  • the mmWave technology uses frequencies in the 6-100 GHz range, for example, above 24-25 GHz, for example, in the range of 28-39 GHz, while the low-/mid-frequency band uses frequencies below 6 GHz.
  • Materials used in antenna concealment assemblies have generally been customized structures including fiberglass, fiberglass reinforced plastic (“FRP”), polyurethane foam, ABS plastic, other composite material, or combinations thereof. These materials have offered a reasonable degree of structural integrity and strength as well as a reasonable degree of radio frequency (RF) transparency for lower-frequency cellular applications.
  • FRP fiberglass reinforced plastic
  • RF radio frequency
  • the present invention provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz.
  • the article includes one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough.
  • the one or more portions independently include a thermoplastic resin including an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, a polycarbonate (PC) composition, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, a liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, or a polyamide composition.
  • ABS acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
  • PBT polybutylene terephthalate
  • PC polycarbonate
  • PVC polyvinyl chloride
  • PPS polyphenylene sulfide
  • LCP liquid crystalline polymer
  • the thermoplastic resin includes the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 1A herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 2A herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 3A herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have
  • the present invention provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz.
  • the article includes one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough.
  • the one or more portions independently include a thermoplastic resin including an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, a polycarbonate (PC) composition, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, a liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, or a polyamide composition.
  • ABS acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
  • PBT polybutylene terephthalate
  • PC polycarbonate
  • PVC polyvinyl chloride
  • PPS polyphenylene sulfide
  • LCP liquid crystalline polymer
  • the thermoplastic resin includes the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table IB herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 2B herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 3B herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have
  • the present invention provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz.
  • the article includes one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough.
  • the one or more portions independently include a thermoplastic resin including an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, a polycarbonate (PC) composition, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, a liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, or a polyamide composition.
  • ABS acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
  • PBT polybutylene terephthalate
  • PC polycarbonate
  • PVC polyvinyl chloride
  • PPS polyphenylene sulfide
  • LCP liquid crystalline polymer
  • the thermoplastic resin includes the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 1 C herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 2C herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 3C herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have
  • the present invention provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz.
  • the article includes one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough.
  • the one or more portions independently including a polyamide composition including a first polyamide that includes nylon-6; nylon-6, 6; a copolymer of nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6 including at least one repeating unit that is poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide), poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), or a copolymer of poly (hexamethylene terephthalamide) and poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide); a mixture thereof; or a copolymer thereof.
  • the polyamide composition also includes a second polyamide, an additive, or a mixture thereof. At least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7A or Table 8A herein.
  • the present invention provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz.
  • the article includes one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough.
  • the one or more portions including a polyamide composition including PA66/DI and glass fibers.
  • the PA66/DI is 55 wt% to 65 wt% of the polyamide composition and the glass fibers are 10 wt% to 30 wt% of the polyamide composition.
  • the PA66/DI has a weight ratio of PA66 to DI of 90:10 to 95:5.
  • At least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 8 A, 8B, or 8C herein.
  • the present invention provides a system that includes the article of the present invention for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz.
  • the system also includes an antenna for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz.
  • the present invention provides a method of making the article of the present invention for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz.
  • the method includes injection molding, thermoforming, compression molding, extruding, blow molding, casting, or any combination thereof, the thermoplastic resin to form the article or one or more components thereof.
  • the present invention provides a method that includes transmitting and/or receiving radio waves having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz through the article of the present invention.
  • polyamides are conventionally thought to be poor materials for 5G transmissibility due to the tendency of polyamides to absorb water; however, the present inventors have discovered that polyamides can provide good 5G signal transmissibility and that certain thicknesses of polyamides provide lower or minimized signal attenuation for a desired 5G radio wave.
  • the present invention can be used to design articles having thicknesses that provide superior 5G transmissibility for particular 5G frequencies, and/or thicknesses that selectively shield various 5G frequencies.
  • FIG. 1 is a graph showing moisture gain data for 1.5 mm thick test specimen plaques measured according to the ISO 1110 Procedure, according to various examples of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2 is a graph showing moisture gain data for 3.0 mm thick test specimen plaques measured according to the ISO 1110 Procedure, according to various examples of the present disclosure.
  • FIGS. 3A, 4A, 5A, 6A, 7A, 8A, 9A, 10A, 11A, 12A, 13A, 14A, 15A, and 16A are graphs showing the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of thickness (mm on the X-axis) for dry as molded (DAM) (or dry) specimens at two frequencies, according to various examples of the present disclosure.
  • DAM molded
  • FIGS. 3B, 4B, 5B, 6B, 7B, 8B, 9B, 10B, 11B, 12B, 13B, 14B, 15B, and 16B are graphs showing the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of thickness (mm on the X-axis) for conditioned (or wet) specimens at two frequencies, according to various examples of the present disclosure.
  • FIGS. 17A and 17B represent a cyclone plot showing insertion loss (dB) data according to Example 18 of the present disclosure.
  • FIGS. 18A and 18B represent the array antenna data measured at three azimuths, 0°, 30°, and 60°, according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a low transmission loss panel, according to various examples of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 20 illustrates schematic representations of various panels or enclosures including windows according to Comparative Example 1 of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 21 illustrates schematic representations of various panels windowless panels or enclosures according to Example 26 of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 22 represents a cyclone plot showing insertion loss (dB) data according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIGS. 23A and 23B represent array antenna data measured at three azimuths, 0°, 30°, and 60°, according to Example 28 of the present disclosure.
  • the acts can be carried out in any order without departing from the principles of the disclosure, except when a temporal or operational sequence is explicitly recited. Furthermore, specified acts can be carried out concurrently unless explicit claim language recites that they be carried out separately. For example, a claimed act of doing X and a claimed act of doing Y can be conducted simultaneously within a single operation, and the resulting process will fall within the literal scope of the claimed process.
  • polyamide refers to polymer having repeating units linked by amide bonds. Polyamides may arise from monomers including aliphatic, semi-aromatic or aromatic groups. Polyamide includes nylons, e.g., nylon-6, 6 or nylon-6, and may refer to polyamides arising from a single monomer, two different monomers, or three or more different monomers.
  • the term polyamide thus includes dimonomeric polyamides.
  • the polyamide may be a nylon having as monomer units a dicarboxylic acid monomer unit and a diamine monomer unit.
  • the resulting polyamide can be nylon-6, 6.
  • Nylon-6 is a polyamide having a caprolactam monomer.
  • the polyamide may be copolymers which may be prepared from aqueous solutions or blends of aqueous solutions that contain more than two monomers. In various aspects, polyamides can be manufactured by polymerization of dicarboxylic acid monomers and diamine monomers.
  • polyamides can be produced via polymerization of aminocarboxylic acids, aminonitriles, or lactams. Suitable polyamides include, but are not limited, to those polymerized from the monomer units described herein.
  • the term “polyamide” includes polyamides such as PA6, PA66, PAI 1, PA12, PA612, and Nylon- 66/6T. However, this term can be modified, when done so expressly, to exclude particular polyamides.
  • the polyamide can be a polyamide other than PAI 1, PA12, and PA612; orthe polyamide can be a polyamide otherthan Nylon-66/6T.
  • N6 refers to a polymer synthesized by polycondensation of caprolactam.
  • the polymer is also known as polyamide 6, nylon-6, and poly(caprolactam) .
  • N66 refers to a polymer synthesized by polycondensation of hexamethylenediamine (HMD) and adipic acid.
  • the polymer is also known as Polyamide 66, nylon-66, nylon-6-6, and nylon-6/6.
  • the polymers described herein can terminate in any suitable way.
  • the polymers can terminate with an end group that is independently chosen from a suitable polymerization initiator, -H, -OH, a substituted or unsubstituted (Cl-C20)hydrocarbyl (e.g., (Cl- C10)alkyl or (C6-C20)aryl) interrupted with 0, 1, 2, or 3 groups independently selected from -O-, substituted or unsubstituted -NH-, and -S-, a poly(substituted or unsubstituted (Cl- C20)hydrocarbyloxy), and a poly(substituted or unsubstituted (Cl-C20)hydrocarbylamino).
  • DAM or “dry” refer to the dry-as-molded test specimens.
  • the terms “wet” or “cond” or “conditioned” refer to the conditioned test specimens.
  • substantially uniform attenuation means the reduction in signal strength across a sample of uniform thickness when an electromagnetic signal crosses the thickness of the sample in a direction normal to the surface of the sample.
  • Attenuation coefficient refers to a calculated value for the measured wave attenuation (or loss) in decibels (dB) as the wave signal of a certain frequency (in GHz) passes through a medium of ca certain structural thickness (in cm).
  • the unit of measure for the attenuation coefficient is dB/GHz.cm.
  • attenuation coefficient value of 1.0 dB/GHz.cm means 1.0 dB of wave loss per 1 unit of GHz per 1 cm medium thickness.
  • the present invention provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz (e.g., 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 32 GHz to 39.5 GHz, or 24 GHz to 39.5 GHz).
  • the article includes one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough.
  • the one or more portions independently include a thermoplastic resin that includes an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, a polycarbonate (PC) composition, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, a liquid crystalline polymer (UCP) composition, or a polyamide composition.
  • the one or more portions have a thickness that provides low signal attenuation of the radio waves.
  • the radio waves includes at least some radio waving having a frequency of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and also at least some radio waves outside a range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and inside a range of 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz (e.g., 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz, 76 GHz to 81 GHz, 6 GHz to 23 GHz, 40 GHz to 100 GHz, or a combination thereof).
  • 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz e.g., 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz, 76 GHz to 81 GHz, 6 GHz to 23 GHz, 40 GHz to 100 GHz, or a combination thereof.
  • any suitable proportion of the article can be the thermoplastic resin.
  • Substantially all of the article can be the thermoplastic resin, or 100 wt% of the article can be the thermoplastic resin.
  • the thermoplastic resin can be 0.001 wt% to 100 wt% of the article, 50 wt% to 100 wt%, 90 wt% to 100 wt%, 0.001 wt% to 49.9 wt%, 0.001 wt% to 10 wt% of the article, or less than, equal to, or greater than 0.001 wt%, 0.01, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.5, 99.9, 99.99, or 99.999% of the article.
  • the thermoplastic resin can be 90 wt% to 100 wt% of the one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz, or 95 to 100 wt%, 98 wt% to 100 wt%, or 99 wt% to 100 wt%.
  • the article can be substantially free of materials that cause the article to increase attenuation of radio waves at one or more frequencies in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and/or 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz, as compared to the same region of the article without the material, or as compared to the same region of the thermoplastic resin without the material.
  • the article can be substantially free of metals or metal-containing compounds.
  • Metals or metalcontaining compound can be 0 wt% of the article or of the one or more portions of the article, or 0 wt% to 0.001 wt% of the article or of the one or more portions of the article.
  • the article can include one or more portions that include the thermoplastic resin or that are entirely the thermoplastic resin (e.g., the one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz) and one or more other portions that are substantially free of the thermoplastic resin (e.g., include 0 wt% thermoplastic resin, or that include 0 wt% to 0.001 wt% of the thermoplastic resin).
  • the article can be for use with communication devices, electronics, and/or electric power systems.
  • the article can be for use with stationary electronics installations, such as poles, buildings, roof-tops, and the like, or moving installations, such as vehicles, aircrafts, bicycles, boats, wearables, and the like.
  • the article may be designed according to the application specification in terms of the volume, weight, ease of access for maintenance/repairs, aesthetics (color, finish, appearance, and the like), or other criteria.
  • the article can be for use with, electronic equipment such as AC or DC powered 5G mmWave and 4G radios, AC/DC rectifiers or remote powering units, fiber connectivity enclosures, radio -frequency combiners or diplexers, alarm systems and intrusion systems, AC and DC power distribution panels, 5G antennas, or 5G receivers.
  • electronic equipment such as AC or DC powered 5G mmWave and 4G radios, AC/DC rectifiers or remote powering units, fiber connectivity enclosures, radio -frequency combiners or diplexers, alarm systems and intrusion systems, AC and DC power distribution panels, 5G antennas, or 5G receivers.
  • the article can be an automotive wall, a building wall, a panel, a wall plate, a structural frame, a radome, a radome cover, a monocoque, a car unibody, or a combination thereof.
  • the article can be an aircraft fuselage, a drone or radio-controlled (RC) aircraft fuselage, or a component of the fuselage.
  • the article can be a cell phone case, a cell phone protector, or a component thereof.
  • the article can be an enclosure for electronic equipment, or a component of an enclosure for electronic equipment.
  • the article can be a panel or can include a panel that includes the thermoplastic resin.
  • the article can be a structural article (e.g., for forming part of a building or vehicle).
  • the article can be a wall, such as an automobile wall, a truck wall, or a building wall.
  • the article can be an automobile skin or a truck skin.
  • the wall can include one or more monolithic windowless panels that include the thermoplastic resin.
  • the one or more panels can form a portion of a major face of the wall.
  • the one or more panels can be electromagnetic windows in the wall that are translucent or opaque to visible light.
  • the article can be the panel (e.g., a wall panel) or the article can be a wall that includes the panel.
  • the article can be a wall plate.
  • a wall plate can be a planer or curved cover structure for functional and/or aesthetic applications. In some aspects, a wall plate can cover something to keep it out of sight.
  • the article can be a structural frame, such as a window frame, a door frame, a vehicle frame, or any suitable structural frame.
  • a window frame is a supporting frame for the glass of a window.
  • a door frame is a supporting frame for a door.
  • the article can be a vehicle frame or a component thereof, such as a car frame, a bus frame, an RV frame, or a truck frame.
  • the article can be an enclosure for protecting a radio antenna operating in the 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz frequency range (and, optionally, within the range of 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz and outside the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz).
  • the article can fully or partially enclose the radio antenna.
  • the article can be a radome or a radome cover.
  • a radome is a structural enclosure that can be weather resistant and that protects an antenna.
  • a radome protects the antenna from weather and other external phenomena and conceals the antenna from view.
  • the walls of the radome or radome cover can include the thermoplastic resin.
  • the radome or radome cover can have uniform RF transmissibility throughout (e.g., transmissibility of radio waves having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and, optionally, 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz, e.g., 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz, 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 28 GHz to 39 GHz, 36 GHz to 40 GHz, 76 GHz to 81 GHz, 6 GHz to 100 GHz, or a combination thereof).
  • the radome or radome cover can include one or more areas of non-uniform RF transmissibility.
  • the article can be an exterior-mounted vehicular decorative or structural component.
  • the vehicle can be a car, bus, truck, van, RV, motorcycle, bicycle, or scooter.
  • the article can be a fuselage for an aircraft, or a component of the fuselage.
  • the article can be a fuselage for a radio-controlled (RC) aircraft or drone, such as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), or one or more components of such a fuselage.
  • RC radio-controlled
  • UAV unmanned aerial vehicle
  • the article can include a first plate of a first thickness and a second plate of a second thickness that each include the thermoplastic resin.
  • the first plate and the second plate can attenuate electromagnetic signals having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and, optionally, 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz (e.g., 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz, 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 28 GHz to 39 GHz, 36 GHz to 40 GHz, 76 GHz to 81 GHz, 6 GHz to 100 GHz, or a combination thereof) the same or differently.
  • 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz e.g., 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz, 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 28 GHz to 39 GHz, 36 GHz to 40 GHz, 76 GHz to 81 GHz, 6 GHz to 100 GHz, or a combination thereof
  • the article and/or the one or more portions including the thermoplastic resin can have a uniform thickness, or the article and/or the one or more portions including the thermoplastic resin can have a variable thickness.
  • the article and/or the one or more portions including the thermoplastic resin can have a thickness in a range of from about 0.5 mm to about 15 mm, 1 mm to 10 mm, 1 mm to 8 mm, 1 mm to 4 mm, 1 mm to about 2 mm, or less than, equal to, or greater than about 0.5, 0.6, 0.8, 1, 1.2, 1.4, 1.6, 1.8, 2, 2.2, 2.4, 2.6, 2.8, 3, 3.2, 3.4, 3.6, 3.8, 4, 4.2, 4.4, 4.6, 4.8, 5, 5.2, 5.4, 5.6, 5.8, 6, 6.2, 6.4, 6.6, 6.8, 7, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6, 7.8, 8, 8.2, 8.4, 8.6, 8.8, 9, 9.2, 9.4, 9.6, 9.8, 10, 10.2, 10.4, 10.6, 10.8, 11, 11.2,
  • the article and/or thermoplastic resin can be weather-resistant.
  • weather resistant refers to an article’s ability to withstand reasonable exposure to the elements (e.g,, sun, rain, wind, or combinations thereof) while substantially maintaining its structural integrity.
  • the article can include a coating thereon.
  • the article can include a flame-retardancy coating.
  • the flame -retardancy coating and be sufficient (in addition to any optional flame-retardant additives present in the thermoplastic resin) to provide the article with a UL-94 test rating of V-0.
  • the article can be free of portions and windows for receiving and/or transmitting of an electromagnetic signal having a frequency range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and, optionally, 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz (e.g., 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz, 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 28 GHz to 39 GHz, 36 GHz to 40 GHz, 76 GHz to 81 GHz, 6 GHz to 100 GHz, or a combination thereof) and that are free of the thermoplastic resin.
  • the article can include portions or windows for receiving and/or transmitting of an electromagnetic signal having a frequency range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and, optionally, 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz and that are free of the thermoplastic resin.
  • FIG. 19 shows an example of panel 100, according to the present disclosure.
  • an article can include a one or more of the panels, or can be formed from or include a plurality of joined panels 100.
  • the panel 100 made substantially (e.g., up to impurities or negligible structural features made from other materials) from a low transmission loss material, can take on many different forms.
  • the panel 100 can be configured to be a panel 100 for covering a transmissive element such as an antenna.
  • the panel 100 can be all or part of an article, such as a molded article.
  • the molded article for example, can be an enclosure designed to cover the antenna or other transmissive element.
  • the panel 100 may be the only portion of the article that includes a low transmission loss material, or that includes the thermoplastic resin.
  • the panel 100 can be all or part of a wall, a wall plate, a structural frame, a radome, a radome cover, or a radio-controlled (RC) or drome fuselage.
  • the entire article can be formed of the same material as panel 100.
  • the panel can have any suitable dimensions.
  • the panel can have a thickness in a range of from about 0.5 mm to about 15 mm, 1 mm to 10 mm, 1 mm to 8 mm, 1 mm to 4 mm, 1 mm to about 2 mm, or less than, equal to, or greater than about 0.5, 0.6, 0.8, 1, 1.2, 1.4, 1.6, 1.8, 2, 2.2, 2.4, 2.6, 2.8, 3, 3.2, 3.4, 3.6, 3.8, 4, 4.2, 4.4, 4.6, 4.8, 5, 5.2, 5.4, 5.6, 5.8, 6, 6.2, 6.4, 6.6, 6.8, 7, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6, 7.8, 8, 8.2, 8.4, 8.6, 8.8, 9, 9.2, 9.4, 9.6, 9.8, 10, 10.2, 10.4, 10.6, 10.8, 11, 11.2,
  • FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an example of a panel 100.
  • the thickness of the panel 100 is defined between opposed major surfaces 102 and 103.
  • the surfaces 102 and 103 of the panel 100 can be, e.g., circular (or substantially circular, allowing for some deviation from a perfect circle) or otherwise rounded, or polygonal in shape.
  • suitable polygonal shapes include a triangular shape (e.g., equilateral triangle, right triangle, obtuse triangle, an isosceles triangle, or acute triangle), a quadrilateral shape (e.g., a square or rectangle), a pentagonal shape, a hexagonal shape, a heptagonal shape, an octagonal shape, or any higher-order polygonal shape.
  • a triangular shape e.g., equilateral triangle, right triangle, obtuse triangle, an isosceles triangle, or acute triangle
  • quadrilateral shape e.g., a square or rectangle
  • pentagonal shape e.g., a hexagonal shape, a heptagonal shape, an octagonal shape, or any higher-order polygonal shape.
  • the opposed major surfaces 102 and 103 of the panel 100 can have a flat profile or a curved profile.
  • the curved profile can include a single curve or a series of undulations.
  • the curved profile can give the panel 100 a generally convex or concave shape. Respective adjacent undulations can be evenly spaced with respect to each other or unevenly spaced with respect to each other.
  • either of the opposed major surfaces 102 and 103 can include one or more projections such as a rib. Where present, a rib can be helpful to increase the strength of the panel 100.
  • Each surface can be substantially smooth or textured.
  • the opposed major surfaces can have the same profile or each major surface can have a different profile.
  • the article and/or portions of the article including the thermoplastic resin can have a substantially uniform signal attenuation of, when a direction of a signal impinging on the article and/or portions of the article including the thermoplastic resin is normal to a surface thereof, and wherein a thickness of the article and/or portions of the article including the thermoplastic resin is substantially uniform across an area where the signal impinges thereon: from 1 dB to 0 dB, or from 2 dB to 0 dB, or 0 dB, or less than or equal to 2 and greater than or equal to 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, or 1.9 dB, for a signal of frequency of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz (e.g., 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 32 GHz to 39.5 GHz, or 24 GHz to 39.5 GHz) and
  • the article and/or portions of the article including the thermoplastic resin can have a substantially uniform signal attenuation of, when a direction of a signal impinging on the article and/or portions of the article including the thermoplastic resin is normal to a surface of the article, and wherein a thickness of the article is substantially uniform across an area where the signal impinges thereon: from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 500 MHz to 6 GHz when a thickness is from 1 .5 mm to 4 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 24 GHz to 30 GHz when the thickness is from 2.5 mm to 4 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 36 GHz to 40 GHz when the thickness is from 1 .75 mm to 2.75 mm; from 3, 3.5, 2, 2.5, or 1 dB to 0 dB for a signal of frequency 24 GHz to 39.5 GHz when the thickness is from 1 mm to 15 mm and is within the ranges for the
  • Thermoplastic resin is Thermoplastic resin.
  • the article includes one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough.
  • the one or more portions independently include a thermoplastic resin that includes an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, a polycarbonate (PC) composition, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, a liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, or a polyamide composition.
  • ABS acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
  • PBT polybutylene terephthalate
  • PC polycarbonate
  • PVC polyvinyl chloride
  • PPS polyphenylene sulfide
  • LCP liquid crystalline polymer
  • the thermoplastic resin can be substantially free of materials (e.g., 0 wt%, or 0 wt% to 0.001 wt%) that cause the thermoplastic resin to increase attenuation of radio waves at one or more frequencies in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and optionally in the range of 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz, as compared to the same region of the thermoplastic resin without the material.
  • materials e.g., 0 wt%, or 0 wt% to 0.001 wt% that cause the thermoplastic resin to increase attenuation of radio waves at one or more frequencies in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and optionally in the range of 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz, as compared to the same region of the thermoplastic resin without the material.
  • thermoplastic resin in regions including the material
  • Materials that cause the thermoplastic resin (in regions including the material) to increase attenuation of radio waves at one or more frequencies in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz e.g., 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 32 GHz to 39.5 GHz, or 24 GHz to 39.5 GHz
  • 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz e.g., 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz, 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 28 GHz to 39 GHz, 36 GHz to 40 GHz, 76 GHz to 81 GHz, 6 GHz to 100 GHz, or a combination thereof
  • 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz e.g., 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz, 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 28 GHz to 39 GHz, 36 GHz to 40 GHz, 76 GHz to 81 GHz, 6 GHz to 100 GHz, or a combination thereof
  • the thermoplastic resin without the material can be 0 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or
  • the thermoplastic resin can include the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 1A, IB, and/or 1C, herein.
  • the thickness ranges in Tables 1-8 are the range from the minimum thickness to the maximum thicknesses listed on each row of the Tables. Unless otherwise specified, the end points of the frequency and thickness ranges in Table 1-8 are included within the range, e.g., such that 23.5 GHz is included in a range of 23.5 to 24.5.
  • a thickness that it outside the thickness range but rounds to a value that falls within the thickness range is included in the thickness range, e.g., a thickness of 3.6975 mm is included in the range of 3.7 mm to 3.8 mm.
  • Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene can be 50 wt%to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or greater than or equal to 50 wt%, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.9, or 99.99 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • the thermoplastic resin including the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition can have a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.16 to 3.84, or 2.7 to 3.2, or less than or equal to 3.84 and greater than or equal to 2.16, 2.2, 2.25, 2.3, 2.35, 2.4, 2.45, 2.5, 2.55, 2.6, 2.65, 2.7, 2.75, 2.8, 2.85, 2.9, 2.95, 3, 3.05, 3.1, or 3.15.
  • Dk dielectric constant
  • the thermoplastic resin including the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition can have a dissipation factor (Df) of 40 x 10' 4 to 228 x 10' 4 , or 50 x 10' 4 to 190 x 10' 4 , or less than or equal to 228 x 10' 4 and greater than or equal to 40 x 10' 4 , 50 x 10' 4 , 60 x 10' 4 , 70 x 10' 4 , 80 x IO’ 4 , 90 x IO’ 4 , 100 x IO’ 4 , HO x IO" 4 , 120 x IO" 4 , 130 x IO" 4 , 140 x IO" 4 , 150 x IO" 4 , 160 x IO’ 4 , 170 x IO’ 4 , 180 x IO’ 4 , 190 x IO’ 4 , 200 x IO’ 4 , 210 IO’ 4 ,
  • Dielectric constant and dissipation factor can be measured, e.g., using Active Standard Test Method (ASTM) D2520.
  • the thermoplastic resin can include the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 2A, 2B, and/or 2C, herein.
  • Polybutylene terephthalate can be 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or greater than or equal to 50 wt%, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.9, or 99.99 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • the thermoplastic resin including the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition can have a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.32 to 4.80, or 2.9 to 4.0, or less than or equal to 4.8 and greater than or equal to 2.32, 2.35, 2.4, 2.45, 2.5, 2.55, 2.6, 2.65,
  • Dk dielectric constant
  • the thermoplastic resin including the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition can have a dissipation factor (Df) of 8 x 10' 4 to 240 x 10' 4 , or 10 x 10' 4 to 200 x 10' 4 , or less than or equal to 240 x 10' 4 and greater than or equal to 8 x 10' 4 , 10 x 10' 4 , 20 x 10' 4 , 30 x IO’ 4 , 40 x IO’ 4 , 50 x IO’ 4 , 60 x IO’ 4 , 70 x IO’ 4 , 80 x IO’ 4 , 90 x IO’ 4 , 100 x IO’ 4 , 110 x IO’ 4 , 120 x IO’ 4 , 130 x IO’ 4 , 140 x IO’ 4 , 150 x IO’ 4 , 160 x IO’ 4 , 170 x IO’ 4 , 180
  • Df dissi
  • the thermoplastic resin can include the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 3A, 3B, and/or 3C, herein.
  • PC polycarbonate
  • Polycarbonate (PC) can be 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or greater than or equal to 50 wt%, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.9, or 99.99 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • the thermoplastic resin including the polycarbonate (PC) composition can have a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.29 to 3.43, or 2.8 to 3.0, or less than or equal to 3.43 and greater than or equal to 2.29, 2.3, 2.35, 2.4, 2.45, 2.5, 2.55, 2.6, 2.65, 2.7, 2.75, 2.8, 2.85, 2.9, 2.95, 3, 3.05, 3.1, 3.15, 3.2, 3.25, 3.3, 3.35, or 3.4.
  • Dk dielectric constant
  • the thermoplastic resin including the polycarbonate (PC) composition can have a dissipation factor (Df) of 52 x 10" 4 to 78 x 10" 4 , or 60 x 10' 4 to 70 x 10" 4 , or less than or equal to 78 x 10' 4 and greater than or equal to 52 x 10" 4 , 55 x IO’ 4 , 60 x IO’ 4 , 65 x IO’ 4 , 70 x IO’ 4 , or 75 x IO" 4 .
  • Df dissipation factor
  • the thermoplastic resin can include the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 4A, 4B, and/or 4C, herein.
  • PVC polyvinyl chloride
  • Polyvinyl chloride can be 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or greater than or equal to 50 wt%, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.9, or 99.99 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • the thermoplastic resin including the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition can have a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.4 to 4.8, or 3.0 to 4.0, or less than or equal to 4.8 and greater than or equal to 2.4, 2.45, 2.5, 2.55, 2.6, 2.65, 2.7, 2.75, 2.8, 2.85, 2.9, 2.95, 3, 3.05, 3.1, 3.15, 3.2, 3.25, 3.3, 3.35, 3.4, 3.45, 3.5, 3.55, 3.6, 3.65, 3.7, 3.75, 3.8, 3.85, 3.9, 3.95, 4, 4.05, 4.1, 4.15, 4.2, 4.25, 4.3, 4.35, 4.4, 4.45, 4.5, 4.55, 4.6, 4.65, 4.7, or 4.75.
  • Dk dielectric constant
  • the thermoplastic resin including the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition can have a dissipation factor (Df) of 48 x 10" 4 to 240 x 10" 4 , or 60 x 10" 4 to 200 x 10" 4 , or less than or equal to 240 x 10" 4 and greater than or equal to 48 x IO’ 4 , 50 x IO’ 4 , 60 x IO’ 4 , 70 x IO’ 4 , 80 x IO’ 4 , 90 x IO’ 4 , 100 x IO’ 4 , 110 x IO’ 4 , 120 x IO’ 4 , 130 x IO’ 4 , 140 x IO’ 4 , 150 x IO’ 4 , 160 x IO’ 4 , 170 x IO’ 4 , 180 x IO’ 4 , 190 x IO’ 4 , 200 x IO’ 4 , 210 x IO’ 4 , 220 x IO
  • the thermoplastic resin can include the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 5A, 5B, and/or 5C, herein.
  • PPS polyphenylene sulfide
  • Polyphenylene sulfide can be 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or greater than or equal to 50 wt%, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.9, or 99.99 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • the thermoplastic resin including the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition can have a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.4 to 3.96, or 3.0 to 3.3, or less than or equal to 3.96 and greater than or equal to 2.4, 2.45, 2.5, 2.55, 2.6, 2.65, 2.7, 2.75, 2.8, 2.85, 2.9, 2.95, 3, 3.05, 3.1, 3.15, 3.2, 3.25, 3.3, 3.35, 3.4, 3.45, 3.5, 3.55, 3.6, 3.65, 3.75, 3.8, 3.85, 3.9, or 3.95.
  • Dk dielectric constant
  • the thermoplastic resin including the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition can have a dissipation factor (Df) of 3.2 x 10' 4 to 36 x 10' 4 , or 4 x 10' 4 to 30 x 10' 4 , or less than or equal to 36 x 10' 4 and greater than or equal to 3.2 x 10' 4 , 5 x 10' 4 , 10 x 10' 4 , 15 x IO’ 4 , 20 x IO’ 4 , 25 x IO’ 4 , 30 x IO’ 4 , or 35 x IO" 4 .
  • Df dissipation factor
  • the thermoplastic resin can include the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 6A, 6B, and/or 6C, herein.
  • LCP liquid crystalline polymer
  • Liquid crystalline polymer can be 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or greater than or equal to 50 wt%, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.9, or 99.99 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • the thermoplastic resin including the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition can have a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.64 to 3.96, or 3.2 to 3.4, or less than or equal to 3.96 and greater than or equal to 2.64, 2.65, 2.7, 2.75, 2.8, 2.85, 2.9, 2.95, 3, 3.05, 3.1, 3.15, 3.2, 3.25, 3.3, 3.35, 3.4, 3.45, 3.5, 3.55, 3.6, 3.65, 3.7, 3.75, 3.8, 3.85, 3.9, or 3.95.
  • Dk dielectric constant
  • the thermoplastic resin including the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition can have a dissipation factor (Df) of 32 x 10" 4 to 48 x 10" 4 , or 35 x 10" 4 to 45 x 10" 4 , or less than or equal to 48 x 10" 4 and greater than or equal to 32 x 10" 4 , 33 x 10" 4 , 34 x 10" 4 , 35 x 10" 4 , 36 x 10" 4 , 37 x IO’ 4 , 38 x IO’ 4 , 39 x IO’ 4 , 40 x IO’ 4 , 41 x IO’ 4 , 42 x IO’ 4 , 43 x IO’ 4 , 44 x IO’ 4 , 45 x IO’ 4 , 46 x IO’ 4 , or 47 x 10" 4 .
  • Df dissipation factor
  • the liquid crystalline polymer can be a polyester.
  • the liquid crystalline polymer can be a polyester produced by co-polycondensation of p-hydroxybenzoic acid and terephthalic acid and/or 4, 4 -dihydroxydiphenyl with ethylene glycol as a coreactant, such as produced by and Solvay.
  • the liquid crystalline polymer can be a copolyester of p- hydroxybenzoic acid and 6-hydroxy-2 -naphthoic acid, such as produced by Celanese and Kuraray which market these products under the trade names VectraTM Zenite LCP®.
  • thermoplastic resin can include the polyamide composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7A and/or Table 8A; Table 7B and/or Table 8B; and/or Table 7C and/or Table 8C.
  • the polyamide can be 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or greater than or equal to 50 wt%, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.9, or 99.99 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • Thermoplastic resin including the polyamide composition can have a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.53 to 3.79, or 3.16 to 3.2, or less than or equal to 3.79 and greater than or equal to 2.53, 2.55, 2.6, 2.65, 2.7, 2.75, 2.8, 2.85, 2.9, 2.95, 3, 3.05, 3.1, 3.15, 3.2, 3.25, 3.3, 3.35, 3.4, 3.45, 3.5, 3.55, 3.6, 3.65, 3.7, or 3.75.
  • Dk dielectric constant
  • the thermoplastic resin including the polyamide composition can have a dissipation factor (Df) of 110.4 x 10' 4 to 165.6 x 10' 4 , or 135 x 10' 4 to 140 x 10' 4 , or less than or equal to 165.6 x 10' 4 and greater than or equal to 110.4 x 10' 4 , 115 x 10' 4 , 120 x 10' 4 , 125 x 10' 4 , 130 x 10' 4 , 135 x 10' 4 , 140 x IO’ 4 , 145 x IO’ 4 , 150 x IO’ 4 , 155 x IO’ 4 , or 160 x IO" 4 .
  • Df dissipation factor
  • the thermoplastic resin can include the polyamide composition, and the polyamide composition can include N66.
  • an amount of 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the polyamide composition can be N66, or 70 wt% to 100 wt%, or greater than or equal to 50 wt%, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.9, or 99.99 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • At least some of the radio waves can have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7A, 7B, and/or 7C herein.
  • the thermoplastic resin including N66 can have a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.53 to 3.79, or 3.16 to 3.2, or less than or equal to 3.79 and greater than or equal to 2.53, 2.55, 2.6, 2.65, 2.7, 2.75, 2.8, 2.85, 2.9, 2.95, 3, 3.05, 3.1, 3.15, 3.2, 3.25, 3.3, 3.35, 3.4, 3.45, 3.5, 3.55, 3.6, 3.7, or 3.75.
  • Dk dielectric constant
  • the thermoplastic resin including N66 can have a dissipation factor (Df) of 110.4 x 10" 4 to 165.6 x 10" 4 , or 135 x 10" 4 to 140 x 10" 4 , or less than or equal to 165.6 x 10" 4 and greater than or equal to 110.4 x 10" 4 , 115 x 10" 4 , 120 x 10" 4 , 125 x 10" 4 , 130 x IO’ 4 , 135 x IO’ 4 , 140 x IO’ 4 , 145 x IO’ 4 , 150 x IO’ 4 , 155 x IO’ 4 , or 160 x IO’ 4 .
  • Df dissipation factor
  • the thermoplastic resin can include the polyamide composition, and the polyamide composition can include PA66/DI.
  • an amount of 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the polyamide composition can be the PA66/DI, or 55 wt% to 65 wt% of the polyamide composition is the PA66/DI, or greater than or equal to 50 wt%, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.9, or 99.99 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • At least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 8A
  • the PA66/DI can have a weight ratio of PA66 to DI of 1 :99 to 99: 1, or 80:20 to 99: 1, or 90: 10 to 95:5, or less than 99:1 and greater than 1:99, 5:95, 10:90, 15:85, 20:80, 25:75, 30:70, 35:65, 40:60, 45:55, 50:50, 55:45, 60:40, 65:35, 70:30, 75:25, 80:20, 82: 18, 84: 16, 86: 14, 87: 13, 88: 12, 89: 11, 90: 10, 91 :9, 92:8, 93:7, 94:6, 95:5, 96:4, 97:3, or 98:2.
  • the thermoplastic resin including the PA66/DI can have a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.62 to 3.9, or 3.27 to 3.3, or less than or equal to 3.9 and greater than or equal to 2.62, 2.65, 2.7, 2.75, 2.8, 2.85, 2.9, 2.95, 3, 3.05, 3.1, 3.15, 3.2, 3.25, 3.3, 3.35, 3.4, 3.45, 3.5, 3.55, 3.6, 3.65, 3.7, 3.75, 3.8, or 3.85.
  • Dk dielectric constant
  • the thermoplastic resin including the PA66/DI can have a dissipation factor (Df) of 80 x 10' 4 to 120 x 10' 4 , or 90 x 10' 4 to 110 x 10' 4 , or less than or equal to 120 x 10' 4 and greater than or equal to 80 x IO’ 4 , 85 x IO" 4 , 90 x IO’ 4 , 95 x IO" 4 , 100 x IO" 4 , 105 x IO’ 4 , 110 x IO" 4 , 115 x IO" 4 , or 118 x IO’ 4 .
  • Df dissipation factor
  • the thermoplastic resin can include the polyamide composition.
  • the polyamide composition can include a first polyamide that includes nylon-6; nylon-6, 6; a copolymer of nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6 including at least one repeating unit that is poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide), poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), or a copolymer of poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) and poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide); a mixture thereof; or a copolymer thereof.
  • the polyamide composition can also include a second polyamide, an additive, or a mixture thereof.
  • the first polyamide and second polyamide can be independently selected.
  • the first polyamide is present in the thermoplastic resin, and the second polyamide is optionally present.
  • the decision on the specific polyamide or blend of polyamides (or the proportion thereof) that are used in the article can be a function of the respective polyamide’s tensile strength, toughness, or both.
  • the first polyamide, and the second polyamide (if present), can together form about 30 wt% to about 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, about 50 wt% to about 95 wt%, less than, equal to, or greater than, 30 wt%, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95 wt% ofthe thermoplastic resin, or 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • the first polyamide, and the second polyamide (if present) can form the major portion of the composition (i.e., over 50 wt%) with additives forming the minor portion of the composition (i.e., less than 50 wt%).
  • the polyamide can be PA6; PA4,6; PA6,6; PA6,9; PA6,10; PA6,12; PA10,12; PA12,12; PA6; PAI 1; PA12; PA66/6T; PA6I/6T; PADT/6T; PA66/6I/6T; or blends thereof, such as PA6/PA66.
  • the polyamide can include 61 repeating units (hexamethylene isophthalamide), 6T repeating units (polyhexamethylene terephthalamide) or a combination of 6I/6T repeating units.
  • the 61 and 6T repeating units can be present in any suitable weight ratio, for example, weight ratios from about 96:4 to about 10:90 wt:wt of 6I:6T, about 80:20 to about 20:80 wt:wt, about 70:30 to about 30:70 wt:wt, or about 60:40 to about 40:60 wt:wt or 6I:6T.
  • the polyamide can be PA66:DI with a molar weight ratio between PA66 and DI in a range of 85: 15 to 96:4 (wt:wt).
  • PA66/DI refers to a type of co-polyamide of polyhexamethyleneadipamide (nylon-6, 6 or N66 or PA66) and “DI” which is a combination of 2-methyl-pentamethylenediamine (or “MPMD”) and isophthalic acid.
  • MPMD is commercially available as INVISTA Dytek® A amine and industrially known as “D” in the abbreviated formulation labeling.
  • Isophthalic acid is commercially available and industrially known as “I” in the abbreviated formulation labeling.
  • PA66/DI used in the examples of the present disclosure had an RV of 45, and a composition of 92:8 PA66:DI (wt/wt), with the “DI” part being about 40:60 D:I (wt/wt).
  • Other non-limiting co-polyamides suitable for use in place of the PA66/DI used in the present examples include 66/D6, 66/DT, 6T/DT, 66/610, or 66/612.
  • INVISTA Dytek® A amine is commercially produced by hydrogenating 2- methylglutaronitrile (or “MGN”).
  • MGN is a branched G, dinitrile obtained as a side-product from butadiene double-hydrocyanation process of adiponitrile (or “ADN”) manufacture.
  • ADN adiponitrile
  • suitable thermoplastic resins and articles made therefrom, and according to the present disclosure, include those having recycled amine content when the “D” portion is present, for example, in 66/DI, 66/D6, 66/DT, 6T/DT, and the like.
  • the polyamide can include nylon-6 (e.g., PA6) and nylon-6, 6 (e.g., PA6,6).
  • the polyamide can be nylon-6, 6 and the thermoplastic resin can optionally be substantially free of all other polyamides (e.g., nylon -6, 6 can be the only polyamide used to form the thermoplastic resin).
  • thermoplastic resin includes the first polyamide, the second polyamide, and the additive.
  • the first polyamide and/or second polyamide can include nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6.
  • the first polyamide and/or second polyamide can also include a copolymer including nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6, wherein the copolymer includes at least one repeating unit that is poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide), poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), or a copolymer of poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) and poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), wherein a molar ratio of the poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) repeating unit to poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide) repeating unit is in a range of from about 60:40 to about 90: 10 (e.g., about 70:30 to about 75 :25).
  • the first polyamide and/or second polyamide can be nylon-6, nylon-6, 6, or a combination thereof.
  • the thermoplastic resin can be substantially free of polymers that are not polyamides.
  • polymers that are not polyamides can be 0 wt%, or 0 wt% to 0.001 wt%, of the thermoplastic resin.
  • the thermoplastic resin can include other polymers in addition to the first polyamide and optional second polyamide, such as polyethers such as polyphenylene ether (PPE) and polyolefins such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) resin, polybutylene terephthalate (TBT), propylene carbonate (PC), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), liquid crystalline polymer (LCP), and blends thereof.
  • polyethers such as polyphenylene ether (PPE) and polyolefins such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) resin, polybutylene terephthalate (TBT), propylene carbonate (PC), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), liquid crystalline polymer (LCP
  • the thermoplastic resin includes an additive.
  • the additive can be or include a reinforcing fiber.
  • the reinforcing fiber can be up to 50 wt% of the thermoplastic resin (e.g., 5 to 50 wt% reinforcing fibers, 10 to 50 wt%, 10 to 30 wt%, 12 to 50 wt%, or 14 to 40 wt% reinforcing fibers, or less than, equal to, or greater than about 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or 50 wt% reinforcing fibers).
  • Reinforcing fibers can be helpful to increase the tensile strength and toughness of the article.
  • the amount of reinforcing fiber added can be enough to impart the desired tensile strength and toughness to the article while not compromising the low transmission loss characteristics of the article.
  • the reinforcing fiber can be any suitable reinforcing fiber, such as glass fibers, silicon fibers, carbon fibers, polypropylene fibers, polyacrylonitrile fibers, basalt fibers, or mixtures thereof.
  • the reinforcing fiber can include or be glass fiber. Glass fibers can be 10 to 50 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, 12 to 50 wt%, or 14 to 40 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • the reinforcing fiber can be incorporated into the thermoplastic resin, for example, in an extruder.
  • the thermoplastic resin consists of the first polyamide and a reinforcing fiber (e.g., glass fibers). In various aspects, the thermoplastic resin consists of the first polyamide, a reinforcing fiber (e.g., glass fibers), and one or more additives. In various aspects, the thermoplastic resin consists of the first polyamide, the second polyamide, and a reinforcing fiber (e.g., glass fibers). In various aspects, the thermoplastic resin consists of the first polyamide, the second polyamide, a reinforcing fiber (e.g., glass fibers), and one or more additives. In various aspects, the thermoplastic resin includes or consists of nylon-6, 6 and a reinforcing fiber.
  • the additive can be chosen from a reinforcing fiber, an ultraviolet resistance additive, a flame retardancy additive, an anti-static additive, an impact modifier, a colorant, a moisture repellant, or a combination thereof.
  • the thermoplastic resin can include the additive and the one or more additives can be about 0.1 wt% to about 60 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, 0.1 wt% to about 50 wt%, 0.5 wt% to 55 wt%, 0.75 wt% to 50 wt%, or about 0.1 wt% to about 30 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • additives or packages of additives can include ultraviolet radiation resistance additives, flame retardancy additives, anti-static additives, impact modifiers, color additives (e.g., pigments or colorants), heat stabilizer additives, moisture repellency additives, or a combination thereof.
  • the thermoplastic resin can include a flame retardancy coating disposed on an external surface of the article.
  • suitable impact-modifying additives can include a maleated polyolefin.
  • suitable maleated polyolefins include maleated polyolefins available under the trade designation AMPLIFYTM GR, which are commercially available from Dow Chemical Co., Midland MI, USA (examples include AmplifyTM GR 202, AmplifyTM GR 208, AmplifyTM GR 216, and AmplifyTM GR380), maleated polyolefins available under the trade designation EXXELORTM available from ExxonMobil, Irving TX, USA (examples include ExxelorTM VA 1803, ExxelorTM VA 1840, ExxelorTM VA1202, ExxelorTM PO 1020, and ExxelorTM PO 1015), maleated polyolefins available under the trade designation ENGAGETM 8100 available from Dow Elastomer Midland MI, USA, and maleated polyolefins available under the trade designation BONDYRAM® 7103 available from Ram-On Industries
  • the thermoplastic resin is substantially free of chemical reaction during formation of the article, such as during injection molding, thermoforming, compression molding, extruding, blow molding, casting, or any combination thereof, the thermoplastic resin to form the article.
  • the thermoplastic resin can at least partially react during formation of the article, such as during injection molding, thermoforming, compression molding, extruding, blow molding, casting, or any combination thereof, the thermoplastic resin to form the article.
  • the thermoplastic resin includes a maleated polyolefin, and during formation of the article one or more of the polymers in the thermoplastic resin can form a reaction product with the maleated polyolefin.
  • a polyamide -polyolefin copolymer can be formed from at least partial reaction of the condensation polyamide and the maleated polyefin.
  • suitable flame retardants include, for example, organophosphorus compounds such as organic phosphates (including trialkyl phosphates such as triethyl phosphate, tris(2-chloropropyl)phosphate, and triaryl phosphates such as triphenyl phosphate and diphenyl cresyl phosphate, resorcinol bis-diphenylphosphate, resorcinol diphosphate, and aryl phosphate), phosphites (such as trialkyl phosphites, triaryl phosphites, or mixed alkyl-aryl phosphites), phosphonates (including diethyl ethyl phosphonate, dimethyl methyl phosphonate), polyphosphates (including melamine polyphosphate, ammonium polyphosphates), polyphosphites, polyphosphonates, phosphinates (such as aluminum tris(diethyl phosphinate)); halogenated fire retardants
  • the flame retardant can be a reactive type flame retardant (such as polyols which contain phosphorus groups, 10-(2,5-dihydroxyphenyl)-10H-9- oxa-10-phospha-phenanthrene-10-oxide, phosphorus-containing lactone-modified polyesters, ethylene glycol bis(diphenyl phosphate), neopentylglycol bis(diphenyl phosphate), amine- and hydroxyl-functionalized siloxane oligomers).
  • a reactive type flame retardant such as polyols which contain phosphorus groups, 10-(2,5-dihydroxyphenyl)-10H-9- oxa-10-phospha-phenanthrene-10-oxide, phosphorus-containing lactone-modified polyesters, ethylene glycol bis(diphenyl phosphate), neopentylglycol bis(diphenyl phosphate), amine- and hydroxyl-functionalized siloxane oligomers).
  • UV additives examples include ultraviolet absorbers, quenchers, hindered amine light stabilizers (HALS), or mixtures thereof.
  • Ultraviolet absorbers are a type of light stabilizer that functions by competing with the chromophores to absorb ultraviolet radiation. Absorbers change harmful ultraviolet radiation into harmless infrared radiation or heat that is dissipated through the polymer matrix. Carbon black is an effective light absorber.
  • Another ultraviolet absorber is rutile titanium oxide which is effective in the 300-400 nm range. Hydroxybenzophenone and hydroxyphenylbenzotriazole are also suitable ultraviolet stabilizers that have the advantage of being suitable for neutral or transparent applications.
  • Hydroxyphenylbenzotriazole is not very useful in thin parts below 100 microns.
  • Other ultraviolet absorbers include oxanilides for polyamides, benzophenones for polyvinyl chloride and benzotriazoles and hydroxyphenyltriazines for polycarbonate.
  • Ultraviolet absorbers have the benefit of low cost but may be useful only for short-term exposure.
  • Quenchers return excited states of the chromophores to ground states by an energy transfer process. The energy transfer agent functions by quenching the excited state of a carbonyl group formed during the photooxidation of a polymeric material and through the decomposition of hydroperoxides. This prevents bond cleavage and ultimately the formation of free radicals.
  • Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers are long-term thermal stabilizers that act by trapping free radicals formed during the photo-oxidation of a polymeric material and thus limiting the photodegradation process.
  • the ability of Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers to scavenge radicals created by ultraviolet absorption is explained by the formation of nitroxy radicals through a process known as the Denisov Cycle.
  • Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers are proficient UV stabilizers for a wide range of polymeric materials.
  • Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers are also very effective in polyolefins, polyethylene, and polyurethane, they are not useful in polyvinyl chloride.
  • optional additives include adhesion promoters, biocides, anti-fogging agents, anti-static agents, anti-oxidants, bonding, blowing and foaming agents, catalysts, dispersants, extenders, smoke suppressants, impact modifiers, initiators, lubricants, nucleants, pigments, colorants and dyes, optical brighteners, plasticizers, processing aids, release agents, silanes, titanates and zirconates, slip agents, anti-blocking agents, stabilizers, stearates, ultraviolet light absorbers, waxes, catalyst deactivators, and combinations thereof.
  • Non-limiting examples of optional additives include adhesion promoters, biocides, antifogging agents, anti-static agents, anti-oxidants, bonding, blowing and foaming agents, catalysts, dispersants, extenders, smoke suppressants, impact modifiers, initiators, lubricants, nucleants, pigments, colorants and dyes, optical brighteners, plasticizers, processing aids, release agents, silanes, titanates and zirconates, slip agents, anti-blocking agents, stabilizers, stearates, ultraviolet light absorbers, waxes, catalyst deactivators, and combinations thereof.
  • the use of certain additives can be minimized to minimize the impact on 5G signal attenuation.
  • the thermoplastic resin can include minimal, or 0 wt% to 10 wt%, 0 wt% to 5 wt%, less than 2 wt%, or less than 1 wt% of glass fibers, carbon black, or a combination thereof.
  • additives have been found to have little to no effect on 5G signal attenuation, such as organic heat stabilizers (e.g., Irganox Bl 171 and 1098), phosphites, hindered amine light stabilizers, UV absorbers, flame-resistant additives such as Exolit OP 1400, and colorants such as Color MB PNM810292 and Color MB Pantone 14-4102.
  • organic heat stabilizers e.g., Irganox Bl 171 and 1098
  • phosphites e.g., phosphites, hindered amine light stabilizers, UV absorbers, flame-resistant additives such as Exolit OP 1400, and colorants such as Color MB PNM810292 and Color MB Pantone 14-4102.
  • the thermoplastic resin includes the additive in an amount of about 0. 1 wt% to about 50 wt%, or 10 wt% to 30 wt% of the resin, and a transmittance loss of the thermoplastic resin, when a direction of a signal impinging on the thermoplastic resin is normal to a surface of the thermoplastic resin, and when a thickness of the thermoplastic resin is substantially uniform across an area where the signal impinges on the article, can be: less than 2 decibels (dB) for a signal having a frequency between 500 MHz and 40 GHz; less than 1 dB within at least one of a 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz frequency range, a 24 GHz to 30 GHz frequency range, and a 36 GHz to 40 GHz range; less than 0.5 dB within at least one of a 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz frequency range, a 24 GHz to 30 GHz frequency range, and a 36 GHz to 40 GHz range is less than 0.5 decibels (dB);
  • the relative weight gain of the article, and/or of the thermoplastic resin, due to moisture gain of the article and/or thermoplastic resin at 70 °C and 62% relative humidity, can be less than 4 wt%, or 0 wt% to 3.5 wt%, or 0 wt% to 1 wt%, or less than wt% and greater than or equal to 0 wt%, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, or 3.5 wt%.
  • the thermoplastic resin can have a density of greater than or equal to 0.7 g/cm 3 to less than or equal to 5 g/cm 3 , or greater than or equal to 0.8 g/cm 3 to less than or equal to 4 g/cm 3 , or greater than or equal to 0.85 to less than or greater than 3 g/cm 3 .
  • the thermoplastic resin can have a density in a range of from about 0.7 g/cm 3 to about 10 g/cm 3 , 0.7 g/cm 3 to about 5 g/cm 3 , about 2 g/cm 3 to about 5 g/cm 3 , about 0.75 g/cm 3 to 4 g/cm 3 , 0.8 g/cm 3 to about 4 g/cm 3 , about 0.8 g/cm 3 to about 3 g/cm 3 , 0.85 to about 3 g/cm 3 , or, equal to, or greater than about 0.7 g/cm 3 , 0.8, 0.9, 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2.0, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4,
  • thermoplastic resin 9.1, 9.2, 9.3, 9.4, 9.5, 9.6, 9.7, 9.8, 9.9, or about 10.0 g/cm 3 .
  • the ability of the thermoplastic resin to achieve density values greater than 1 g/cm 3 can help to increase the tensile strength and toughness of the resulting article. This is in direct contrast, for example, to articles that include a foam material.
  • the thermoplastic resin can include reinforcing glass fiber in up to 50 wt% level of the total composition mass.
  • the thermoplastic resin can have a tensile strength in a range of from about 40 MPa to about 300 MPa.
  • the thermoplastic resin can have a density in a range of from 0.7 g/cm 3 to 5 g/cm 3 .
  • the thermoplastic resin can have an impact resistance in a range of from 40 kJ/m 2 to 150 kJ/m 2 .
  • the thermoplastic resin can have a signal attenuation of at least one of the following, when a direction of a signal impinging on the thermoplastic resin is normal to a surface of the thermoplastic resin, and wherein a thickness of the thermoplastic resin is substantially uniform across an area where the signal impinges on the thermoplastic resin: from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 500 MHz to 6 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 0.5 mm to 6 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 24 GHz to 30 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 0.5 mm to 4.5 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 36 GHz to 40 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 0.5 mm to 4 mm; and rom 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 76 GHz to 81 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 0.5 mm to 3.5 mm.
  • the thermoplastic resin can have a substantially uniform signal attenuation of, when a direction of a signal impinging on the thermoplastic resin is normal to a surface of the thermoplastic resin, and wherein a thickness of the thickness of the article is substantially uniform across an area where the signal impinges thereon: from 1 dB to 0 dB, or from 2 dB to 0 dB, or 0 dB, or less than or equal to 2 and greater than or equal to 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, or 1.9 dB, for a signal of frequency 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and optionally a frequency of 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz (e.g., 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz, 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz, 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 28 GHz to 39 GHz, 36 GHz
  • the thermoplastic resin can have a substantially uniform signal attenuation of, when a direction of a signal impinging on the thermoplastic resin is normal to a surface of the thermoplastic resin, and wherein a thickness of the thermoplastic resin is substantially uniform across an area where the signal impinges on the thermoplastic resin: from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 500 MHz to 6 GHz when a thickness of the thermoplastic resin is from 1.5 mm to 4 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 24 GHz to 30 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 2.5 mm to 4 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 36 GHz to 40 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 1.75 mm to 2.75 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 76 GHz to 81 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 1 .75 mm to 2.75 mm; or a combination thereof.
  • thermoplastic resin can be one or more flame-retardancy additives (e.g., 0 wt% to 20 wt%, or 0 wt% to 10 wt%, or 0 wt% to 5 wt%, or 0 wt%, or less than 20 wt% and greater than or equal to 0 wt%, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, or 18 wt%).
  • the flame- retardancy additive, along with any optional flame -retardant coating on the article can be sufficient to provide the thermoplastic resin and/or article with a UL-94 test rating of V-0.
  • the thermoplastic resin includes PA66:DI (85: 15 to 96:4 wt:wt), glass fiber in a range of about 5 to about 20 wt%, a flame-retardant additive in a range of up to about 20 wt%, a UV additive in a range of up to about 3 wt%, a heat stabilizer additive in a range of up to about 2 wt%, and a colorant additive in a range of up to about 3 wt%.
  • Polyamide compositions, and suitable first and/or second polyamides, according to this disclosure can have sufficient tensile modulus and tensile strength values to allow an article formed from the thermoplastic resin to withstand environmental stresses.
  • suitable polyamides include those having a tensile modulus in a range from 30 MPa to 50,000 MPa, 1,000 MPa to 50,000 MPa, 1,000 MPa to 40,000 MPa, or, 30 MPa to 30,000 MPa.
  • suitable polyamides include those having tensile strength from 30 MPa to 400 MPa, 35 MPa to 300 MPa, 40 MPa to 280 MPa, or less than, equal to, or greater than about 30, 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, or 400 MPa.
  • the thermoplastic resin can have any suitable tensile strength.
  • the thermoplastic resin can have a tensile strength of 30 MPa to 50,000 MPa, 1,000 MPa to 50,000 MPa, 1,000 MPa to 40,000 MPa, or, 1,000 MPa to 30,000 MPa.
  • suitable thermoplastic resins include those having tensile strength from 30 MPa to 400 MPa, 35 MPa to 300 MPa, 40 MPa to 280 MPa, or less than, equal to, or greater than about 30, 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, or 400 MPa.
  • a thermoplastic resin including or consisting of a polyamide and a glass fiber additive can have any suitable tensile strength.
  • a PA66 with 20 wt% GF can have a tensile strength in a range of from about 100 MPa to about 150 MPa at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 70 MPa to about 100 MPa at a temperature of about 23 °C.
  • a PA66 with 30 wt% glass fiber can have a tensile strength in a range of from about 140 MPa to about 190 MPa at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 100 MPa to about 130 MPa at a temperature of about 23 °C.
  • a PA66 with 20 wt% glass fiber can have a tensile strength in a range of from about 100 MPa to about 150 MPa at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 70 MPa to about 100 MPa at a temperature of about 23 °C.
  • a PA66 with polyphenylene ether can have a tensile strength in a range of from about 45 MPa to about 65 MPa at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 40 MPa to about 55 MPa at a temperature of about 23 °C.
  • a PA66 with polyphenylene ether and 20 wt% glass fiber can have a tensile strength in a range of from about 100 MPa to about 130 MPa at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 80 MPa to about 100 MPa at a temperature of about 23 °C.
  • suitable thermoplastic resins further include those within the tensile strength or tensile modulus ranges above that exhibit toughness in the un-notched Charpy impact test at 23°C from 30 KJ/m 2 to non-break, for example 40 KJ/m 2 to 200 KJ/m 2 , 40 KJ/m 2 to 150 KJ/m 2 , equal to, or greater than 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, or 200 KJ/m 2 .
  • a PA66 with 20 wt% glass fiber can have an unnotched Charpy impact value in a range of from about 98 KJ/m 2 to about 110 KJ/m 2 at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 53 KJ/m 2 to about 72 KJ/m 2 at a temperature of about 23 °C.
  • a PA66 with 30 wt% glass fiber can have an un-notched Charpy impact value in a range of from about 110 KJ/m 2 to about 120 KJ/m 2 at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 89 KJ/m 2 to about 100 KJ/m 2 at a temperature of about 23 °C.
  • a PA66 with polyphenylene ether can have an un-notched Charpy impact value in a range of from about 240 KJ/m 2 to about 340 KJ/m 2 at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 310 KJ/m 2 to about 370 KJ/m 2 at a temperature of about 23 °C.
  • a PA66 with polyphenylene ether and 20 wt% glass fiber can have an un-notched Charpy impact value in a range of from about 73 KJ/m 2 to about 76 KJ/m 2 at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 79 KJ/m 2 to about 82 KJ/m 2 at a temperature of about 23 °C.
  • a PA66 with 20 wt% glass fiber can have a notched Charpy impact value in a range of from about 10 KJ/m 2 to about 22 KJ/m 2 at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 7 KJ/m 2 to about 8.5 KJ/m 2 at a temperature of about 23 °C.
  • a PA66 with 30 wt% glass fiber can have a notched Charpy impact value in a range of from about 15 KJ/m 2 to about 27 KJ/m 2 at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 11 KJ/m 2 to about 14 KJ/m 2 at a temperature of about 23 °C.
  • a PA66 with polyphenylene ether can have a notched Charpy impact value in a range of from about 24 KJ/m 2 to about 35 KJ/m 2 at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 20 KJ/m 2 to about 23 KJ/m 2 at a temperature of about 23 °C.
  • a PA66 with polyphenylene ether and 20 wt% glass fiber can have a notched Charpy impact value in a range of from about 11 KJ/m 2 to about 14 KJ/m 2 at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 11 KJ/m 2 to about 12 KJ/m 2 at a temperature of about 23 °C. System.
  • Various aspects of the present invention provide a system that includes article of the present invention for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz as well as an antenna for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves.
  • the article can fully or partially enclose the antenna.
  • Various aspects of the present invention provide a method of making the article of the present invention for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz.
  • the method of making the article can include injection molding, thermoforming, compression molding, extruding, blow molding, casting, or any combination thereof, the thermoplastic resin to form the article or one or more components thereof.
  • the method can further include assembling the one or more components to form the article.
  • the polymer composition can be provided in the form of pellets.
  • the first polyamide and optional second polyamide can be provided as individual pellets, or can be combined in a single pellet.
  • a diameter or length of an individual pellet can independently be in a range of from about 1 mm to about 5 mm, about 2 mm to about 4 mm.
  • the individual pellets can include the polymers composition along with any of the additives described herein.
  • the pellets can include the polymer composition, and these pellets can then be heated so that they soften and any additives, reinforcing fibers, or both can be added to the softened pellets and mixed.
  • the mixture of the polymers, additives, reinforcing fibers, or a sub-combination thereof can be subjected to an injection molding process, extrusion process, or additive manufacturing process.
  • the panel 100 shown in FIG. 19 can be formed by any of a number of suitable processes including injection molding, thermoforming, and compression molding.
  • the disclosed panel 100 can optionally be formed in a single molding operation or in a multi-shot process in which surrounding material is the same or different from that of the disclosed panel 100.
  • a multi-shot process is performed on one machine that is programmed to perform two injections in one cycle. In the first cycle, a nozzle injects plastic into a mold. The mold is then automatically rotated, and a different type of plastic is injected into the mold from a second nozzle. Double injection molding optimizes co-polymerization of hard and soft materials to create a powerful molecular bond. The result is a single part with production and feature advantages. It can be used for a variety of product designs across all industries. It also allows for molding using clear plastics, colored graphics and stylish finishes, which improves product functionality and marketplace value.
  • the panel 100 may be formed through extrusion.
  • a die placed at the end of the extruder can have a shape that is the negative impression of the intended shape of the panel 100.
  • any part of the panel 100 can be formed through an additive manufacturing process.
  • the present invention provides a method of using the article of the present invention for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz.
  • the method includes transmitting and/or receiving radio waves having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz through the article, such as through one or more of the one or more portions of the article that includes the thermoplastic resin.
  • Thickness ranges of thermoplastic resins including various polymers and respective radio wave frequencies.
  • Table 1 A Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including ABS.
  • Table IB Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including ABS.
  • Table 1C Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including ABS.
  • Table 2A Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PBT.
  • Table 2B Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PBT.
  • Table 2C Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PBT.
  • Table 3A Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PC.
  • Table 3B Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PC.
  • Table 3C Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PC.
  • Table 4A Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PVC.
  • Table 4B Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PVC.
  • Table 4C Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PVC.
  • Table 5A Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PPS.
  • Table 5B Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PPS.
  • Table 5C Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PPS.
  • Table 6A Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including LCP.
  • Table 6B Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including LCP.
  • Table 6C Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including LCP.
  • Table 7A Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including a polyamide composition.
  • Table 7B Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including a polyamide composition.
  • Table 7C Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including a polyamide composition.
  • Table 8A Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including a polyamide composition.
  • Table 8B Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including a polyamide composition.
  • Table 8C Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including a polyamide composition.
  • compositions, surface profde and structural thickness can surprisingly yield molded articles exhibiting useful dielectric constants and high transparency to millimeter waves.
  • a twin-screw extruder having a minimum 18-mm diameter co-rotating screw with a 40- 56 L/D (e.g., L/D ratio of 40-56) is used for compounding.
  • the unit has one main feeder and a minimum of three side feeders. A feed rate of at least 1 kg/hr is used.
  • the twin-screw co- rotating/tuming at the speed of at least 1000 RPM is sufficient to provide the high shear for compounding function.
  • the total compounder throughput is at least 15 kg/hr.
  • the compounding unit has at least three vent ports, one atmospheric and two vacuum ports.
  • the rotating twin screws impart the forward momentum to the heated mass inside the barrel, and the barrel is heated along its length in zones at temperatures in a range of 250-310 °C.
  • the processing section of the twin-screw compounder is set up to suit various process needs and to allow for a wide variety of processes, including compounding processes.
  • Polymer, fillers, and additives, as desired, are continuously fed into the first barrel section of the twin screw using a metering feeder.
  • the products are conveyed along the screw and are melted and mixed by kneading elements in the plastification section of the barrel.
  • the polymer then travels along to a side port where, if desired, fillers or additives are mixed in, and is supplied to degassing zones and from there to a pressure build zone where it then exits the die via an at least 3 -mm hole as a lace.
  • the cast lace is fed into a water bath to cool and to enable it to be cut into chips via a pelletizer.
  • the unit is designed to be able to withstand at least 70 bar die pressure.
  • the die with a minimum of four holes, each at least 3 mm diameter for pelletizing, can be included.
  • a compounded pellet of polyamide having a diameter of 3 mm and a length of 3-5 mm is produced using the above equipment.
  • the moisture content of the pelletized polyamide material is less than about 0.2 wt%.
  • An injection molding machine (Demag Sumitomo Sytec 100/200) includs a feed throat, and a single rotating screw in a temperature zoned barrel, where zones can range from 40 to 320 °C to melt a nylon-6, 6 based resin, and where the screw moves within the barrel to inject a volume of molten resin into a mold, where the mold is at 60-90 °C for a nylon-6, 6 based resin.
  • the mold yields solid parts or specimens, which includes those suitable for testing, such as flammability bars of desired dimensions.
  • Feedstock PA6 neat polyamide is commercially available from BASF as Ultramid® polyamide, DSM Engineering Materials as Akulon® polyamide or similar.
  • Feedstock PA66 neat polyamide is a commercially available INVISTA nylon-66 (or N66) grade under the Tradename INVISTATM U4800 polyamide resin, available from INVISTA, Wichita KS.
  • the PA66 has standard RV range of 42-50.
  • the feedstock PA66 has high RV ranging from 80 to 240.
  • 6I/6T is commercially available from EMS-Chemie (North America) Inc. of Sumter, South Carolina, USA, as EMS Grivory G21.
  • PA66-6I/6T or “PA66+6E6T” refers to a blended material of PA66 and 6E6T.
  • PA66+6I/6T (70+30) is a 70:30 (wt:wt) nylon:6I/6T blended material of PA66 and 6I/T.
  • PA66-GF30 is a glass fiber reinforced nylon-66. “GF30” indicates 30 wt% glass fiber content.
  • PA66-GF20 is a glass fiber reinforced nylon-66. “GF20” indicates 20 wt% glass fiber content.
  • PA66-PPE is a commercially available thermoplastic polymer blend of PA66 and polyphenylene ether (abbreviated as PPE). Such material is available from Asahi Kasei, SABIC, Mitsubishi and LG Chem, for example, LG Chemical LUMILOY® TX5002 High Flow PPE/PA Alloy, Mitsubishi Lemalloy® C61HL PPE-PA66 Alloy, or similar.
  • the suitable PA66-PPE blends may have mass ratio range from 90: 10 to 10:90, for example, 80:20, 70:30, 60:40, 50:50, 40:60, 30:70, 20:80, and such.
  • PA66-PPE-GF20 is a glass fiber reinforced nylon-66-PPE. “GF20” indicates 20 wt% glass fiber content.
  • PPE is commercially available material, such as that available from Asahi Kasei, SABIC, Mitsubishi and LG Chem.
  • PA66-IM-GF30 is a nylon-66 containing impact modified polyolefin with 30 wt% GF.
  • Neat polycarbonate (PC) is a commercially available material, such as that available from Lotte Chemical.
  • PA66/DI is known as a copolymer of hexamethylene adipamide and 2- methyl-l,5-pentamethylene-isophthalamide. PA66/DI used in the examples has a relative viscosity (RV) of 45 and contains about 92:8 (wt:wt) PA66:DI. The “DI” part in PA66/DI is about 50:50 (molar) or about 40:60 (wt:wt) D:I.
  • Each resin specimen is molded as 100 x 134 x 3 mm plaques and as 100 x 155 x 1.5 mm plaques. Plaques are stored in foil bags in dry-as-molded state, so moisture in DAM plaques is expected to be the same as in pellets fed to the molding machine.
  • the plaques are conditioned using an ISO 1110 procedure.
  • the ISO 1110 standard provides a method for accelerated conditioning of polyamide specimens, where specimens are held in a humidity chamber having an atmosphere of 70 °C with 62% relative humidity (RH). Specimens are allowed to gain moisture until they reach equilibrium weight, which is determined by measuring the mass of specimens every day, the endpoint of conditioning being indicated by specimens reaching a constant mass. This procedure represents very similar moisture gain to that which would be gained if specimens are held in 23 °C 50% RH atmosphere until reaching equilibrium moisture, which can take over 9 months depending on specimen thickness.
  • RH relative humidity
  • both 1.5 mm and 3 mm thickness plaques are conditioned in the humidity chambers according to the ISO 1110 procedure.
  • three replicates are weighed to track moisture gain. In all cases, the three replicates give excellent agreement in weight gain.
  • FIG. 1 for 1.5 mm thick plaques
  • FIG. 2 for 3.0 mm thick plaques
  • Table 10 below lists the final equilibrium moisture levels for the seven tested specimens.
  • TABLE 10 Equilibrium Moisture Levels for Tested Specimens.
  • plaques of each material are used for dielectric constant and dissipation factor measurements using the guidelines of ASTM D2520, Method B. All plaques are approximately 3.9” x 5.3” x 0.12”.
  • Test frequencies included 3 GHz, 5 GHz, 10 GHz, 20 GHz, 30 GHz and 40 GHz.
  • Table 11 lists test samples sizes for each test frequency. All test samples are prepared so that test sample length corresponded to the plaque flow direction. Two plaques of each material (A- N in Table 9) are used to prepare the test samples. One replicate for each frequency is fabricated from each plaque.
  • Test Sample Sizes [0172] TABLE 11. Test Sample Sizes. [0173] All testing is conducted at laboratory ambient conditions. Test conditions are run at 24 °C and 46% RH. All samples are handled to limit exposure to laboratory ambient conditions during both sample preparation and testing.
  • Mechanical testing includes testing for the following parameters. Tensile modulus is tested using ISO 527. Tensile strength is tested using ISO 527. Tensile elongation (break) is tested using ISO 527. Flexural modulus is tested using ISO 178. Flexural strength is tested using ISO 178. Notched Charpy impact is tested using ISO 179. Unnotched Charpy impact is tested using ISO 179. Fire retardancy (FR) testing can include testing for the following parameters. Material FR testing is conducted using UL 94. Flame testing is conducted using ASTM E84-3. Weatherability testing includes testing for the following parameters. Lifecycle UV testing (lOyr, 15yr and 20yr) is conducted using AATCC Method 16 Option 3. Color fade is determined by measuring change in color at specified points.
  • Example 1 Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 3 GHz Frequency.
  • Table 14 illustrates data from Example 1. [0182] TABLE 14.
  • Example 2 Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 28 GHz Frequency. [0183] Tables 15 and 16 illustrate data from Example 2. [0184] TABLE 15. [0185] TABLE 16.
  • Example 3 Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 39 GHz Frequency. [0186] Tables 17 and 18 illustrate data from Example 3. [0187] TABLE 17. [0188] TABLE 18.
  • Examples 4-17 include figures showing test results for 1 mm thick panels that include various materials (e.g., polyamides, reinforced polyamides, and polycarbonates) for their transmission loss and reflection under wet and dry conditions.
  • the results show that panels formed from polyamide materials, including reinforced polyamide materials, show superior transmission loss and reflection properties compared to panels formed from other materials such as polycarbonate.
  • those panels including a polyamide performed well when wet.
  • Example 4 PA66 Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 28 GHz Frequency.
  • FIG. 3 A (dry) and FIG. 3B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
  • FIG. 4A (dry) and FIG. 4B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (in terms of the scattering parameter S21, which is the ratio of the transmitted power to the incident power, provided in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
  • Example 6 PA66-GF Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 28 GHz Frequency.
  • FIG. 5 A (dry) and FIG. 5B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
  • FIG. 6A (dry) and FIG. 6B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
  • Example 8 PA66-PPE Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 28 GHz Frequency.
  • FIG. 7A (dry) and FIG. 7B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
  • FIG. 8 A (dry) and FIG. 8B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
  • FIG. 9A (dry) and FIG. 9B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
  • FIG. 10A (dry) and FIG. 10B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
  • FIG. 11A (dry) and FIG. 1 IB (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
  • Example 13 PC Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 39 GHz Frequency.
  • FIG. 12A (dry) and FIG. 12B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
  • FIG. 13A (dry) and FIG. 13B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
  • FIG. 14A (dry) and FIG. 14B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
  • Example 16 PA6 Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 28 GHz Frequency.
  • FIG. 15A (dry) and FIG. 15B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
  • Example 17 PA6 Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 39 GHz Frequency.
  • FIG. 16A (dry) and FIG. 16B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
  • Example 18 RF Testing - Insertion Loss versus Distance at 24-40 GHz Wave Frequency.
  • Several materials, as described in Table 9, are tested by molding the materials into 1 ft x 1 ft flat plaques. These plaques are precision-machined to obtain about 2.18 mm structural thickness. A 0.25 mm thick basecoat of flame retardant (FR) material and 0. 11 mm thick topcoat of decorative color are applied to each plaque using roller applicators. The coated plaque surfaces are somewhat rough due to the roller coat application. The total specimen structural thickness is 2.54 mm.
  • FR flame retardant
  • the total specimen structural thickness is 2.54 mm.
  • the insertion loss in (S21 in dB) is measured in the far field in the 24-40 GHz wave frequency spectrum as a function of the plaque surface distance from the antenna.
  • FIGs. 17A and 17B represent a cyclone plot showing insertion loss (dB) data measured for one of the tested plaques.
  • FIG. 17A is a cyclone plot of the insertion loss in dB (Y-axis) measured over a 0-100 mm distance span in 0.5 mm increments over the 24-40 GHz wave frequency range (X-axis); each line shown is a 0.5 mm distance increment.
  • FIG. 17B plots the insertion loss variation (Y-axis) of the tested plaque measured over a 0-100 mm distance variation and for the 24-40 GHz frequency range.
  • Example 19 Array Antenna Testing at 28 GHz Wave Frequency.
  • Changes in radiation as well as reflection patterns are measured at 28 GHz frequency and at two radio antenna distances, namely, i) close to each other, see “0 mm Distance” plots in FIG. 18A, and ii) few wavelengths apart, see “25 mm Distance” plots in FIG. 18B.
  • Incident ray measurements for main beam bore sight loss, error, 3dB beam width change, 1 st sidelobe gain increase, and backlobe/reflected lobes gain increase are performed at three azimuths, 0°, 30° and 60°.
  • the term “azimuth” is an angular measurement in a spherical coordinate system.
  • the solid line represents the baseline performance for the two antenna system without the in-between plaque specimen
  • the dashed line represents the plaque performance tested with the two-antenna system at 0 mm and 25 mm distance spacing.
  • Example 20 Enclosure for Telecommunication Equipment in the 500 MHz-6 GHz Frequency Range.
  • a three-dimensional enclosure is prepared from panels made of glass-fiber-reinforced thermoplastic polymer. The panel structural thickness is about 2 mm excluding the paint coatings.
  • the enclosure houses telecommunication equipment, namely, radio, antenna, power supply. In the radio signal frequency range of between 500 MHz to 6 GHz, a signal attenuation between IdB and 0 dB is observed.
  • Example 21 Enclosure for Telecommunication Equipment in the 24 GHz-30 GHz Frequency Range.
  • a three-dimensional enclosure is prepared from panels made of glass-fiber-reinforced thermoplastic polymer.
  • the panel structural thickness is about 3 mm, excluding the paint coatings.
  • the enclosure houses telecommunication equipment, such as capacitors, actuators, power cable terminations, miniatured antenna, power transformer/power conditioner, optical fiber, radios, diplexer/multiplexer, coaxial cable, and their combinations, and may serve, e.g., as antenna concealment, cell phone casings, housing for an electronic component, fiber termination box, coaxial cable sheath, and the like. In the radio signal frequency range of between 24 GHz and 30 GHz, a signal attenuation between 1 dB and 0 dB is observed.
  • the enclosures can optionally include a cell phone case or protective cover, or a backpack for carrying articles including electronic equipment.
  • Example 22 Enclosure for Telecommunication Equipment in the 36 GHz-40 GHz Frequency Range.
  • a three-dimensional enclosure is prepared from panels made of glass-fiber-reinforced thermoplastic polymer.
  • the panel structural thickness is about 2 mm, excluding the paint coatings.
  • the enclosure houses telecommunication equipment, such as capacitors, actuators, power cable terminations, miniatured antenna, power transformer/power conditioner, optical fiber, radios, diplexer/multiplexer, coaxial cable, and their combinations, and may serve as, e.g., antenna concealment, cell phone casings, housing for electronic components, fiber termination box, coaxial fiber sheath, and the like.
  • telecommunication equipment such as capacitors, actuators, power cable terminations, miniatured antenna, power transformer/power conditioner, optical fiber, radios, diplexer/multiplexer, coaxial cable, and their combinations, and may serve as, e.g., antenna concealment, cell phone casings, housing for electronic components, fiber termination box, coaxial fiber sheath, and the like.
  • a signal attenuation between 1 dB and 0 dB is observed.
  • FIG. 20 illustrates schematic representations of panels 3A-3C.
  • Panels 3A-3C include respective openings 5A-5C.
  • Panels 3A-3C can have a number of suitable geometric shapes such as a square shape, rectangular shape (3A), cylindrical shape (3B), disc shape (3C), or any other suitable shape.
  • An enclosure formed from one or more of such panels can house one or more items of electromagnetic equipment.
  • electromagnetic equipment include, for instance, a three-phase electrical wire terminated into a circuit breaker/disconnect; a power transformer/power conditioner; an optical fiber wire and fiber termination box; a radio or radios; a diplexer/multiplexer (per radio); a coaxial cable from radio to antenna(s); or an antennae.
  • This enclosure may also require a coax penetration to a remote antenna mount location.
  • the enclosure is designed to accommodate any target application and has temperature control systems (fans, vent holes, or slots), access doors (screwed on, clipped on, hinged) for internals, and mounting accessories (brackets, screwed mounts, swivel mounts, sliding guides), and the like.
  • Opening 5A, 5B, or 5C may be fitted with a window structure or assembly constructed from any suitable material that enables the transmission of an electromagnetic signals. Examples include mono- or multi-layered transparent films, sheets, glass cover, metal or plastic mesh, and such. There may be multiple such openings of different shapes and sizes to accommodate the electromagnetic signal conveyance with reduced signal strength loss.
  • panel(s) and the enclosure(s) formed therefrom may be of any suitable material such as polymer, plastic, foam, metal, composites, etc.
  • incorporation of opening(s) necessary for signal transmission make such enclosures complex to design, fabricate, mount, and maintain.
  • panels and enclosures made therefrom having openings or windows fitted with materials different from the panel materials make such structures less durable (e.g., short life cycle) while compromising their structural integrity, mechanical strength and impact resistance.
  • An enclosure is deemed “windowless” as used in the instant disclosure if it lacks such an opening or window that is fitted with a material different from the panel material.
  • FIG. 21 illustrates schematic representations of enclosures 23, 25, and 27. Compared to Comparative Example 1, enclosures 23, 25, and 27 have a thickness as described in the Examples herein and have no separate opening or window for transmission or receival of electromagnetic signal.
  • the enclosure may be of any suitable geometric shape such as square, rectangular (enclosure 23 in FIG. 21), cylindrical (enclosure 25 in FIG. 21), disc (enclosure 27 in FIG. 21), dome-shaped, cone-shaped, or any suitable shape.
  • the formed enclosure is part of a continuously molded article.
  • the article described in this example can be useful for providing weather-resistant shielding for electronic equipment.
  • Such an enclosure (not shown), or articles formed from one or more of such enclosures, can house one or more items of electromagnetic equipment.
  • the electronic equipment can include, for example, a three-phase electrical wire terminated into a circuit breaker/disconnect; a power transformer/power conditioner; an optical fiber wire and fiber termination box; a radio or radios; a diplexer/multiplexer (per radio); a coaxial cable from radio to antenna(s); an antennae.
  • This enclosure may also require a coax penetration to a remote antenna mount location.
  • the enclosure is designed to accommodate any target application and has temperature control systems (fans, vent holes, or slots), access doors (screwed on, clipped on, hinged) for internals, and mounting accessories (brackets, swivel mounts, slider mounts), and such.
  • temperature control systems fans, vent holes, or slots
  • access doors screwd on, clipped on, hinged
  • mounting accessories brackets, swivel mounts, slider mounts
  • Example 24 PA66-based Panel and Enclosure through which 30 GHz Frequency Electromagnetic Signals are Transmitted or Received.
  • PA66-IM-GF30 a PA66 based thermoplastic resin labeled “PA66-IM-GF30” and corresponding to Specimen labeled “L” (50%RH) in Table 9 of the present disclosure.
  • PA66-IM-GF30 is prepared using INVISTATM PA66 material and further containing impact modified polyolefin with 30 wt% glass fiber (GF) reinforcement.
  • the densities of four panels are 1.097, 1.244, 1.277 and 1.361 g/cc.
  • the so-formed panels are joined to form a three-dimensional rectangular enclosure having the dimensions of 48” L x 24” W x 12” D (or, 4’ L x 2’ W x 1 ’ D).
  • Proper network telecommunication equipment is housed inside the enclosure.
  • the enclosure contains no separate opening or windows having any transparent medium such as film, glass covering, sheet, or the like.
  • the PA66-IM-GF30 resin specimen has a dielectric constant of 3.5 and dissipation factor (DF) of 0.0142, both measured at 30 GHz frequency.
  • the panel wall structural thickness is maintained to about 3 mm for the transmission and receival of 30 GHz frequency electromagnetic signal having less than 0.5 dB loss during its transmission across the panel wall. This electromagnetic signal transmission and reception do not occur through a transparent or optical window.
  • Example 25 PA66-based Panel and Enclosure through which 40 GHz Frequency Electromagnetic Signals are Transmitted or Received.
  • PA66-PPE PA66 based thermoplastic resin labeled “PA66-PPE”, which corresponds to Specimen labeled “H” (50%RH) in Table 9 of the present disclosure.
  • PA66-PPE is an unreinforced thermoplastic resin.
  • the densities of the panels are >1.1 g/cc and ⁇ 1.4 g/cc.
  • the so-formed panels are joined to form a three-dimensional cylindrical enclosure having the dimensions of from about 22’ to about 36” outside diameter and from about 0.5’ to about 6.5’ length (or, 3’ O.D x 5’ long cylinder).
  • Proper network telecommunication equipment is housed inside the enclosure.
  • the enclosure contains no separate opening or windows having any transparent medium such as film, glass covering, sheet, and the like.
  • the PA66-PPE resin specimen have a dielectric constant of about 2.82 and a dissipation factor (DF) of about 0.0074, both measured at 40 GHz frequency.
  • the panel wall structural thickness is maintained to about 4 mm for the transmission and receival of 40 GHz frequency electromagnetic signal having less than 0.5 dB loss during its transmission across the panel wall. This electromagnetic signal transmission and receival did not occur through a transparent or optical window.
  • Example 26 PA66-based Panel and Enclosure through which sub-6 GHz (3 GHz) Frequency Electromagnetic Signals are Transmited or Received.
  • PA66-PPE PA66 based thermoplastic resin labeled “PA66-PPE”, which corresponds to Specimen labeled “H” (c50%RH) in Table 9 of the present disclosure.
  • PA66-PPE is an unreinforced thermoplastic resin.
  • the density of the panel is >1 .1 g/cc and ⁇ 1.4 g/cc.
  • the formed panels are joined to form a three-dimensional clamshell-shaped enclosure intended for sub-6 GHz 5G and 4G LTE radio equipment shrouds. Proper network telecommunication equipment is housed inside the enclosure.
  • the enclosure contains no separate opening or windows having any transparent medium such as fdm, glass covering, sheet, and the like.
  • the PA66-PPE resin specimen has a dielectric constant of about 2.84 and a dissipation factor (DF) of about 0.0095, both measured at 3 GHz frequency.
  • the panel wall structural thickness is maintained to about 4 mm for the transmission and receival of 3 GHz frequency electromagnetic signal having less than 0.5 dB loss during its transmission across the panel wall. This electromagnetic signal transmission and receival does not occur through a transparent or optical window.
  • the present polyamide-based clamshell radio shroud weighs about 20-25 lbs and offers cost-efficient, durable solution in sub-6 GHz 5G and 4G LTE radio frequency transmission markets.
  • An equivalent metal shroud having the necessary openings for radio wave transmission and receival functions is more expensive, less durable and heavier (-60-70 lbs).
  • Example 27 RF Testing - Insertion Loss versus Distance at 24-40 GHz Wave Frequency.
  • a horn antenna setup is used to measure the insertion loss (S21 in dB) in the far field in the 24-40 GHz wave frequency spectrum as a function of the test specimen plaque surface distance from the antenna.
  • Several materials, as described in Table 9, are tested by molding the materials into 1 ft x 1 ft flat plaques. These plaques are precision -machined to obtain about 2.18 mm structural thickness.
  • a 0.56 mm thick basecoat of flame retardant (FR) material and 0.15 mm thick top-coat of decorative color are applied to each plaque using spray coating technology.
  • the total specimen structural thickness is 2.89 mm.
  • FIG. 22 is a cyclone plot of the insertion loss in dB (Y -axis) measured over a 0-100 mm distance span in 0.5 mm increments over a 24-40 GHz frequency range (X-axis); each line shown is a 0.5 mm distance increment.
  • Example 28 Array Antenna Testing at 28 GHz Wave Frequency.
  • the solid lines represent the baseline performance for the two-antenna system without the in-between plaque specimen, and the dashed lines represent the plaque performance tested with the two-antenna system at 0 mm and 25 mm distance spacing.
  • Example 30 This Example illustrates ranges of thicknesses for nylon-6, 6 free of glass reinforcing fibers (Example 30a), nylon-6, 6 containing 30 weight percent glass reinforcing fibers (Example 30b) and polycarbonate (Example 30c).
  • FR additive may include Exolit® OP 1080P, Exolit® OP 1314, Exolit® OP 1400, etc.
  • the Exolit® FR additives are commercially available from Clariant.
  • UV stabilizer additive may include Carbon Black (19 nm range), organic UV/heat stabilizers such as Irganox® commercial products, phosphite-based commercial additives, hindered amine light [HAL] stabilizers (e.g.: Nylostab® products), UV absorber additives, and combinations thereof.
  • organic UV/heat stabilizers such as Irganox® commercial products, phosphite-based commercial additives, hindered amine light [HAL] stabilizers (e.g.: Nylostab® products), UV absorber additives, and combinations thereof.
  • HAL hindered amine light
  • non-limiting examples of heat stabilizer and chain extending additives may include copper or organic-based such as Irganox® Bl 171, Irganox® Bl 098, BruggolenTM TP-H1802, BruggolenTM M1251, and the like.
  • Irganox® B 1171 is a commercial polymer additive product of BASF.
  • the colorant additive may be added at molding step for Table 21 formulations.
  • Nonlimiting examples of such colorant additive may include commercial products available in the thermoplastics industry.
  • test plaques are prepared using the Table 21 formulations and as described above in the “dielectric constant and dissipation factor determination” section.
  • the dielectric constants and Loss Tangent values are determined according to the test methods described above and in the signal frequency range of 20-40 GHz.
  • Table 22 provides a summary of the dielectric performance data measured for various specimens prepared according to the present disclosure.
  • the term “Loss Tangent” is a measure of how much the wave will decay due to absorption through a medium. [0253] TABLE 22.
  • the Attenuation Coefficient value can range up to 3.9 dB/GHz.cm (for 0.5 GHz wave frequency) or can range between 0.05 and 0.07 dB/GHz.cm (for 81 GHz wave frequency).
  • Example 30b for Nylon-6, 6 with 30% by weight glass fiber the attenuation coefficient value can range up to 5.25 dB/GHz.cm (for 0.5 GHz wave frequency), can range between 0.10 and 0.20 dB/GHz.cm (for 36 GHz wave frequency) or can range between 0.055 and 0.075 dB/GHz.cm (for 81 GHz wave frequency).
  • the attenuation coefficient value can range up to 3.0 dB/GHz.cm (for 0.5 GHz wave frequency) or can range between 0.03 and 0.045 dB/GHz.cm (for 81 GHz wave frequency).
  • Example 33 Panels including various thermoplastic resins.
  • various polymer compositions are selected to have dielectric constant (Dk) and dissipation factor (Df) that center on the average Dk and Df for the polymer composition in order to generate representative signal attenuation data for the polymer at each thickness at each radio wave frequency tested.
  • Table 24 shows compositions having the lowest Dk and Df
  • Table 25 shows compositions having the highest Dk and Df.
  • Table 26 shows compositions having an intermediate Dk and Df between the lowest and the average values
  • Table 27 shows compositions having an intermediate Dk and Df between the highest and average values.
  • each panel is tested for signal attenuation using radio frequencies at each integer frequency from 24 to 39 GHz.
  • the panel, the transmitter, and the receiver are arranged such that the panel is the only non-radiopaque material between the transmitter and the receiver, and such that the radio waves impinging on the panel is normal to a surface of the panels.
  • a powered planer tool is used to remove 0.1 mm thickness from each panel, and each panel is tested for signal attenuation at each integer frequency again. This process is repeated until the panels reach a thickness of about 2 mm.
  • Table 25 Materials for forming panels in Example 33.
  • the panels formed from the materials in Tables 24 and 25 have the lowest signal attenuation at each frequency as shown by the thickness ranges in Tables 1A, 2A, 3A, 4A, 5A, 6A, 7A, and 8 A, herein.
  • the panels formed from the materials in Table 26 and 27 have the lowest signal attenuation at each frequency as shown by the thickness ranges in Tables IB, 2B, 3B, 4B, 5B, 6B, 7B, and 8B, herein, and particularly as shown by the thickness ranges in Tables 1C, 2C, 3C, 4C, 5C, 6C, 7C, and 8C, herein.
  • Aspect 1 provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz, the article comprising: one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough, the one or more portions independently comprising a thermoplastic resin comprising an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, a polycarbonate (PC) composition, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, a liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, or a polyamide composition; wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 1
  • ABS
  • Aspect 2 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table IB herein.
  • ABS acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
  • Aspect 3 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 1C herein.
  • ABS acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
  • Aspect 4 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, wherein acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • ABS acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
  • Aspect 5 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, wherein acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • ABS acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
  • Aspect 6 provides the article of Aspect 1 , wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.16 to 3.84.
  • ABS acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
  • Aspect 7 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.7 to 3.2.
  • ABS acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
  • Aspect 8 provides the article of Aspect 1 , wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 40 x 10' 4 to 228 x 10' 4 .
  • ABS acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
  • Aspect 9 provides the article of Aspect 1 , wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 50 x 10' 4 to 190 x 10' 4 .
  • ABS acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
  • Aspect 10 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 2B herein.
  • Aspect 11 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 2C herein.
  • thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, wherein polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) is 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • PBT polybutylene terephthalate
  • thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, wherein polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) is 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • PBT polybutylene terephthalate
  • Aspect 14 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.32 to 4.80.
  • PBT polybutylene terephthalate
  • Aspect 15 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.9 to 4.0.
  • PBT polybutylene terephthalate
  • Aspect 16 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 8 x 10' 4 to 240 x 10' 4 .
  • PBT polybutylene terephthalate
  • Aspect 17 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 10 x 10' 4 to 200 x 10' 4 .
  • PBT polybutylene terephthalate
  • Df dissipation factor
  • thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition
  • at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 3B herein.
  • thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition
  • at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 3C herein.
  • thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, wherein polycarbonate (PC) is 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, wherein polycarbonate (PC) is 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 22 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.29 to 3.43.
  • PC polycarbonate
  • Aspect 23 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.8 to 3.0.
  • the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.8 to 3.0.
  • Aspect 24 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 52 x 10' 4 to 78 x 10" 4 .
  • Df dissipation factor
  • Aspect 25 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 60 x 1 O' 4 to 70 x IO" 4 .
  • Df dissipation factor
  • thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition
  • PVC polyvinyl chloride
  • Aspect 27 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 4C herein.
  • Aspect 28 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, wherein polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, wherein polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 30 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.4 to 4.8.
  • PVC polyvinyl chloride
  • Aspect 31 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 3.0 to 4.0.
  • PVC polyvinyl chloride
  • Aspect 32 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 48 x 10' 4 to 240 x 10' 4 .
  • PVC polyvinyl chloride
  • Aspect 33 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 60 x 10' 4 to 200 x 10' 4 .
  • PVC polyvinyl chloride
  • thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition
  • PPS polyphenylene sulfide
  • thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition
  • PPS polyphenylene sulfide
  • Aspect 36 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, wherein polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) is 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 37 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, wherein polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) is 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.4 to 3.96.
  • thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 3.0 to 3.3.
  • Aspect 40 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 3.2 x 10' 4 to 36 x 10' 4 .
  • PPS polyphenylene sulfide
  • Aspect 41 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 4 x 1 O' 4 to 30 x 10' 4 .
  • PPS polyphenylene sulfide
  • thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition
  • LCP liquid crystalline polymer
  • thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition
  • LCP liquid crystalline polymer
  • Aspect 44 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, wherein liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) is 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 45 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, wherein liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) is 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 46 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.64 to 3.96.
  • LCP liquid crystalline polymer
  • Dk dielectric constant
  • thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 3.2 to 3.4.
  • Aspect 48 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 32 x 10' 4 to 48 x 10' 4 .
  • LCP liquid crystalline polymer
  • Aspect 49 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 35 x 10' 4 to 45 x 10' 4 .
  • LCP liquid crystalline polymer
  • Aspect 50 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7B herein.
  • Aspect 51 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7C herein.
  • Aspect 52 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, wherein polyamide is 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 53 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, wherein polyamide is 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 54 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.53 to 3.79.
  • Aspect 55 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 3.16 to 3.2.
  • Aspect 56 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 110.4 x 10' 4 to 165.6 x IO’ 4 .
  • Df dissipation factor
  • Aspect 57 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 135 x IO’ 4 to 140 x IO" 4 .
  • Df dissipation factor
  • Aspect 58 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-57, wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency of 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 32 GHz to 39.5 GHz, or 24 GHz to 39.5 GHz.
  • Aspect 59 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-58, wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency of outside a range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and inside a range of 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz.
  • Aspect 60 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-59, wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency of outside a range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and inside a range of 0 GHz to 85 GHz.
  • Aspect 61 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-60, wherein substantially all of the article is the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 62 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-61, wherein 100 wt% of the article is the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 63 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-62, wherein 0.001 wt% to 100 wt% of the article is the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 64 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-63, wherein 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the article is the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 65 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-64, wherein 90 wt% to 100 wt% of the article is the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 66 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-65, wherein 0.001 wt% to 49.9 wt% of the article is the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 67 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-66, wherein 0.001 wt% to 10 wt% of the article is the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 68 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-67, wherein 0 wt% of the article is a material that provides greater attenuation of radio waves in at least one region of the article comprising the material at one or more frequencies in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz as compared to the same region of the article without the material, or as compared to the same region of the thermoplastic resin without the material; or wherein the concentration of the material in the article is such that attenuation of radio waves by the at least one region of the article comprising the material does not increase by more than 0%, 0.001, 0.005, 0.01, 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, or by more than 20%, as compared to the same region of the article without the material, or as compared to the same region of the thermoplastic resin without the material.
  • Aspect 69 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-68, wherein 0 wt% of the article is metals or metal -containing compounds.
  • Aspect 70 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-69, wherein the article is substantially free of a material that provides greater attenuation of radio waves in at least one region of the article comprising the material at one or more frequencies in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz as compared to the same region of the article without the material, or as compared to the same region of the thermoplastic resin without the material.
  • Aspect 71 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-70, wherein the article is substantially free of metals and metal-containing compounds.
  • Aspect 72 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-71, wherein the article comprises one or more portions that comprise the thermoplastic resin and one or more other portions that are substantially free of the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 73 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-72, wherein the article is for use with communication devices, electronics, and/or electric power systems.
  • Aspect 74 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-73, wherein the article is a structural article.
  • Aspect 75 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-74, wherein the article is a wall.
  • Aspect 76 provides the article of Aspect 75, wherein the wall comprises an automobile wall/skin, a truck wall/skin, or a building wall.
  • Aspect 77 provides the article of any one of Aspects 75-76, wherein the wall comprises one or more monolithic windowless panels that comprise the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 78 provides the article of Aspect 77, wherein the one or more panels form a portion of a major face of the wall.
  • Aspect 79 provides the article of any one of Aspects 77-78, wherein the one or more panels are electromagnetic windows in the wall that are translucent or opaque to visible light.
  • Aspect 80 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-73, wherein the article is a radome, wherein walls of the radome comprise the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 81 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-73, wherein the article is a radome wall.
  • Aspect 82 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-73, wherein the article is a fuselage for an aircraft, a radio-controlled (RC) aircraft, or drone, or a component of the fuselage.
  • RC radio-controlled
  • Aspect 83 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-73, wherein the article is an exterior-mounted vehicular decorative or structural component.
  • Aspect 84 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-73, wherein the article is an automotive wall, a building wall, a panel, a wall plate, a structural frame, a radome, a radome cover, a monocoque, a car unibody, or a combination thereof.
  • Aspect 85 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-73, wherein the article is a cell phone case, a cell phone protector, or a component thereof.
  • Aspect 86 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-73, wherein the article is enclosure for electronic equipment, or a component of an enclosure for electronic equipment
  • Aspect 87 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-73, wherein the article is an enclosure for protecting a radio antenna operating in 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz frequency range, and optionally in the 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz frequency range.
  • Aspect 88 provides the article of Aspect 87, wherein the article fully encloses the radio antenna.
  • Aspect 89 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-88, comprising a first plate of a first thickness and a second plate of a second thickness that each comprise the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 90 provides the article of Aspect 89, wherein the first plate and the second plate differently attenuate electromagnetic signals.
  • Aspect 91 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-90, wherein the article has a uniform thickness.
  • Aspect 92 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-91, wherein the article is weatherresistant.
  • Aspect 93 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-92, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises an additive that is a reinforcing fiber that is up to 50 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 94 provides the article of Aspect 93, wherein the reinforcing fiber comprises glass fibers, silicon fibers, carbon fibers, polypropylene fibers, polyacrylonitrile fibers, basalt fibers, or mixtures thereof.
  • Aspect 95 provides the article of any one of Aspects 93-94, wherein the reinforcing fiber comprises a glass fiber.
  • Aspect 96 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-95, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the additive and the additive is chosen from an ultraviolet resistance additive, a flame retardancy additive, an anti-static additive, an impact modifier, a colorant, a moisture repellant, or a combination thereof.
  • Aspect 97 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-96, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises an additive in a range of from about 0. 1 wt% to about 30 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 98 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-97, wherein glass fibers are 10 to 50 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 99 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-98, wherein glass fibers are 12 to 50 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 100 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-99, wherein glass fibers are 14 to 40 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 101 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-100, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises up to 20% of a flame-retardancy additive.
  • Aspect 102 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-101, wherein the article comprises a flame-retardancy coating.
  • Aspect 103 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-102, wherein the article and/or thermoplastic resin has a UL-94 test rating of V-0.
  • Aspect 104 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-103, wherein the article is formed by injection molding, thermoforming, compression molding, extruding, blow molding, casting, or any combination thereof.
  • Aspect 105 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-104, wherein the article is free of portions and windows for transmission of an electromagnetic signal having a frequency range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz, and optionally having a frequency range of 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz, and that are free of the thermoplastic resin.
  • Aspect 106 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1 or 58-105, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, wherein the polyamide composition comprises N66, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7A herein.
  • Aspect 107 provides the article of Aspect 106, wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7B herein.
  • Aspect 108 provides the article of any one of Aspects 106-107, wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7C herein.
  • Aspect 109 provides the article of any one of Aspects 106-108, wherein 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the polyamide composition is N66.
  • Aspect 110 provides the article of any one of Aspects 106-109, wherein 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the polyamide composition is N66.
  • Aspect 111 provides the article of any one of Aspects 106-110, wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.53 to 3.79.
  • Aspect 112 provides the article of any one of Aspects 106-111, wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 3.16 to 3.2.
  • Aspect 113 provides the article of any one of Aspects 106-112, wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 110.4 x 10' 4 to 165.6 x 10' 4 .
  • Df dissipation factor
  • Aspect 114 provides the article of any one of Aspects 106-113, wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 135 x 10' 4 to 140 x 10' 4 .
  • Df dissipation factor
  • Aspect 115 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1 or 58-105, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, the polyamide composition comprises PA66/DI, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 8A herein.
  • Aspect 116 provides the article of Aspect 115, wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 8B herein.
  • Aspect 117 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-116, wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 8C herein.
  • Aspect 118 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-117, wherein 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the polyamide composition is the PA66/DI.
  • Aspect 119 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-118, wherein 55 wt% to 65 wt% of the polyamide composition is the PA66/DI.
  • Aspect 120 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-119, wherein the PA66/DI has a weight ratio of PA66 to DI of 1 :99 to 99: 1.
  • Aspect 121 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-120, wherein the PA66/DI has a weight ratio of PA66 to DI of 80:20 to 99: 1.
  • Aspect 122 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-121, wherein the PA66/DI has a weight ratio of PA66 to DI of 90: 10 to 95:5.
  • Aspect 123 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-122, wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.62 to 3.92.
  • Aspect 124 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-123, wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 3.27 to 3.3.
  • Aspect 125 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-124, wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 80 x 10' 4 to 120 x 10' 4 .
  • Df dissipation factor
  • Aspect 126 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-125, wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 90 x 10' 4 to 110 x 10' 4 .
  • Df dissipation factor
  • Aspect 127 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1 or 50-105, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, wherein the polyamide composition comprises a first polyamide comprising nylon-6, nylon-6, 6, a copolymer of nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6 comprising at least one repeating unit that is poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide), poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), or a copolymer of poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) and poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), a mixture thereof, or a copolymer thereof; and a second polyamide, an additive, or a mixture thereof.
  • the polyamide composition comprises a first polyamide comprising nylon-6, nylon-6, 6, a copolymer of nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6 comprising at least one repeating unit that is poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide), poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), or a copolymer of poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) and poly(he
  • Aspect 128 provides the article of Aspect 127, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the first polyamide; the second polyamide; and the additive.
  • Aspect 129 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-128, wherein the first polyamide comprises: nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6; and a copolymer comprising nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6, the copolymer comprising at least one repeating unit that is poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide), poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), or a copolymer of poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) and poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), wherein a molar ratio of the poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) repeating unit to poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide) repeating unit is in a range of from about 60:40 to about 90: 10.
  • Aspect 130 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-129, wherein the first polyamide comprises: nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6; and a copolymer comprising nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6 and at least one repeating unit that is poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide), poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), or a copolymer of poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) and poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), wherein a molar ratio of the poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) repeating unit to poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide) repeating unit is in a range of from about 70:30 to about 75:25.
  • Aspect 131 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-130, wherein the first polyamide is at least one of nylon-6 and nylon -6, 6.
  • Aspect 132 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-131, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the additive and the additive is in a range of from about 10 wt% to about 30 wt% of the resin, wherein a transmittance loss of the thermoplastic resin is less than 2 decibels (dB) for a signal having a frequency between 500 MHz and 40 GHz.
  • dB decibels
  • Aspect 133 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-132, wherein a transmittance loss of the thermoplastic resin within at least one of a 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz frequency range, a 24 GHz to 30 GHz frequency range, and a 36 GHz to 39.5 GHz range is less than 1 decibel (dB).
  • Aspect 134 provides the article of Aspect 133, wherein the transmittance loss of the thermoplastic resin within at least one of a 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz frequency range, a 24 GHz to 30 GHz frequency range, and a 36 GHz to 39.5 GHz range is less than 0.5 decibels (dB).
  • Aspect 135 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-134, wherein a relative weight gain of the article due to moisture uptake is less than 4% upon equilibration in an atmosphere at 70 °C and 62% relative humidity.
  • Aspect 136 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-135, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises reinforcing glass fiber in up to 50 wt% level of the total composition mass; wherein the thermoplastic resin has: a tensile strength in a range of from about 40 MPa to about 300 MPa; a density in a range of from 0.7 g/cm 3 to 5 g/cm 3 ; an impact resistance in a range of from 40 kJ/m 2 to 150 kJ/m 2 ; and a signal attenuation of at least one of the following, when a direction of a signal impinging on the thermoplastic resin is normal to a surface of the thermoplastic resin, and wherein a thickness of the thermoplastic resin is substantially uniform across an area where the signal impinges on the article: from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 500 MHz to 6 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 0.5 mm to 6 mm; from 1 dB to 0 d
  • Aspect 137 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-136, wherein a density of the thermoplastic resin is in a range selected from: greater than or equal to 0.7 g/cm 3 to less than or equal to 5 g/cm 3 ; greater than or equal to 0.8 g/cm 3 to less than or equal to 4 g/cm 3 ; and greater than or equal to 0.85 to less than or greater than 3 g/cm 3 .
  • Aspect 138 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-137, wherein the thermoplastic resin has a tensile strength in a range of 40 to 300 MPa.
  • Aspect 139 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-138, having a substantially uniform signal attenuation of: from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 500 MHz to 6 GHz when a thickness of the thermoplastic resin is from 1.5 mm to 4 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 24 GHz to 30 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 2.5 mm to 4 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 36 GHz to 39.5 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 1.75 mm to 2.75 mm; or from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 76 GHz to 81 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 1.75 mm to 2.75 mm.
  • Aspect 140 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-139, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises PA66:DI (85: 15 to 96:4 wt:wt), glass fiber in a range of about 5 to about 20 wt%, a flame-retardant additive in a range of up to about 20 wt%, a UV additive in a range of up to about 3 wt%, a heat stabilizer additive in a range of up to about 2 wt%, and a colorant additive in a range of up to about 3 wt%.
  • PA66:DI 85: 15 to 96:4 wt:wt
  • glass fiber in a range of about 5 to about 20 wt%
  • a flame-retardant additive in a range of up to about 20 wt%
  • a UV additive in a range of up to about 3 wt%
  • a heat stabilizer additive in a range of up to about 2 wt%
  • a colorant additive
  • Aspect 141 provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz, the article comprising: one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough, the one or more portions independently comprising a thermoplastic resin comprising an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, a polycarbonate (PC) composition, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, a liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, or a polyamide composition; wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table
  • Aspect 142 provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz, the article comprising: one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough, the one or more portions independently comprising a thermoplastic resin comprising an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, a polycarbonate (PC) composition, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, a liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, or a polyamide composition; wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table
  • Aspect 143 provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz, the article comprising: one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough, the one or more portions independently comprising a polyamide composition comprising a first polyamide comprising nylon-6, nylon-6, 6, a copolymer of nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6 comprising at least one repeating unit that is poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide), poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), or a copolymer of poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) and poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), a mixture thereof, or a copolymer thereof; and a second polyamide, an additive, or a mixture thereof. wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7A or Table 8
  • Aspect 144 provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz, the article comprising: one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough, the one or more portions comprising a polyamide composition comprising PA66/DI and glass fibers, wherein the PA66/DI is 55 wt% to 65 wt% of the polyamide composition and the glass fibers are 10 wt% to 30 wt% of the polyamide composition, wherein the PA66/DI has a weight ratio of PA66 to DI of 90: 10 to 95:5, and wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 8A herein.
  • Aspect 145 provides the article of Aspect 144, wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 8B herein.
  • Aspect 146 provides the article of Aspect 144, wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 8C herein.
  • Aspect 147 provides a system comprising: the article of any one of Aspects 1-146; and an antenna for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz.
  • Aspect 148 provides the system of Aspect 147, wherein the article fully encloses the antenna.
  • Aspect 149 provides a method of making the article of any one of Aspects 1-146, the method comprising: injection molding, thermoforming, compression molding, extruding, blow molding, casting, or any combination thereof, the thermoplastic resin to form the article or one or more components thereof.
  • Aspect 150 provides a method comprising: transmitting and/or receiving radio waves having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz through the article of any one of Aspects 1-146.
  • Aspect 151 provides the method of Aspect 150, comprising transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves through one or more of the one or more portions of the article that comprises the thermoplastic resin.

Landscapes

  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Medicinal Chemistry (AREA)
  • Polymers & Plastics (AREA)
  • Organic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Compositions Of Macromolecular Compounds (AREA)

Abstract

Articles for use with 5G radio waves in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz. The article includes one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough, the one or more portions independently including a thermoplastic resin comprising an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, a polycarbonate (PC) composition, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, a liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, or a polyamide composition. The one or more portions have a thickness that provides low signal attenuation of the radio waves.

Description

ARTICLES FOR USE WITH 5G RADIO WAVES
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to United States Provisional Application No. 63/243,907, filed on September 14, 2021, which is incorporated by reference herein.
FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to thermoplastic resins and articles including the same suitable for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz.
BACKGROUND
[0003] World-wide communications technology advancements are heading towards faster more reliable and affordable products and services. Technologies such as 4G LTE and 5G (abbreviated for the 5th Generation of mobile device communication) have been evolving to cater to the needs of the global consumer base.
[0004] In recent years, 5G wireless communication technology, in particular, is advancing at a much faster pace. The 5G coverage can be separated into two regimes in the electromagnetic spectrum: i) millimeter waves (mmWave), and ii) low-/mid-band. The mmWave technology uses frequencies in the 6-100 GHz range, for example, above 24-25 GHz, for example, in the range of 28-39 GHz, while the low-/mid-frequency band uses frequencies below 6 GHz.
[0005] One of the hurdles in mmWave 5G communication networks is that newer and more transmitters are required for proper functioning. This is due to its range being severely limited as compared to low and mid-band networks. Also, there is a problem of mmWave 5G radio waves transmitting through physical obstacles like buildings and structures. This would limit transmission range, which is undesirable for consumers adopting this technology.
[0006] Materials used in antenna concealment assemblies have generally been customized structures including fiberglass, fiberglass reinforced plastic (“FRP”), polyurethane foam, ABS plastic, other composite material, or combinations thereof. These materials have offered a
Figure imgf000003_0001
reasonable degree of structural integrity and strength as well as a reasonable degree of radio frequency (RF) transparency for lower-frequency cellular applications. However, such customized structures and material choices are less feasible for higher-spectrum broadband and satellite applications due to extreme RF transparency requirements.
[0007] Approaches to developing low transmission loss materials have included Hitachi Chemical’s low dielectric material, AS-400HS, which Hitachi reportedly offers improved electric properties and workability compared to polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and aromatic liquid crystal polymers (LCP), examples of which can be found at New Low Transmission Loss Material for Millimeter-wave Radar Module “AS-400HS”, Hitachi Chemical Technical Report No. 58., Tanigawa et al. Additional approaches to developing low transmission loss materials have included low-density foam enclosures and panels such as those used with the RayCap INVISIWAVE™ product.
[0008] There remains a need to provide materials and articles including the same with suitably high transmissibility for 5G applications while at the same time providing structurally useful properties. Good structural properties for certain materials sometimes requires using a thickness of the material conventionally thought to be too high to provide high transmissibility for 5G application.
SUMMARY
[0009] The present invention provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz. The article includes one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough. The one or more portions independently include a thermoplastic resin including an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, a polycarbonate (PC) composition, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, a liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, or a polyamide composition. The thermoplastic resin includes the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 1A herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polybutylene
Figure imgf000004_0001
terephthalate (PBT) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 2A herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 3A herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 4A herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 5 A herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 6A herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polyamide composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7A or Table 8 A.
[0010] The present invention provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz. The article includes one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough. The one or more portions independently include a thermoplastic resin including an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, a polycarbonate (PC) composition, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, a liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, or a polyamide composition. The thermoplastic resin includes the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at
Figure imgf000005_0001
least one single row of Table IB herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 2B herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 3B herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 4B herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 5B herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 6B herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polyamide composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7B or Table 8B herein.
[0011] The present invention provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz. The article includes one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough. The one or more portions independently include a thermoplastic resin including an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, a polycarbonate (PC) composition, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, a liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, or a polyamide composition. The thermoplastic resin includes the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions
Figure imgf000006_0001
have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 1 C herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 2C herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 3C herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 4C herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 5C herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 6C herein; or the thermoplastic resin includes the polyamide composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7C herein or Table 8C herein. [0012] The present invention provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz. The article includes one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough. The one or more portions independently including a polyamide composition including a first polyamide that includes nylon-6; nylon-6, 6; a copolymer of nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6 including at least one repeating unit that is poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide), poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), or a copolymer of poly (hexamethylene terephthalamide) and poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide); a mixture thereof; or a copolymer thereof. The polyamide composition also includes a second
Figure imgf000007_0001
polyamide, an additive, or a mixture thereof. At least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7A or Table 8A herein.
[0013] The present invention provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz. The article includes one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough. The one or more portions including a polyamide composition including PA66/DI and glass fibers. The PA66/DI is 55 wt% to 65 wt% of the polyamide composition and the glass fibers are 10 wt% to 30 wt% of the polyamide composition. The PA66/DI has a weight ratio of PA66 to DI of 90:10 to 95:5. At least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 8 A, 8B, or 8C herein.
[0014] The present invention provides a system that includes the article of the present invention for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz. The system also includes an antenna for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz.
[0015] The present invention provides a method of making the article of the present invention for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz. The method includes injection molding, thermoforming, compression molding, extruding, blow molding, casting, or any combination thereof, the thermoplastic resin to form the article or one or more components thereof.
[0016] The present invention provides a method that includes transmitting and/or receiving radio waves having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz through the article of the present invention.
[0017] Conventional understanding of 5G radio wave transmissibility of materials is that a thicker material will provide greater signal attenuation and lower transmissibility of the radio waves through the material. The present inventors have discovered that certain thicknesses of materials work best for 5G radio wave transmission at various frequencies. Among other advantages, the present invention articles formed from thicker materials that still provide good
Figure imgf000008_0001
signal transmissibility with low or minimized signal attenuation for a desired 5G radio wave. The use of thicker materials can provide new types of 5G-compatible articles made from materials that were previously thought to be incompatible with 5G, or articles having structural needs that were previously thought to require too great a thickness of various materials to provide acceptable 5G radio wave transmissibility. With regard to aspects of the present invention including polyamides, polyamides are conventionally thought to be poor materials for 5G transmissibility due to the tendency of polyamides to absorb water; however, the present inventors have discovered that polyamides can provide good 5G signal transmissibility and that certain thicknesses of polyamides provide lower or minimized signal attenuation for a desired 5G radio wave. In various aspects, the present invention can be used to design articles having thicknesses that provide superior 5G transmissibility for particular 5G frequencies, and/or thicknesses that selectively shield various 5G frequencies.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various aspects of the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 1 is a graph showing moisture gain data for 1.5 mm thick test specimen plaques measured according to the ISO 1110 Procedure, according to various examples of the present disclosure.
[0020] FIG. 2 is a graph showing moisture gain data for 3.0 mm thick test specimen plaques measured according to the ISO 1110 Procedure, according to various examples of the present disclosure.
[0021] FIGS. 3A, 4A, 5A, 6A, 7A, 8A, 9A, 10A, 11A, 12A, 13A, 14A, 15A, and 16A are graphs showing the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of thickness (mm on the X-axis) for dry as molded (DAM) (or dry) specimens at two frequencies, according to various examples of the present disclosure.
[0022] FIGS. 3B, 4B, 5B, 6B, 7B, 8B, 9B, 10B, 11B, 12B, 13B, 14B, 15B, and 16B are graphs showing the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of thickness (mm on the X-axis) for conditioned (or wet) specimens at two frequencies, according to various examples of the present disclosure.
Figure imgf000009_0001
[0023] FIGS. 17A and 17B represent a cyclone plot showing insertion loss (dB) data according to Example 18 of the present disclosure.
[0024] FIGS. 18A and 18B represent the array antenna data measured at three azimuths, 0°, 30°, and 60°, according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
[0025] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a low transmission loss panel, according to various examples of the present disclosure.
[0026] FIG. 20 illustrates schematic representations of various panels or enclosures including windows according to Comparative Example 1 of the present disclosure.
[0027] FIG. 21 illustrates schematic representations of various panels windowless panels or enclosures according to Example 26 of the present disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 22 represents a cyclone plot showing insertion loss (dB) data according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
[0029] FIGS. 23A and 23B represent array antenna data measured at three azimuths, 0°, 30°, and 60°, according to Example 28 of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0030] Reference will now be made in detail to certain aspects of the disclosed subject matter, examples of which are illustrated in part in the accompanying drawings. While the disclosed subject matter will be described in conjunction with the enumerated claims, it will be understood that the exemplified subject matter is not intended to limit the claims to the disclosed subject matter.
[0031] Throughout this document, values expressed in a range format should be interpreted in a flexible manner to include not only the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range, but also to include all the individual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassed within that range as if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited. For example, a range of “about 0.1% to about 5%” or “about 0.1% to 5%” should be interpreted to include not just about 0.1% to about 5%, but also the individual values (e.g., 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4%) and the sub-ranges (e.g., 0.1% to 0.5%, l .l% to 2.2%, 3.3% to 4.4%) within the indicated range. The statement “about X to Y” has the same meaning as “about X to about Y,” unless indicated otherwise.
Figure imgf000010_0001
Likewise, the statement “about X, Y, or about Z” has the same meaning as “about X, about Y, or about Z,” unless indicated otherwise.
[0032] In this document, the terms “a,” “an,” or “the” are used to include one or more than one unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term “or” is used to refer to a nonexclusive “or” unless otherwise indicated. The statement “at least one of A and B” has the same meaning as “A, B, or A and B.” In addition, it is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein, and not otherwise defined, is for the purpose of description only and not of limitation. Any use of section headings is intended to aid reading of the document and is not to be interpreted as limiting; information that is relevant to a section heading may occur within or outside of that particular section.
[0033] In the methods described herein, the acts can be carried out in any order without departing from the principles of the disclosure, except when a temporal or operational sequence is explicitly recited. Furthermore, specified acts can be carried out concurrently unless explicit claim language recites that they be carried out separately. For example, a claimed act of doing X and a claimed act of doing Y can be conducted simultaneously within a single operation, and the resulting process will fall within the literal scope of the claimed process.
[0034] The terms “about” or “substantially” as used herein can allow for a degree of variability in a value or range, for example, within 20%, within 15%, within 10%, within 5%, or within 1% of a stated value or of a stated limit of a range, and includes the exact stated value or range. [0035] The term “polyamide” as used herein refers to polymer having repeating units linked by amide bonds. Polyamides may arise from monomers including aliphatic, semi-aromatic or aromatic groups. Polyamide includes nylons, e.g., nylon-6, 6 or nylon-6, and may refer to polyamides arising from a single monomer, two different monomers, or three or more different monomers. The term polyamide thus includes dimonomeric polyamides. The polyamide may be a nylon having as monomer units a dicarboxylic acid monomer unit and a diamine monomer unit. For example, if the dicarboxylic acid monomer unit is adipic acid and the diamine is hexamethylene diamine, the resulting polyamide can be nylon-6, 6. Nylon-6 is a polyamide having a caprolactam monomer. The polyamide may be copolymers which may be prepared from aqueous solutions or blends of aqueous solutions that contain more than two monomers. In various aspects, polyamides can be manufactured by polymerization of dicarboxylic acid
Figure imgf000011_0001
monomers and diamine monomers. In some cases, polyamides can be produced via polymerization of aminocarboxylic acids, aminonitriles, or lactams. Suitable polyamides include, but are not limited, to those polymerized from the monomer units described herein. The term “polyamide” includes polyamides such as PA6, PA66, PAI 1, PA12, PA612, and Nylon- 66/6T. However, this term can be modified, when done so expressly, to exclude particular polyamides. For example, in some aspects, the polyamide can be a polyamide other than PAI 1, PA12, and PA612; orthe polyamide can be a polyamide otherthan Nylon-66/6T.
[0036] The term “N6,” “nylon-6,” or “PA6” as used herein, refers to a polymer synthesized by polycondensation of caprolactam. The polymer is also known as polyamide 6, nylon-6, and poly(caprolactam) .
[0037] The term “N66,” “nylon-6, 6,” or “PA66” as used herein, refers to a polymer synthesized by polycondensation of hexamethylenediamine (HMD) and adipic acid. The polymer is also known as Polyamide 66, nylon-66, nylon-6-6, and nylon-6/6.
[0038] The polymers described herein can terminate in any suitable way. In some aspects, the polymers can terminate with an end group that is independently chosen from a suitable polymerization initiator, -H, -OH, a substituted or unsubstituted (Cl-C20)hydrocarbyl (e.g., (Cl- C10)alkyl or (C6-C20)aryl) interrupted with 0, 1, 2, or 3 groups independently selected from -O-, substituted or unsubstituted -NH-, and -S-, a poly(substituted or unsubstituted (Cl- C20)hydrocarbyloxy), and a poly(substituted or unsubstituted (Cl-C20)hydrocarbylamino). [0039] In the present disclosure, the terms “DAM” or “dry” refer to the dry-as-molded test specimens.
[0040] In the present disclosure, the terms “wet” or “cond” or “conditioned” refer to the conditioned test specimens.
[0041] The term “substantially uniform attenuation” means the reduction in signal strength across a sample of uniform thickness when an electromagnetic signal crosses the thickness of the sample in a direction normal to the surface of the sample.
[0042] The term “attenuation coefficient,” as used herein, refers to a calculated value for the measured wave attenuation (or loss) in decibels (dB) as the wave signal of a certain frequency (in GHz) passes through a medium of ca certain structural thickness (in cm). The unit of measure
Figure imgf000012_0001
for the attenuation coefficient is dB/GHz.cm. As an illustration, attenuation coefficient value of 1.0 dB/GHz.cm means 1.0 dB of wave loss per 1 unit of GHz per 1 cm medium thickness. [0043] The following applications are incorporated by reference in their entirety: U.S. Application No. 17/221,519, filed on April 2, 2021, International Application No.
PCT/IB2021/052093, filed on March 12, 2021, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/989,105 filed on March 13, 2020, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/142,081, filed on January 27, 2021, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/154,035, filed on February 26, 2021.
Article.
[0044] The present invention provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz (e.g., 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 32 GHz to 39.5 GHz, or 24 GHz to 39.5 GHz). The article includes one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough. The one or more portions independently include a thermoplastic resin that includes an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, a polycarbonate (PC) composition, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, a liquid crystalline polymer (UCP) composition, or a polyamide composition. The one or more portions have a thickness that provides low signal attenuation of the radio waves. In various aspects, the radio waves includes at least some radio waving having a frequency of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and also at least some radio waves outside a range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and inside a range of 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz (e.g., 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz, 76 GHz to 81 GHz, 6 GHz to 23 GHz, 40 GHz to 100 GHz, or a combination thereof).
[0045] Any suitable proportion of the article can be the thermoplastic resin. Substantially all of the article can be the thermoplastic resin, or 100 wt% of the article can be the thermoplastic resin. The thermoplastic resin can be 0.001 wt% to 100 wt% of the article, 50 wt% to 100 wt%, 90 wt% to 100 wt%, 0.001 wt% to 49.9 wt%, 0.001 wt% to 10 wt% of the article, or less than, equal to, or greater than 0.001 wt%, 0.01, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.5, 99.9, 99.99, or 99.999% of the article. The thermoplastic resin can be 90 wt% to 100 wt% of the one or more portions for transmitting
Figure imgf000013_0001
and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz, or 95 to 100 wt%, 98 wt% to 100 wt%, or 99 wt% to 100 wt%.
[0046] The article can be substantially free of materials that cause the article to increase attenuation of radio waves at one or more frequencies in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and/or 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz, as compared to the same region of the article without the material, or as compared to the same region of the thermoplastic resin without the material. Materials that cause the article (in regions including the material) to increase attenuation of radio waves at one or more frequencies in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and/or 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz (e.g., 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz, 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 28 GHz to 39 GHz, 36 GHz to 40 GHz, 76 GHz to 81 GHz, 6 GHz to 100 GHz, or a combination thereof) as compared to the same region of the article without the material, or as compared to the same region of the thermoplastic resin without the material (such as that increase the attenuation by more than 0%, 0.001, 0.005, 0.01, 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, or by more than 20%), can be 0 wt% of the article, or 0 wt% to 0.001 wt% of the article, or any suitable wt% of the article that does not cause an increase in attenuation of the radio waves to climb above the desired maximum percentage. The article can be substantially free of metals or metal-containing compounds. Metals or metalcontaining compound can be 0 wt% of the article or of the one or more portions of the article, or 0 wt% to 0.001 wt% of the article or of the one or more portions of the article.
[0047] In various aspects of the article, the article can include one or more portions that include the thermoplastic resin or that are entirely the thermoplastic resin (e.g., the one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz) and one or more other portions that are substantially free of the thermoplastic resin (e.g., include 0 wt% thermoplastic resin, or that include 0 wt% to 0.001 wt% of the thermoplastic resin).
[0048] The article can be for use with communication devices, electronics, and/or electric power systems. For example, the article can be for use with stationary electronics installations, such as poles, buildings, roof-tops, and the like, or moving installations, such as vehicles, aircrafts, bicycles, boats, wearables, and the like. The article may be designed according to the application specification in terms of the volume, weight, ease of access for maintenance/repairs, aesthetics (color, finish, appearance, and the like), or other criteria. The article can be for use with,
Figure imgf000014_0001
electronic equipment such as AC or DC powered 5G mmWave and 4G radios, AC/DC rectifiers or remote powering units, fiber connectivity enclosures, radio -frequency combiners or diplexers, alarm systems and intrusion systems, AC and DC power distribution panels, 5G antennas, or 5G receivers.
[0049] The article can be an automotive wall, a building wall, a panel, a wall plate, a structural frame, a radome, a radome cover, a monocoque, a car unibody, or a combination thereof. The article can be an aircraft fuselage, a drone or radio-controlled (RC) aircraft fuselage, or a component of the fuselage. The article can be a cell phone case, a cell phone protector, or a component thereof. The article can be an enclosure for electronic equipment, or a component of an enclosure for electronic equipment. The article can be a panel or can include a panel that includes the thermoplastic resin.
[0050] The article can be a structural article (e.g., for forming part of a building or vehicle). The article can be a wall, such as an automobile wall, a truck wall, or a building wall. The article can be an automobile skin or a truck skin. The wall can include one or more monolithic windowless panels that include the thermoplastic resin. The one or more panels can form a portion of a major face of the wall. The one or more panels can be electromagnetic windows in the wall that are translucent or opaque to visible light. The article can be the panel (e.g., a wall panel) or the article can be a wall that includes the panel.
[0051] The article can be a wall plate. A wall plate can be a planer or curved cover structure for functional and/or aesthetic applications. In some aspects, a wall plate can cover something to keep it out of sight. The article can be a structural frame, such as a window frame, a door frame, a vehicle frame, or any suitable structural frame. A window frame is a supporting frame for the glass of a window. A door frame is a supporting frame for a door. The article can be a vehicle frame or a component thereof, such as a car frame, a bus frame, an RV frame, or a truck frame. [0052] The article can be an enclosure for protecting a radio antenna operating in the 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz frequency range (and, optionally, within the range of 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz and outside the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz). The article can fully or partially enclose the radio antenna.
[0053] The article can be a radome or a radome cover. A radome is a structural enclosure that can be weather resistant and that protects an antenna. A radome protects the antenna from
Figure imgf000015_0001
weather and other external phenomena and conceals the antenna from view. The walls of the radome or radome cover can include the thermoplastic resin. The radome or radome cover can have uniform RF transmissibility throughout (e.g., transmissibility of radio waves having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and, optionally, 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz, e.g., 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz, 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 28 GHz to 39 GHz, 36 GHz to 40 GHz, 76 GHz to 81 GHz, 6 GHz to 100 GHz, or a combination thereof). In other aspects, the radome or radome cover can include one or more areas of non-uniform RF transmissibility.
[0054] The article can be an exterior-mounted vehicular decorative or structural component. The vehicle can be a car, bus, truck, van, RV, motorcycle, bicycle, or scooter.
[0055] The article can be a fuselage for an aircraft, or a component of the fuselage. The article can be a fuselage for a radio-controlled (RC) aircraft or drone, such as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), or one or more components of such a fuselage.
[0056] The article can include a first plate of a first thickness and a second plate of a second thickness that each include the thermoplastic resin. The first plate and the second plate can attenuate electromagnetic signals having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and, optionally, 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz (e.g., 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz, 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 28 GHz to 39 GHz, 36 GHz to 40 GHz, 76 GHz to 81 GHz, 6 GHz to 100 GHz, or a combination thereof) the same or differently.
[0057] The article and/or the one or more portions including the thermoplastic resin can have a uniform thickness, or the article and/or the one or more portions including the thermoplastic resin can have a variable thickness. The article and/or the one or more portions including the thermoplastic resin can have a thickness in a range of from about 0.5 mm to about 15 mm, 1 mm to 10 mm, 1 mm to 8 mm, 1 mm to 4 mm, 1 mm to about 2 mm, or less than, equal to, or greater than about 0.5, 0.6, 0.8, 1, 1.2, 1.4, 1.6, 1.8, 2, 2.2, 2.4, 2.6, 2.8, 3, 3.2, 3.4, 3.6, 3.8, 4, 4.2, 4.4, 4.6, 4.8, 5, 5.2, 5.4, 5.6, 5.8, 6, 6.2, 6.4, 6.6, 6.8, 7, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6, 7.8, 8, 8.2, 8.4, 8.6, 8.8, 9, 9.2, 9.4, 9.6, 9.8, 10, 10.2, 10.4, 10.6, 10.8, 11, 11.2, 11.4, 11.6, 11.8, 12, 12.2, 12.4, 12.6, 12.8, 13, 13.5, 14, or 14.5 mm.
[0058] In various aspects, the article and/or thermoplastic resin can be weather-resistant. As used herein the term “weather resistant” refers to an article’s ability to withstand reasonable
Figure imgf000016_0001
exposure to the elements (e.g,, sun, rain, wind, or combinations thereof) while substantially maintaining its structural integrity.
[0059] In various aspects the article can include a coating thereon. The article can include a flame-retardancy coating. The flame -retardancy coating and be sufficient (in addition to any optional flame-retardant additives present in the thermoplastic resin) to provide the article with a UL-94 test rating of V-0.
[0060] The article can be free of portions and windows for receiving and/or transmitting of an electromagnetic signal having a frequency range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and, optionally, 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz (e.g., 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz, 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 28 GHz to 39 GHz, 36 GHz to 40 GHz, 76 GHz to 81 GHz, 6 GHz to 100 GHz, or a combination thereof) and that are free of the thermoplastic resin. In other aspects, the article can include portions or windows for receiving and/or transmitting of an electromagnetic signal having a frequency range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and, optionally, 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz and that are free of the thermoplastic resin.
[0061] FIG. 19 shows an example of panel 100, according to the present disclosure. According to various aspects, an article can include a one or more of the panels, or can be formed from or include a plurality of joined panels 100.
[0062] The panel 100 made substantially (e.g., up to impurities or negligible structural features made from other materials) from a low transmission loss material, can take on many different forms. For example, the panel 100 can be configured to be a panel 100 for covering a transmissive element such as an antenna. In various aspects, the panel 100 can be all or part of an article, such as a molded article. The molded article, for example, can be an enclosure designed to cover the antenna or other transmissive element. Where present as part of an article, the panel 100 may be the only portion of the article that includes a low transmission loss material, or that includes the thermoplastic resin. The panel 100 can be all or part of a wall, a wall plate, a structural frame, a radome, a radome cover, or a radio-controlled (RC) or drome fuselage. Alternatively, in some aspects, the entire article can be formed of the same material as panel 100.
[0063] The panel can have any suitable dimensions. The panel can have a thickness in a range of from about 0.5 mm to about 15 mm, 1 mm to 10 mm, 1 mm to 8 mm, 1 mm to 4 mm, 1 mm to about 2 mm, or less than, equal to, or greater than about 0.5, 0.6, 0.8, 1, 1.2, 1.4, 1.6, 1.8, 2, 2.2,
Figure imgf000017_0001
2.4, 2.6, 2.8, 3, 3.2, 3.4, 3.6, 3.8, 4, 4.2, 4.4, 4.6, 4.8, 5, 5.2, 5.4, 5.6, 5.8, 6, 6.2, 6.4, 6.6, 6.8, 7, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6, 7.8, 8, 8.2, 8.4, 8.6, 8.8, 9, 9.2, 9.4, 9.6, 9.8, 10, 10.2, 10.4, 10.6, 10.8, 11, 11.2,
11.4, 11.6, 11.8, 12, 12.2, 12.4, 12.6, 12.8, 13, 13.5, 14, or 14.5 mm. FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an example of a panel 100. The thickness of the panel 100 is defined between opposed major surfaces 102 and 103. The surfaces 102 and 103 of the panel 100 can be, e.g., circular (or substantially circular, allowing for some deviation from a perfect circle) or otherwise rounded, or polygonal in shape. Examples of suitable polygonal shapes include a triangular shape (e.g., equilateral triangle, right triangle, obtuse triangle, an isosceles triangle, or acute triangle), a quadrilateral shape (e.g., a square or rectangle), a pentagonal shape, a hexagonal shape, a heptagonal shape, an octagonal shape, or any higher-order polygonal shape.
[0064] The opposed major surfaces 102 and 103 of the panel 100 can have a flat profile or a curved profile. The curved profile can include a single curve or a series of undulations. The curved profile can give the panel 100 a generally convex or concave shape. Respective adjacent undulations can be evenly spaced with respect to each other or unevenly spaced with respect to each other. Additionally, either of the opposed major surfaces 102 and 103 can include one or more projections such as a rib. Where present, a rib can be helpful to increase the strength of the panel 100. Each surface can be substantially smooth or textured. The opposed major surfaces can have the same profile or each major surface can have a different profile.
[0065] The article and/or portions of the article including the thermoplastic resin can have a substantially uniform signal attenuation of, when a direction of a signal impinging on the article and/or portions of the article including the thermoplastic resin is normal to a surface thereof, and wherein a thickness of the article and/or portions of the article including the thermoplastic resin is substantially uniform across an area where the signal impinges thereon: from 1 dB to 0 dB, or from 2 dB to 0 dB, or 0 dB, or less than or equal to 2 and greater than or equal to 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, or 1.9 dB, for a signal of frequency of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz (e.g., 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 32 GHz to 39.5 GHz, or 24 GHz to 39.5 GHz) and optionally for a signal of frequency 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz (e.g., 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz, 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 28 GHz to 39 GHz, 36 GHz to 40 GHz, 76 GHz to 81 GHz, 6 GHz to 100 GHz, or a combination thereof). The article and/or portions of the article including the thermoplastic resin can have a substantially uniform signal attenuation of, when a direction of a
Figure imgf000018_0001
signal impinging on the article and/or portions of the article including the thermoplastic resin is normal to a surface of the article, and wherein a thickness of the article is substantially uniform across an area where the signal impinges thereon: from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 500 MHz to 6 GHz when a thickness is from 1 .5 mm to 4 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 24 GHz to 30 GHz when the thickness is from 2.5 mm to 4 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 36 GHz to 40 GHz when the thickness is from 1 .75 mm to 2.75 mm; from 3, 3.5, 2, 2.5, or 1 dB to 0 dB for a signal of frequency 24 GHz to 39.5 GHz when the thickness is from 1 mm to 15 mm and is within the ranges for the respective frequency and material shown in Tables 1-8; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 76 GHz to 81 GHz when the thickness is from 1.75 mm to 2.75 mm; or a combination thereof.
Thermoplastic resin.
[0066] The article includes one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough. The one or more portions independently include a thermoplastic resin that includes an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, a polycarbonate (PC) composition, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, a liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, or a polyamide composition.
[0067] The thermoplastic resin can be substantially free of materials (e.g., 0 wt%, or 0 wt% to 0.001 wt%) that cause the thermoplastic resin to increase attenuation of radio waves at one or more frequencies in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and optionally in the range of 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz, as compared to the same region of the thermoplastic resin without the material.
Materials that cause the thermoplastic resin (in regions including the material) to increase attenuation of radio waves at one or more frequencies in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz (e.g., 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 32 GHz to 39.5 GHz, or 24 GHz to 39.5 GHz) and optionally in the range of 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz (e.g., 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz, 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 28 GHz to 39 GHz, 36 GHz to 40 GHz, 76 GHz to 81 GHz, 6 GHz to 100 GHz, or a combination thereof) as compared to the same region of the thermoplastic resin without the material (such as that increase the attenuation by more than 0%, 0.001, 0.005, 0.01, 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, or by more than 20%), can be 0 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or 0 wt% to 0.001 wt% of
Figure imgf000019_0001
the thermoplastic resin, or any suitable wt% of the thermoplastic resin that does not cause an increase in attenuation of the radio waves to climb above the desired maximum percentage. The thermoplastic resin can be substantially free of metals or metal-containing compounds. Metals or metal-containing compounds can be 0 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or 0 wt% to 0.001 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
[0068] The thermoplastic resin can include the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 1A, IB, and/or 1C, herein. The thickness ranges in Tables 1-8 are the range from the minimum thickness to the maximum thicknesses listed on each row of the Tables. Unless otherwise specified, the end points of the frequency and thickness ranges in Table 1-8 are included within the range, e.g., such that 23.5 GHz is included in a range of 23.5 to 24.5. Unless otherwise species, a thickness that it outside the thickness range but rounds to a value that falls within the thickness range is included in the thickness range, e.g., a thickness of 3.6975 mm is included in the range of 3.7 mm to 3.8 mm.
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) can be 50 wt%to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or greater than or equal to 50 wt%, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.9, or 99.99 wt% of the thermoplastic resin. The thermoplastic resin including the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition can have a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.16 to 3.84, or 2.7 to 3.2, or less than or equal to 3.84 and greater than or equal to 2.16, 2.2, 2.25, 2.3, 2.35, 2.4, 2.45, 2.5, 2.55, 2.6, 2.65, 2.7, 2.75, 2.8, 2.85, 2.9, 2.95, 3, 3.05, 3.1, or 3.15. The thermoplastic resin including the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition can have a dissipation factor (Df) of 40 x 10'4 to 228 x 10'4, or 50 x 10'4 to 190 x 10'4, or less than or equal to 228 x 10'4 and greater than or equal to 40 x 10'4, 50 x 10'4, 60 x 10'4, 70 x 10'4, 80 x IO’4, 90 x IO’4, 100 x IO’4, HO x IO"4, 120 x IO"4, 130 x IO"4, 140 x IO"4, 150 x IO"4, 160 x IO’4, 170 x IO’4, 180 x IO’4, 190 x IO’4, 200 x IO’4, 210 x IO’4, or 220 x IO"4. Dielectric constant and dissipation factor can be measured, e.g., using Active Standard Test Method (ASTM) D2520.
Figure imgf000020_0001
[0069] The thermoplastic resin can include the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 2A, 2B, and/or 2C, herein. Polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) can be 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or greater than or equal to 50 wt%, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.9, or 99.99 wt% of the thermoplastic resin. The thermoplastic resin including the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition can have a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.32 to 4.80, or 2.9 to 4.0, or less than or equal to 4.8 and greater than or equal to 2.32, 2.35, 2.4, 2.45, 2.5, 2.55, 2.6, 2.65,
2.7, 2.75, 2.8, 2.85, 2.9, 2.95, 3, 3.05, 3.1, 3.15, 3.2, 3.25, 3.3, 3.35, 3.4, 3.45, 3.5, 3.55, 3.6, 3.65,
3.7, 3.75, 3.8, 3.85, 3.9, 3.95, 4, 4.05, 4.1, 4.15, 4.2, 4.25, 4.3, 4.35, 4.4, 4.45, 4.5, 4.55, 4.6, 4.65,
4.7, or 4.75. The thermoplastic resin including the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition can have a dissipation factor (Df) of 8 x 10'4 to 240 x 10'4, or 10 x 10'4 to 200 x 10'4, or less than or equal to 240 x 10'4 and greater than or equal to 8 x 10'4, 10 x 10'4, 20 x 10'4, 30 x IO’4, 40 x IO’4, 50 x IO’4, 60 x IO’4, 70 x IO’4, 80 x IO’4, 90 x IO’4, 100 x IO’4, 110 x IO’4, 120 x IO’4, 130 x IO’4, 140 x IO’4, 150 x IO’4, 160 x IO’4, 170 x IO’4, 180 x IO’4, 190 x IO’4, 200 x IO’4, 210 x IO’4, 220 x IO’4, or 230 x IO"4.
[0070] The thermoplastic resin can include the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 3A, 3B, and/or 3C, herein. Polycarbonate (PC) can be 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or greater than or equal to 50 wt%, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.9, or 99.99 wt% of the thermoplastic resin. The thermoplastic resin including the polycarbonate (PC) composition can have a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.29 to 3.43, or 2.8 to 3.0, or less than or equal to 3.43 and greater than or equal to 2.29, 2.3, 2.35, 2.4, 2.45, 2.5, 2.55, 2.6, 2.65, 2.7, 2.75, 2.8, 2.85, 2.9, 2.95, 3, 3.05, 3.1, 3.15, 3.2, 3.25, 3.3, 3.35, or 3.4. The thermoplastic resin including the polycarbonate (PC) composition can have a dissipation factor (Df) of 52 x 10"4 to 78 x 10"4, or 60
Figure imgf000021_0001
x 10'4 to 70 x 10"4, or less than or equal to 78 x 10'4 and greater than or equal to 52 x 10"4, 55 x IO’4, 60 x IO’4, 65 x IO’4, 70 x IO’4, or 75 x IO"4.
[0071] The thermoplastic resin can include the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 4A, 4B, and/or 4C, herein. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) can be 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or greater than or equal to 50 wt%, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.9, or 99.99 wt% of the thermoplastic resin. The thermoplastic resin including the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition can have a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.4 to 4.8, or 3.0 to 4.0, or less than or equal to 4.8 and greater than or equal to 2.4, 2.45, 2.5, 2.55, 2.6, 2.65, 2.7, 2.75, 2.8, 2.85, 2.9, 2.95, 3, 3.05, 3.1, 3.15, 3.2, 3.25, 3.3, 3.35, 3.4, 3.45, 3.5, 3.55, 3.6, 3.65, 3.7, 3.75, 3.8, 3.85, 3.9, 3.95, 4, 4.05, 4.1, 4.15, 4.2, 4.25, 4.3, 4.35, 4.4, 4.45, 4.5, 4.55, 4.6, 4.65, 4.7, or 4.75. The thermoplastic resin including the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition can have a dissipation factor (Df) of 48 x 10"4 to 240 x 10"4, or 60 x 10"4 to 200 x 10"4, or less than or equal to 240 x 10"4 and greater than or equal to 48 x IO’4, 50 x IO’4, 60 x IO’4, 70 x IO’4, 80 x IO’4, 90 x IO’4, 100 x IO’4, 110 x IO’4, 120 x IO’4, 130 x IO’4, 140 x IO’4, 150 x IO’4, 160 x IO’4, 170 x IO’4, 180 x IO’4, 190 x IO’4, 200 x IO’4, 210 x IO’4, 220 x IO’4, or 230 x IO’4.
[0072] The thermoplastic resin can include the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 5A, 5B, and/or 5C, herein. Polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) can be 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or greater than or equal to 50 wt%, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.9, or 99.99 wt% of the thermoplastic resin. The thermoplastic resin including the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition can have a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.4 to 3.96, or 3.0 to 3.3, or less than or equal to 3.96 and greater than or equal to 2.4, 2.45, 2.5, 2.55, 2.6, 2.65, 2.7, 2.75, 2.8, 2.85, 2.9, 2.95, 3, 3.05, 3.1, 3.15, 3.2, 3.25, 3.3, 3.35, 3.4, 3.45, 3.5, 3.55, 3.6, 3.65, 3.75, 3.8,
Figure imgf000022_0001
3.85, 3.9, or 3.95. The thermoplastic resin including the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition can have a dissipation factor (Df) of 3.2 x 10'4 to 36 x 10'4, or 4 x 10'4 to 30 x 10'4, or less than or equal to 36 x 10'4 and greater than or equal to 3.2 x 10'4, 5 x 10'4, 10 x 10'4, 15 x IO’4, 20 x IO’4, 25 x IO’4, 30 x IO’4, or 35 x IO"4.
[0073] The thermoplastic resin can include the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 6A, 6B, and/or 6C, herein. Liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) can be 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or greater than or equal to 50 wt%, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.9, or 99.99 wt% of the thermoplastic resin. The thermoplastic resin including the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition can have a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.64 to 3.96, or 3.2 to 3.4, or less than or equal to 3.96 and greater than or equal to 2.64, 2.65, 2.7, 2.75, 2.8, 2.85, 2.9, 2.95, 3, 3.05, 3.1, 3.15, 3.2, 3.25, 3.3, 3.35, 3.4, 3.45, 3.5, 3.55, 3.6, 3.65, 3.7, 3.75, 3.8, 3.85, 3.9, or 3.95. The thermoplastic resin including the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition can have a dissipation factor (Df) of 32 x 10"4 to 48 x 10"4, or 35 x 10"4 to 45 x 10"4, or less than or equal to 48 x 10"4 and greater than or equal to 32 x 10"4, 33 x 10"4, 34 x 10"4, 35 x 10"4, 36 x 10"4, 37 x IO’4, 38 x IO’4, 39 x IO’4, 40 x IO’4, 41 x IO’4, 42 x IO’4, 43 x IO’4, 44 x IO’4, 45 x IO’4, 46 x IO’4, or 47 x 10"4. The liquid crystalline polymer can be a polyester. The liquid crystalline polymer can be a polyester produced by co-polycondensation of p-hydroxybenzoic acid and terephthalic acid and/or 4, 4 -dihydroxydiphenyl with ethylene glycol as a coreactant, such as produced by and Solvay. The liquid crystalline polymer can be a copolyester of p- hydroxybenzoic acid and 6-hydroxy-2 -naphthoic acid, such as produced by Celanese and Kuraray which market these products under the trade names Vectra™ Zenite LCP®. Various grades of these resins can be used, such as unreinforced, glass and carbon fiber reinforced, PTFE modified (Vectra) as well as mineral, graphite and carbon black loaded. The liquid crystalline polymer can be (p-phenylene terephthalamide) also known as Spectra®, Twaron®, and Kevlar®. [0074] The thermoplastic resin can include the polyamide composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a
Figure imgf000023_0001
thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7A and/or Table 8A; Table 7B and/or Table 8B; and/or Table 7C and/or Table 8C. The polyamide can be 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, or greater than or equal to 50 wt%, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.9, or 99.99 wt% of the thermoplastic resin. Thermoplastic resin including the polyamide composition can have a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.53 to 3.79, or 3.16 to 3.2, or less than or equal to 3.79 and greater than or equal to 2.53, 2.55, 2.6, 2.65, 2.7, 2.75, 2.8, 2.85, 2.9, 2.95, 3, 3.05, 3.1, 3.15, 3.2, 3.25, 3.3, 3.35, 3.4, 3.45, 3.5, 3.55, 3.6, 3.65, 3.7, or 3.75. The thermoplastic resin including the polyamide composition can have a dissipation factor (Df) of 110.4 x 10'4 to 165.6 x 10'4, or 135 x 10'4 to 140 x 10'4, or less than or equal to 165.6 x 10'4 and greater than or equal to 110.4 x 10'4, 115 x 10'4, 120 x 10'4, 125 x 10'4, 130 x 10'4, 135 x 10'4, 140 x IO’4, 145 x IO’4, 150 x IO’4, 155 x IO’4, or 160 x IO"4.
[0075] The thermoplastic resin can include the polyamide composition, and the polyamide composition can include N66. For example, an amount of 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the polyamide composition can be N66, or 70 wt% to 100 wt%, or greater than or equal to 50 wt%, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.9, or 99.99 wt% of the thermoplastic resin. At least some of the radio waves can have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7A, 7B, and/or 7C herein. The thermoplastic resin including N66 can have a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.53 to 3.79, or 3.16 to 3.2, or less than or equal to 3.79 and greater than or equal to 2.53, 2.55, 2.6, 2.65, 2.7, 2.75, 2.8, 2.85, 2.9, 2.95, 3, 3.05, 3.1, 3.15, 3.2, 3.25, 3.3, 3.35, 3.4, 3.45, 3.5, 3.55, 3.6, 3.7, or 3.75. The thermoplastic resin including N66 can have a dissipation factor (Df) of 110.4 x 10"4 to 165.6 x 10"4, or 135 x 10"4 to 140 x 10"4, or less than or equal to 165.6 x 10"4 and greater than or equal to 110.4 x 10"4, 115 x 10"4, 120 x 10"4, 125 x 10"4, 130 x IO’4, 135 x IO’4, 140 x IO’4, 145 x IO’4, 150 x IO’4, 155 x IO’4, or 160 x IO’4.
[0076] The thermoplastic resin can include the polyamide composition, and the polyamide composition can include PA66/DI. For example, an amount of 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the polyamide composition can be the PA66/DI, or 55 wt% to 65 wt% of the polyamide composition
Figure imgf000024_0001
is the PA66/DI, or greater than or equal to 50 wt%, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 99.9, or 99.99 wt% of the thermoplastic resin. At least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 8A, 8B, and/or 8C herein.
[0077] The PA66/DI can have a weight ratio of PA66 to DI of 1 :99 to 99: 1, or 80:20 to 99: 1, or 90: 10 to 95:5, or less than 99:1 and greater than 1:99, 5:95, 10:90, 15:85, 20:80, 25:75, 30:70, 35:65, 40:60, 45:55, 50:50, 55:45, 60:40, 65:35, 70:30, 75:25, 80:20, 82: 18, 84: 16, 86: 14, 87: 13, 88: 12, 89: 11, 90: 10, 91 :9, 92:8, 93:7, 94:6, 95:5, 96:4, 97:3, or 98:2. The thermoplastic resin including the PA66/DI can have a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.62 to 3.9, or 3.27 to 3.3, or less than or equal to 3.9 and greater than or equal to 2.62, 2.65, 2.7, 2.75, 2.8, 2.85, 2.9, 2.95, 3, 3.05, 3.1, 3.15, 3.2, 3.25, 3.3, 3.35, 3.4, 3.45, 3.5, 3.55, 3.6, 3.65, 3.7, 3.75, 3.8, or 3.85. The thermoplastic resin including the PA66/DI can have a dissipation factor (Df) of 80 x 10'4 to 120 x 10'4, or 90 x 10'4 to 110 x 10'4, or less than or equal to 120 x 10'4 and greater than or equal to 80 x IO’4, 85 x IO"4, 90 x IO’4, 95 x IO"4, 100 x IO"4, 105 x IO’4, 110 x IO"4, 115 x IO"4, or 118 x IO’4.
[0078] The thermoplastic resin can include the polyamide composition. The polyamide composition can include a first polyamide that includes nylon-6; nylon-6, 6; a copolymer of nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6 including at least one repeating unit that is poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide), poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), or a copolymer of poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) and poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide); a mixture thereof; or a copolymer thereof. The polyamide composition can also include a second polyamide, an additive, or a mixture thereof.
[0079] The first polyamide and second polyamide can be independently selected. The first polyamide is present in the thermoplastic resin, and the second polyamide is optionally present. The decision on the specific polyamide or blend of polyamides (or the proportion thereof) that are used in the article can be a function of the respective polyamide’s tensile strength, toughness, or both. The first polyamide, and the second polyamide (if present), can together form about 30 wt% to about 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, about 50 wt% to about 95 wt%, less than,
Figure imgf000025_0001
equal to, or greater than, 30 wt%, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95 wt% ofthe thermoplastic resin, or 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin. In various aspects, the first polyamide, and the second polyamide (if present) can form the major portion of the composition (i.e., over 50 wt%) with additives forming the minor portion of the composition (i.e., less than 50 wt%). The polyamide can be PA6; PA4,6; PA6,6; PA6,9; PA6,10; PA6,12; PA10,12; PA12,12; PA6; PAI 1; PA12; PA66/6T; PA6I/6T; PADT/6T; PA66/6I/6T; or blends thereof, such as PA6/PA66. In some examples, the polyamide can include 61 repeating units (hexamethylene isophthalamide), 6T repeating units (polyhexamethylene terephthalamide) or a combination of 6I/6T repeating units. When a combination of 61 and 6T repeating units is present the 61 and 6T repeating units can be present in any suitable weight ratio, for example, weight ratios from about 96:4 to about 10:90 wt:wt of 6I:6T, about 80:20 to about 20:80 wt:wt, about 70:30 to about 30:70 wt:wt, or about 60:40 to about 40:60 wt:wt or 6I:6T. In some examples the polyamide can be PA66:DI with a molar weight ratio between PA66 and DI in a range of 85: 15 to 96:4 (wt:wt). [0080] As used herein, “PA66/DI” refers to a type of co-polyamide of polyhexamethyleneadipamide (nylon-6, 6 or N66 or PA66) and “DI” which is a combination of 2-methyl-pentamethylenediamine (or “MPMD”) and isophthalic acid. MPMD is commercially available as INVISTA Dytek® A amine and industrially known as “D” in the abbreviated formulation labeling. Isophthalic acid is commercially available and industrially known as “I” in the abbreviated formulation labeling. The formulation “PA66/DI” used in the examples of the present disclosure had an RV of 45, and a composition of 92:8 PA66:DI (wt/wt), with the “DI” part being about 40:60 D:I (wt/wt). Other non-limiting co-polyamides suitable for use in place of the PA66/DI used in the present examples include 66/D6, 66/DT, 6T/DT, 66/610, or 66/612. [0081] INVISTA Dytek® A amine is commercially produced by hydrogenating 2- methylglutaronitrile (or “MGN”). MGN is a branched G, dinitrile obtained as a side-product from butadiene double-hydrocyanation process of adiponitrile (or “ADN”) manufacture. The otherwise disposed MGN side-product can be recycled and reused in the production of INVISTA Dytek® A amine or the “D” portion. Therefore, suitable thermoplastic resins and articles made therefrom, and according to the present disclosure, include those having recycled amine content when the “D” portion is present, for example, in 66/DI, 66/D6, 66/DT, 6T/DT, and the like.
Figure imgf000026_0001
[0082] The polyamide can include nylon-6 (e.g., PA6) and nylon-6, 6 (e.g., PA6,6). The polyamide can be nylon-6, 6 and the thermoplastic resin can optionally be substantially free of all other polyamides (e.g., nylon -6, 6 can be the only polyamide used to form the thermoplastic resin).
[0083] In various aspects, the thermoplastic resin includes the first polyamide, the second polyamide, and the additive.
[0084] The first polyamide and/or second polyamide can include nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6. The first polyamide and/or second polyamide can also include a copolymer including nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6, wherein the copolymer includes at least one repeating unit that is poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide), poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), or a copolymer of poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) and poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), wherein a molar ratio of the poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) repeating unit to poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide) repeating unit is in a range of from about 60:40 to about 90: 10 (e.g., about 70:30 to about 75 :25). [0085] The first polyamide and/or second polyamide can be nylon-6, nylon-6, 6, or a combination thereof.
[0086] The thermoplastic resin can be substantially free of polymers that are not polyamides. For example, polymers that are not polyamides can be 0 wt%, or 0 wt% to 0.001 wt%, of the thermoplastic resin. In some aspects, the thermoplastic resin can include other polymers in addition to the first polyamide and optional second polyamide, such as polyethers such as polyphenylene ether (PPE) and polyolefins such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) resin, polybutylene terephthalate (TBT), propylene carbonate (PC), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), liquid crystalline polymer (LCP), and blends thereof.
[0087] In various aspects, the thermoplastic resin includes an additive. The additive can be or include a reinforcing fiber. The reinforcing fiber can be up to 50 wt% of the thermoplastic resin (e.g., 5 to 50 wt% reinforcing fibers, 10 to 50 wt%, 10 to 30 wt%, 12 to 50 wt%, or 14 to 40 wt% reinforcing fibers, or less than, equal to, or greater than about 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or 50 wt% reinforcing fibers). Reinforcing fibers can be helpful to increase the tensile strength and toughness of the article. The amount of reinforcing fiber added
Figure imgf000027_0001
can be enough to impart the desired tensile strength and toughness to the article while not compromising the low transmission loss characteristics of the article. The reinforcing fiber can be any suitable reinforcing fiber, such as glass fibers, silicon fibers, carbon fibers, polypropylene fibers, polyacrylonitrile fibers, basalt fibers, or mixtures thereof. The reinforcing fiber can include or be glass fiber. Glass fibers can be 10 to 50 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, 12 to 50 wt%, or 14 to 40 wt% of the thermoplastic resin. The reinforcing fiber can be incorporated into the thermoplastic resin, for example, in an extruder.
[0088] In various aspects, the thermoplastic resin consists of the first polyamide and a reinforcing fiber (e.g., glass fibers). In various aspects, the thermoplastic resin consists of the first polyamide, a reinforcing fiber (e.g., glass fibers), and one or more additives. In various aspects, the thermoplastic resin consists of the first polyamide, the second polyamide, and a reinforcing fiber (e.g., glass fibers). In various aspects, the thermoplastic resin consists of the first polyamide, the second polyamide, a reinforcing fiber (e.g., glass fibers), and one or more additives. In various aspects, the thermoplastic resin includes or consists of nylon-6, 6 and a reinforcing fiber.
[0089] The additive can be chosen from a reinforcing fiber, an ultraviolet resistance additive, a flame retardancy additive, an anti-static additive, an impact modifier, a colorant, a moisture repellant, or a combination thereof. The thermoplastic resin can include the additive and the one or more additives can be about 0.1 wt% to about 60 wt% of the thermoplastic resin, 0.1 wt% to about 50 wt%, 0.5 wt% to 55 wt%, 0.75 wt% to 50 wt%, or about 0.1 wt% to about 30 wt% of the thermoplastic resin. Examples of additives or packages of additives can include ultraviolet radiation resistance additives, flame retardancy additives, anti-static additives, impact modifiers, color additives (e.g., pigments or colorants), heat stabilizer additives, moisture repellency additives, or a combination thereof. In some examples, the thermoplastic resin can include a flame retardancy coating disposed on an external surface of the article.
[0090] Examples of suitable impact-modifying additives can include a maleated polyolefin. Examples of suitable maleated polyolefins include maleated polyolefins available under the trade designation AMPLIFY™ GR, which are commercially available from Dow Chemical Co., Midland MI, USA (examples include Amplify™ GR 202, Amplify™ GR 208, Amplify™ GR 216, and Amplify™ GR380), maleated polyolefins available under the trade designation
Figure imgf000028_0001
EXXELOR™ available from ExxonMobil, Irving TX, USA (examples include Exxelor™ VA 1803, Exxelor™ VA 1840, Exxelor™ VA1202, Exxelor™ PO 1020, and Exxelor™ PO 1015), maleated polyolefins available under the trade designation ENGAGE™ 8100 available from Dow Elastomer Midland MI, USA, and maleated polyolefins available under the trade designation BONDYRAM® 7103 available from Ram-On Industries LP.
[0091] In various aspects, the thermoplastic resin is substantially free of chemical reaction during formation of the article, such as during injection molding, thermoforming, compression molding, extruding, blow molding, casting, or any combination thereof, the thermoplastic resin to form the article. In other aspects, the thermoplastic resin can at least partially react during formation of the article, such as during injection molding, thermoforming, compression molding, extruding, blow molding, casting, or any combination thereof, the thermoplastic resin to form the article. For example, in some aspects, the thermoplastic resin includes a maleated polyolefin, and during formation of the article one or more of the polymers in the thermoplastic resin can form a reaction product with the maleated polyolefin. For example, with a polyamide composition, a polyamide -polyolefin copolymer can be formed from at least partial reaction of the condensation polyamide and the maleated polyefin.
[0092] Examples of suitable flame retardants include, for example, organophosphorus compounds such as organic phosphates (including trialkyl phosphates such as triethyl phosphate, tris(2-chloropropyl)phosphate, and triaryl phosphates such as triphenyl phosphate and diphenyl cresyl phosphate, resorcinol bis-diphenylphosphate, resorcinol diphosphate, and aryl phosphate), phosphites (such as trialkyl phosphites, triaryl phosphites, or mixed alkyl-aryl phosphites), phosphonates (including diethyl ethyl phosphonate, dimethyl methyl phosphonate), polyphosphates (including melamine polyphosphate, ammonium polyphosphates), polyphosphites, polyphosphonates, phosphinates (such as aluminum tris(diethyl phosphinate)); halogenated fire retardants such as chlorendic acid derivatives and chlorinated paraffins; organobromines, such as decabromodiphenyl ether (decaBDE), decabromodiphenyl ethane, polymeric brominated compounds such as brominated polystyrenes, brominated carbonate oligomers (BCOs), brominated epoxy oligomers (BEOs), tetrabromophthalic anyhydride, tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) and hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD); metal hydroxides such as magnesium hydroxide, aluminum hydroxide, cobalt hydroxide, and hydrates of the foregoing
Figure imgf000029_0001
metal hydroxide; and combinations thereof. The flame retardant can be a reactive type flame retardant (such as polyols which contain phosphorus groups, 10-(2,5-dihydroxyphenyl)-10H-9- oxa-10-phospha-phenanthrene-10-oxide, phosphorus-containing lactone-modified polyesters, ethylene glycol bis(diphenyl phosphate), neopentylglycol bis(diphenyl phosphate), amine- and hydroxyl-functionalized siloxane oligomers). These flame retardants can be used alone or in conjunction with other flame retardants.
[0093] Examples of suitable ultraviolet additives include ultraviolet absorbers, quenchers, hindered amine light stabilizers (HALS), or mixtures thereof. Ultraviolet absorbers are a type of light stabilizer that functions by competing with the chromophores to absorb ultraviolet radiation. Absorbers change harmful ultraviolet radiation into harmless infrared radiation or heat that is dissipated through the polymer matrix. Carbon black is an effective light absorber. Another ultraviolet absorber is rutile titanium oxide which is effective in the 300-400 nm range. Hydroxybenzophenone and hydroxyphenylbenzotriazole are also suitable ultraviolet stabilizers that have the advantage of being suitable for neutral or transparent applications.
Hydroxyphenylbenzotriazole is not very useful in thin parts below 100 microns. Other ultraviolet absorbers include oxanilides for polyamides, benzophenones for polyvinyl chloride and benzotriazoles and hydroxyphenyltriazines for polycarbonate. Ultraviolet absorbers have the benefit of low cost but may be useful only for short-term exposure. Quenchers return excited states of the chromophores to ground states by an energy transfer process. The energy transfer agent functions by quenching the excited state of a carbonyl group formed during the photooxidation of a polymeric material and through the decomposition of hydroperoxides. This prevents bond cleavage and ultimately the formation of free radicals. Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers are long-term thermal stabilizers that act by trapping free radicals formed during the photo-oxidation of a polymeric material and thus limiting the photodegradation process. The ability of Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers to scavenge radicals created by ultraviolet absorption is explained by the formation of nitroxy radicals through a process known as the Denisov Cycle. Although there are wide structural differences in the Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers, most share the 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine ring structure. Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers are proficient UV stabilizers for a wide range of polymeric materials. While Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers are also very effective in polyolefins, polyethylene, and polyurethane, they are not
Figure imgf000030_0001
useful in polyvinyl chloride. Non-limiting examples of optional additives include adhesion promoters, biocides, anti-fogging agents, anti-static agents, anti-oxidants, bonding, blowing and foaming agents, catalysts, dispersants, extenders, smoke suppressants, impact modifiers, initiators, lubricants, nucleants, pigments, colorants and dyes, optical brighteners, plasticizers, processing aids, release agents, silanes, titanates and zirconates, slip agents, anti-blocking agents, stabilizers, stearates, ultraviolet light absorbers, waxes, catalyst deactivators, and combinations thereof.
[0094] Non-limiting examples of optional additives include adhesion promoters, biocides, antifogging agents, anti-static agents, anti-oxidants, bonding, blowing and foaming agents, catalysts, dispersants, extenders, smoke suppressants, impact modifiers, initiators, lubricants, nucleants, pigments, colorants and dyes, optical brighteners, plasticizers, processing aids, release agents, silanes, titanates and zirconates, slip agents, anti-blocking agents, stabilizers, stearates, ultraviolet light absorbers, waxes, catalyst deactivators, and combinations thereof.
[0095] In various aspects, the use of certain additives can be minimized to minimize the impact on 5G signal attenuation. For example, the thermoplastic resin can include minimal, or 0 wt% to 10 wt%, 0 wt% to 5 wt%, less than 2 wt%, or less than 1 wt% of glass fibers, carbon black, or a combination thereof. Other additives have been found to have little to no effect on 5G signal attenuation, such as organic heat stabilizers (e.g., Irganox Bl 171 and 1098), phosphites, hindered amine light stabilizers, UV absorbers, flame-resistant additives such as Exolit OP 1400, and colorants such as Color MB PNM810292 and Color MB Pantone 14-4102.
[0096] In various aspects the thermoplastic resin includes the additive in an amount of about 0. 1 wt% to about 50 wt%, or 10 wt% to 30 wt% of the resin, and a transmittance loss of the thermoplastic resin, when a direction of a signal impinging on the thermoplastic resin is normal to a surface of the thermoplastic resin, and when a thickness of the thermoplastic resin is substantially uniform across an area where the signal impinges on the article, can be: less than 2 decibels (dB) for a signal having a frequency between 500 MHz and 40 GHz; less than 1 dB within at least one of a 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz frequency range, a 24 GHz to 30 GHz frequency range, and a 36 GHz to 40 GHz range; less than 0.5 dB within at least one of a 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz frequency range, a 24 GHz to 30 GHz frequency range, and a 36 GHz to 40 GHz range is less than 0.5 decibels (dB); or a combination thereof.
Figure imgf000031_0001
[0097] The relative weight gain of the article, and/or of the thermoplastic resin, due to moisture gain of the article and/or thermoplastic resin at 70 °C and 62% relative humidity, can be less than 4 wt%, or 0 wt% to 3.5 wt%, or 0 wt% to 1 wt%, or less than wt% and greater than or equal to 0 wt%, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, or 3.5 wt%.
[0098] In various aspects, the thermoplastic resin can have a density of greater than or equal to 0.7 g/cm3 to less than or equal to 5 g/cm3, or greater than or equal to 0.8 g/cm3 to less than or equal to 4 g/cm3, or greater than or equal to 0.85 to less than or greater than 3 g/cm3. The thermoplastic resin can have a density in a range of from about 0.7 g/cm3 to about 10 g/cm3, 0.7 g/cm3 to about 5 g/cm3, about 2 g/cm3 to about 5 g/cm3, about 0.75 g/cm3 to 4 g/cm3, 0.8 g/cm3 to about 4 g/cm3, about 0.8 g/cm3to about 3 g/cm3, 0.85 to about 3 g/cm3, or, equal to, or greater than about 0.7 g/cm3, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2.0, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4,
2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3.0, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 4.0, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6,
4.7, 4.8, 4.9, 5.0, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, 5.8, 5.9, 6.0, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5, 6.6, 6.7, 6.8,
6.9, 7.0, 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6, 7.7, 7.8, 7.9, 8.0, 8.1, 8.2, 8.3, 8.4, 8.5, 8.6, 8.7, 8.8, 8.9, 9.0,
9.1, 9.2, 9.3, 9.4, 9.5, 9.6, 9.7, 9.8, 9.9, or about 10.0 g/cm3. The ability of the thermoplastic resin to achieve density values greater than 1 g/cm3 can help to increase the tensile strength and toughness of the resulting article. This is in direct contrast, for example, to articles that include a foam material.
[0099] In various aspects, the thermoplastic resin can include reinforcing glass fiber in up to 50 wt% level of the total composition mass. The thermoplastic resin can have a tensile strength in a range of from about 40 MPa to about 300 MPa. The thermoplastic resin can have a density in a range of from 0.7 g/cm3 to 5 g/cm3. The thermoplastic resin can have an impact resistance in a range of from 40 kJ/m2 to 150 kJ/m2. The thermoplastic resin can have a signal attenuation of at least one of the following, when a direction of a signal impinging on the thermoplastic resin is normal to a surface of the thermoplastic resin, and wherein a thickness of the thermoplastic resin is substantially uniform across an area where the signal impinges on the thermoplastic resin: from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 500 MHz to 6 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 0.5 mm to 6 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 24 GHz to 30 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 0.5 mm to 4.5 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 36 GHz to 40 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 0.5 mm to 4 mm;
Figure imgf000032_0001
and rom 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 76 GHz to 81 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 0.5 mm to 3.5 mm.
[0100] The thermoplastic resin can have a substantially uniform signal attenuation of, when a direction of a signal impinging on the thermoplastic resin is normal to a surface of the thermoplastic resin, and wherein a thickness of the thickness of the article is substantially uniform across an area where the signal impinges thereon: from 1 dB to 0 dB, or from 2 dB to 0 dB, or 0 dB, or less than or equal to 2 and greater than or equal to 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, or 1.9 dB, for a signal of frequency 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and optionally a frequency of 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz (e.g., 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz, 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz, 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 28 GHz to 39 GHz, 36 GHz to 40 GHz, 76 GHz to 81 GHz, 6 GHz to 100 GHz, or a combination thereof). The thermoplastic resin can have a substantially uniform signal attenuation of, when a direction of a signal impinging on the thermoplastic resin is normal to a surface of the thermoplastic resin, and wherein a thickness of the thermoplastic resin is substantially uniform across an area where the signal impinges on the thermoplastic resin: from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 500 MHz to 6 GHz when a thickness of the thermoplastic resin is from 1.5 mm to 4 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 24 GHz to 30 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 2.5 mm to 4 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 36 GHz to 40 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 1.75 mm to 2.75 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 76 GHz to 81 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 1 .75 mm to 2.75 mm; or a combination thereof.
[0101] Up to 20 wt% of the thermoplastic resin can be one or more flame-retardancy additives (e.g., 0 wt% to 20 wt%, or 0 wt% to 10 wt%, or 0 wt% to 5 wt%, or 0 wt%, or less than 20 wt% and greater than or equal to 0 wt%, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, or 18 wt%). The flame- retardancy additive, along with any optional flame -retardant coating on the article, can be sufficient to provide the thermoplastic resin and/or article with a UL-94 test rating of V-0.
[0102] In various aspects, the thermoplastic resin includes PA66:DI (85: 15 to 96:4 wt:wt), glass fiber in a range of about 5 to about 20 wt%, a flame-retardant additive in a range of up to about 20 wt%, a UV additive in a range of up to about 3 wt%, a heat stabilizer additive in a range of up to about 2 wt%, and a colorant additive in a range of up to about 3 wt%.
Figure imgf000033_0001
[0103] Polyamide compositions, and suitable first and/or second polyamides, according to this disclosure, can have sufficient tensile modulus and tensile strength values to allow an article formed from the thermoplastic resin to withstand environmental stresses. As an example, suitable polyamides include those having a tensile modulus in a range from 30 MPa to 50,000 MPa, 1,000 MPa to 50,000 MPa, 1,000 MPa to 40,000 MPa, or, 30 MPa to 30,000 MPa. As an example, suitable polyamides include those having tensile strength from 30 MPa to 400 MPa, 35 MPa to 300 MPa, 40 MPa to 280 MPa, or less than, equal to, or greater than about 30, 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, or 400 MPa.
[0104] The thermoplastic resin can have any suitable tensile strength. For example, the thermoplastic resin can have a tensile strength of 30 MPa to 50,000 MPa, 1,000 MPa to 50,000 MPa, 1,000 MPa to 40,000 MPa, or, 1,000 MPa to 30,000 MPa. As an example, suitable thermoplastic resins include those having tensile strength from 30 MPa to 400 MPa, 35 MPa to 300 MPa, 40 MPa to 280 MPa, or less than, equal to, or greater than about 30, 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, or 400 MPa.
[0105] A thermoplastic resin including or consisting of a polyamide and a glass fiber additive can have any suitable tensile strength. In some examples, a PA66 with 20 wt% GF can have a tensile strength in a range of from about 100 MPa to about 150 MPa at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 70 MPa to about 100 MPa at a temperature of about 23 °C. In some examples, a PA66 with 30 wt% glass fiber can have a tensile strength in a range of from about 140 MPa to about 190 MPa at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 100 MPa to about 130 MPa at a temperature of about 23 °C. In some examples, a PA66 with 20 wt% glass fiber can have a tensile strength in a range of from about 100 MPa to about 150 MPa at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 70 MPa to about 100 MPa at a temperature of about 23 °C. In some examples, a PA66 with polyphenylene ether can have a tensile strength in a range of from about 45 MPa to about 65 MPa at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 40 MPa to about 55 MPa at a temperature of about 23 °C. In some examples, a PA66 with polyphenylene ether and 20 wt% glass fiber can have a tensile strength in a range of from about 100 MPa to about 130 MPa at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 80 MPa to about 100 MPa at a temperature of about 23 °C. [0106] Additionally, suitable thermoplastic resins further include those within the tensile strength or tensile modulus ranges above that exhibit toughness in the un-notched Charpy impact
Figure imgf000034_0001
test at 23°C from 30 KJ/m2 to non-break, for example 40 KJ/m2 to 200 KJ/m2, 40 KJ/m2to 150 KJ/m2, equal to, or greater than 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, or 200 KJ/m2. In some examples, a PA66 with 20 wt% glass fiber can have an unnotched Charpy impact value in a range of from about 98 KJ/m2to about 110 KJ/m2 at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 53 KJ/m2 to about 72 KJ/m2 at a temperature of about 23 °C. In some examples, a PA66 with 30 wt% glass fiber can have an un-notched Charpy impact value in a range of from about 110 KJ/m2 to about 120 KJ/m2 at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 89 KJ/m2 to about 100 KJ/m2 at a temperature of about 23 °C. In some examples, a PA66 with polyphenylene ether can have an un-notched Charpy impact value in a range of from about 240 KJ/m2 to about 340 KJ/m2 at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 310 KJ/m2 to about 370 KJ/m2 at a temperature of about 23 °C. In some examples, a PA66 with polyphenylene ether and 20 wt% glass fiber can have an un-notched Charpy impact value in a range of from about 73 KJ/m2 to about 76 KJ/m2 at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 79 KJ/m2 to about 82 KJ/m2 at a temperature of about 23 °C. In some examples, a PA66 with 20 wt% glass fiber can have a notched Charpy impact value in a range of from about 10 KJ/m2 to about 22 KJ/m2 at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 7 KJ/m2 to about 8.5 KJ/m2 at a temperature of about 23 °C. In some examples, a PA66 with 30 wt% glass fiber can have a notched Charpy impact value in a range of from about 15 KJ/m2 to about 27 KJ/m2 at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 11 KJ/m2 to about 14 KJ/m2 at a temperature of about 23 °C. In some examples, a PA66 with polyphenylene ether can have a notched Charpy impact value in a range of from about 24 KJ/m2 to about 35 KJ/m2 at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 20 KJ/m2 to about 23 KJ/m2 at a temperature of about 23 °C. In some examples, a PA66 with polyphenylene ether and 20 wt% glass fiber can have a notched Charpy impact value in a range of from about 11 KJ/m2 to about 14 KJ/m2 at a temperature of 50 °C and from about 11 KJ/m2 to about 12 KJ/m2 at a temperature of about 23 °C.
Figure imgf000035_0001
System.
[0107] Various aspects of the present invention provide a system that includes article of the present invention for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz as well as an antenna for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves. The article can fully or partially enclose the antenna.
Method of making the article.
[0108] Various aspects of the present invention provide a method of making the article of the present invention for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz. The method of making the article can include injection molding, thermoforming, compression molding, extruding, blow molding, casting, or any combination thereof, the thermoplastic resin to form the article or one or more components thereof. The method can further include assembling the one or more components to form the article.
[0109] The polymer composition can be provided in the form of pellets. In articles including the polyamide composition, the first polyamide and optional second polyamide can be provided as individual pellets, or can be combined in a single pellet. In some examples, a diameter or length of an individual pellet can independently be in a range of from about 1 mm to about 5 mm, about 2 mm to about 4 mm. The individual pellets can include the polymers composition along with any of the additives described herein. Alternatively, in some examples, the pellets can include the polymer composition, and these pellets can then be heated so that they soften and any additives, reinforcing fibers, or both can be added to the softened pellets and mixed. Following mixing, the mixture of the polymers, additives, reinforcing fibers, or a sub-combination thereof can be subjected to an injection molding process, extrusion process, or additive manufacturing process.
[0110] The panel 100 shown in FIG. 19 can be formed by any of a number of suitable processes including injection molding, thermoforming, and compression molding. The disclosed panel 100 can optionally be formed in a single molding operation or in a multi-shot process in which surrounding material is the same or different from that of the disclosed panel 100. In general, a multi-shot process is performed on one machine that is programmed to perform two injections in
Figure imgf000036_0001
one cycle. In the first cycle, a nozzle injects plastic into a mold. The mold is then automatically rotated, and a different type of plastic is injected into the mold from a second nozzle. Double injection molding optimizes co-polymerization of hard and soft materials to create a powerful molecular bond. The result is a single part with production and feature advantages. It can be used for a variety of product designs across all industries. It also allows for molding using clear plastics, colored graphics and stylish finishes, which improves product functionality and marketplace value.
[0111] In applications where a panel 100 cannot be formed through injection molding, the panel 100 may be formed through extrusion. In some examples of extrusion, a die placed at the end of the extruder can have a shape that is the negative impression of the intended shape of the panel 100. In still some further examples, any part of the panel 100 can be formed through an additive manufacturing process.
Method of using the article.
[0112] The present invention provides a method of using the article of the present invention for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz. The method includes transmitting and/or receiving radio waves having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz through the article, such as through one or more of the one or more portions of the article that includes the thermoplastic resin.
Thickness ranges of thermoplastic resins including various polymers and respective radio wave frequencies.
[0113] Table 1 A. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including ABS.
Figure imgf000037_0001
Figure imgf000038_0001
Figure imgf000039_0002
[0114] Table IB. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including ABS.
Figure imgf000039_0003
Figure imgf000039_0001
Figure imgf000040_0002
[0115] Table 1C. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including ABS.
Figure imgf000040_0003
Figure imgf000040_0001
Figure imgf000041_0001
Figure imgf000042_0002
[0116] Table 2A. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PBT.
Figure imgf000042_0003
Figure imgf000042_0001
Figure imgf000043_0002
[0117] Table 2B. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PBT.
Figure imgf000043_0003
Figure imgf000043_0001
Figure imgf000044_0001
Figure imgf000045_0002
[0118] Table 2C. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PBT.
Figure imgf000045_0003
Figure imgf000045_0001
Figure imgf000046_0002
[0119] Table 3A. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PC.
Figure imgf000046_0001
Figure imgf000047_0002
Figure imgf000047_0001
Figure imgf000048_0002
[0120] Table 3B. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PC.
Figure imgf000048_0003
Figure imgf000048_0001
Figure imgf000049_0002
[0121] Table 3C. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PC.
Figure imgf000049_0003
Figure imgf000049_0001
Figure imgf000050_0001
[0122] Table 4A. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PVC.
Figure imgf000051_0001
Figure imgf000052_0002
[0123] Table 4B. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PVC.
Figure imgf000052_0003
Figure imgf000052_0001
Figure imgf000053_0001
Figure imgf000054_0002
[0124] Table 4C. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PVC.
Figure imgf000054_0003
Figure imgf000054_0001
Figure imgf000055_0002
[0125] Table 5A. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PPS.
Figure imgf000055_0003
Figure imgf000055_0001
Figure imgf000056_0001
Figure imgf000057_0002
[0126] Table 5B. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PPS.
Figure imgf000057_0003
Figure imgf000057_0001
Figure imgf000058_0002
[0127] Table 5C. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including PPS.
Figure imgf000058_0003
Figure imgf000058_0001
Figure imgf000059_0001
Figure imgf000060_0002
[0128] Table 6A. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including LCP.
Figure imgf000060_0003
Figure imgf000060_0001
Figure imgf000061_0002
[0129] Table 6B. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including LCP.
Figure imgf000061_0003
Figure imgf000061_0001
Figure imgf000062_0001
Figure imgf000063_0002
[0130] Table 6C. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including LCP.
Figure imgf000063_0003
Figure imgf000063_0001
Figure imgf000064_0002
[0131] Table 7A. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including a polyamide composition.
Figure imgf000064_0003
Figure imgf000064_0001
Figure imgf000065_0001
Figure imgf000066_0002
[0132] Table 7B. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including a polyamide composition.
Figure imgf000066_0003
Figure imgf000066_0001
Figure imgf000067_0002
[0133] Table 7C. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including a polyamide composition.
Figure imgf000067_0003
Figure imgf000067_0001
Figure imgf000068_0001
Figure imgf000069_0001
[0134] Table 8A. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including a polyamide composition.
Figure imgf000069_0003
Figure imgf000069_0002
Figure imgf000070_0002
[0135] Table 8B. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including a polyamide composition.
Figure imgf000070_0003
Figure imgf000070_0001
Figure imgf000071_0001
[0136] Table 8C. Thickness ranges and radio wave frequency ranges for thermoplastic resin including a polyamide composition.
Figure imgf000072_0001
Figure imgf000073_0002
EXAMPLES
[0137] Various aspects of the present invention can be better understood by reference to the following Examples, which are offered by way of illustration. The present invention is not limited to the Examples given herein.
PART I.
[0138] Certain combinations of composition, surface profde and structural thickness can surprisingly yield molded articles exhibiting useful dielectric constants and high transparency to millimeter waves.
General Procedure for Producing Compounded Material.
[0139] A twin-screw extruder having a minimum 18-mm diameter co-rotating screw with a 40- 56 L/D (e.g., L/D ratio of 40-56) is used for compounding. The unit has one main feeder and a minimum of three side feeders. A feed rate of at least 1 kg/hr is used. The twin-screw co- rotating/tuming at the speed of at least 1000 RPM is sufficient to provide the high shear for compounding function. The total compounder throughput is at least 15 kg/hr.
Figure imgf000073_0001
[0140] The compounding unit has at least three vent ports, one atmospheric and two vacuum ports. The rotating twin screws impart the forward momentum to the heated mass inside the barrel, and the barrel is heated along its length in zones at temperatures in a range of 250-310 °C. [0141] The processing section of the twin-screw compounder is set up to suit various process needs and to allow for a wide variety of processes, including compounding processes. Polymer, fillers, and additives, as desired, are continuously fed into the first barrel section of the twin screw using a metering feeder. The products are conveyed along the screw and are melted and mixed by kneading elements in the plastification section of the barrel. The polymer then travels along to a side port where, if desired, fillers or additives are mixed in, and is supplied to degassing zones and from there to a pressure build zone where it then exits the die via an at least 3 -mm hole as a lace. The cast lace is fed into a water bath to cool and to enable it to be cut into chips via a pelletizer. The unit is designed to be able to withstand at least 70 bar die pressure. The die with a minimum of four holes, each at least 3 mm diameter for pelletizing, can be included.
[0142] A compounded pellet of polyamide having a diameter of 3 mm and a length of 3-5 mm is produced using the above equipment. The moisture content of the pelletized polyamide material is less than about 0.2 wt%.
General Procedure for Producing Molded Panels.
[0143] An injection molding machine (Demag Sumitomo Sytec 100/200) includs a feed throat, and a single rotating screw in a temperature zoned barrel, where zones can range from 40 to 320 °C to melt a nylon-6, 6 based resin, and where the screw moves within the barrel to inject a volume of molten resin into a mold, where the mold is at 60-90 °C for a nylon-6, 6 based resin. The mold yields solid parts or specimens, which includes those suitable for testing, such as flammability bars of desired dimensions.
[0144] In these examples, flammability ratings are established by performing a test functionally equivalent to the UL 94 Standard.
Materials Used in Part I of Examples.
Figure imgf000074_0001
[0145] Feedstock PA6 neat polyamide, as used herein, is commercially available from BASF as Ultramid® polyamide, DSM Engineering Materials as Akulon® polyamide or similar.
[0146] Feedstock PA66 neat polyamide, as used herein, is a commercially available INVISTA nylon-66 (or N66) grade under the Tradename INVISTA™ U4800 polyamide resin, available from INVISTA, Wichita KS. The PA66 has standard RV range of 42-50. The feedstock PA66 has high RV ranging from 80 to 240.
[0147] As used herein, “6I/6T” is commercially available from EMS-Chemie (North America) Inc. of Sumter, South Carolina, USA, as EMS Grivory G21.
[0148] As used herein, the term “PA66-6I/6T” or “PA66+6E6T” refers to a blended material of PA66 and 6E6T. For example, “PA66+6I/6T (70+30)” is a 70:30 (wt:wt) nylon:6I/6T blended material of PA66 and 6I/T.
[0149] As used herein, “PA66-GF30” is a glass fiber reinforced nylon-66. “GF30” indicates 30 wt% glass fiber content.
[0150] As used herein, “PA66-GF20” is a glass fiber reinforced nylon-66. “GF20” indicates 20 wt% glass fiber content.
[0151] As used herein, “PA66-PPE” is a commercially available thermoplastic polymer blend of PA66 and polyphenylene ether (abbreviated as PPE). Such material is available from Asahi Kasei, SABIC, Mitsubishi and LG Chem, for example, LG Chemical LUMILOY® TX5002 High Flow PPE/PA Alloy, Mitsubishi Lemalloy® C61HL PPE-PA66 Alloy, or similar. The suitable PA66-PPE blends may have mass ratio range from 90: 10 to 10:90, for example, 80:20, 70:30, 60:40, 50:50, 40:60, 30:70, 20:80, and such.
[0152] As used herein, “PA66-PPE-GF20” is a glass fiber reinforced nylon-66-PPE. “GF20” indicates 20 wt% glass fiber content.
[0153] As used herein, “PPE” is commercially available material, such as that available from Asahi Kasei, SABIC, Mitsubishi and LG Chem.
[0154] As used herein, “PA66-IM-GF30” is a nylon-66 containing impact modified polyolefin with 30 wt% GF.
[0155] Neat polycarbonate (PC) is a commercially available material, such as that available from Lotte Chemical.
Figure imgf000075_0001
[0156] As used herein, “PA66/DI” is known as a copolymer of hexamethylene adipamide and 2- methyl-l,5-pentamethylene-isophthalamide. PA66/DI used in the examples has a relative viscosity (RV) of 45 and contains about 92:8 (wt:wt) PA66:DI. The “DI” part in PA66/DI is about 50:50 (molar) or about 40:60 (wt:wt) D:I.
Material Specimens Tested in Part I.
[0157] Seven resin specimens are tested in Part I of these Examples. The seven resins are listed below in Table 9. The starting resin pellet moisture is measured by AquaTrac instrument prior to molding plaques.
[0158] TABLE 9. Resins.
Figure imgf000076_0002
Test Methods Used in the Examples.
[0159] ISO 1110 Accelerated conditioning of polyamide specimens.
[0160] ASTM D2520 Standard Test Methods for Complex Permittivity (Dielectric Constant) of Solid Electrical Insulating Materials at Microwave Frequencies and Temperatures to 1650 Degrees C.” (Method B, Resonant Cavity Perturbation Technique).
[0161] ASTM D789 Relative viscosity (RV) measurement method.
Figure imgf000076_0001
[0162] UL 94 Std. Flammability (V-O/V-l/V-2) rating determination method.
Moisture Gain Determination.
[0163] Each resin specimen is molded as 100 x 134 x 3 mm plaques and as 100 x 155 x 1.5 mm plaques. Plaques are stored in foil bags in dry-as-molded state, so moisture in DAM plaques is expected to be the same as in pellets fed to the molding machine.
[0164] Starting from a dry as molded (DAM) state, the plaques are conditioned using an ISO 1110 procedure.
[0165] The ISO 1110 standard provides a method for accelerated conditioning of polyamide specimens, where specimens are held in a humidity chamber having an atmosphere of 70 °C with 62% relative humidity (RH). Specimens are allowed to gain moisture until they reach equilibrium weight, which is determined by measuring the mass of specimens every day, the endpoint of conditioning being indicated by specimens reaching a constant mass. This procedure represents very similar moisture gain to that which would be gained if specimens are held in 23 °C 50% RH atmosphere until reaching equilibrium moisture, which can take over 9 months depending on specimen thickness.
[0166] For each of the 7 test specimens, both 1.5 mm and 3 mm thickness plaques are conditioned in the humidity chambers according to the ISO 1110 procedure. For each test specimen and plaque thickness, three replicates are weighed to track moisture gain. In all cases, the three replicates give excellent agreement in weight gain.
[0167] FIG. 1 (for 1.5 mm thick plaques) and FIG. 2 (for 3.0 mm thick plaques) show average weight gain (in wt% compared to initial DAM weight) for each tested specimen. Table 10 below lists the final equilibrium moisture levels for the seven tested specimens.
Figure imgf000077_0001
[0168] TABLE 10. Equilibrium Moisture Levels for Tested Specimens.
Figure imgf000078_0002
Dielectric Constant and Dissipation Factor Measurements.
[0169] Approximately 1/8” (3.175 mm) thick plaques of each material are used for dielectric constant and dissipation factor measurements using the guidelines of ASTM D2520, Method B. All plaques are approximately 3.9” x 5.3” x 0.12”.
[0170] Two replicates of each material (see Table 9) are prepared for testing at each required test frequency as noted below. Test frequencies included 3 GHz, 5 GHz, 10 GHz, 20 GHz, 30 GHz and 40 GHz.
[0171] Table 11 lists test samples sizes for each test frequency. All test samples are prepared so that test sample length corresponded to the plaque flow direction. Two plaques of each material (A- N in Table 9) are used to prepare the test samples. One replicate for each frequency is fabricated from each plaque.
[0172] TABLE 11. Test Sample Sizes.
Figure imgf000078_0003
Figure imgf000078_0001
[0173] All testing is conducted at laboratory ambient conditions. Test conditions are run at 24 °C and 46% RH. All samples are handled to limit exposure to laboratory ambient conditions during both sample preparation and testing.
Dielectric Constant Measurements.
[0174] Testing is performed using the guidelines set forth in ASTM D2520, “Standard Test Methods for Complex Permittivity (Dielectric Constant) of Solid Electrical Insulating Materials at Microwave Frequencies and Temperatures to 1650 Degrees C” Method B, Resonant Cavity Perturbation Technique, is used. The electric field inside the cavities is parallel to the length of the test samples. The measured dielectric constant data for all tested specimens at the six frequencies is listed in Table 12 below. Dielectric constant precision is about ±1% for the 3 GHz-20 GHz frequency range and about ±2% for the 30 GHz -40 GHz range. Results are shown in Table 12.
Figure imgf000079_0001
[0175] TABLE 12. Dielectric Constant Measurements.
Figure imgf000080_0002
Dissipation Factor Measurements.
[0176] Testing is performed using the guidelines set forth in ASTM D2520, “Standard Test Methods for Complex Permittivity (Dielectric Constant) of Solid Electrical Insulating Materials at Microwave Frequencies and Temperatures to 1650 Degrees C” Method B, Resonant Cavity Perturbation Technique, is used. The electric field inside the cavities is parallel to the length of the test samples. Dissipation factor resolution is about ±5% for 3 the GHz-20 GHz frequency range and ±10% for the 30 GHz-40 GHz range. Results are shown in Table 13.
Figure imgf000080_0001
[0177] TABLE 13. Dissipation Factor Measurements.
Figure imgf000081_0002
Waveform Modeling:
[0178] The above dielectric constant and dissipation factor measurement data (Tables 12 and 13) for the seven tested specimens, DAM and conditioned, are used for the waveform modeling.
Various commercial code packages are available for such modeling, for example, from Altair Feko™, comprehensive computational electromagnetics (CEM) code.
[0179] Using the waveform modeling, the transmission loss (in decibels, dB) as well as reflection (dB) at each of the tested frequencies (in GHz) for each of the seven test specimens (with respective thickness varied) is determined.
Figure imgf000081_0001
Test Methods.
[0180] Mechanical testing includes testing for the following parameters. Tensile modulus is tested using ISO 527. Tensile strength is tested using ISO 527. Tensile elongation (break) is tested using ISO 527. Flexural modulus is tested using ISO 178. Flexural strength is tested using ISO 178. Notched Charpy impact is tested using ISO 179. Unnotched Charpy impact is tested using ISO 179. Fire retardancy (FR) testing can include testing for the following parameters. Material FR testing is conducted using UL 94. Flame testing is conducted using ASTM E84-3. Weatherability testing includes testing for the following parameters. Lifecycle UV testing (lOyr, 15yr and 20yr) is conducted using AATCC Method 16 Option 3. Color fade is determined by measuring change in color at specified points. Scratch testing is conducted using ASTM 50452. Paint adhesion testing is conducted for the following parameters. Cross-hatch testing is conducted using ISO 2409. Humidity and cross hatch tests are conducted together using ISO 6270-2 and ISO 554. A cross-hatch test after UV exposure is conducted according to ISO 2409.
Example 1. Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 3 GHz Frequency.
[0181] Table 14 illustrates data from Example 1.
Figure imgf000082_0001
[0182] TABLE 14.
Figure imgf000083_0002
Example 2, Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 28 GHz Frequency. [0183] Tables 15 and 16 illustrate data from Example 2.
Figure imgf000083_0001
[0184] TABLE 15.
Figure imgf000084_0002
Figure imgf000084_0001
[0185] TABLE 16.
Figure imgf000085_0002
Example 3, Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 39 GHz Frequency. [0186] Tables 17 and 18 illustrate data from Example 3.
Figure imgf000085_0001
[0187] TABLE 17.
Figure imgf000086_0002
Figure imgf000086_0001
[0188] TABLE 18.
Figure imgf000087_0002
[0189] Examples 4-17 include figures showing test results for 1 mm thick panels that include various materials (e.g., polyamides, reinforced polyamides, and polycarbonates) for their transmission loss and reflection under wet and dry conditions. The results show that panels formed from polyamide materials, including reinforced polyamide materials, show superior transmission loss and reflection properties compared to panels formed from other materials such as polycarbonate. Surprisingly, given the hydrophilic nature of polyamides, those panels including a polyamide performed well when wet.
Example 4, PA66 Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 28 GHz Frequency.
[0190] FIG. 3 A (dry) and FIG. 3B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
Example 5, PA66 Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 39 GHz Frequency.
Figure imgf000087_0001
[0191] FIG. 4A (dry) and FIG. 4B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (in terms of the scattering parameter S21, which is the ratio of the transmitted power to the incident power, provided in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
Example 6, PA66-GF Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 28 GHz Frequency.
[0192] FIG. 5 A (dry) and FIG. 5B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
Example 7, PA66-GF Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 39 GHz Frequency.
[0193] FIG. 6A (dry) and FIG. 6B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
Example 8, PA66-PPE Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 28 GHz Frequency.
[0194] FIG. 7A (dry) and FIG. 7B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
Example 9, PA66-PPE Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 39 GHz Frequency.
[0195] FIG. 8 A (dry) and FIG. 8B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
Example 10. PA66-IM-GF30 Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 28 GHz Frequency.
[0196] FIG. 9A (dry) and FIG. 9B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
Example 11. PA66-IM-GF30 Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 39 GHz Frequency.
[0197] FIG. 10A (dry) and FIG. 10B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
Example 12, PC Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 28 GHz Frequency. [0198] FIG. 11A (dry) and FIG. 1 IB (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
Example 13, PC Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 39 GHz Frequency.
[0199] FIG. 12A (dry) and FIG. 12B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
Example 14, PA66+6I/6T (70/30) Blend Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 28 GHz Frequency. [0200] FIG. 13A (dry) and FIG. 13B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
Example 15, PA66+6I/6T (70/30) Blend Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 39 GHz Frequency. [0201] FIG. 14A (dry) and FIG. 14B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
Example 16, PA6 Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 28 GHz Frequency.
[0202] FIG. 15A (dry) and FIG. 15B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
Example 17, PA6 Specimens (Dry and Wet) at 39 GHz Frequency.
[0203] FIG. 16A (dry) and FIG. 16B (wet) are graphical data of the transmission loss (S21 in dB on the Y-axis) and reflection (in dB) as a function of specimen thickness (mm on the X-axis).
Example 18, RF Testing - Insertion Loss versus Distance at 24-40 GHz Wave Frequency. [0204] Several materials, as described in Table 9, are tested by molding the materials into 1 ft x 1 ft flat plaques. These plaques are precision-machined to obtain about 2.18 mm structural thickness. A 0.25 mm thick basecoat of flame retardant (FR) material and 0. 11 mm thick topcoat of decorative color are applied to each plaque using roller applicators. The coated plaque surfaces are somewhat rough due to the roller coat application. The total specimen structural thickness is 2.54 mm.
Figure imgf000089_0001
[0205] Using a horn antenna setup, the insertion loss in (S21 in dB) is measured in the far field in the 24-40 GHz wave frequency spectrum as a function of the plaque surface distance from the antenna.
[0206] FIGs. 17A and 17B represent a cyclone plot showing insertion loss (dB) data measured for one of the tested plaques. FIG. 17A is a cyclone plot of the insertion loss in dB (Y-axis) measured over a 0-100 mm distance span in 0.5 mm increments over the 24-40 GHz wave frequency range (X-axis); each line shown is a 0.5 mm distance increment. FIG. 17B plots the insertion loss variation (Y-axis) of the tested plaque measured over a 0-100 mm distance variation and for the 24-40 GHz frequency range.
Example 19, Array Antenna Testing at 28 GHz Wave Frequency.
[0207] The plaque specimens, described in Example 18 above, are next tested using a phased array antenna tuned to 28 GHz.
[0208] Changes in radiation as well as reflection patterns, for example, main lobe, side lobes, reflections, boresight error, and relative insertion losses (in dB), are measured at 28 GHz frequency and at two radio antenna distances, namely, i) close to each other, see “0 mm Distance” plots in FIG. 18A, and ii) few wavelengths apart, see “25 mm Distance” plots in FIG. 18B. Incident ray measurements for main beam bore sight loss, error, 3dB beam width change, 1st sidelobe gain increase, and backlobe/reflected lobes gain increase are performed at three azimuths, 0°, 30° and 60°. The term “azimuth” is an angular measurement in a spherical coordinate system. In FIGs. 18A and 18B, the solid line represents the baseline performance for the two antenna system without the in-between plaque specimen, and the dashed line represents the plaque performance tested with the two-antenna system at 0 mm and 25 mm distance spacing.
[0209] In FIG. 18 A for “0 mm Distance”, the main lobe at each of the azimuths show little loss and the side lobes are improved.
Example 20, Enclosure for Telecommunication Equipment in the 500 MHz-6 GHz Frequency Range.
Figure imgf000090_0001
[0210] A three-dimensional enclosure is prepared from panels made of glass-fiber-reinforced thermoplastic polymer. The panel structural thickness is about 2 mm excluding the paint coatings. The enclosure houses telecommunication equipment, namely, radio, antenna, power supply. In the radio signal frequency range of between 500 MHz to 6 GHz, a signal attenuation between IdB and 0 dB is observed.
Example 21 , Enclosure for Telecommunication Equipment in the 24 GHz-30 GHz Frequency Range.
[0211] A three-dimensional enclosure is prepared from panels made of glass-fiber-reinforced thermoplastic polymer. The panel structural thickness is about 3 mm, excluding the paint coatings. The enclosure houses telecommunication equipment, such as capacitors, actuators, power cable terminations, miniatured antenna, power transformer/power conditioner, optical fiber, radios, diplexer/multiplexer, coaxial cable, and their combinations, and may serve, e.g., as antenna concealment, cell phone casings, housing for an electronic component, fiber termination box, coaxial cable sheath, and the like. In the radio signal frequency range of between 24 GHz and 30 GHz, a signal attenuation between 1 dB and 0 dB is observed. The enclosures can optionally include a cell phone case or protective cover, or a backpack for carrying articles including electronic equipment.
Example 22, Enclosure for Telecommunication Equipment in the 36 GHz-40 GHz Frequency Range.
[0212] A three-dimensional enclosure is prepared from panels made of glass-fiber-reinforced thermoplastic polymer. The panel structural thickness is about 2 mm, excluding the paint coatings. The enclosure houses telecommunication equipment, such as capacitors, actuators, power cable terminations, miniatured antenna, power transformer/power conditioner, optical fiber, radios, diplexer/multiplexer, coaxial cable, and their combinations, and may serve as, e.g., antenna concealment, cell phone casings, housing for electronic components, fiber termination box, coaxial fiber sheath, and the like. In the radio signal frequency range of between 36 GHz and 40 GHz, a signal attenuation between 1 dB and 0 dB is observed.
Figure imgf000091_0001
Comparative Example 1. Panel having a Window for Electromagnetic Signal Transmission. [0213] FIG. 20 illustrates schematic representations of panels 3A-3C. Panels 3A-3C include respective openings 5A-5C. Panels 3A-3C can have a number of suitable geometric shapes such as a square shape, rectangular shape (3A), cylindrical shape (3B), disc shape (3C), or any other suitable shape.
[0214] An enclosure (not shown) formed from one or more of such panels can house one or more items of electromagnetic equipment. Examples of electromagnetic equipment include, for instance, a three-phase electrical wire terminated into a circuit breaker/disconnect; a power transformer/power conditioner; an optical fiber wire and fiber termination box; a radio or radios; a diplexer/multiplexer (per radio); a coaxial cable from radio to antenna(s); or an antennae. This enclosure may also require a coax penetration to a remote antenna mount location. The enclosure is designed to accommodate any target application and has temperature control systems (fans, vent holes, or slots), access doors (screwed on, clipped on, hinged) for internals, and mounting accessories (brackets, screwed mounts, swivel mounts, sliding guides), and the like.
[0215] Opening 5A, 5B, or 5C, may be fitted with a window structure or assembly constructed from any suitable material that enables the transmission of an electromagnetic signals. Examples include mono- or multi-layered transparent films, sheets, glass cover, metal or plastic mesh, and such. There may be multiple such openings of different shapes and sizes to accommodate the electromagnetic signal conveyance with reduced signal strength loss.
[0216] While such panel(s) and the enclosure(s) formed therefrom may be of any suitable material such as polymer, plastic, foam, metal, composites, etc., incorporation of opening(s) necessary for signal transmission make such enclosures complex to design, fabricate, mount, and maintain. Furthermore, such panels and enclosures made therefrom having openings or windows fitted with materials different from the panel materials make such structures less durable (e.g., short life cycle) while compromising their structural integrity, mechanical strength and impact resistance. An enclosure is deemed “windowless” as used in the instant disclosure if it lacks such an opening or window that is fitted with a material different from the panel material.
Example 23 , Panel through which Electromagnetic Signals are Transmitted or Received. [0217] FIG. 21 illustrates schematic representations of enclosures 23, 25, and 27. Compared to Comparative Example 1, enclosures 23, 25, and 27 have a thickness as described in the Examples herein and have no separate opening or window for transmission or receival of electromagnetic signal. The enclosure may be of any suitable geometric shape such as square, rectangular (enclosure 23 in FIG. 21), cylindrical (enclosure 25 in FIG. 21), disc (enclosure 27 in FIG. 21), dome-shaped, cone-shaped, or any suitable shape.
[0218] The formed enclosure is part of a continuously molded article. The article described in this example can be useful for providing weather-resistant shielding for electronic equipment. Such an enclosure (not shown), or articles formed from one or more of such enclosures, can house one or more items of electromagnetic equipment. The electronic equipment can include, for example, a three-phase electrical wire terminated into a circuit breaker/disconnect; a power transformer/power conditioner; an optical fiber wire and fiber termination box; a radio or radios; a diplexer/multiplexer (per radio); a coaxial cable from radio to antenna(s); an antennae. This enclosure may also require a coax penetration to a remote antenna mount location. The enclosure is designed to accommodate any target application and has temperature control systems (fans, vent holes, or slots), access doors (screwed on, clipped on, hinged) for internals, and mounting accessories (brackets, swivel mounts, slider mounts), and such.
[0219] Absence of any opening(s) or window(s) while transmission and receival of electromagnetic signals occur though an enclosure body make such enclosures simple to design, fabricate, mount, and maintain. Furthermore, such panels and enclosures made therefrom, absent openings or windows fitted with materials different from the panel materials, make such structures more durable (e.g., long -lasting) with their structural integrity, strength, and impact resistance well-preserved.
Example 24, PA66-based Panel and Enclosure through which 30 GHz Frequency Electromagnetic Signals are Transmitted or Received.
[0220] Several panel structures are molded using a PA66 based thermoplastic resin labeled “PA66-IM-GF30” and corresponding to Specimen labeled “L” (50%RH) in Table 9 of the present disclosure. PA66-IM-GF30 is prepared using INVISTA™ PA66 material and further
Figure imgf000093_0001
containing impact modified polyolefin with 30 wt% glass fiber (GF) reinforcement. The densities of four panels are 1.097, 1.244, 1.277 and 1.361 g/cc.
[0221] The so-formed panels are joined to form a three-dimensional rectangular enclosure having the dimensions of 48” L x 24” W x 12” D (or, 4’ L x 2’ W x 1 ’ D). Proper network telecommunication equipment is housed inside the enclosure. The enclosure contains no separate opening or windows having any transparent medium such as film, glass covering, sheet, or the like. The PA66-IM-GF30 resin specimen has a dielectric constant of 3.5 and dissipation factor (DF) of 0.0142, both measured at 30 GHz frequency.
[0222] The panel wall structural thickness is maintained to about 3 mm for the transmission and receival of 30 GHz frequency electromagnetic signal having less than 0.5 dB loss during its transmission across the panel wall. This electromagnetic signal transmission and reception do not occur through a transparent or optical window.
Example 25, PA66-based Panel and Enclosure through which 40 GHz Frequency Electromagnetic Signals are Transmitted or Received.
[0223] Several panel structures are molded using a PA66 based thermoplastic resin labeled “PA66-PPE”, which corresponds to Specimen labeled “H” (50%RH) in Table 9 of the present disclosure. PA66-PPE is an unreinforced thermoplastic resin. The densities of the panels are >1.1 g/cc and <1.4 g/cc.
[0224] The so-formed panels are joined to form a three-dimensional cylindrical enclosure having the dimensions of from about 22’ to about 36” outside diameter and from about 0.5’ to about 6.5’ length (or, 3’ O.D x 5’ long cylinder). Proper network telecommunication equipment is housed inside the enclosure. The enclosure contains no separate opening or windows having any transparent medium such as film, glass covering, sheet, and the like. The PA66-PPE resin specimen have a dielectric constant of about 2.82 and a dissipation factor (DF) of about 0.0074, both measured at 40 GHz frequency.
[0225] The panel wall structural thickness is maintained to about 4 mm for the transmission and receival of 40 GHz frequency electromagnetic signal having less than 0.5 dB loss during its transmission across the panel wall. This electromagnetic signal transmission and receival did not occur through a transparent or optical window.
Figure imgf000094_0001
Example 26, PA66-based Panel and Enclosure through which sub-6 GHz (3 GHz) Frequency Electromagnetic Signals are Transmited or Received.
[0226] Several panel structures are molded using a PA66 based thermoplastic resin labeled “PA66-PPE”, which corresponds to Specimen labeled “H” (c50%RH) in Table 9 of the present disclosure. PA66-PPE is an unreinforced thermoplastic resin. The density of the panel is >1 .1 g/cc and <1.4 g/cc.
[0227] The formed panels are joined to form a three-dimensional clamshell-shaped enclosure intended for sub-6 GHz 5G and 4G LTE radio equipment shrouds. Proper network telecommunication equipment is housed inside the enclosure. The enclosure contains no separate opening or windows having any transparent medium such as fdm, glass covering, sheet, and the like. The PA66-PPE resin specimen has a dielectric constant of about 2.84 and a dissipation factor (DF) of about 0.0095, both measured at 3 GHz frequency.
[0228] The panel wall structural thickness is maintained to about 4 mm for the transmission and receival of 3 GHz frequency electromagnetic signal having less than 0.5 dB loss during its transmission across the panel wall. This electromagnetic signal transmission and receival does not occur through a transparent or optical window.
[0229] The present polyamide-based clamshell radio shroud weighs about 20-25 lbs and offers cost-efficient, durable solution in sub-6 GHz 5G and 4G LTE radio frequency transmission markets. An equivalent metal shroud having the necessary openings for radio wave transmission and receival functions is more expensive, less durable and heavier (-60-70 lbs).
Example 27, RF Testing - Insertion Loss versus Distance at 24-40 GHz Wave Frequency.
[0230] Similar to Example 18, a horn antenna setup is used to measure the insertion loss (S21 in dB) in the far field in the 24-40 GHz wave frequency spectrum as a function of the test specimen plaque surface distance from the antenna. Several materials, as described in Table 9, are tested by molding the materials into 1 ft x 1 ft flat plaques. These plaques are precision -machined to obtain about 2.18 mm structural thickness. A 0.56 mm thick basecoat of flame retardant (FR) material and 0.15 mm thick top-coat of decorative color are applied to each plaque using spray coating technology. The total specimen structural thickness is 2.89 mm.
Figure imgf000095_0001
[0231] FIG. 22 is a cyclone plot of the insertion loss in dB (Y -axis) measured over a 0-100 mm distance span in 0.5 mm increments over a 24-40 GHz frequency range (X-axis); each line shown is a 0.5 mm distance increment.
Example 28, Array Antenna Testing at 28 GHz Wave Frequency.
[0232] The plaque specimens, described in Example 27 above, are next tested using a phased array antenna tuned to 28 GHz.
[0233] Changes in radiation as well as reflection patterns, for example, main lobe, side lobes, reflections, boresight error, and relative insertion losses (in dB), are measured at 28 GHz frequency and at two radio antenna distances, namely, i) close to each other (“0 mm Distance” plots in FIG. 23 A), and ii) a few wavelengths apart (“25 mm Distance”) plots in FIG. 23B. Incident ray measurements for main beam bore sight loss, error, 3dB beam width change, 1st sidelobe gain increase, and backlobe/reflected lobes gain increase, are performed at three azimuths, 0°, 30°, and 60°.
[0234] In FIGs. 23A-23B, the solid lines represent the baseline performance for the two-antenna system without the in-between plaque specimen, and the dashed lines represent the plaque performance tested with the two-antenna system at 0 mm and 25 mm distance spacing.
[0235] In FIGs. 23A-23B, for “0 mm Distance” and “25 mm Distance,” respectively, the main lobe at each of the azimuths show little loss and the side lobes are improved compared to the ones in FIGs. 18A-18B in Example 19.
Example 29, Mechanical Performance Data for Table 9 Specimens.
[0236] Some of the material specimens from Table 9 are tested for mechanical performance. Specifically, specimens for material labeled “G” [DAM] and “H” [Cond] for PA66 + PPE, as well as materials labeled “C” [DAM” and “D” [Cond] for PA66+GF30 are tested. Additional specimens are prepared using 20 wt% GF reinforced PA66+PPE and 20 wt% GF reinforced PA66 materials (not shown in Table 9), referred to as “PA66+PPE GF20” and “PA66 GF20”, respectively. Tables 19A-F below provide the mechanical performance data for the tested specimens at three temperatures: -40 °C, 23 °C, and 50 °C.
Figure imgf000096_0001
[0237] TABLE 19A. Tensile Data for Dry as Molded [DAM] Specimens.
Figure imgf000097_0002
Figure imgf000097_0001
[0238] TABLE 19B. Tensile Data for Conditioned [COND] Specimens.
Figure imgf000098_0002
Figure imgf000098_0001
[0239] TABLE 19C. Un-notched Charpy Data for DAM and Conditioned Specimens.
Figure imgf000099_0002
[0240] TABLE 19D. Notched Charpy Data for DAM and Conditioned Specimens.
Figure imgf000099_0003
Figure imgf000099_0001
[0241] TABLE 19E. Flexural Data for DAM Specimens.
Figure imgf000100_0002
[0242] TABLE 19. Flexural Data for Conditioned Specimens.
Figure imgf000100_0003
Example 30,
Figure imgf000100_0001
[0243] This Example illustrates ranges of thicknesses for nylon-6, 6 free of glass reinforcing fibers (Example 30a), nylon-6, 6 containing 30 weight percent glass reinforcing fibers (Example 30b) and polycarbonate (Example 30c).
[0244] TABLE 20A.
Figure imgf000101_0002
[0245] TABLE 20B.
Figure imgf000101_0003
Figure imgf000101_0001
[0246] TABLE 20C.
Figure imgf000102_0002
Examples 31A-E, Specimens including PA66/DI formulations.
[0247] Several formulations are prepared that include PA66/DI along with the glass fiber, FR additive, heat stabilizer additive and UV stabilizer in the compositional ranges shown in Table 21.
[0248] TABLE 21.
Figure imgf000102_0003
Figure imgf000102_0001
[0249] In Table 21 formulations, non-limiting examples of FR additive may include Exolit® OP 1080P, Exolit® OP 1314, Exolit® OP 1400, etc. The Exolit® FR additives are commercially available from Clariant.
[0250] In Table 21 formulations, non-limiting examples of UV stabilizer additive may include Carbon Black (19 nm range), organic UV/heat stabilizers such as Irganox® commercial products, phosphite-based commercial additives, hindered amine light [HAL] stabilizers (e.g.: Nylostab® products), UV absorber additives, and combinations thereof.
[0001] In Table 21 formulations, non-limiting examples of heat stabilizer and chain extending additives may include copper or organic-based such as Irganox® Bl 171, Irganox® Bl 098, Bruggolen™ TP-H1802, Bruggolen™ M1251, and the like. For example, Irganox® B 1171 is a commercial polymer additive product of BASF.
[0251] The colorant additive may be added at molding step for Table 21 formulations. Nonlimiting examples of such colorant additive may include commercial products available in the thermoplastics industry.
[0252] The test plaques are prepared using the Table 21 formulations and as described above in the “dielectric constant and dissipation factor determination” section. The dielectric constants and Loss Tangent values are determined according to the test methods described above and in the signal frequency range of 20-40 GHz. Table 22 provides a summary of the dielectric performance data measured for various specimens prepared according to the present disclosure. The term “Loss Tangent” is a measure of how much the wave will decay due to absorption through a medium.
Figure imgf000103_0001
[0253] TABLE 22.
Figure imgf000104_0002
Examples 32A-C. FR Performance Testing for PA66 specimens.
[0254] In Table 23 below, the flame retardancy [FR] performance data is summarized for several specimens according to the present disclosure. The tested specimens achieved the overall UL-94 test rating of V-0. The similar UL-94 test rating of V-0 is expected for the PA66/DI specimens with 20 wt% GF reinforcement, 20 wt% FR additive and up to 3 wt% each of UV additive and colorant. The FR coatings used in Table 23 are commercially available.
Figure imgf000104_0001
[0255] TABLE 23.
Figure imgf000105_0002
[0256] There are a variety of tests and standards that may be used to rate the flame retardant nature of a polymeric resin system. Underwriters’ Laboratories Test No. UL 94 serves as one Industry Standard test for flame retardant thermoplastic compounds. “UL 94 Standard for Tests for flammability of Plastic Materials for Parts in Devices and Appliances” gives details of the testing method and criteria for rating. The test method ASTM D635 is Standard Test Method for Rate of Burning or Extent and Time of Burning of Plastics in a Horizontal Position. The test method ASTM D3801 is Standard Test Method for Measuring the Comparative Burning Characteristics of Solid Plastics in a Vertical Position. Vertical burning test ratings (e.g.: V-0, V-l, V-2) are more stringent and difficult to achieve than Horizontal burning ratings (HB-1, HB- 2, HB-3).
Figure imgf000105_0001
[0260] The Examples surprisingly show that a nylon-6, 6 based formula can be developed to meet the mechanical requirements of a mmWave enclosure while transmitting enough mmWave signal to be useful in 5G service. One of the reasons this is surprising is that the nylon-66 absorbs water, which is thought to detrimentally affect transmission. Another unexpected beneficial feature of this formulation is its compatibility with various additives, which is better than other base thermoplastics such as polypropylene and polycarbonate. Thermoplastics are found beneficial for their superior processibility. It is also surprisingly found that the addition of 5, 10, 20, 30 or more weight percent glass fiber (to improve tensile strength and toughness) yielded a compounded polyamide with acceptable mmWave transmissibility.
[0261] As shown in Example 30a for Nylon-6, 6 with no added glass fiber, the Attenuation Coefficient value can range up to 3.9 dB/GHz.cm (for 0.5 GHz wave frequency) or can range between 0.05 and 0.07 dB/GHz.cm (for 81 GHz wave frequency). Example 30b for Nylon-6, 6 with 30% by weight glass fiber, the attenuation coefficient value can range up to 5.25 dB/GHz.cm (for 0.5 GHz wave frequency), can range between 0.10 and 0.20 dB/GHz.cm (for 36 GHz wave frequency) or can range between 0.055 and 0.075 dB/GHz.cm (for 81 GHz wave frequency). Similarly, in the case of Example 30c for Polycarbonate with no added glass fiber, the attenuation coefficient value can range up to 3.0 dB/GHz.cm (for 0.5 GHz wave frequency) or can range between 0.03 and 0.045 dB/GHz.cm (for 81 GHz wave frequency).
PART IE
Example 33, Panels including various thermoplastic resins.
[0262] In this Example, various polymer compositions are selected to have dielectric constant (Dk) and dissipation factor (Df) that center on the average Dk and Df for the polymer composition in order to generate representative signal attenuation data for the polymer at each thickness at each radio wave frequency tested. Table 24 shows compositions having the lowest Dk and Df, and Table 25 shows compositions having the highest Dk and Df. Table 26 shows compositions having an intermediate Dk and Df between the lowest and the average values, while Table 27 shows compositions having an intermediate Dk and Df between the highest and average values.
Figure imgf000106_0001
[0263] Following the injection molding procedure from Part I, panels having dimensions of 300 mm x 300 mm x 12.5 mm are injection molded from each of the materials of Table 24.
[0264] Table 24. Materials for forming panels in Example 33.
Figure imgf000107_0002
[0265] Following the procedures described herein at Part I, each panel is tested for signal attenuation using radio frequencies at each integer frequency from 24 to 39 GHz. The panel, the transmitter, and the receiver are arranged such that the panel is the only non-radiopaque material between the transmitter and the receiver, and such that the radio waves impinging on the panel is normal to a surface of the panels. A powered planer tool is used to remove 0.1 mm thickness from each panel, and each panel is tested for signal attenuation at each integer frequency again. This process is repeated until the panels reach a thickness of about 2 mm.
[0266] The experiment is then repeated using the materials shown in Table 25.
[0267] Table 25. Materials for forming panels in Example 33.
Figure imgf000107_0003
Figure imgf000107_0001
[0268] The panels formed from the materials in Tables 24 and 25 have the lowest signal attenuation at each frequency as shown by the thickness ranges in Tables 1A, 2A, 3A, 4A, 5A, 6A, 7A, and 8 A, herein.
[0269] The experiment is then repeated using the materials shown in Table 26. The experiment is then repeated one more time using the materials shown in Table 27.
[0270] Table 26. Materials for forming panels in Example 33.
Figure imgf000108_0002
[0271] Table 27. Materials for forming panels in Example 33.
Figure imgf000108_0003
Figure imgf000108_0001
Figure imgf000109_0002
[0272] The panels formed from the materials in Table 26 and 27 have the lowest signal attenuation at each frequency as shown by the thickness ranges in Tables IB, 2B, 3B, 4B, 5B, 6B, 7B, and 8B, herein, and particularly as shown by the thickness ranges in Tables 1C, 2C, 3C, 4C, 5C, 6C, 7C, and 8C, herein.
[0273] The terms and expressions that have been employed are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention in the use of such terms and expressions of excluding any equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof, but it is recognized that various modifications are possible within the scope of the embodiments of the present invention. Thus, it should be understood that although the present invention has been specifically disclosed by specific embodiments and optional features, modification and variation of the concepts herein disclosed may be resorted to by those of ordinary skill in the art, and that such modifications and variations are considered to be within the scope of embodiments of the present invention.
Listing of Aspects.
[0274] The following aspects are provided, the numbering of which is not to be construed as designating levels of importance:
[0275] Aspect 1 provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz, the article comprising: one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough, the one or more portions independently comprising a thermoplastic resin comprising an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, a polycarbonate (PC) composition, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, a liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, or a polyamide composition; wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the
Figure imgf000109_0001
one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 1A herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 2A herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 3 A herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 4A herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 5 A herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 6A herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7A or Table 8A.
[0276] Aspect 2 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a
Figure imgf000110_0001
range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table IB herein.
[0277] Aspect 3 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 1C herein.
[0278] Aspect 4 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, wherein acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
[0279] Aspect 5 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, wherein acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
[0280] Aspect 6 provides the article of Aspect 1 , wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.16 to 3.84.
[0281] Aspect 7 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.7 to 3.2.
[0282] Aspect 8 provides the article of Aspect 1 , wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 40 x 10'4 to 228 x 10'4.
[0283] Aspect 9 provides the article of Aspect 1 , wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 50 x 10'4 to 190 x 10'4.
[0284] Aspect 10 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 2B herein.
Figure imgf000111_0001
[0285] Aspect 11 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 2C herein.
[0286] Aspect 12 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, wherein polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) is 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
[0287] Aspect 13 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, wherein polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) is 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
[0288] Aspect 14 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.32 to 4.80.
[0289] Aspect 15 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.9 to 4.0.
[0290] Aspect 16 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 8 x 10'4 to 240 x 10'4.
[0291] Aspect 17 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 10 x 10'4 to 200 x 10'4.
[0292] Aspect 18 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 3B herein.
[0293] Aspect 19 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling
Figure imgf000112_0001
within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 3C herein.
[0294] Aspect 20 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, wherein polycarbonate (PC) is 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
[0295] Aspect 21 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, wherein polycarbonate (PC) is 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
[0296] Aspect 22 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.29 to 3.43.
[0297] Aspect 23 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.8 to 3.0.
[0298] Aspect 24 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 52 x 10'4 to 78 x 10"4.
[0299] Aspect 25 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 60 x 1 O'4 to 70 x IO"4.
[0300] Aspect 26 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 4B herein.
[0301] Aspect 27 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 4C herein.
Figure imgf000113_0001
[0302] Aspect 28 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, wherein polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
[0303] Aspect 29 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, wherein polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
[0304] Aspect 30 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.4 to 4.8.
[0305] Aspect 31 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 3.0 to 4.0.
[0306] Aspect 32 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 48 x 10'4 to 240 x 10'4.
[0307] Aspect 33 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 60 x 10'4 to 200 x 10'4.
[0308] Aspect 34 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 5B herein.
[0309] Aspect 35 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 5C herein.
[0310] Aspect 36 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, wherein polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) is 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
Figure imgf000114_0001
[0311] Aspect 37 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, wherein polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) is 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
[0312] Aspect 38 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.4 to 3.96.
[0313] Aspect 39 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 3.0 to 3.3.
[0314] Aspect 40 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 3.2 x 10'4 to 36 x 10'4.
[0315] Aspect 41 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 4 x 1 O'4 to 30 x 10'4.
[0316] Aspect 42 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 6B herein.
[0317] Aspect 43 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 6C herein.
[0318] Aspect 44 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, wherein liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) is 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
Figure imgf000115_0001
[0319] Aspect 45 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, wherein liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) is 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
[0320] Aspect 46 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.64 to 3.96.
[0321] Aspect 47 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 3.2 to 3.4.
[0322] Aspect 48 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 32 x 10'4 to 48 x 10'4.
[0323] Aspect 49 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 35 x 10'4 to 45 x 10'4.
[0324] Aspect 50 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7B herein.
[0325] Aspect 51 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7C herein.
[0326] Aspect 52 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, wherein polyamide is 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
[0327] Aspect 53 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, wherein polyamide is 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
[0328] Aspect 54 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.53 to 3.79.
Figure imgf000116_0001
[0329] Aspect 55 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 3.16 to 3.2.
[0330] Aspect 56 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 110.4 x 10'4 to 165.6 x IO’4.
[0331] Aspect 57 provides the article of Aspect 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 135 x IO’4 to 140 x IO"4.
[0332] Aspect 58 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-57, wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency of 24 GHz to 30 GHz, 32 GHz to 39.5 GHz, or 24 GHz to 39.5 GHz.
[0333] Aspect 59 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-58, wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency of outside a range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and inside a range of 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz.
[0334] Aspect 60 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-59, wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency of outside a range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz and inside a range of 0 GHz to 85 GHz.
[0335] Aspect 61 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-60, wherein substantially all of the article is the thermoplastic resin.
[0336] Aspect 62 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-61, wherein 100 wt% of the article is the thermoplastic resin.
[0337] Aspect 63 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-62, wherein 0.001 wt% to 100 wt% of the article is the thermoplastic resin.
[0338] Aspect 64 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-63, wherein 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the article is the thermoplastic resin.
[0339] Aspect 65 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-64, wherein 90 wt% to 100 wt% of the article is the thermoplastic resin.
[0340] Aspect 66 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-65, wherein 0.001 wt% to 49.9 wt% of the article is the thermoplastic resin.
Figure imgf000117_0001
[0341] Aspect 67 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-66, wherein 0.001 wt% to 10 wt% of the article is the thermoplastic resin.
[0342] Aspect 68 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-67, wherein 0 wt% of the article is a material that provides greater attenuation of radio waves in at least one region of the article comprising the material at one or more frequencies in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz as compared to the same region of the article without the material, or as compared to the same region of the thermoplastic resin without the material; or wherein the concentration of the material in the article is such that attenuation of radio waves by the at least one region of the article comprising the material does not increase by more than 0%, 0.001, 0.005, 0.01, 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, or by more than 20%, as compared to the same region of the article without the material, or as compared to the same region of the thermoplastic resin without the material.
[0343] Aspect 69 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-68, wherein 0 wt% of the article is metals or metal -containing compounds.
[0344] Aspect 70 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-69, wherein the article is substantially free of a material that provides greater attenuation of radio waves in at least one region of the article comprising the material at one or more frequencies in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz as compared to the same region of the article without the material, or as compared to the same region of the thermoplastic resin without the material.
[0345] Aspect 71 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-70, wherein the article is substantially free of metals and metal-containing compounds.
[0346] Aspect 72 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-71, wherein the article comprises one or more portions that comprise the thermoplastic resin and one or more other portions that are substantially free of the thermoplastic resin.
[0347] Aspect 73 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-72, wherein the article is for use with communication devices, electronics, and/or electric power systems.
[0348] Aspect 74 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-73, wherein the article is a structural article.
[0349] Aspect 75 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-74, wherein the article is a wall.
Figure imgf000118_0001
[0350] Aspect 76 provides the article of Aspect 75, wherein the wall comprises an automobile wall/skin, a truck wall/skin, or a building wall.
[0351] Aspect 77 provides the article of any one of Aspects 75-76, wherein the wall comprises one or more monolithic windowless panels that comprise the thermoplastic resin.
[0352] Aspect 78 provides the article of Aspect 77, wherein the one or more panels form a portion of a major face of the wall.
[0353] Aspect 79 provides the article of any one of Aspects 77-78, wherein the one or more panels are electromagnetic windows in the wall that are translucent or opaque to visible light. [0354] Aspect 80 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-73, wherein the article is a radome, wherein walls of the radome comprise the thermoplastic resin.
[0355] Aspect 81 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-73, wherein the article is a radome wall.
[0356] Aspect 82 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-73, wherein the article is a fuselage for an aircraft, a radio-controlled (RC) aircraft, or drone, or a component of the fuselage.
[0357] Aspect 83 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-73, wherein the article is an exterior-mounted vehicular decorative or structural component.
[0358] Aspect 84 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-73, wherein the article is an automotive wall, a building wall, a panel, a wall plate, a structural frame, a radome, a radome cover, a monocoque, a car unibody, or a combination thereof.
[0359] Aspect 85 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-73, wherein the article is a cell phone case, a cell phone protector, or a component thereof.
[0360] Aspect 86 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-73, wherein the article is enclosure for electronic equipment, or a component of an enclosure for electronic equipment
[0361] Aspect 87 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-73, wherein the article is an enclosure for protecting a radio antenna operating in 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz frequency range, and optionally in the 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz frequency range.
[0362] Aspect 88 provides the article of Aspect 87, wherein the article fully encloses the radio antenna.
Figure imgf000119_0001
[0363] Aspect 89 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-88, comprising a first plate of a first thickness and a second plate of a second thickness that each comprise the thermoplastic resin.
[0364] Aspect 90 provides the article of Aspect 89, wherein the first plate and the second plate differently attenuate electromagnetic signals.
[0365] Aspect 91 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-90, wherein the article has a uniform thickness.
[0366] Aspect 92 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-91, wherein the article is weatherresistant.
[0367] Aspect 93 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-92, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises an additive that is a reinforcing fiber that is up to 50 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
[0368] Aspect 94 provides the article of Aspect 93, wherein the reinforcing fiber comprises glass fibers, silicon fibers, carbon fibers, polypropylene fibers, polyacrylonitrile fibers, basalt fibers, or mixtures thereof.
[0369] Aspect 95 provides the article of any one of Aspects 93-94, wherein the reinforcing fiber comprises a glass fiber.
[0370] Aspect 96 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-95, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the additive and the additive is chosen from an ultraviolet resistance additive, a flame retardancy additive, an anti-static additive, an impact modifier, a colorant, a moisture repellant, or a combination thereof.
[0371] Aspect 97 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-96, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises an additive in a range of from about 0. 1 wt% to about 30 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
[0372] Aspect 98 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-97, wherein glass fibers are 10 to 50 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
[0373] Aspect 99 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-98, wherein glass fibers are 12 to 50 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
[0374] Aspect 100 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-99, wherein glass fibers are 14 to 40 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
Figure imgf000120_0001
[0375] Aspect 101 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-100, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises up to 20% of a flame-retardancy additive.
[0376] Aspect 102 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-101, wherein the article comprises a flame-retardancy coating.
[0377] Aspect 103 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-102, wherein the article and/or thermoplastic resin has a UL-94 test rating of V-0.
[0378] Aspect 104 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-103, wherein the article is formed by injection molding, thermoforming, compression molding, extruding, blow molding, casting, or any combination thereof.
[0379] Aspect 105 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1-104, wherein the article is free of portions and windows for transmission of an electromagnetic signal having a frequency range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz, and optionally having a frequency range of 0.5 GHz to 81 GHz, and that are free of the thermoplastic resin.
[0380] Aspect 106 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1 or 58-105, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, wherein the polyamide composition comprises N66, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7A herein.
[0381] Aspect 107 provides the article of Aspect 106, wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7B herein.
[0382] Aspect 108 provides the article of any one of Aspects 106-107, wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7C herein.
[0383] Aspect 109 provides the article of any one of Aspects 106-108, wherein 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the polyamide composition is N66.
[0384] Aspect 110 provides the article of any one of Aspects 106-109, wherein 70 wt% to 100 wt% of the polyamide composition is N66.
Figure imgf000121_0001
[0385] Aspect 111 provides the article of any one of Aspects 106-110, wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.53 to 3.79.
[0386] Aspect 112 provides the article of any one of Aspects 106-111, wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 3.16 to 3.2.
[0387] Aspect 113 provides the article of any one of Aspects 106-112, wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 110.4 x 10'4 to 165.6 x 10'4.
[0388] Aspect 114 provides the article of any one of Aspects 106-113, wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 135 x 10'4 to 140 x 10'4.
[0389] Aspect 115 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1 or 58-105, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, the polyamide composition comprises PA66/DI, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 8A herein.
[0390] Aspect 116 provides the article of Aspect 115, wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 8B herein.
[0391] Aspect 117 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-116, wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 8C herein.
[0392] Aspect 118 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-117, wherein 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the polyamide composition is the PA66/DI.
[0393] Aspect 119 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-118, wherein 55 wt% to 65 wt% of the polyamide composition is the PA66/DI.
[0394] Aspect 120 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-119, wherein the PA66/DI has a weight ratio of PA66 to DI of 1 :99 to 99: 1.
[0395] Aspect 121 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-120, wherein the PA66/DI has a weight ratio of PA66 to DI of 80:20 to 99: 1.
Figure imgf000122_0001
[0396] Aspect 122 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-121, wherein the PA66/DI has a weight ratio of PA66 to DI of 90: 10 to 95:5.
[0397] Aspect 123 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-122, wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.62 to 3.92.
[0398] Aspect 124 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-123, wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 3.27 to 3.3.
[0399] Aspect 125 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-124, wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 80 x 10'4 to 120 x 10'4.
[0400] Aspect 126 provides the article of any one of Aspects 115-125, wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 90 x 10'4 to 110 x 10'4.
[0401] Aspect 127 provides the article of any one of Aspects 1 or 50-105, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, wherein the polyamide composition comprises a first polyamide comprising nylon-6, nylon-6, 6, a copolymer of nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6 comprising at least one repeating unit that is poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide), poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), or a copolymer of poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) and poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), a mixture thereof, or a copolymer thereof; and a second polyamide, an additive, or a mixture thereof.
[0402] Aspect 128 provides the article of Aspect 127, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the first polyamide; the second polyamide; and the additive.
[0403] Aspect 129 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-128, wherein the first polyamide comprises:
Figure imgf000123_0001
nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6; and a copolymer comprising nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6, the copolymer comprising at least one repeating unit that is poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide), poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), or a copolymer of poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) and poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), wherein a molar ratio of the poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) repeating unit to poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide) repeating unit is in a range of from about 60:40 to about 90: 10.
[0404] Aspect 130 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-129, wherein the first polyamide comprises: nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6; and a copolymer comprising nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6 and at least one repeating unit that is poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide), poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), or a copolymer of poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) and poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), wherein a molar ratio of the poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) repeating unit to poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide) repeating unit is in a range of from about 70:30 to about 75:25.
[0405] Aspect 131 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-130, wherein the first polyamide is at least one of nylon-6 and nylon -6, 6.
[0406] Aspect 132 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-131, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the additive and the additive is in a range of from about 10 wt% to about 30 wt% of the resin, wherein a transmittance loss of the thermoplastic resin is less than 2 decibels (dB) for a signal having a frequency between 500 MHz and 40 GHz.
[0407] Aspect 133 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-132, wherein a transmittance loss of the thermoplastic resin within at least one of a 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz frequency range, a 24 GHz to 30 GHz frequency range, and a 36 GHz to 39.5 GHz range is less than 1 decibel (dB).
Figure imgf000124_0001
[0408] Aspect 134 provides the article of Aspect 133, wherein the transmittance loss of the thermoplastic resin within at least one of a 0.5 GHz to 6 GHz frequency range, a 24 GHz to 30 GHz frequency range, and a 36 GHz to 39.5 GHz range is less than 0.5 decibels (dB).
[0409] Aspect 135 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-134, wherein a relative weight gain of the article due to moisture uptake is less than 4% upon equilibration in an atmosphere at 70 °C and 62% relative humidity.
[0410] Aspect 136 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-135, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises reinforcing glass fiber in up to 50 wt% level of the total composition mass; wherein the thermoplastic resin has: a tensile strength in a range of from about 40 MPa to about 300 MPa; a density in a range of from 0.7 g/cm3 to 5 g/cm3; an impact resistance in a range of from 40 kJ/m2 to 150 kJ/m2; and a signal attenuation of at least one of the following, when a direction of a signal impinging on the thermoplastic resin is normal to a surface of the thermoplastic resin, and wherein a thickness of the thermoplastic resin is substantially uniform across an area where the signal impinges on the article: from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 500 MHz to 6 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 0.5 mm to 6 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 24 GHz to 30 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 0.5 mm to 4.5 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 36 GHz to 39.5 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 0.5 mm to 4 mm; and from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 76 GHz to 81 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 0.5 mm to 3.5 mm.
[0411] Aspect 137 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-136, wherein a density of the thermoplastic resin is in a range selected from: greater than or equal to 0.7 g/cm3 to less than or equal to 5 g/cm3; greater than or equal to 0.8 g/cm3 to less than or equal to 4 g/cm3; and greater than or equal to 0.85 to less than or greater than 3 g/cm3.
Figure imgf000125_0001
[0412] Aspect 138 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-137, wherein the thermoplastic resin has a tensile strength in a range of 40 to 300 MPa.
[0413] Aspect 139 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-138, having a substantially uniform signal attenuation of: from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 500 MHz to 6 GHz when a thickness of the thermoplastic resin is from 1.5 mm to 4 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 24 GHz to 30 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 2.5 mm to 4 mm; from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 36 GHz to 39.5 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 1.75 mm to 2.75 mm; or from 1 dB to 0 dB for signal of frequency 76 GHz to 81 GHz when the thermoplastic resin thickness is from 1.75 mm to 2.75 mm.
[0414] Aspect 140 provides the article of any one of Aspects 127-139, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises PA66:DI (85: 15 to 96:4 wt:wt), glass fiber in a range of about 5 to about 20 wt%, a flame-retardant additive in a range of up to about 20 wt%, a UV additive in a range of up to about 3 wt%, a heat stabilizer additive in a range of up to about 2 wt%, and a colorant additive in a range of up to about 3 wt%.
[0415] Aspect 141 provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz, the article comprising: one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough, the one or more portions independently comprising a thermoplastic resin comprising an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, a polycarbonate (PC) composition, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, a liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, or a polyamide composition; wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table IB herein, or
Figure imgf000126_0001
the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 2B herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 3B herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 4B herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 5B herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 6B herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7B or Table 8B herein.
[0416] Aspect 142 provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz, the article comprising: one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough, the one or more portions independently comprising a thermoplastic resin comprising an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, a polycarbonate (PC) composition, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, a polyphenylene
Figure imgf000127_0001
sulfide (PPS) composition, a liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, or a polyamide composition; wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 1C herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 2C herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 3C herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 4C herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 5C herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 6C herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a
Figure imgf000128_0001
thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7C herein or Table 8C herein.
[0417] Aspect 143 provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz, the article comprising: one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough, the one or more portions independently comprising a polyamide composition comprising a first polyamide comprising nylon-6, nylon-6, 6, a copolymer of nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6 comprising at least one repeating unit that is poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide), poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), or a copolymer of poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) and poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), a mixture thereof, or a copolymer thereof; and a second polyamide, an additive, or a mixture thereof. wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7A or Table 8A herein.
[0418] Aspect 144 provides an article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz, the article comprising: one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough, the one or more portions comprising a polyamide composition comprising PA66/DI and glass fibers, wherein the PA66/DI is 55 wt% to 65 wt% of the polyamide composition and the glass fibers are 10 wt% to 30 wt% of the polyamide composition, wherein the PA66/DI has a weight ratio of PA66 to DI of 90: 10 to 95:5, and wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 8A herein.
Figure imgf000129_0001
[0419] Aspect 145 provides the article of Aspect 144, wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 8B herein.
[0420] Aspect 146 provides the article of Aspect 144, wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 8C herein.
[0421] Aspect 147 provides a system comprising: the article of any one of Aspects 1-146; and an antenna for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz.
[0422] Aspect 148 provides the system of Aspect 147, wherein the article fully encloses the antenna.
[0423] Aspect 149 provides a method of making the article of any one of Aspects 1-146, the method comprising: injection molding, thermoforming, compression molding, extruding, blow molding, casting, or any combination thereof, the thermoplastic resin to form the article or one or more components thereof.
[0424] Aspect 150 provides a method comprising: transmitting and/or receiving radio waves having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz through the article of any one of Aspects 1-146.
[0425] Aspect 151 provides the method of Aspect 150, comprising transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves through one or more of the one or more portions of the article that comprises the thermoplastic resin.
Figure imgf000130_0001

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:
1. An article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz, the article comprising: one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough, the one or more portions independently comprising a thermoplastic resin comprising an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, a polycarbonate (PC) composition, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, a liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, or a polyamide composition; wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 1A herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 2A herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 3 A herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 4A herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more
Figure imgf000131_0001
portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 5 A herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 6A herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7A or Table 8A.
2. The article of claim 1, wherein acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polycarbonate (PC), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), liquid crystalline polymer (LCP), or polyamide is 50 wt% to 100 wt% of the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, the polycarbonate (PC) composition, the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, or the polyamide composition, respectively.
3. The article of claim 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table IB herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 2B herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a
Figure imgf000132_0001
thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 3B herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 4B herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 5B herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 6B herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7B or Table 8B, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, the polyamide composition comprises N66, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7B, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, the polyamide composition comprises PA66/DI, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 8B.
4. The article of claim 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more
Figure imgf000133_0001
portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 1C herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 2C herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 3C herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 4C herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 5C herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 6C herein, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7C or Table 8C, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, the polyamide composition comprises N66, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7C, or
Figure imgf000134_0001
the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, the polyamide composition comprises PA66/DI, and at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 8C.
5. The article of claim 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.16 to 3.84, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.32 to 4.80, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.29 to 3.43, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.4 to 4.8, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.4 to 3.96, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.64 to 3.96, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.53 to 3.79, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, the polyamide composition comprises N66, and the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.53 to 3.79, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, the polyamide composition comprises PA66/DI, and the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.62 to 3.92.
6. The article of claim 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.7 to 3.2, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.9 to 4.0, or
133 the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.8 to 3.0, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 3.0 to 4.0, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 3.0 to 3.3, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 3.2 to 3.4, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 3.16 to 3.2, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, the polyamide composition comprises N66, and 3.16 to 3.2, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, the polyamide composition comprises PA66/DI, and the thermoplastic resin has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 3.27 to 3.3.
7. The article of claim 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 40 x 10'4 to 228 x 10'4, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 8 x 10'4 to 240 x 10'4, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 52 x 10'4 to 78 x 10'4, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 48 x 10'4 to 240 x 10'4, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 3.2 x 10'4 to 36 x 10'4, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 32 x 10'4 to 48 x 10'4, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 110.4 x 1 O'4 to 165.6 x 10'4, or
134 the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, the polyamide composition comprises N66, and the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 110.4 x 10'4 to 165.6 x 10"4, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, the polyamide composition comprises PA66/DI, and the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 80 x 10'4 to 120 x IO’4.
8. The article of claim 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 50 x 10'4 to 190 x 10'4, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 10 x 1 O'4 to 200 x 10'4, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polycarbonate (PC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 60 x 10'4 to 70 x 10'4, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 60 x 10'4 to 200 x 10'4, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 4 x 10'4 to 30 x 10'4, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 35 x 10'4 to 45 x 10'4, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, and wherein the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 135 x 10'4 to 140 x 10'4, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, the polyamide composition comprises N66, and the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 135 x 10'4 to 140 x 10'4, or the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, the polyamide composition comprises PA66/DI, and the thermoplastic resin has a dissipation factor (Df) of 90 x 10'4 to 110 x IO"4.
135
9. The article of claim 1, wherein the article comprises a panel that comprises the thermoplastic resin, and/or wherein the article is a panel, an enclosure for electronic equipment, a component of an enclosure for electronic equipment, a power cable termination component, an antenna enclosure, an antenna component, a cell phone casing, a cell phone casing component, an electronic component housing, a powder transformer or powder conditioner component or enclosure, an optical fiber component, a fiber termination box component or enclosure, a radio enclosure, a radio component, a diplexer/multiplexer component or enclosure, a coaxial cable component, a monocoque, a car unibody, an automotive wall, a building wall, a panel, a wall plate, a structural frame, a radome, a radome cover, an aircraft fuselage or a component thereof, a drone or remote-controlled (RC) aircraft fuselage or a component thereof, a cell phone case or a component thereof, a cell phone protector or a component thereof, an exterior-mounted vehicular decorative or structural component, or a combination thereof.
10. The article of claim 1, wherein a signal attenuation of the thermoplastic resin by the radio waves with the 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz frequency range with a direction of a signal impinging on the thermoplastic resin normal to a surface of the thermoplastic resin is less than 1 decibel (dB).
11 . The article of claim 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises an additive and the additive is chosen from an ultraviolet resistance additive, a flame retardancy additive, an antistatic additive, an impact modifier, a colorant, a moisture repellant, or a combination thereof.
12. The article of claim 1, wherein glass fibers are 10 to 50 wt% of the thermoplastic resin.
13. The article of claim 1, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the polyamide composition, wherein the polyamide composition comprises a first polyamide comprising nylon-6, nylon-6, 6, a copolymer of nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6 comprising at least one repeating unit that is poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide),
136 poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), or a copolymer of poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) and poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), a mixture thereof, or a copolymer thereof; and a second polyamide, an additive, or a mixture thereof.
14. The article of claim 13, wherein the thermoplastic resin comprises the first polyamide; the second polyamide; and the additive.
15. The article of claim 13, wherein the first polyamide comprises: nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6; and a copolymer comprising nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6, the copolymer comprising at least one repeating unit that is poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide), poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), or a copolymer of poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) and poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), wherein a molar ratio of the poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) repeating unit to poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide) repeating unit is in a range of from about 60:40 to about 90: 10.
16. An article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz, the article comprising: one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough, the one or more portions independently comprising a polyamide composition comprising a first polyamide comprising nylon-6, nylon-6, 6,
137 a copolymer of nylon-6 or nylon-6, 6 comprising at least one repeating unit that is poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide), poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), or a copolymer of poly(hexamethylene terephthalamide) and poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide), a mixture thereof, or a copolymer thereof; and a second polyamide, an additive, or a mixture thereof. wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 7A or Table 8A herein.
17. An article for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves therethrough having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz, the article comprising: one or more portions for transmitting and/or receiving the radio waves therethrough, the one or more portions comprising a polyamide composition comprising PA66/DI and glass fibers, wherein the PA66/DI is 55 wt% to 65 wt% of the polyamide composition and the glass fibers are 10 wt% to 30 wt% of the polyamide composition, wherein the PA66/DI has a weight ratio of PA66 to DI of 90: 10 to 95:5, and wherein at least some of the radio waves have a frequency falling within a range and the one or more portions have a thickness falling within a range as indicated by the frequency and thickness ranges on at least one single row of Table 8A herein.
18. A system comprising : the article of any one of claim 1 ; and an antenna for transmitting and/or receiving radio waves having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz.
19. A method of making the article of claim 1, the method comprising:
138 injection molding, thermoforming, compression molding, extruding, blow molding, casting, or any combination thereof, the thermoplastic resin to form the article or one or more components thereof.
20. A method comprising: transmitting and/or receiving radio waves having a frequency in the range of 23.5 GHz to 39.5 GHz through the article of claim 1 .
139
PCT/IB2022/057917 2021-09-14 2022-08-24 Articles for use with 5g radio waves WO2023042015A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US202163243907P 2021-09-14 2021-09-14
US63/243,907 2021-09-14

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2023042015A1 true WO2023042015A1 (en) 2023-03-23

Family

ID=83898486

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/IB2022/057917 WO2023042015A1 (en) 2021-09-14 2022-08-24 Articles for use with 5g radio waves

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2023042015A1 (en)

Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2013021054A (en) * 2011-07-08 2013-01-31 Toppan Printing Co Ltd Electronic apparatus housing
CN206962917U (en) * 2017-07-01 2018-02-02 福州外语外贸学院 A kind of Multifunctional mobile phone case

Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2013021054A (en) * 2011-07-08 2013-01-31 Toppan Printing Co Ltd Electronic apparatus housing
CN206962917U (en) * 2017-07-01 2018-02-02 福州外语外贸学院 A kind of Multifunctional mobile phone case

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
ANONYMOUS: "Amazon.com: MAXCURY for Apple iPhone 11 Case, Men's Ultra Durable Anti-Shock Premium ABS + PC + TPE with IMD Technology Protective Case Cover for iPhone 11 (Camouflage) : Everything Else", 4 November 2019 (2019-11-04), XP093003117, Retrieved from the Internet <URL:https://www.amazon.com/Maxcury-Anti-Shock-Printing-Protective-Camouflage/dp/B07ZZDSNTP/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3F1BRBXGT9HN7&keywords=phone+case+abs&qid=1669723788&sprefix=phone+case+abs,aps,177&sr=8-1&th=1> [retrieved on 20221129] *

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US11312859B2 (en) Thermoplastic resins for network applications
US20210403713A1 (en) Articles for use with 5g radio waves
US20210403711A1 (en) Articles with controlled shielding for use with 5g radio waves
KR102057434B1 (en) Mixtures of dialkylphosphinic acids and alkylphosphonic acids, a process for preparation thereof and use thereof
KR100456261B1 (en) Process for producing phenoxyphosphazene compound, flame-retardant resin composition, and flame-retardant resin molding
EP3854849B1 (en) Thermoplastic polyester resin composition and molded article
CN109467747B (en) Synergistic flame retardant combinations for polymer compositions and uses thereof
KR102057433B1 (en) Mixtures of diphosphinic acids and alkylphosphinic acids, a process for the preparation thereof and the use thereof
KR20140107450A (en) Mixtures of diphosphinic acids and dialkylphosphinic acids, a process for the preparation thereof and the use thereof
US20210403712A1 (en) Recyclable articles for use with 5g radio waves
KR20140112526A (en) Mixtures of at least one dialkylphosphinic acid with at least one other dialkylphosphinic acid that is different therefrom, method for production thereof, and use thereof
WO2023042015A1 (en) Articles for use with 5g radio waves
CN112409638B (en) Flame retardant combinations for polymer compositions and uses thereof
WO2023037195A1 (en) Recyclable articles for use with 5g radio waves
WO2023037193A1 (en) Articles for use with 5g radio waves
WO2023037194A1 (en) Articles with controlled shielding for use with 5g radio waves
US20220010134A1 (en) Colorized articles for use with 5g radio waves
DE102017215779B4 (en) Flame retardant combinations for polymer compositions, as well as polymer compositions and their use
TWI784445B (en) Enclosure article comprising thermoplastic resins for network applications, antenna system, and communication method
WO2023037196A1 (en) Colorized articles for use with 5g radio waves
EP4053202A1 (en) Thermoplastic resin composition and molded product manufactured therefrom
WO2004111121A1 (en) Reactive flame retardants and flame-retarded resin products
JPH09302237A (en) Flame-retardant thermoplastic polymer composition
EP4349898A1 (en) Polyphenylene ether resin composition and molded article
KR101748243B1 (en) Halogen-free flame-retardant polyester resin composition having high fluidity and surface gloss and molded article thereof

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 22790570

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE