Method of producing an elastomeric film

Abstract

The present invention relates to a process for producing a continuous elastomeric film, the process comprising: A) providing an aqueous polymer latex composition comprising: (I) particles of a latex polymer obtainable by free-radical emulsion polymerization of a mixture of ethylenically unsaturated monomers, said particles bearing a plurality of functional groups, and (II) a crosslinking component comprising a plurality of functional groups, at least one of which is reactive with the functional groups on the latex polymer particles; B) forming a continuous polymer film from the aqueous polymer latex composition; C) optionally drying the continuous polymer film obtained in step B); D) curing the continuous polymer film obtained in step B) or C) to form a continuous elastomeric film; and E) optionally rolling the continuous elastomeric film obtained in step D) into a roll, wherein the cured film comprises a thermoreversible linkage, to a continuous elastomeric film obtainable by the process for producing a continuous elastomeric film and to a process for preparing an elastomeric article from said elastomeric film and an elastomeric article obtained.

Description

[0001] According to one aspect, the present invention relates to a method for producing a continuous elastomer film and to a continuous elastomer film obtained therefrom. According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for preparing elastomer articles from said elastomer film and to articles obtained therefrom. Background Technology

[0002] According to current industry standards, elastomeric membranes, especially in dip molding applications such as inspection gloves, are made from formulations containing carboxylated acrylonitrile butadiene latex (XNBR). To achieve the mechanical strength required for these elastomeric membrane applications, some cross-linking of the membrane is necessary during its manufacture.

[0003] Several different concepts exist in the prior art for obtaining such cross-linked elastomer films. One possibility is that the formulation used to prepare the elastomer film contains a combination of conventional sulfur vulcanization systems, such as sulfur with accelerators (e.g., thiuram, carbamates, and zinc oxide).

[0004] Known from WO 2017 / 209596, which describes advanced techniques for avoiding sulfur vulcanization and its drawbacks, this document discloses a polymer latex comprising two different types of latex particles for dip molding applications. One type of latex particle is carboxylated, while the second type contains oxirane functional groups.

[0005] A significant drawback of producing elastomer films and articles using the dip molding method is the generation of substantial amounts of wastewater requiring treatment. Additionally, energy consumption is high. In a typical supply chain for standard dip molding technology, nitrile latex containing approximately 55 wt.% water is transported from latex producers to, for example, glove manufacturers. Therefore, water significantly contributes to transportation costs and energy consumption during transport. Further large quantities of water are added to the dip molding process to reduce the concentration of the compounded latex used for dip molding. As a result, a substantial amount of wastewater is generated in the dip molding process, which requires treatment to comply with increasingly stringent regulations for environmental protection. Beyond the cost and environmental issues discussed above, the dip molding method requires a stable water supply. Any water shortage can cause manufacturers to halt production.

[0006] Furthermore, the impregnation method is a wet process, in which hundreds of heavy ceramic forming agents need to be transported along processing pipelines and heated and maintained at relatively high temperatures, resulting in high energy consumption. Impregnation pipelines used industrially also occupy considerable space.

[0007] US 2012 / 0054943, US 2014 / 0090148, and US 2015 / 0047097 describe methods for cutting and sealing gloves, wherein two halves of appropriate shape are cut from a continuous polymer film material and then the two halves are sealed around the edges to provide the final glove. For this to be done, the polymer material needs to be thermoplastic in nature, and therefore materials such as polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, polyurethane, polybutene, styrene-butadiene / isoprene copolymers, and ethylene-propylene copolymers are used.

[0008] Therefore, there is an industrial need for a method to prepare elastomer products that overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks of standard dip molding techniques while still using elastomer films based on latex technology. Summary of the Invention

[0009] According to one aspect, the present invention relates to a method for producing a continuous elastomer film, the method comprising:

[0010] A) Provides an aqueous polymer latex composition comprising:

[0011] (I) Particles of a latex polymer, which are obtained by free radical emulsion polymerization of a mixture of olefinically unsaturated monomers, said particles having multiple functional groups, and

[0012] (II) A crosslinked component containing multiple functional groups, at least one of which is reactive with functional groups on latex polymer particles;

[0013] B) Forming a continuous polymer film from the aqueous polymer latex composition;

[0014] C) Optionally, dry the continuous polymer film obtained in step B);

[0015] D) Curing the continuous polymer film obtained in step B) or C) to form a continuous elastomer film; and

[0016] E) Optionally, the continuous elastomer film obtained in step D) is rolled into a roller shape, wherein

[0017] The cured film contains one or more thermally reversible bonding groups selected from the following:

[0018] (i) Connecting bases having the following structural formula:

[0019]

[0020] Where X is -O- or -NR 1 -,

[0021] n is 0 or 1,

[0022] R1 It is a hydrogen or hydrocarbon group, and

[0023] R 2 It is a hydrocarbon group; and

[0024] (ii) β-hydroxy ester linker

[0025] And related to the continuous elastomer membranes that can be obtained therefrom.

[0026] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for preparing an elastomer article by means of the following manner

[0027] - Align the two separate continuous elastomer films defined above;

[0028] - Cut aligned continuous elastomeric membranes into a pre-selected shape to obtain a stack of two elastomeric membranes in that pre-selected shape; and

[0029] - The elastomer film stack is bonded together at least a pre-selected portion of the periphery of the stack to form an elastomer article and

[0030] This pertains to the products that can be obtained from this. Invention Details

[0032] The polymer latex composition for use in the method of producing a continuous elastomer film according to the present invention may be selected from aqueous polymer latex compositions comprising:

[0033] (I) Particles of a latex polymer, which are obtained by free radical emulsion polymerization of a mixture of olefinically unsaturated monomers, said particles having a plurality of functional groups (a), and

[0034] (II) A crosslinked component comprising multiple functional groups, wherein the functional groups are selected from functional group (b) or a combination of functional groups (b) and (c) that are different from each other, wherein

[0035] - Functional group (b) reacts with functional group (a) to form a thermally reversible linker selected from one or more of the following:

[0036] (i) Connecting bases having the following structural formula:

[0037]

[0038] Where X is -O- or -NR 1 -,

[0039] n is 0 or 1,

[0040] R 1 It is a hydrogen or hydrocarbon group, and

[0041] R 2 It is a hydrocarbon group;

[0042] and

[0043] (ii) β-hydroxy ester linker; and

[0044] - The functional groups (c) on different molecules of component (II) can react with each other.

[0045] Latex polymer (I)

[0046] According to the present invention, the mixture of olefinically unsaturated monomers used to prepare latex polymer (I) may contain

[0047] a) 15-99% by weight of conjugated dienes;

[0048] b) 1-80% by weight of olefinic unsaturated nitrile compounds;

[0049] c) 0.05-10% by weight of olefinic unsaturated compounds with functional group (a);

[0050] d) 0-80% by weight of vinyl aromatic monomers; and

[0051] e) 0-65% by weight of copolymerizable olefinic unsaturated compounds.

[0052] The monomers a) to e) are different from each other and the weight percentages are based on all the monomers in the mixture.

[0053] In a mixture of olefinically unsaturated monomers, other olefinically unsaturated monomers may be present, selected from...

[0054] - Hydroxyalkyl esters of olefinic unsaturated acids;

[0055] amides of alkene unsaturated acids;

[0056] - Ethylene carboxylate;

[0057] - Monomers having at least two olefinic unsaturated groups;

[0058] -Alkene unsaturated silanes;

[0059] -Ethylene oxide-functionalized alkenes are unsaturated compounds; and

[0060] - Their combination.

[0061] The conjugated diene monomers suitable for preparing the latex polymer (I) according to the present invention include conjugated diene monomers selected from 1,3-butadiene, isoprene, 2,3-dimethyl-1,3-butadiene, 2,3-dimethyl-1,3-butadiene, 2-chloro-1,3-butadiene, 1,3-pentadiene, 1,3-hexadiene, 2,4-hexadiene, 1,3-octadiene, 2-methyl-1,3-pentadiene, 2,3-dimethyl-1,3-pentadiene, 3,4-dimethyl-1,3-hexadiene, 2,3-diethyl-1,3-butadiene, 4,5-diethyl-1,3-octadiene, 3-butyl-1,3-octadiene, 3,7-dimethyl-1,3,6-octtriene, 2-Methyl-6-methylene-1,7-octadiene, 7-methyl-3-methylene-1,6-octadiene, 1,3,7-octtriene, 2-ethyl-1,3-butadiene, 2-pentyl-1,3-butadiene, 3,7-dimethyl-1,3,7-octtriene, 3,7-dimethyl-1,3,6-octtriene, 3,7,11-trimethyl-1,3,6,10-dodecanetraene, 7,11-dimethyl-3-methylene-1,6,10-dodecanetraene, 2,6-dimethyl-2,4,6-octtriene, 2-phenyl-1,3-butadiene, and 2-methyl-3-isopropyl-1,3-butadiene, 1,3-cyclohexadiene, myrcene, ocimene, and farnesene. 1,3-Butadiene, isoprene, and combinations thereof are preferred conjugated dienes. 1,3-Butadiene is the most preferred diene. Typically, based on the total weight of the monomers, the amount of the conjugated diene monomer is in the range of 15 to 99 wt%, preferably 20 to 99 wt%, more preferably 30 to 75 wt%, and most preferably 40 to 70 wt%. Therefore, based on the total weight of the olefinically unsaturated monomers used in the latex polymer (a), the conjugated diene can be present in amounts of at least 15 wt%, at least 20 wt%, at least 22 wt%, at least 24 wt%, at least 26 wt%, at least 28 wt%, at least 30 wt%, at least 32 wt%, at least 34 wt%, at least 36 wt%, at least 38 wt%, or at least 40 wt%.

[0062] Therefore, the conjugated diene monomer can be used in amounts not exceeding 95 wt%, not exceeding 90 wt%, not exceeding 85 wt%, not exceeding 80 wt%, not exceeding 78 wt%, not exceeding 76 wt%, not exceeding 74 wt%, not exceeding 72 wt%, not exceeding 70 wt%, not exceeding 68 wt%, not exceeding 66 wt%, not exceeding 64 wt%, not exceeding 62 wt%, not exceeding 60 wt%, not exceeding 58 wt%, or not exceeding 56 wt%. Those skilled in the art will understand that any range between any explicitly disclosed lower and upper limits is permitted herein.

[0063] Unsaturated nitrile monomers that can be used to prepare particles of latex polymer (a) include polymerizable unsaturated aliphatic nitrile monomers containing 2 to 4 straight-chain or branched carbon atoms, which may be substituted with acetyl or other nitrile groups. Such nitrile monomers include acrylonitrile, methacrylonitrile, α-cyanoethyl acrylonitrile, fumaric acid, and combinations thereof, with acrylonitrile being the most preferred. Based on the total weight of the olefinically unsaturated monomers used in latex polymer (a), the content of these nitrile monomers can be from 1 to 80% by weight, preferably 10 to 70% by weight, or 1 to 60% by weight, more preferably 15 to 50% by weight, even more preferably 20 to 50% by weight, and most preferably 23 to 43% by weight.

[0064] Therefore, the unsaturated nitrile may be present in amounts of at least 1 wt%, at least 5 wt%, at least 10 wt%, at least 12 wt%, at least 14 wt%, at least 16 wt%, at least 18 wt%, at least 20 wt%, at least 22 wt%, at least 24 wt%, at least 26 wt%, at least 28 wt%, at least 30 wt%, at least 32 wt%, at least 34 wt%, at least 36 wt%, at least 38 wt%, or at least 40 wt%, based on the total weight of the olefinic unsaturated monomers used in the latex polymer (a).

[0065] Therefore, unsaturated nitrile monomers may be used in amounts not exceeding 80 wt%, not exceeding 75 wt%, not exceeding 73 wt%, not exceeding 70 wt%, not exceeding 68 wt%, not exceeding 66 wt%, not exceeding 64 wt%, not exceeding 62 wt%, not exceeding 60 wt%, not exceeding 58 wt%, not exceeding 56 wt%, not exceeding 54 wt%, not exceeding 52 wt%, not exceeding 50 wt%, not exceeding 48 wt%, not exceeding 46 wt%, or not exceeding 44 wt%. Those skilled in the art will understand that any range between any explicitly disclosed lower and upper limits is permitted herein.

[0066] Alkene unsaturated compounds with functional group (a) can be selected from

[0067] - Unsaturated olefinic compounds with the following structural functional groups:

[0068]

[0069] Where X, n, and R 1 and R 2 As defined above, preferably selected from olefinic unsaturated diketone monomers and acetylacetoxy monomers and combinations thereof;

[0070] - Unsaturated alkene compounds with primary amino groups;

[0071] -Al unsaturated ethylene oxide compounds;

[0072] -Alkenes are unsaturated carboxylic acids and their salts;

[0073] -Al-unsaturated polycarboxylic anhydrides;

[0074] - Polycarboxylic acid metaester monomers and their salts.

[0075] Suitable olefinic unsaturated diketone monomers may be selected from 2-(acryloyloxy)ethyl acetoacetate, 2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl acetoacetate, or vinyl acetoacetate (vinyl 3-oxobutyrate).

[0076] Suitable olefinic unsaturated compounds with primary amino groups may be selected from acrylamide, methacrylamide, 2-aminoethyl methacrylate and its hydrated salts, N-(2-aminoethyl)methacrylamide and its hydrated salts, N-(3-aminopropyl)methacrylamide and its hydrated salts, allylamine and its hydrated salts, and methacryloyl-L-lysine and combinations thereof.

[0077] Suitable olefinically unsaturated ethylene oxide compounds may be selected from glycidyl (meth)acrylate, allyl glycidyl ether, vinyl glycidyl ether, vinylcyclohexene oxide, limonene oxide, 2-ethyl glycidyl acrylate, 2-ethyl glycidyl methacrylate, 2-(n-propyl) glycidyl acrylate, 2-(n-propyl) glycidyl (meth)acrylate, 2-(n-butyl) glycidyl (meth)acrylate, 2-(n-butyl) glycidyl methacrylate, glycidyl methacrylate, glycidyl acrylate, (3′,4′-epoxyheptyl)-2-ethyl acrylate, (3′,4′-epoxyheptyl)-2-ethyl methacrylate, (6′,7′) (6′,7′-epoxyheptyl)acrylate, (3-methylepoxyethylene-2-yl)methyl-2-methacrylate, dimethylglycidyl (meth)acrylate, 2,3-epoxybutyl (meth)acrylate, allyl-3,4-epoxyheptyl ether, 6,7-epoxyheptyl allyl ether, vinyl-3,4-epoxyheptyl ether, 3,4-epoxyheptyl vinyl ether, 6,7-epoxyheptyl vinyl ether, o-vinylbenzyl glycidyl ether, m-vinylbenzyl glycidyl ether, p-vinylbenzyl glycidyl ether, 3-vinylcyclohexene oxide, α-methylglycidyl methacrylate, 3,4-epoxycyclohexylmethyl (meth)acrylate, and combinations thereof. Glycidyl (meth)acrylate is particularly preferred.

[0078] The olefinic unsaturated carboxylic acids or their salts may be selected from monocarboxylic acid and dicarboxylic acid monomers and their anhydrides and polycarboxylic acid esters. In carrying out the invention, it is preferred to use olefinic unsaturated aliphatic mono- or dicarboxylic acids or anhydrides containing 3-5 carbon atoms. Examples of monocarboxylic acid monomers include acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, crotonic acid, and sipomer (monomer or oligomer), and examples of dicarboxylic acid monomers include fumaric acid, itaconic acid, maleic acid, cis-cyclohexene-1,2-dicarboxylic acid, dimethylmaleic acid, bromomaleic acid, 2,3-dichloromaleic acid, and (2-dodecen-1-yl)succinic acid. Examples of polycarboxylic acid esters include monomethyl maleate, monomethyl fumarate, monoethyl maleate, monoethyl fumarate, monopropyl maleate, monopropyl fumarate, monobutyl maleate, monobutyl fumarate, mono(2-ethylhexyl) maleate, and mono(2-ethylhexyl) fumarate. Other suitable examples of olefinic unsaturated acids include vinylacetic acid, vinyl lactic acid, vinyl sulfonic acid, 2-methyl-2-propen-1-sulfonic acid, styrene sulfonic acid, acryloylaminomethylpropanesulfonic acid, and their salts. Particularly preferred are (meth)acrylic acid, crotonic acid, itaconic acid, maleic acid, fumaric acid, and combinations thereof.

[0079] Typically, the amount of the functionalized olefinic unsaturated compound (a) is 0.05 to 10 wt%, particularly 0.1 to 10 wt% or 0.05 to 7 wt%, preferably 0.1 to 9 wt%, more preferably 0.1 to 8 wt%, even more preferably 1 to 7 wt%, and most preferably 2 to 7 wt%, based on the total weight of the olefinic unsaturated monomers used in the latex polymer (I). Therefore, the functionalized olefinic unsaturated compound (a) can be present in amounts of at least 0.01 wt%, at least 0.05 wt%, at least 0.1 wt%, at least 0.3 wt%, at least 0.5 wt%, at least 0.7 wt%, at least 0.9 wt%, at least 1 wt%, at least 1.2 wt%, at least 1.4 wt%, at least 1.6 wt%, at least 1.8 wt%, at least 2 wt%, at least 2.5 wt%, or at least 3 wt%. Similarly, the olefinic unsaturated compound having a functional group (a) may be present in amounts not exceeding 10 wt%, not exceeding 9.5 wt%, not exceeding 9 wt%, not exceeding 8.5 wt%, not exceeding 8 wt%, not exceeding 7.5 wt%, not exceeding 7 wt%, not exceeding 6.5 wt%, not exceeding 6 wt%, 5.5 wt%, or not exceeding 5 wt%, based on the total weight of the olefinic unsaturated monomer used in the latex polymer (I). Those skilled in the art will understand that any ranges defined by the explicitly disclosed lower and upper limits are permitted herein.

[0080] According to the present invention, it is particularly preferred that the latex particles exhibit a concentration gradient of functional groups (a), wherein the concentration of functional groups (a) is higher at the particle surface and lower in the particle bulk.

[0081] Representative examples of vinyl aromatic monomers include, for example, styrene, α-methylstyrene, vinyltoluene, o-methylstyrene, p-methylstyrene, p-tert-butylstyrene, 2,4-dimethylstyrene, 2-methylstyrene, 3-methylstyrene, 4-methylstyrene, 2-ethylstyrene, 3-ethylstyrene, 4-ethylstyrene, 2,4-diisopropylstyrene, 2,4-dimethylstyrene, 4-tert-butylstyrene, 5-tert-butyl-2-methylstyrene, 2-chlorostyrene, 3-chlorostyrene, 4-chlorostyrene, 4-bromostyrene, 2-methyl-4,6-dichlorostyrene, 2,4-dibromostyrene, vinylnaphthalene, vinyltoluene and vinylxylene, 2-vinylpyridine, 4-vinylpyridine and 1,1-diphenylethylene and substituted 1,1-diphenylethylene, 1,2-diphenylethylene and substituted 1,2-diphenylethylene. Mixtures of one or more vinyl aromatic compounds may also be used. Preferred monomers are styrene and α-methylstyrene. Based on the total weight of the olefinically unsaturated monomers used in the latex polymer (I), the amount of vinyl aromatic compound can be from 0 to 80% by weight, preferably 0 to 70% by weight, more preferably 0 to 50% by weight, even more preferably 0 to 25% by weight, even more preferably 0 to 15% by weight, and most preferably 0 to 10% by weight. Therefore, the vinyl aromatic compound can be present in amounts not exceeding 80% by weight, not exceeding 75% by weight, not exceeding 70% by weight, not exceeding 65% by weight, not exceeding 60% by weight, not exceeding 55% by weight, not exceeding 50% by weight, not exceeding 45% by weight, not exceeding 40% by weight, not exceeding 35% by weight, not exceeding 30% by weight, not exceeding 25% by weight, not exceeding 20% ​​by weight, not exceeding 18% by weight, not exceeding 16% by weight, not exceeding 14% by weight, not exceeding 12% by weight, not exceeding 10% by weight, not exceeding 8% by weight, not exceeding 6% by weight, not exceeding 4% by weight, not exceeding 2% by weight, or not exceeding 1% by weight, based on the total weight of the olefinically unsaturated monomers used in the latex polymer (I). The vinyl aromatic compound may also be completely absent.

[0082] Furthermore, the mixture of olefinically unsaturated monomers used in the latex polymer (I) of the present invention may contain additional olefinically unsaturated monomers different from those described above. These monomers may be selected from...

[0083] e1) Alkyl esters of olefinic unsaturated acids;

[0084] e2) Hydroxyalkyl esters of olefinic unsaturated acids;

[0085] e3) Amides of olefinic unsaturated acids;

[0086] e4) Vinyl carboxylate;

[0087] e5) Alkoxyalkyl esters of olefinic unsaturated acids; and combinations thereof.

[0088] The vinyl ester monomers that can be used according to the present invention include vinyl acetate, vinyl propionate, vinyl butyrate, vinyl benzoate, vinyl-2-ethylhexanoate, vinyl stearate, and versatic acid vinyl ester. The most preferred vinyl ester monomer for use in the present invention is vinyl acetate. Typically, based on the total weight of the olefinically unsaturated monomers used in the latex polymer (I), the vinyl ester monomer may be present in amounts not exceeding 18 wt%, not exceeding 16 wt%, not exceeding 14 wt%, not exceeding 12 wt%, not exceeding 10 wt%, not exceeding 8 wt%, not exceeding 6 wt%, not exceeding 4 wt%, not exceeding 2 wt%, or not exceeding 1 wt%.

[0089] Alkyl esters of olefinic unsaturated acids that can be used according to the present invention include n-alkyl esters, isoalkyl esters, or tertiary alkyl esters of acrylic acid or (meth)acrylic acid, wherein the alkyl group has 1 to 20 carbon atoms, reaction products of methacrylic acid with glycidyl esters of new acids (such as tertiary carbonate, neodecanoic acid, or neopentanoic acid), and monomers of (meth)acrylic acid hydroxyalkyl esters and (meth)acrylic acid alkoxyalkyl esters.

[0090] Typically, preferred alkyl (meth)acrylates can be selected from (meth)acrylates C1-C. 10 Alkyl esters, preferably C1-C8 alkyl esters of (meth)acrylate. Examples of such acrylate monomers include n-butyl acrylate, sec-butyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate, hexyl acrylate, tert-butyl acrylate, 2-ethylhexyl acrylate, isooctyl acrylate, 4-methyl-2-pentyl acrylate, 2-methylbutyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate, butyl methacrylate, n-butyl methacrylate, isobutyl methacrylate, ethyl methacrylate, isopropyl methacrylate, hexyl methacrylate, cyclohexyl methacrylate, and cetyl methacrylate. Methyl methacrylate, ethyl methacrylate, propyl methacrylate, butyl methacrylate, 2-ethylhexyl methacrylate, and combinations thereof are preferred.

[0091] Typically, based on the total weight of the olefinic unsaturated monomers used in the latex polymer (I), the (meth)acrylate alkyl monomers may be present in amounts not exceeding 18% by weight, not exceeding 16% by weight, not exceeding 14% by weight, not exceeding 12% by weight, not exceeding 10% by weight, not exceeding 8% by weight, not exceeding 6% by weight, not exceeding 4% by weight, not exceeding 2% by weight, or not exceeding 1% by weight.

[0092] The olefinic unsaturated acid hydroxyalkyl esters that can be used to prepare the polymer latex of the present invention include hydroxyalkyl acrylate and hydroxyalkyl methacrylate monomers based on ethylene oxide, propylene oxide, and higher epoxides or mixtures thereof. Examples are hydroxyethyl acrylate, hydroxypropyl acrylate, hydroxyethyl methacrylate, hydroxypropyl methacrylate, and hydroxybutyl acrylate. Preferably, the (meth)acrylate hydroxyalkyl ester monomer is 2-hydroxyethyl (meth)acrylate. Typically, based on the total weight of the olefinic unsaturated monomers used in the latex polymer (I), the (meth)acrylate hydroxyalkyl ester monomer may be present in amounts not exceeding 18 wt%, not exceeding 16 wt%, not exceeding 14 wt%, not exceeding 12 wt%, not exceeding 10 wt%, not exceeding 8 wt%, not exceeding 6 wt%, not exceeding 4 wt%, not exceeding 2 wt%, or not exceeding 1 wt%.

[0093] The (meth)acrylate alkoxyalkyl ester monomers that can be used in this invention include methoxyethyl methacrylate, ethoxyethyl methacrylate, methoxyethyl methacrylate, ethoxyethyl acrylate, butoxyethyl methacrylate, methoxybutyl acrylate, and methoxyethoxyethyl acrylate. Preferred (meth)acrylate alkoxyalkyl ester monomers are ethoxyethyl acrylate and methoxyethyl acrylate. Typically, based on the total weight of the olefinically unsaturated monomers used in the latex polymer (I), the (meth)acrylate alkoxy(ethyl)alkyl ester monomers may be present in amounts not exceeding 18% by weight, not exceeding 16% by weight, not exceeding 14% by weight, not exceeding 12% by weight, not exceeding 10% by weight, not exceeding 8% by weight, not exceeding 6% by weight, not exceeding 4% by weight, not exceeding 2% by weight, or not exceeding 1% by weight.

[0094] Amides of olefinic unsaturated acids that can be used to prepare the polymer latex according to the present invention include acrylamide, methacrylamide, and diacetone acrylamide. Preferred amide monomers are (meth)acrylamide. To introduce self-crosslinking functional groups into the polymer particles of the present invention during heat treatment, monomers containing N-hydroxymethylamide groups can be used. Suitable monomers are N-hydroxymethyl (meth)acrylamide, N-methoxymethyl- (meth)acrylamide, N-n-butoxy-methyl- (meth)acrylamide, N-isobutoxy-methyl- (meth)acrylamide, N-acetoxymethyl- (meth)acrylamide, and N(-2,2-dimethoxy-1-hydroxyethyl)acrylamide. Typically, based on the total weight of the olefinic unsaturated monomers used in the latex polymer (I), the amide of the olefinic unsaturated acid can be present in amounts not exceeding 18 wt%, not exceeding 16 wt%, not exceeding 14 wt%, not exceeding 12 wt%, not exceeding 10 wt%, not exceeding 8 wt%, not exceeding 6 wt%, not exceeding 4 wt%, not exceeding 2 wt%, or not exceeding 1 wt%.

[0095] The mixture of olefinic unsaturated monomers for use in latex polymer (I) may contain:

[0096] a) 20 to 99% by weight of a conjugated diene, preferably selected from butadiene, isoprene and combinations thereof, more preferably butadiene;

[0097] b) 1 to 60% by weight of monomers selected from olefinic unsaturated nitrile compounds, preferably acrylonitrile;

[0098] c) 0.05 to 7% by weight of an olefinic unsaturated acid, preferably (meth)acrylic acid;

[0099] d) 0 to 40% by weight of vinyl aromatic monomers, preferably styrene;

[0100] e1) 0 to 25% by weight of (meth)acrylate C1 to C8 alkyl esters;

[0101] e3) 0 to 10% by weight of olefinic unsaturated compounds with amide groups;

[0102] e4) 0 to 10% by weight of vinyl esters:

[0103] The weight percentage is based on all monomers in the mixture.

[0104] According to the present invention, the total amount of the monomers defined above used in the preparation of the latex polymer (I) can reach 100% by weight.

[0105] According to the present invention, the mixture of olefinic unsaturated monomers to be polymerized in free radical emulsion polymerization may further comprise:

[0106] (a) 15 to 90% by weight of isoprene;

[0107] (b) 1 to 80% by weight of acrylonitrile;

[0108] (c) 0.01 to 10% by weight, preferably 0.05 to 10% by weight, of at least one olefinic unsaturated acid;

[0109] (d) 0 to 40% by weight of at least one aromatic vinyl compound, and

[0110] (e) 0 to 20% by weight of at least one other olefinic unsaturated compound different from any of compounds (a) to (d). The ranges of components (a) and / or (b) may be selected from the ranges described above for (a) the conjugated diene and (b) the unsaturated nitrile. Similarly, the specific embodiments and amounts of components (c), (d), and / or (e) may be selected from those described above for components (c), (d), and additional polymers.

[0111] The gel content of the latex polymer (I) may be less than 70% by weight, preferably less than 60% by weight, more preferably less than 50% by weight, and most preferably less than 40% by weight. The gel content disclosed throughout this application is measured as described in the experimental section.

[0112] The method for preparing the polymer latex (I) of the present invention:

[0113] The latex polymer (I) according to the invention can be prepared by any emulsion polymerization method known to those skilled in the art, provided that a monomer mixture as defined herein is used. Particularly suitable are methods as described in EP-A 792 891.

[0114] In the emulsion polymerization used to prepare the latex polymer (I) of the present invention, a seed latex may be used. The seed latex is preferably prepared separately and the emulsion polymerization is carried out in the presence of the separately prepared seed latex. The seed latex particles are preferably present in an amount of 0.01 to 10 parts by weight, preferably 1 to 5 parts by weight, based on the total olefinic unsaturated monomers used in 100 parts by weight of the polymer latex, including those used to prepare the seed particles, such as ethylene oxide functionalized latex particles (b). The lower limit of the amount of seed latex particles can therefore be 0.01, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 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, or 2.5 parts by weight. The upper limit of this quantity may be 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5.5, 5, 4.5, 4, 3.8, 3.6, 3.4, 3.3, 3.2, 3.1, or 3 parts by weight. Those skilled in the art will understand that any range formed by any explicitly disclosed lower and upper limits is expressly encompassed in this specification.

[0115] The method for preparing the above-mentioned latex polymer (I) can be carried out at a temperature of 0 to 130°C, preferably 0 to 100°C, particularly preferably 5 to 70°C, and very particularly preferably 5 to 60°C, in the absence of an emulsifier or in the presence of one or more emulsifiers, in the absence of a colloid or in the presence of one or more colloids and one or more initiators. The temperature includes all values ​​and sub-values ​​therebetween, particularly including 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 105, 110, 115, 120, and 125°C.

[0116] Initiators that can be used when carrying out this invention include water-soluble and / or oil-soluble initiators that are effective for polymerization. Representative initiators are those well known in the art and include, for example, azo compounds (e.g., AIBN, AMBN, and cyanopentanoic acid) and inorganic peroxide compounds, such as hydrogen peroxide, sodium, potassium, and ammonium peroxyhydrosulfates, peroxycarbonates, and peroxyborates, as well as organic peroxide compounds, such as alkyl hydroperoxides, dialkyl peroxides, acyl hydroperoxides, and diacyl peroxides, and esters, such as tert-butyl perbenzoate, and combinations of inorganic and organic initiators.

[0117] The initiator is used in sufficient quantity to initiate the polymerization reaction at the desired rate. Generally, an initiator amount of 0.01-5 wt%, preferably 0.1-4 wt%, is sufficient based on the total polymer weight. The most preferred amount of initiator is 0.01-2 wt%, based on the total polymer weight. The amount of initiator includes all values ​​and sub-values ​​within this range, particularly 0.01, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, and 4.5 wt%, based on the total polymer weight.

[0118] As is well known in the art, the aforementioned inorganic and organic peroxides can be used alone or in combination with one or more suitable reducing agents. Examples of such reducing agents that may be mentioned are sulfur dioxide, alkali metal metabisulfites, alkali metal bisulfites and ammonium bisulfite, thiosulfates, dithionites and formaldehyde sulfoxylates, and hydroxylamine hydrochloride, hydrazine sulfate, ferric(II) sulfate, cuprous naphthenate, glucose, sulfonic acid compounds such as sodium methanesulfonate, amine compounds such as dimethylaniline and ascorbic acid. More preferably, proprietary sodium salts of organic sulfinic acid derivatives, such as... FF6 or FF6M. The amount of reducing agent is preferably 0.03 to 10 parts by weight per part by weight of polymerization initiator.

[0119] Surfactants or emulsifiers suitable for stabilizing latex particles include those conventional surfactants used in polymerization methods. One or more surfactants can be added to the aqueous and / or monomeric phases. In seeding methods, the effective amount of surfactant is selected to support the stabilization of particles as colloids, minimize inter-particle contact, and prevent agglomeration. In non-seeding methods, the effective amount of surfactant is selected to influence particle size.

[0120] Representative surfactants include saturated and olefinically unsaturated sulfonic acids or their salts, including, for example, unsaturated hydrocarbon sulfonic acids such as vinyl sulfonic acid, allyl sulfonic acid, and methyl allyl sulfonic acid and their salts; aromatic hydrocarbon acids such as p-styrene sulfonic acid, isopropenylbenzene sulfonic acid, and ethyleneoxybenzene sulfonic acid and their salts; sulfoalkyl esters of acrylic acid and methacrylic acid, such as sulfoethyl methacrylate and sulfopropyl methacrylate and their salts, and 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid and their salts; alkylated diphenyl ether disulfonates, sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate and sodium dihexyl sulfosuccinate, sodium alkyl sulfonate salts, ethoxylated alkylphenols and ethoxylated alcohols; and fatty alcohol (poly)ether sulfates.

[0121] The type and amount of surfactant are typically determined by the number of particles, their size, and their composition. Generally, the amount of surfactant used is 0-20% by weight, preferably 0-10% by weight, and more preferably 0-5% by weight, based on the total weight of the monomers. The amount of surfactant based on the total weight of the monomers includes all values ​​and sub-values ​​therebetween, particularly including 0, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, and 19% by weight. According to one embodiment of the invention, polymerization is carried out without the use of a surfactant.

[0122] Various protective colloids can be used in place of the surfactants mentioned above, or in addition to the surfactants mentioned above. Suitable colloids include polyhydroxy compounds, such as partially acetylated polyvinyl alcohol, casein, hydroxyethyl starch, carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, polysaccharides and degraded polysaccharides, polyethylene glycol, and gum arabic. Preferred protective colloids are carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, and hydroxypropyl cellulose. Typically, these protective colloids are used in amounts of 0 to 10 parts by weight, preferably 0 to 5 parts by weight, and more preferably 0 to 2 parts by weight, based on the total weight of the monomers. The amount of protective colloid based on the total weight of the monomers includes all values ​​and sub-values ​​therebetween, particularly including 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9% by weight.

[0123] Those skilled in the art will understand that the type and amount of monomers, surfactants, and protective colloids with polar functional groups are selected to make the polymer latex according to the invention suitable for dip molding applications. Therefore, it is preferred that the polymer latex composition of the invention has a specific maximum electrolyte stability, determined to be less than 30 mmol / L CaCl2, preferably less than 25 mmol / L, more preferably less than 20 mmol / L, and most preferably less than 10 mmol / L critical coagulation concentration (determined at pH 10 and 23°C for compositions with a total solids content of 0.1%).

[0124] If the electrolyte stability is too high, it will be difficult for the polymer latex to coagulate during the dip molding process, resulting in the absence of a continuous polymer latex film on the dipped mold or uneven thickness of the resulting product.

[0125] Properly adjusting the electrolyte stability of polymer latex is routine practice for those skilled in the art. Electrolyte stability will depend on several factors, such as the amount and selection of monomers (especially those containing polar functional groups) used to prepare the polymer latex, and the selection and amount of the stabilizing system, such as the emulsion polymerization method used to prepare the polymer latex. The stabilizing system may contain surfactants and / or protective colloids.

[0126] Those skilled in the art can adjust the stabilizing system to achieve the electrolyte stability described in this invention, based on the monomers selected for preparing the polymer latex of this invention and their relative amounts.

[0127] Because there are many different effects on electrolyte stability, it is best to adjust it through trial and error. However, this can be easily accomplished without any inappropriate effort using the electrolyte stability testing methods disclosed above.

[0128] It is generally recommended to carry out emulsion polymerization in the presence of additional buffers and chelating agents. Suitable substances are, for example, alkali metal carbonates and bicarbonates, alkali metal phosphates and pyrophosphates (buffers), and alkali metal salts of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) or hydroxy-2-ethylenediaminetriacetic acid (HEEDTA) as chelating agents. The amounts of buffers and chelating agents are typically 0.001–1.0% by weight, based on the total amount of monomers.

[0129] Furthermore, the use of chain transfer agents (regulators) in emulsion polymerization can be advantageous. Typical agents are, for example, organosulfur compounds such as thioesters, 2-mercaptoethanol, 3-mercaptopropionic acid, and C1-C12-sulfur compounds. 12 Alkyl mercaptan, preferably n-dodecyl mercaptan and tert-dodecyl mercaptan. If present, the amount of chain transfer agent is typically 0.05-3.0% by weight, preferably 0.2-2.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the monomers used.

[0130] Furthermore, it is advantageous to introduce partial neutralization into the polymerization process. Those skilled in the art will understand that the necessary control can be achieved by appropriately selecting this parameter.

[0131] Crosslinking component (II)

[0132] According to the present invention, the crosslinking component (II) is selected from monomeric compounds, oligomers, or polymers. Suitable oligomers or polymers may be selected from polyethers, polyesters, acrylic polymers, and polyurethanes. Latex polymers may also be used as crosslinking component (II).

[0133] According to one aspect, the crosslinking component (II) includes a functional group (b) that is reactive with a functional group (a) on the latex polymer (I). The functional group (b) forms a thermally reversible linker upon reaction with the functional group (a) on the latex polymer (I), the thermally reversible linker being selected from one or more of the following:

[0134] (i) Connecting bases having the following structural formula:

[0135]

[0136] Where X is -O- or -NR 1 -,

[0137] n is 0 or 1,

[0138] R 1 It is a hydrogen or hydrocarbon group, and

[0139] R 2 It is a hydrocarbon group, and

[0140] (ii) β-hydroxy ester linker.

[0141] Those skilled in the art will understand that it is necessary to appropriately select the functional groups (a) in the latex polymer (I) and the functional groups (b) on the crosslinking component (II) to provide the thermally reversible linkers as defined above when the latex polymer (I) and the crosslinking component react with each other during the formation of the elastomer film.

[0142] According to the present invention, the functional group (b) may be selected from ethylene oxide groups, carboxylic acid groups, their salts or anhydrides, primary amine groups, and functional groups having the following structures:

[0143]

[0144] Where X, n, and R 1 and R 2 As defined above.

[0145] Suitable latex polymers as crosslinking component (II) can be prepared as described above for latex polymer (I), including specific selection of monomers and their relative amounts, provided that suitable olefinic unsaturated monomers with functional groups (b) are selected. In the monomer mixture of the suitable latex polymer as crosslinking component (II), the relative amount of olefinic unsaturated monomers containing functional groups (b) can be higher compared to the amount of olefinic unsaturated monomers containing functional groups (a) described for latex polymer (I). Specifically, the amount of olefinic unsaturated monomers containing functional groups (b) in the monomer mixture can be from 0.05 to 60 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the olefinic unsaturated monomers. Suitable upper limits are 55 wt.-%, 50 wt.-%, 45 wt.-%, 40 wt.-%, 35 wt.-%, 30 wt.-%, 25 wt.-%, or 20 wt.-%. Suitable lower limits are 0.1 wt.-% or 0.5 wt.-% or 1 wt.-% or 3 wt.-% or 5 wt.-% or 8 wt.-% or 10 wt.-% or 15 wt.-%. Those skilled in the art will recognize that any range defined by any of the above lower and upper limits is disclosed herein.

[0146] According to the present invention, the preferred functional group (a) is a carboxylic acid group, its salt or anhydride, and the functional group (b) is an ethylene oxide group.

[0147] According to the present invention, the crosslinking component (II) may be selected from...

[0148] - Polyethylene oxide functional latex particles

[0149] - Poly(ethylene oxide) functional monomers or oligomers, preferably selected from bis[2-(3,4-epoxycyclohexyl)ethyl]-tetramethyldisiloxane, bis[4-(glycidoxy)phenyl]methane, 1,5-bis(glycidoxypropyl)-3-phenyl-1,1,3,5,5-pentamethyltrisiloxane, 1,3-bis(glycidoxypropyl)tetramethyl-disiloxane, bisphenol A diglycidyl ether, bisphenol A propoxylated diglycidyl ether, bisphenol F diglycidyl ether, 1,3-butadiene diepoxide, 1,4 Butylene glycol diglycidyl ether, dicyclopentadiene dioxide, 1,2,5,6-diepoxycyclooctane, 1,2,7,8-diepoxyoctane, diglycidyl-1,2-cyclohexane dicarboxylate, N,N-diglycidyl-4-glycidyloxyaniline, glyceryl diglycidyl ether, 4,4′-methylenebis(N,N-diglycidylaniline), neopentyl glycol diglycidyl ether, resorcinol diglycidyl ether, tetra[(epoxycyclohexyl)ethyl]tetramethyl-cyclotetrasiloxane, tris(2,3-epoxypropyl)isocyanurate Ester, tris(glycidoxypropyldimethylsiloxy)-phenylsilane, tris(4-hydroxyphenyl)methane triglycidyl ether, trimethylolpropane triglycidyl ether, epoxycyclohexylethyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane, (epoxycyclohexylethylmethylsiloxane)dimethylsiloxane copolymer, epoxypropoxypropyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane, epoxypropoxypropyl-terminated polyphenylmethylsiloxane, epoxypropoxypropyl)dimethoxysilyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane, (epoxypropoxypropyl)-(di... Methylsiloxane copolymers, poly(bisphenol A-co-epiochlorohydrin), glycidyl-terminated poly(ethylene glycol) diglycidyl ether (various molecular weights), poly[(o-tolyl glycidyl ether)-co-formaldehyde], poly[(phenyl glycidyl ether)-co-formaldehyde], poly(propylene glycol) diglycidyl ether, preferably selected from: glycerol diglycidyl ether, tris(4-hydroxyphenyl)methane triglycidyl ether, (epoxycyclohexylethylmethylsiloxane) dimethylsiloxane copolymer or poly(ethylene glycol) diglycidyl ether (Mn = 500 Da).

[0150] Alternatively, the crosslinked component (II) may contain functional groups (b) and (c) that are different from each other, wherein the functional groups (c) on different molecules of component (II) are capable of reacting with each other. Suitable functional groups (c) may be selected from silane groups having multiple silicon-bonded hydroxyl groups and / or hydrolyzable groups, preferably selected from alkoxy groups, oxime groups, acyloxy groups, aminooxy groups and phosphate groups and selected from olefinic unsaturated groups, preferably (meth)acrylic acid groups.

[0151] Suitable crosslinking component (II) with functional groups (b) and (c) can be selected from

[0152] - An ethylene oxide-functional di- or trialkoxysilane, preferably selected from (3-glycidoxypropyl)trialkoxysilane;

[0153] - Primary amino-functionalized di- or trialkoxysilanes, preferably selected from (3-aminopropyl)trialkoxysilanes; and

[0154] - Ethylene oxide functionalized alkenes are unsaturated compounds, preferably glycidyl (meth)acrylate.

[0155] Aqueous polymer latex composition:

[0156] The aqueous polymer latex composition of the present invention can be prepared by first preparing a polymer latex comprising the latex polymer (I) as described above and then combining the obtained polymer latex with a crosslinking component (II). In the aqueous polymer latex composition of the present invention, the latex polymer (I) and the crosslinking component (II) may be present in a relative amount providing a molar ratio of functional group (b) to functional group (a) of 0.1 to 2, preferably 0.1 to 1.5, more preferably 0.2 to 0.9, and most preferably 0.3 to 0.6.

[0157] Various other additives and ingredients can be added to prepare the latex compositions of the present invention. Such additives include, for example, defoamers, wetting agents, thickeners, plasticizers, fillers, pigments, dispersants, fluorescent whitening agents, antioxidants, biocides, and metal chelating agents. Known defoamers include silicone oils and acetylenic glycol. Commonly known wetting agents include alkylphenol ethoxylates, alkali metal dialkyl sulfosuccinates, acetylenic glycol, and alkali metal alkyl sulfates. Typical thickeners include polyacrylates, polyacrylamide, xanthan gum, modified cellulose, or particulate thickeners such as silica and clay. Typical plasticizers include mineral oils, liquid polybutene, liquid polyacrylates, and lanolin. Titanium dioxide (TiO2), calcium carbonate, and clay are commonly used fillers. Preferably, the aqueous polymer latex composition is free of sulfur vulcanizing agents and sulfur vulcanizing accelerators and / or ZnO, and the pH of the aqueous polymer latex composition is optionally adjusted to 8.5 to 13, preferably 9 to 12.5, and most preferably in the range of 9.5 to 12.

[0158] It is also envisioned to introduce microbial agents or insecticides into latex compositions to help prevent cross-contamination where the latex serves as a shield between surfaces.

[0159] Alternatively, instead of compounding the polymer latex of the present invention, a polymer latex comprising the latex polymer (I) as defined above can be compounded in the same manner as described above, and a crosslinking component (II) as defined above can be added during or after the compounding step to provide the compounded latex composition of the present invention. Of course, all variations regarding the latex polymer (I), crosslinking component (II), and their relative amounts based on the total amount of latex polymer as described above can be applied.

[0160] Methods for preparing continuous elastomer membranes:

[0161] According to the present invention, a method for producing a continuous elastomer film includes:

[0162] A) Provides the above-defined aqueous polymer latex composition;

[0163] B) Forming a continuous polymer film from the aqueous polymer latex composition;

[0164] C) Optionally, dry the continuous polymer film obtained in step B);

[0165] D) Curing the continuous polymer film obtained in step B) or C) to form a continuous elastomer film; and

[0166] E) Optionally, the continuous elastomer film obtained in step D) is rolled into a roller.

[0167] According to the invention, the aqueous polymer latex composition from step (B) can be cast onto a substrate at a pre-selected thickness and then cured, preferably by heating, to form an elastomeric film, which is subsequently peeled off from the substrate. Casting can be performed using a conventional film casting machine. Drying and curing can be carried out simultaneously, for example, by using a radiant heater. Peeling off from the substrate can be done in a powdered or powder-free manner. After peeling, the cured elastomeric film can be rolled into a roll for transport and further processing. The method can be carried out as a continuous process using a moving substrate. The substrate is a moving belt, preferably a flexible material such as plastic, preferably a heat-resistant plastic such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or Teflon. However, other materials capable of providing a carrier to achieve film transfer between points of production can be used. Using this method, very thin films with a much lower thickness than those obtainable in dip molding methods can be produced at high linear speeds. Typically, the production line operates at a certain speed, wherein the film is cast at a speed of at least 3 mm per second and typically this speed can be 3-5 mm per second, 3-10 mm or 3-20 mm or up to 3-50 mm per second.

[0168] Alternatively, the aqueous polymer latex composition of the present invention is treated, preferably by heating or by using a heat-sensitizing agent, to promote the coagulation of the latex composition; the aqueous polymer latex composition is then diluted to a pre-selected solids content corresponding to a pre-selected film thickness, and in step (B), a rotating heated or cooled roller is contacted with the aqueous polymer latex composition to coagulate a polymer film on the roller surface, followed by curing the film, preferably by heating, to form an elastomeric film, and the resulting elastomeric film is peeled off from the roller. Suitable heat-sensitizing agents are those known to those skilled in the art and can be selected from any compound that promotes latex coagulation upon temperature change. Suitable heat-sensitizing agents can be selected from polysiloxanes, guanidines, or any type of coagulant that can control the film thickness so that a thin film can be formed. A thin film is defined as having a thickness typically less than 1 mm, preferably less than 0.5 mm, more preferably less than 0.05 mm, and even more preferably less than 0.02 mm. Coagulation can be performed on a heat-resistant surface such as glass or, more preferably, ceramic, and the film is then transferred to a flexible carrier, such as a belt of plastic like biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP), to achieve the roll forming of the condensed film. Alternatively, coagulation can be performed on a heat-resistant flexible carrier such as PTFE or Teflon moving belt, where coagulation can occur at a stage of the production process, and then, once coagulated and formed, the film is transferred, using the same belt, to a roll forming process, where the film is rolled into a final roll of material (e.g., sheet or steel carrier roll) for transport to the user or for storage to be processed into a final product. For the final roll forming, the formed film can be peeled from the carrier using a powdered or powder-free method, and the cured elastomeric film is then rolled into rolls for transport and further processing. However, it is envisioned that in some cases the film can remain on the carrier surface, which may be a thin plastic layer, and then the roll forming process forms a protective layer on the carrier, which can be peeled off when the film is to be processed.

[0169] According to a further variation of the method of the present invention, the aqueous polymer latex composition is diluted to a pre-selected solids content corresponding to a pre-selected film thickness. A heated roller is then contacted and dried with a coagulant solution containing polyvalent cations. Subsequently, in step (B), the heated roller is contacted with the aqueous polymer latex composition to coagulate a polymer film on the roller surface. This film is then cured to form an elastomeric film, and the resulting elastomeric film is peeled off from the roller. Typically, the flexible carrier is a flexible material such as a polymer like BOPP or even a heat-resistant material such as Teflon or PTFE. Peeling from the roller can be performed in a powdered or powder-free manner. After peeling, the cured elastomeric film can be rolled into a roll for transport or further processing.

[0170] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the heat sensitization of the aqueous polymer latex composition or the application of a coagulant to coat the substrate can also be combined with the first embodiment of the method of the present invention described above.

[0171] The method of the present invention can produce a continuous elastomer film with a thickness of 0.03-3.00 mm, preferably 0.03-0.60 mm, and most preferably 0.04-0.40 mm.

[0172] A particular advantage of the present invention is that, due to the thermal processing properties of the elastomer film of the present invention, as described below regarding the method of preparing elastomer articles, any waste material obtained in the production or processing of the continuous elastomer film of the present invention, or any other elastomer material containing the thermally reversible linker of the present invention, can be recycled to prepare the continuous elastomer film of the present invention.

[0173] Therefore, the present invention also relates to a method for producing a continuous elastomer film by forming an elastomer material into a continuous film, the elastomer material comprising one or more thermally reversible bonding groups selected from:

[0174] (i) Connecting bases having the following structural formula:

[0175]

[0176] Where X is -O- or -NR 1 -,

[0177] n is 0 or 1,

[0178] R 1 It is a hydrogen or hydrocarbon group, and

[0179] R 2 It is a hydrocarbon group; and

[0180] (ii) β-hydroxy ester linker;

[0181] The material is formed into a continuous film by subjecting it to a pressure of 1-20 MPa and a temperature of 40°C to 200°C, and optionally the continuous elastomer film is rolled into a roll.

[0182] Method for preparing elastomer products

[0183] The present invention further relates to a method for preparing an elastomer article by means of the following manner

[0184] - Align the two separate continuous elastomer films of the present invention;

[0185] - Cut aligned continuous elastomeric membranes into a pre-selected shape to obtain a stack of two elastomeric membranes in that pre-selected shape; and

[0186] - The elastomer film is laminated together at least a pre-selected portion of the periphery of the laminate to form an elastomer article.

[0187] The joining is carried out by means of heat treatment, preferably selected from heat sealing and welding or by adhesive bonding.

[0188] Cutting can also be performed using a heatable template cutting device, which provides a pre-selected shape and heats the area of ​​the cutting device in contact with the elastomeric film, bonding the films together in this area, thereby simultaneously cutting the elastomeric film into the pre-selected shape and heat-sealing the pre-selected portion of the periphery of the stacked elastomeric film. Alternatively, a laser cutting machine can be used. The applied temperature range can be 120°C to 180°C, preferably 130°C to 160°C, and more preferably 160°C to 190°C, with 180°C typically used for production. The cutting device is preferably pressed against the stacked elastomeric film with a pressure of at least 1 MPa for at least 1 second. If the temperature is higher, the pressure used can be lower, and this is optimized according to the required production speed. Typically, a production rate of 45,000 pieces per hour is required. The cutting and sealing process can be matched to the production speed of known impregnation methods, and it also has the advantage of requiring a lower production rate due to the shorter length of the growth line to avoid the drying time required during the impregnation method. Laser cutting of the article shape is also envisioned. Cold laser cutting allows for the cutting of parts for further processing, such as sealing, while hot laser cutting allows for both cutting and sealing to form the final product. The outline of the part to be produced can be input using a CAD system, allowing for the creation of pre-programmed part outlines for production runs. The use of laser systems has the advantage of avoiding the markings and fouling associated with compression and sealing methods.

[0189] The articles typically prepared using the methods of the present invention are infinite, but preferred articles are selected from surgical gloves, examination gloves, industrial gloves, and household gloves, single-purpose gloves, textile-supported gloves, catheters, elastomeric sleeves (which can be used on medical inserts such as stents or medical probes), and condoms.

[0190] The present invention will be further illustrated with reference to the following embodiments.

[0191] Determination of physical parameters:

[0192] The dispersion was characterized by measuring total solids content (TSC), pH value, gel content, viscosity (Brookfield LVT), and z-mean particle size. In addition, the tensile properties of the final membrane were tested.

[0193] Determination of gel content:

[0194] The latex sample for testing was sieved through a white filter cloth to remove any skin or coagulation. The latex film was then cast onto a glass plate and spread using a spreader until a film thickness of approximately 0.1–0.3 mm was achieved.

[0195] Place the glass plate in an air-circulating oven at 55–60°C for 2 hours. After drying, remove the polymer from the plate and cut it into small pieces. Weigh approximately 1 gram of the dried polymer into a 175 mL wide-mouth glass flask and record the polymer weight. Then add 100 mL (±1 mL) of MEK (methyl ethyl ketone) and a magnetic stir bar. Seal the flask with the cap and place it on a magnetic stirrer in a water bath set to 35°C. Stir for 16 hours. Afterward, remove the sample from the water bath and allow it to cool to ambient temperature. Accurately weigh the shallow foil cup. Let the flask stand for a period of time to separate the solvent and undissolved polymer. Filter 15 mL of the solution through filter paper into a clear glass container, and then transfer 5 mL of this solution to the shallow foil cup using a pipette. Place the cup under an IR lamp (115–120°C) in a fume hood for 30 minutes. Finally, remove the cup from the IR lamp and allow it to cool to room temperature, then weigh it again.

[0196] Calculation of gel content:

[0197] Weight of dried sample = A

[0198] The weight of the shallow foil cup = B

[0199] The weight of the shallow foil cup plus the dry contents equals C.

[0200] TSC% (W / V) of solvent = (CB) ×100=D

[0201] Total weight of dissolved polymer (in 100 ml) = 100 × D / 100 = E

[0202] Gel content % = (1 - E / A) × 100

[0203] Determination of Total Solids (TSC):

[0204] Total solids content was determined by gravimetric method. 1-2 g of the dispersion was weighed onto a balanced aluminum pan using an analytical balance. The pan was stored in a circulating air oven at 120°C for 1 hour until a constant mass was reached. After cooling to room temperature, the final weight was determined. The solids content was calculated as follows:

[0205]

[0206] Where, m 初始 = Initial mass of latex

[0207] m 最终 =Mass after drying

[0208] pH value measurement:

[0209] pH values ​​were determined according to DIN ISO 976. After two-point calibration using a buffer solution, the electrodes of the Schott CG 840 pH meter were immersed in a dispersion at 23°C, and the constant value displayed on the screen was recorded as the pH value.

[0210] Viscosity determination:

[0211] Latex viscosity was determined at 23°C using a Brookfield LVT viscometer. Approximately 220 mL of liquid (air-free) was filled into a 250 mL beaker, and the viscometer spindle was immersed until the mark on the spindle was reached. The viscometer was then turned on, and the value was recorded after approximately 1 minute until it became constant. The viscosity range determines the selection of the spindle and rotation speed, as well as the factor used to calculate the recorded viscosity value. Information regarding the spindle used and the revolutions per minute is shown in parentheses.

[0212] Particle size (PS) determination:

[0213] The z-mean particle size was measured using dynamic light scattering with a Malvern Zetasizer Nano S (ZEN 1600). The latex sample was diluted with deionized water to the turbidity level described in the manual and transferred to test cuvettes. The cuvettes were gently mixed to homogenize the sample and then placed in the measuring apparatus. The values ​​were recorded as the software-generated z-mean particle size.

[0214] Cast film preparation:

[0215] The glass plate was cleaned by first washing it with detergent, then rinsing it with deionized water, and finally drying it in an air-circulating oven set at 65-70°C. A properly cleaned baffle arrangement was then placed on the slide, and an aliquot of the desired latex mixture was carefully poured into the baffle to prevent any air bubbles from being trapped, in an amount sufficient to produce a film approximately 1 mm thick upon drying. The latex was initially allowed to dry at room temperature and humidity for 3 days. The film was then carefully removed from the glass plate and annealed in an air-circulating oven set at 90°C for 24 hours to ensure complete drying and promote cross-linking formation.

[0216] Preparation of impregnated film:

[0217] The acrylic latex containing the compounded materials is stirred at room temperature and at the desired pH for at least 3 hours, and then impregnated with the accelerator as follows:

[0218] Wash the ceramic spatula with soap, then rinse thoroughly with deionized water, and dry it in an air-circulating oven set at 65-70°C (spatula temperature, 55-60°C) until dry. Prepare a coagulant solution by dissolving calcium nitrate (18 wt%) and calcium carbonate (2 wt%) in deionized water. Then immerse the dry spatula in the salt solution, remove it, and dry it in an air-circulating oven set at 70-75°C (spatula temperature, 60-65°C) until dry. Then immerse the salt-coated spatula in the desired latex mixture (total solids content of 18 wt% and cured at room temperature for 24 hours after mixing) for 5 seconds, remove it, and place the latex-coated spatula in an air-circulating oven set at 100°C for 1 minute to allow the membrane to gel. The gelled film was then washed in a deionized water tank set at 50-60°C for 1 minute, and then cured in an air-circulating oven set at 120°C for 20 minutes. After that, the cured / vulcanized film was cooled and manually removed from a spatula. The gloves made from the latex underwent a heat-sealing process and their tensile strength properties were tested.

[0219] Cast film preparation:

[0220] The acrylonitrile latex containing the compounded materials at the desired pH value was stirred at room temperature for at least 3 hours, and then cast onto the substrate using an automated film applicator (TQC Sheen AB4420 type) as follows:

[0221] Using a wire-wound bar coater with a diameter of 150 μm, a compounded acrylonitrile latex is cast at a speed greater than 3 mm / s onto a substrate selected from biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) plastic with a texture commonly used for glove impregnation, or a ceramic tile or ceramic spatula (from Ceramtec, type 1614A with an SR40FF texture). Optionally, a coagulant layer is also applied after the latex casting process. The process is similar to that mentioned above in the impregnation film preparation, wherein a coagulant solution is prepared and the spatula is subsequently immersed in the solution, removed, and then dried in an air-circulating oven set at 70–75 °C (spatula temperature, 60–65 °C) until dry. After the casting process, gelation of the film is carried out at 65 °C for 10 minutes. The gelled film is then washed in a deionized water tank set at 50–60 °C for 1 minute, and then cured in an air-circulating oven set at 120 °C for 20 minutes; the thus cured / cured film is then cooled and peeled off from the substrate. The film prepared from latex will undergo a heat-sealing process.

[0222] Sealing with impregnated or cast film:

[0223] A single sheet of BOPP plastic with a smaller size is placed between two sheets of impregnated or cast film to seal only the two long and one short edges of the overlapping film. The film containing the BOPP plastic is placed between two polished steel plates and then extruded for a certain period of time at certain pressures and temperatures stated in each embodiment. After hot extrusion, the formed rubber article is cooled, and the BOPP plastic is removed / peeled. The sealed rubber article is then tested for leaks using a water leak test.

[0224] Determination of tensile strength properties of cross-linked (vulcanized) elastomer samples:

[0225] The tensile properties of cross-linked (vulcanized) or recycled elastomer films were tested according to ISO 37-77 (5th edition, 2011-12-15). Dumbbell-shaped samples were cut from gloves prepared from each latex compound using an ISO 37-2 cutter (width of the narrow section = 4 mm, length of the narrow section = 25 mm, total length = 75 mm, thickness of the dumbbell listed in the results table) and tested at an elongation rate of 500 mm / min on a Hounsfield HK10KS tension meter equipped with an H500LC extensometer.

[0226] Water leak test:

[0227] Fill a sealed impregnated or cast membrane with 30 mL of water, suspend the membrane using a clamp, and observe for leaks for at least 2 hours. This test duration is significantly longer than the ASTM standard (ASTM D5151), which uses only 2 minutes for testing water leaks in pores of medical gloves.

[0228] The following abbreviations are used in the embodiments:

[0229] BA = n-Butyl acrylate

[0230] MAA = Methacrylic acid

[0231] Bd = 1,3-Butadiene (butadiene)

[0232] ACN = Acrylonitrile

[0233] GMA = glycidyl methacrylate

[0234] tDDM = tert-dodecylthiol

[0235] Na4EDTA = Tetrasodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate

[0236] tBHP = tert-butyl hydroperoxide

[0237] TSC = Total Solids

[0238] PS = Granularity

[0239] ZnO = Zinc oxide

[0240] ZDEC = Zinc diethyldithiocarbamate

[0241] In the following text, unless otherwise stated, all portions and percentages are based on weight. Example

[0242] Example 1: Preparation of carboxylated nitrile latex

[0243] Two parts by weight (based on polymer solids) of ethylene oxide-free seed latex (average particle size 36 nm) and 80 parts by weight of water (based on 100 parts by weight of monomers including seed latex) were added to a nitrogen-purged autoclave and then heated to 30°C. Then, 0.01 parts by weight of Na₄EDTA and 0.005 parts by weight of [unspecified ingredient] dissolved in the 2 parts by weight of water were added. FF6, then add 0.08 parts by weight of sodium persulfate dissolved in 2 parts by weight of water. Then, over 4 hours, add the monomers (35 parts by weight of acrylonitrile, 58 parts by weight of butadiene, and 5 parts by weight of methacrylic acid) along with 0.6 parts by weight of tDDM. Over 10 hours, add 2.2 parts by weight of sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate, 0.2 parts by weight of tetrasodium pyrophosphate, and 22 parts by weight of water. After 9 hours, add 0.13 parts by weight of sodium persulfate dissolved in 8 parts by weight of water. FF6 activator feed. Maintain the temperature at 30°C until 95% conversion is achieved, yielding a total solids content of 45%. Stop polymerization briefly by adding 0.08 parts by weight of a 5% diethylhydroxylamine aqueous solution. Adjust the pH to 7.5 using potassium hydroxide (5% aqueous solution) and remove residual monomers by vacuum distillation at 60°C. Add 0.5 parts by weight of Wingstay L-type antioxidant (60% dispersion in water) to the feed latex, and adjust the pH to 8.2 by adding a 5% potassium hydroxide aqueous solution.

[0244] The following characterization results were obtained for Example 1:

[0245] TSC = 44.9% by weight

[0246] pH = 8.2

[0247] Viscosity = 38 mPas (1 / 60)

[0248] Particle size, P z =121nm

[0249] Gel content = 0%

[0250] Example 2: Preparation of ethylene oxide functional latex

[0251] Add 185 parts by weight of water (relative to 100 parts by weight of monomer) and 2.0 parts by weight of diphenyl ether disulfonate (heated to 70°C) to a nitrogen-purged autoclave. Add 0.1 parts by weight of tDDM and 0.05 parts by weight of Na4EDTA to the initial charge, along with 0.7 parts by weight of ammonium persulfate (12% solution in water) added using aliquot feeding. Then add a solution of 45.4 parts by weight of butadiene, 14.6 parts by weight of acrylonitrile, and 5.0 parts by weight of diphenyl ether disulfonate dissolved in 50 parts by weight of water over a 6.5-hour cycle. The addition of 40 parts by weight of GMA begins after 1 hour and is added over a 6.5-hour cycle. After the monomer addition, maintain the temperature at 70°C. Continue polymerization until conversion reaches 99%. Cool the reaction mixture to room temperature and sieve through a 90 μm filter.

[0252] The following characterization results were obtained for Example 2:

[0253] TSC = 37.7% by weight

[0254] pH = 7.1

[0255] Gel content = 96%

[0256] Viscosity = 15 mPas (1 / 60)

[0257] Particle size, P z =39nm

[0258] Example 3 (Comparative)

[0259] The pH of a portion of the latex from Example 1 was adjusted to 10 using an aqueous potassium hydroxide solution, and then compounded with 1 phr of zinc oxide, 1 phr of titanium dioxide, 0.8 phr of sulfur, and 0.7 phr of ZDEC. The compound was then adjusted to a concentration of 18% by weight solids and stirred for 3 hours. A dried, salt-coated spatula was then immersed in the compounded latex solution for 5 seconds, and the film was gelled at 100°C for 1 minute, washed with deionized water for 1 minute (in a tank set at 50-60°C), and subsequently dried and cured / vulcanized in an air-circulating oven set at 120°C for 20 minutes to ensure complete drying and crosslinking formation. The tensile properties of the cured film were then tested and are presented in Table 1. Two separately impregnated films were placed between two polished steel plates and then extruded at 5.8 MPa at 100°C for 10 minutes and at 180°C for 90 seconds, respectively. After hot extrusion, the films were cooled. For both sealing conditions, the unsealed edges and the sample cannot withstand the water leakage test.

[0260] Example 4:

[0261] The latex sample of Example 2 was added to the latex sample of Example 1 to make a blend ratio of 90:10 by wet weight. The blend was adjusted to pH 11.5 with potassium hydroxide solution and stirred for 3 hours. It was then dried, salt-coated, and processed according to the procedure given in Example 3. The tensile properties of the cured film were then tested and are presented in Table 1. Two separate impregnated films were placed between two polished steel plates and then extruded at 5.8 MPa and 100°C for 10 minutes. After hot extrusion, the films were cooled and tested for water leakage. 30 mL of water was filled into the sealed film, which was then suspended using a clamp and leaks were observed for at least 2 hours. No leaks were observed after 2 hours.

[0262] Example 5:

[0263] The latex sample of Example 2 was added to the latex sample of Example 1 to make a blend ratio of 90:10 by wet weight. The blend was adjusted to pH 10.0 with potassium hydroxide solution and mixed with zinc oxide (1 phr). The blend was then stirred for 3 hours and then dried, salt-coated, and processed according to the procedure given in Example 1. Two separate impregnated membranes were placed between two polished steel plates and then pressed at 180°C for 90 seconds at 5.8 MPa. After hot pressing, the membranes were cooled and tested for water leakage. 30 mL of water was filled into the sealed membrane, which was then suspended using a clamp and the leakage was observed for at least 2 hours. No leakage was observed after 2 hours.

[0264] Table 1 (Impregnated film):

[0265] Example Tensile strength (MPa) Elongation at break (%) Thickness (mm) Example 3 27.2 564 0.054 Example 4 27.3 563 0.054 Example 5 30.1 562 0.054

[0266] Example 6:

[0267] The latex sample from Example 2 was added to the latex sample from Example 1 to achieve a blending ratio of 90:10 by wet weight. The blend was adjusted to pH 10.0 using potassium hydroxide solution and mixed with zinc oxide (1 phr). The blend was then stirred for 3 hours and cast onto BOPP plastic as a substrate using a 150 μm wire-wound bar applicator at a casting speed of 5 mm / s onto an automated film applicator. After casting, the film was gelled at 65°C for 10 minutes. The gelled film was then washed in a deionized water tank set to 50–60°C for 1 minute, followed by drying and curing / vulcanizing in an air-circulating oven set to 120°C for 20 minutes. The cured / vulcanized film was then cooled and peeled off from the substrate. The tensile properties of the films prepared from the latex were then tested and are presented in Table 2. Two separately impregnated membranes were placed between two polished steel plates and then pressed at 5.8 MPa and 100°C for 10 minutes and 180°C for 90 seconds, respectively. After hot pressing, the membranes were cooled and subjected to a water leakage test. 30 mL of water was filled into the sealed membrane, which was then suspended using a clamp and leaks were observed for at least 2 hours. No leaks were observed after 2 hours for both sealing conditions.

[0268] Table 2

[0269] Example Tensile strength (MPa) Elongation at break (%) Thickness (mm) Example 6 21.4 645 0.040

Claims

1. A method for producing a continuous elastomer film, comprising: A) Provides an aqueous polymer latex composition comprising: (I) Particles of a latex polymer, obtained by free radical emulsion polymerization of a mixture of olefinically unsaturated monomers, said particles having multiple functional groups, and (II) A crosslinked component containing multiple functional groups, at least one of which is reactive with functional groups on latex polymer particles; B) Forming a continuous polymer film from the aqueous polymer latex composition; C) Optionally, dry the continuous polymer film obtained in step B); D) Curing the continuous polymer film obtained in step B) or C) to form a continuous elastomer film; and E) Optionally, the continuous elastomer film obtained in step D) is rolled into a roller shape, wherein The cured film contains one or more thermally reversible bonding groups selected from the following: (i) Connecting bases having the following structural formula: Where X is -O- or -NR 1 -, n is 0 or 1, R 1 It is a hydrogen or hydrocarbon group, and R 2 It is a hydrocarbon group; and (ii) -Hydroxy ester linker.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the mixture of olefinically unsaturated monomers for the latex polymer (I) comprises a) 15 to 99% by weight of conjugated dienes; b) 1 to 80% by weight of olefinic unsaturated nitrile compounds; c) 0.05 to 10% by weight of an olefinic unsaturated compound having a functional group (a), wherein the olefinic unsaturated compound having a functional group (a) is selected from... - An alkene unsaturated compound containing a functional group having the following structure: Where X, n, and R 1 and R 2 As defined in claim 1; - Unsaturated alkene compounds with primary amino groups; -Al unsaturated ethylene oxide compounds; -Alkenes are unsaturated carboxylic acids and their salts; -Al-unsaturated polycarboxylic anhydrides; - Polycarboxylic acid metaester monomers and their salts; d) 0 to 80% by weight of vinyl aromatic monomers; and e) 0 to 65% by weight of copolymerizable olefinic unsaturated compounds. The monomers a) to e) are different from each other and the weight percentages are based on all the monomers in the mixture.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the aqueous polymer latex composition comprises: (I) Particles of a latex polymer, obtained by free radical emulsion polymerization of a mixture of olefinically unsaturated monomers, said particles having a plurality of functional groups (a), and (II) A crosslinked component comprising multiple functional groups, wherein the functional groups are selected from functional group (b) or a combination of functional groups (b) and (c) that are different from each other, wherein - Functional group (b) reacts with functional group (a) to form a thermally reversible linker selected from one or more of the following: (i) Connecting bases having the following structural formula: Where X is -O- or -NR 1 -, n is 0 or 1, R 1 It is a hydrogen or hydrocarbon group, and R 2 It is a hydrocarbon group; and (ii) -hydroxy ester linker; and - The functional groups (c) on different molecules of component (II) can react with each other.

4. The method according to claim 2, wherein a) The conjugated diene is selected from butadiene, isoprene, 2,3-dimethyl-1,3-butadiene, 2-ethyl-1,3-butadiene, 1,3-pentadiene, myrcene, ocimene, farnesene, and combinations thereof; b) The olefinic unsaturated nitrile compound is selected from (meth)acrylonitrile, -Cyanoethyl acrylonitrile, fumaron, -Chloronitriles and combinations thereof; and d) Vinyl aromatic monomers are selected from styrene, -Methylstyrene, vinyltoluene, and combinations thereof; e) The copolymerizable olefinic unsaturated compound is selected from... e1) Alkyl esters of olefinic unsaturated acids; e2) Hydroxyalkyl esters of olefinic unsaturated acids; e3) Amides of olefinic unsaturated acids; e4) Vinyl carboxylate; e5) Alkoxyalkyl esters of olefinic unsaturated acids; and Functional group (b) is selected from ethylene oxide groups, carboxylic acid groups, their salts or anhydrides, primary amine groups, and functional groups having the following structures: Where X, n, and R 1 and R 2 As defined in claim 1.

5. The method according to claim 3, wherein - The functional group (a) is a carboxylic acid group, its salt, or an anhydride; - The functional group (b) is an ethylene oxide group, and -Functional group(c) is selected if it exists. - A silane group containing multiple silicon-bonded hydroxyl groups and / or hydrolyzable groups; and - An alkene is an unsaturated group.

6. The method according to claim 3, wherein the latex polymer (I) and the crosslinking component (II) are present in a relative amount providing a molar ratio of functional group (b) to functional group (a) of 0.1 to 2.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the crosslinking component (II) is selected from... - Polyethylene oxide functional latex particles - Polyethylene oxide functional monomers or oligomers; -Ethylene oxide-functionalized alkenes are unsaturated compounds; -Ethylene oxide-functionalized di- or trialkoxysilanes; - Primary amino functional di- or trialkoxysilanes.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the gel content of the latex polymer (I) is less than 70% by weight.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the aqueous polymer latex composition further comprises an adjuvant selected from defoamers, wetting agents, thickeners, plasticizers, fillers, pigments, dispersants, fluorescent whitening agents, antioxidants, biocides, and metal chelating agents and combinations thereof.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein - The aqueous polymer latex composition from step (B) is cast onto a substrate at a pre-selected thickness and then cured to form an elastomer film, which is subsequently peeled off from the substrate; or - The aqueous polymer latex composition is treated to promote coagulation; the aqueous polymer latex composition is diluted to a pre-selected solids content corresponding to a pre-selected film thickness; and in step (B), a heated or cooled roller is contacted with the aqueous polymer latex composition to coagulate a polymer film on the roller surface, followed by curing the film to form an elastomeric film, and the resulting elastomeric film is peeled off from the roller; or - Dilute the aqueous polymer latex composition to a preselected solids content corresponding to a preselected film thickness, contact and dry a heated roller with a coagulant solution containing polyvalent cations, then contact the heated roller with the aqueous polymer latex composition in step (B) to coagulate a polymer film on the roller surface, then cure the film to form an elastomer film and peel the obtained elastomer film off the roller.

11. A method for producing a continuous elastomer film by forming an elastomer material into a continuous film, the elastomer material comprising one or more thermally reversible bonding groups selected from: (i) Connecting bases having the following structural formula: Where X is -O- or -NR 1 -, n is 0 or 1, R 1 It is a hydrogen or hydrocarbon group, and R 2 It is a hydrocarbon group; and (ii) -Hydroxy ester linker; The material is subjected to a pressure of 1-20 MPa and a temperature of 40°C to 200°C to form a continuous film, and optionally the continuous elastomer film is rolled into a roll. The elastomer material is prepared from an aqueous polymer latex composition, the composition comprising: (I) Particles of a latex polymer, obtained by free radical emulsion polymerization of a mixture of olefinically unsaturated monomers, said particles having multiple functional groups, and (II) A crosslinked component containing multiple functional groups, at least one of which is reactive with functional groups on latex polymer particles.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein the elastomer material is prepared from the aqueous polymer latex composition according to any one of claims 2-9.

13. A continuous elastomer membrane obtained by the method of any one of claims 1-12.

14. The continuous elastomer membrane according to claim 13, having a thickness of 0.03 to 3.00 mm.

15. A method for preparing an elastomer article by means of the following manner - Align the two separate continuous elastomer films as described in claim 13 or 14; - Cut aligned continuous elastomeric membranes into a pre-selected shape to obtain a stack of two elastomeric membranes in that pre-selected shape; and - The elastomer film is laminated together at least a pre-selected portion of the periphery of the laminate to form an elastomer article.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the joining is performed by using thermal measures or by adhesive bonding.

17. The method of claim 15 or 16, wherein the cutting is performed by a heatable template cutting device or a laser cutter, thereby providing a pre-selected shape and heating the cutting device in the area of ​​contact with the elastomeric membrane, in which the membranes are joined together, thereby simultaneously cutting the elastomeric membrane into the pre-selected shape and heat-sealing a pre-selected portion of the periphery of the superimposed elastomeric membrane.

18. Article obtained by the method of any one of claims 15-17.

19. The article of claim 18, wherein the article is selected from surgical gloves, examination gloves, industrial gloves, household gloves, single-purpose gloves, textile-supported gloves, catheters, elastomer sleeves, and condoms.

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