Cyclobutanediol copolyester compositions with improved paint resistance, chemical resistance and weather resistance

Abstract

The present invention relates to a copolyester composition comprising an impact modifier component comprising one or more polymers comprising ethylene, an alkyl acrylate and glycidyl (meth) acrylate (E-AA-G (M) A) and having improved chemical resistance and / or UV resistance, while maintaining thermal and impact properties, including when molded into thick cross-sections; relates to a method for preparing the copolyester composition and an article prepared from the copolyester composition.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Copolyesters containing cyclobutanediol residues have been commercialized and have demonstrated excellent toughness as measured by the notched cantilever beam impact test (a standard method for measuring toughness). However, these copolyesters may fail in a brittle manner under certain conditions, such as when coated with certain paints, when exposed to certain chemicals, after exposure to sunlight, or when molded into thick sections.

[0003] There is a need for improved copolyester compositions that are resistant to degradation of certain properties of the copolyester composition after exposure to certain paints, chemicals, sunlight, or when molded into thick sections. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The applicant unexpectedly discovered an improved copolyester composition comprising an effective amount of a combination of certain impact modifiers, which can be used to prepare articles such as films, sheets, molded parts or profiles, and can eliminate embrittlement that may occur when such articles are coated with certain paints, exposed to certain chemicals, exposed to sunlight, or when molded into thick sections.

[0005] In one aspect, a copolyester composition is provided comprising: (a) about 50% to about 95% by weight of a copolyester, said copolyester comprising: (i) Diacid components, which include 70 mol% to 100 mol% of terephthalic acid residues, 0 mol% to 30 mol% of modified aromatic diacid residues having 8 to 12 carbon atoms, and 0 mol% to 10 mol% aliphatic dicarboxylic acid residues; and (ii) a diol component, which includes 45 mol% to 95 mol% of cyclohexanediethanol (CHDM) residues, 5 mol% to 65 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethylcyclobutane-1,3-diol (TMCD) residues, and 0 mol% to 10 mol% of modified diols having 2 to 20 carbon atoms; The intrinsic viscosity of the copolyester is 0.5 dL / g to 1.2 dL / g, which was determined at 25°C at a concentration of 0.5 g / 100 ml in 60 / 40 (wt / wt) phenol / tetrachloroethane. The weight percentage is based on the weight of the copolyester, and The total molar percentage of the dicarboxylic acid component is 100 mol%, and the total molar percentage of the diol component is 100 mol%; and (b) About 5% by weight to about 20% by weight of an impact modifier component comprising one or more polymers, said one or more polymers comprising ethylene (E), alkyl acrylate (AA) and glycidyl (GMA and / or GA) groups, wherein the weight ratio of alkyl acrylate to glycidyl (GMA) is about 3.0:1 to about 9.0:1; The copolyester composition wherein the heat distortion temperature (HDT) is at least 75°C; and The copolyester composition has a notched cantilever beam impact strength of 600 joules / meter or greater, or 700 joules / meter or greater, as measured according to ASTM D256.

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

[0007] In the implementation scheme, the AA group is a group formed from a compound having the following structure:

[0008] Wherein R1 is an alkyl group having 1-8 carbon atoms, preferably 1-4 carbon atoms, more preferably 1-2 carbon atoms, and most preferably 1 carbon atom. R2 is H, CH3 or C2H5, preferably H or CH3, and most preferably H.

[0009] In the implementation scheme, the AA group is a group formed from methyl acrylate.

[0010] In the embodiments, the GMA and / or GA (also referred to as "G(M)A") groups are groups of glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) or glycidyl acrylate (GA). In the embodiments, the GMA and / or GA groups are groups of glycidyl methacrylate (GMA).

[0011] In one embodiment, the impact modifier comprises a terpolymer of ethylene, alkyl acrylate, and glycidyl methacrylate (E-AA-GMA). In another embodiment, the impact modifier is a terpolymer of ethylene, alkyl acrylate, and glycidyl methacrylate (E-AA-GMA). The E-AA-GMA terpolymer is a terpolymer of ethylene, methyl acrylate, and glycidyl methacrylate (E-MA-GMA).

[0012] In one embodiment, the ethylene, alkyl acrylate, and glycidyl methacrylate impact modifier component is obtained by blending a terpolymer of ethylene, alkyl acrylate, and glycidyl methacrylate (E-AA-GMA) with a copolymer of ethylene and alkyl acrylate (E-AA). In another embodiment, the ethylene, alkyl acrylate, and glycidyl methacrylate impact modifier component is obtained by blending a terpolymer of ethylene, methyl acrylate, and glycidyl methacrylate (E-MA-GMA) with a copolymer of ethylene and methyl acrylate (E-MA).

[0013] In one embodiment, the E-AA-GMA terpolymer contains 10 to 40% by weight, or 14 to 34% by weight, or 16 to 32% by weight, or 18 to 30% by weight, or 20 to 28% by weight, or 22 to 26% by weight of alkyl acrylate (e.g., methyl acrylate). In another embodiment, the E-AA-GMA terpolymer contains 1% to 25% by weight, or 2% to 20% by weight, or 2% to 18% by weight, or 2% to 16% by weight, or 2% to 14% by weight, or 4% to 12% by weight, or 6% to 10% by weight of glycidyl methacrylate. In yet another embodiment, the E-AA copolymer contains 10% to 40% by weight, or 14% to 34% by weight, or 16% to 32% by weight, or 18% to 30% by weight, or 20% to 28% by weight, or 22% to 26% by weight of alkyl acrylate (e.g., methyl acrylate).

[0014] In the embodiments, the ethylene, alkyl acrylate, and glycidyl methacrylate impact modifier components are present in an amount of 5% to 10% by weight, or 5% to 9% by weight, or 5% to 8% by weight, or 5% to 7% by weight of the copolyester composition, and the weight ratio of the E-AA-GMA terpolymer to the E-AA copolymer is 0.7 to 2.0:1, or 0.7 to 1.5:1, or 0.7 to 1.1:1, or 0.8 to 2.0:1, or 0.8 to 1.5:1, or 0.8 to 1.1:1, or 0.9 to 2.0:1, or 0.9 to 1.5:1, or 0.9 to 1.1:1.

[0015] In one embodiment, the impact modifier component does not contain a core-shell impact modifier. In another embodiment, the copolyester composition contains a core-shell impact modifier.

[0016] In some embodiments, the diol component comprises 60 mol% to 95 mol% of cyclohexanediol residues and 5 mol% to 40 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethylcyclobutane-1,3-diol residues. In some embodiments, the diol component comprises 70 mol% to 95 mol% of cyclohexanediol residues and 5 mol% to 30 mol%, or 10 mol% to 30 mol%, or 15 mol% to 30 mol%, or 20 mol% to 30 mol%, or 15 mol% to 25 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethylcyclobutane-1,3-diol residues. In some embodiments, the diol component comprises 60 mol% to 75 mol% of cyclohexanediol residues and 25 mol% to 40 mol%, or 30 mol% to 40 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethylcyclobutane-1,3-diol residues.

[0017] In the implementation scheme, the inherent viscosity of the copolyester is 0.55 dL / g to 0.85 dL / g, or 0.55 dL / g to 0.65 dL / g, or 0.60 dL / g to 0.70 dL / g, or 0.65 dL / g to 0.80 dL / g, or 0.65 dL / g to 0.75 dL / g.

[0018] In some embodiments, the copolyester composition further comprises a chain extender. In certain embodiments, the chain extender comprises a multifunctional epoxide chain extender.

[0019] In one embodiment, the copolyester composition has a notched cantilever beam impact strength of at least 700, or 725, or 750, or 775, or 800, or 825, or 850 joules / meter or greater as measured according to ASTM D256. In one embodiment, the copolyester composition exhibits 100% ductile behavior when tested according to ASTM D256.

[0020] In the embodiments, the copolyester composition has a notched charpy impact strength of 400, 500, or 600 joules / meter or greater, as measured using ½” thick strips according to ASTM D6110.

[0021] In the embodiments, the copolyester composition has a notched simply supported beam impact strength of 400, 500, or 600 joules / meter or greater, as measured according to ASTM D6110, for a ½” thick strip aged in an oven at 80°C for 72 hours.

[0022] In another aspect, an article is provided comprising a copolyester composition comprising one or more embodiments or any combination of such embodiments described herein. In the embodiments, the article is in the form of a film, sheet, molded part, or profile. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The invention can be more readily understood by referring to the following detailed description of certain embodiments and working examples of the invention.

[0024] Certain embodiments of the invention have been described in the summary of the invention and are further described below for the purposes of this invention. Furthermore, other embodiments of the invention are described herein.

[0025] This invention provides a copolyester composition comprising a cyclobutanediol copolyester and an impact modifier component, said impact modifier component comprising one or more polymers including ethylene, alkyl acrylates (e.g., methyl acrylate), and glycidyl (meth)acrylate, wherein said copolyester composition exhibits resistance to degradation of certain properties of the copolyester composition after exposure to certain paints, chemicals, sunlight, or when molded into thick sections. In embodiments, the resistance to degradation of certain properties of the copolyester composition is resistance to embrittlement, or wherein the copolyester composition retains toughness (or impact resistance) after exposure to certain chemicals or sunlight.

[0026] In this embodiment, using a 3.2 mm thick injection strip and an applied stress of 1.8 MPa, the copolyester composition has a heat distortion temperature (HDT) of at least 75°C. In this embodiment, the copolyester composition has a notched cantilever beam impact strength of 600 joules / meter or greater, or 700 joules / meter or greater, as measured according to ASTM D256.

[0027] In embodiments, the present invention relates to a combination of copolyester compositions having good toughness, relatively high HDT, good flowability during molding (i.e., a viscosity that allows good flowability during molding, for example, in thin molds), and resistance to or avoidance of embrittlement after exposure to certain chemicals (e.g., acrylic paints or canola oil) or UV light (or sunlight), articles made therefrom, and methods for preparing said compositions and articles.

[0028] This invention relates to the use of certain classes of impact modifiers to improve or maintain good impact properties while preventing embrittlement after exposure to certain chemicals (such as acrylic paints or canola oil) or UV light (or sunlight). The impact modifier component comprises one or more polymers containing ethylene, alkyl acrylates, and glycidyl (meth)acrylate. When the impact modifier is added in appropriate concentrations with a copolyester, the copolyester composition, according to ASTM D256, has a notched cantilever beam impact strength greater than about 600 joules / meter, or 650 joules / meter, or 700 joules / meter, or 750 joules / meter, or 800 joules / meter, or 850 joules / meter or greater, while preventing embrittlement after exposure to certain chemicals or UV light.

[0029] In an embodiment, based on the total weight of the copolyester composition, the copolyester composition comprises an amount of impact modifier component of 5% to 20% by weight, or 5% to 15% by weight, or 5% to 10% by weight.

[0030] In the embodiments, in the ethylene, alkyl acrylate, and glycidyl (meth)acrylate impact modifier components, the weight ratio of alkyl acrylate to glycidyl (meth)acrylate, or AA:G(M)A, is within the following ranges: about 2.0:1 to about 10.0:1, or about 2.0:1 to about 9.0:1, or about 2.0:1 to about 8.0:1, or about 2.0:1 to about 7.0:1, or about 2.0:1 to about 6.0:1, or about 3.0:1 to about 10.0:1, or about 3.0:1 to about 9.0:1, or about 3.0:1 to about 8.0:1, or about 3.0:1 to about 7.0:1, or about 3.0:1 to about 6.0:1, or about 4.0:1 to about 10.0:1, or about 4.0:1 to about 9.0:1. Or about 4.0:1 to about 8.0:1, or about 4.0:1 to about 7.0:1, or about 4.0:1 to about 6.0:1, or about 5.0:1 to about 10.0:1, or about 5.0:1 to about 9.0:1, or about 5.0:1 to about 8.0:1, or about 5.0:1 to about 7.0:1, or about 5.0:1 to about 6.0:1, or about 6.0:1 to about 10.0:1, or about 6.0:1 to about 9.0:1, or about 6.0:1 to about 8.0:1, or about 6.0:1 to about 7.0:1, or about 7.0:1 to about 10.0:1, or about 7.0:1 to about 9.0:1, or about 7.0:1 to about 8.0:1, or about 8.0:1 to about 10.0:1, or about 8.0:1 to about 9.0:1.

[0031] In the embodiments, the weight ratio of alkyl acrylate to glycidyl methacrylate, or AA:G(MA)A, in the ethylene, alkyl acrylate, and glycidyl methacrylate impact modifier components is in the range of about 2.0:1 to about 10.0:1, or about 3.0:1 to about 9.0:1, or about 3.0:1 to about 6.0:1. In the embodiments, the impact modifier component comprises ethylene, methyl acrylate, and glycidyl methacrylate, and the weight ratio of methyl acrylate to glycidyl methacrylate (MA:GMA) is in the range of about 2.0:1 to about 10.0:1, or about 3.0:1 to about 9.0:1, or about 3.0:1 to about 6.0:1.

[0032] In the implementation scheme, the ethylene, alkyl acrylate, and glycidyl methacrylate impact modifier component is obtained by blending a terpolymer of ethylene, alkyl acrylate, and glycidyl methacrylate (E-AA-GMA) with a copolymer of ethylene and methyl acrylate (E-AA).

[0033] In the implementation scheme, E-AA-G(M)A and E-AA may be present in the following weight ratio of E-AA-G(M)A:E-AA: 0.1 to 2.5:1, or 0.2 to 2.5:1, or 0.3 to 2.5:1, or 0.4 to 2.5:1, or 0.5 to 2.5:1, or 0.6 to 2.5:1, or 0.7 to 2.5:1, or 0.8 to 2.5. :1, or 0.9 to 2.5:1, or 1 to 2.5:1, or 0.1 to 2:1, or 0.2 to 2:1, or 0.3 to 2:1, or 0.4 to 2:1, or 0.5 to 2:1, or 0.6 to 2:1, or 0.7 to 2:1, or 0.8 to 2:1, or 0.9 to 2:1, or 1 to 2:1, or 0.1 to 1.5:1, or 0.2 to 1.5:1, or 0. 3 to 1.5:1, or 0.4 to 1.5:1, or 0.5 to 1.5:1, or 0.6 to 1.5:1, or 0.7 to 1.5:1, or 0.8 to 1.5:1, or 0.9 to 1.5:1, or 1 to 1.5:1, or 0.1 to 1.2:1, or 0.2 to 1.2:1, or 0.3 to 1.2:1, or 0.4 to 1.2:1, or 0.5 to 1.2: 1. Or 0.6 to 1.2:1, or 0.7 to 1.2:1, or 0.8 to 1.2:1, or 0.9 to 1.2:1, or 1 to 1.2:1, or 0.1 to 1:1, or 0.2 to 1:1, or 0.3 to 1:1, or 0.4 to 1:1, or 0.5 to 1:1, or 0.6 to 1:1, or 0.7 to 1:1, or 0.8 to 1:1, or 0.9 to 1:1.

[0034] In some embodiments, based on the total weight of the copolyester composition, the copolyester composition comprises a terpolymer of E-AA-G(M)A and a copolymer of E-AA in a combined amount of 5% to 8% by weight, and E-AA-G(M)A and E-AA may be present in the following weight ratios of E-AA-G(M)A:E-AA: 0.5 to 2.5:1, or 0.6 to 2.5:1, or 0.7 to 2.5:1, or 0.8 to 2.5:1, or 0.9 to 2.5:1, or 1 to 2.5:1, or 0.5 to 2:1, or 0.6 to 2:1, or 0.7 To 2:1, or 0.8 to 2:1, or 0.9 to 2:1, or 1 to 2:1, or 0.5 to 1.5:1, or 0.6 to 1.5:1, or 0.7 to 1.5:1, or 0.8 to 1.5:1, or 0.9 to 1.5:1, or 1 to 1.5:1, or 0.5 to 1.2:1, or 0.6 to 1.2:1, or 0.7 to 1.2:1, or 0.8 to 1.2:1, or 0.9 to 1.2:1, or 1 to 1.2:1, or 0.5 to 1:1, or 0.6 to 1:1, or 0.7 to 1:1, or 0.8 to 1:1, or 0.9 to 1:1.

[0035] In the embodiments, the copolyester composition comprises E-AA-G(M)A and E-AA, and at least one additional impact modifier different from E-AA-G(M)A and E-AA.

[0036] In this embodiment, the copolyester composition contains an impact modifier component in an amount sufficient to provide a composition that reduces or prevents embrittlement after exposure to certain chemicals or UV light. In this embodiment, when tested as described in the Examples section below, the copolyester composition passed impact tests after exposure to acrylic enamel and / or canola oil, with no fracture observed in three repeated tests. In this embodiment, according to ASTM D6395, after 168 hours of exposure to a xenon arc, the copolyester composition exhibits impact resistance of at least 40 kJ / m², or at least 45 kJ / m², or at least 50 kJ / m², or at least 55 kJ / m², or at least 60 kJ / m², as described more fully below in the Examples section.

[0037] In embodiments, the alkyl acrylate may contain an alkyl group having 1-8 carbon atoms, preferably 1-4 carbon atoms, more preferably 1-2 carbon atoms, and most preferably 1 carbon atom. In embodiments, the alkyl acrylate may contain methyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate, or butyl acrylate. In a preferred embodiment, the alkyl acrylate is methyl acrylate.

[0038] In the embodiments, the copolyester composition has an HDT of at least 75°C, or at least 77°C, or at least 79°C, as determined according to ASTM D648 using an injection strip of 3.2 mm thickness and an applied stress of 1.82 MPa.

[0039] In one embodiment, the copolyester composition has a viscosity of less than 4000 poise, or less than 3950 poise, or less than 3900 poise, or less than 3875 poise, or less than 3850 poise, measured at 280°C using a Rheometrics Dynamic Analyzer (RDA II) with parallel plates according to ASTM D4440, at a shear rate of 400 rad / s. In another embodiment, the copolyester composition has a viscosity of less than 4000 poise, or less than 3950 poise, or less than 3875 poise, measured at 280°C using a Rheometrics Dynamic Analyzer (RDA II) with parallel plates according to ASTM D4440, at a shear rate of 400 rad / s. D4440 measurements at 280°C for 3000 to 4000 poises, or 3000 to 3950 poises, or 3000 to 3900 poises, or 3000 to 3875 poises, or 3000 to 3850 poises, or 3100 to 4000 poises, or 3100 to 3950 poises, or 3100 to 3900 poises, or 3100 to 3875 poises, or 3100 to 3850 poises, or 3200 to 4000 poises, or 3200 to 3950 poises, or 3200 to 3900 poises, or 3200 to 3875 poises, or 3200 to 3800 poises. Viscosities within the range of 50 poise, or 3300 to 4000 poise, or 3300 to 3950 poise, or 3300 to 3900 poise, or 3300 to 3875 poise, or 3300 to 3850 poise, or 3400 to 4000 poise, or 3400 to 3950 poise, or 3400 to 3900 poise, or 3400 to 3875 poise, or 3400 to 3850 poise, or 3500 to 4000 poise, or 3500 to 3950 poise, or 3500 to 3900 poise, or 3500 to 3875 poise, or 3500 to 3850 poise.

[0040] In the embodiments, the copolyester composition has a flexural modulus of at least 1250, or at least 1300, or at least 1350, or at least 1400, or at least 1450 MPa, measured according to ASTM D790 procedure A at a beam movement speed of 1.27 mm / min using a 3.2 mm thick injection strip (conditioned for 48 hours at 23°C and 50% RH prior to testing). In the embodiments, the copolyester composition has a flexural modulus in the range of 1250 MPa to 1600 MPa, or 1250 MPa to 1550 MPa, or 1300 MPa to 1600 MPa, or 1300 MPa to 1550 MPa, or 1350 MPa to 1600 MPa, or 1350 MPa to 1600 MPa, or 1350 MPa to 1550 MPa, or 1400 MPa to 1600 MPa, or 1400 MPa to 1550 MPa, or 1450 MPa to 1600 MPa, or 1400 MPa to 1550 MPa, or 1400 MPa to 1550 MPa, as measured according to ASTM D790 procedure A at a beam movement speed of 1.27 mm / min using a 3.2 mm thick injection strip (conditioned at 23°C and 50% RH for 48 hours prior to testing).

[0041] In the embodiments, the copolyester composition has a notched cantilever beam impact strength of at least 700, or 725, or 750, or 775, or 800, or 825, or 850 joules / meter or greater, measured according to ASTM D256 Test Method A using a 3.2 mm thick injection-molded strip (machine-notched with a notch radius of 0.25 mm, then conditioned for 48 hours at 23°C and 50% RH after notching and before testing), and a hammer weight of 2.7 joules or 13.6 joules according to ASTM methods, depending on the inherent brittleness of the sample. In the embodiments, the copolyester composition has a concentration of 700 joules / meter to 1000 joules / meter, or 700 joules / meter to 950 joules / meter, or 700 joules / meter to 900 joules / meter, or 725 joules / meter to 1000 joules / meter, or 725 joules / meter to 950 joules / meter, or 725 joules / meter to 900 joules / meter, or 750 joules / meter to 1000 joules / meter, or 750 joules / meter to 950 joules / meter, or 750 joules / meter to 900 joules / meter, or 775 joules / meter to 1000 joules / meter, or 775 joules / meter to 950 joules / meter. Impact strength of notched cantilever beams within the range of 0 J / m, or 775 J / m to 900 J / m, or 800 J / m to 1000 J / m, or 800 J / m to 950 J / m, or 800 J / m to 900 J / m, or 825 J / m to 1000 J / m, or 825 J / m to 950 J / m, or 825 J / m to 900 J / m, or 850 J / m to 1000 J / m, or 850 J / m to 950 J / m, or 850 J / m to 900 J / m, according to ASTM D256 Test Method A uses a 3.2 mm thick injection-molded strip (machine-notched with a notch radius of 0.25 mm, then conditioned for 48 hours at 23°C and 50% RH after notching and before testing) and a hammer weight of 2.7 joules or 13.6 joules, depending on the inherent brittleness of the sample, according to ASTM methods.

[0042] In the embodiments, the copolyester composition has a simply supported beam impact strength of at least 400 J / m, or at least 450 J / m, or at least 500 J / m, or at least 550 J / m, or at least 600 J / m, or at least 650 J / m, which is measured according to ASTM D6110 using a 12.7 mm thick injection-molded strip (cut to a length of 63 mm and machine-notched with a notch radius of 0.10 mm or 0.25 mm, conditioned at 23°C and 50% RH for 48 hours after notching and before testing) with a span of 51 mm and a hammer weight of 15 joules. In the embodiments, the copolyester composition has a simply supported beam impact strength in the range of 400 J / m to 800 J / m, or 400 J / m to 750 J / m, or 450 J / m to 800 J / m, or 450 J / m to 750 J / m, or 500 J / m to 800 J / m, or 500 J / m to 750 J / m, or 550 J / m to 800 J / m, or 550 J / m to 750 J / m, or 600 J / m to 800 J / m, or 600 J / m to 750 J / m, or 650 J / m to 800 J / m, or 650 J / m to 750 J / m, or 650 J / m to 750 J / m, according to ASTM D6110, using a 12.7 mm thick injection-molded strip (cut to a length of 63 mm and machine-notched, with a notch radius of 0.10 mm or 0.25 mm). (Measurements were made using a 51 mm span and a 15 joule hammer weight, after notching and conditioning at 23°C and 50% RH for 48 hours before testing).

[0043] In the embodiments, the copolyester composition has a simply supported beam impact strength of at least 400 J / m, or at least 450 J / m, or at least 500 J / m, or at least 550 J / m, or at least 600 J / m, or at least 625 J / m, or at least 650 J / m, which is measured according to ASTM D6110 using a 12.7 mm thick injection-molded strip (cut to a length of 63 mm and machine-notched with a notch radius of 0.10 mm or 0.25 mm, conditioned at 80°C and 50% RH for 72 hours after notching and before testing) with a span of 51 mm and a hammer weight of 15 joules. In the embodiments, the copolyester composition has a simply supported beam impact strength in the range of 400 J / m to 800 J / m, or 400 J / m to 750 J / m, or 450 J / m to 800 J / m, or 450 J / m to 750 J / m, or 500 J / m to 800 J / m, or 500 J / m to 750 J / m, or 550 J / m to 800 J / m, or 550 J / m to 750 J / m, or 600 J / m to 800 J / m, or 600 J / m to 750 J / m, or 625 J / m to 800 J / m, or 625 J / m to 750 J / m, or 650 J / m to 800 J / m, or 650 J / m to 750 J / m, which is 12.7 according to ASTM D6110. The injection strip, 63 mm thick (cut to a length and machine-notched with a radius of 0.10 mm or 0.25 mm, conditioned for 72 hours at 80°C and 50% RH after notching and before testing), was measured using a 51 mm span and a 15 joule hammer weight.

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

[0045] In the embodiments, based on the weight of the E-BA-GMA terpolymer, the butyl acrylate (BA) content of the E-BA-GMA terpolymer, measured by FTIR, is in the range of 14 wt% to 34 wt%, or 16 wt% to 32 wt%, or 18 wt% to 30 wt%, or 20 wt% to 28 wt%, or 22 wt% to 26 wt%, or 23 wt% to 25 wt%. In the embodiments, based on the weight of the E-BA-GMA terpolymer, the glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) content of the E-BA-GMA terpolymer, measured by FTIR, is in the range of 2 wt% to 14 wt%, or 2 wt% to 6 wt%, or 4 wt% to 12 wt%, or 6 wt% to 10 wt%, or 7 wt% to 9 wt%.

[0046] In some embodiments, the E-MA-GMA terpolymer may be a commercially available product, such as LOTADER® AX8900, LOTADER® AX8930 (from SK Corporation), or Igetabond BF-7L or BF-7M (from Sumitomo). In some embodiments, the E-BA-GMA terpolymer may be a commercially available product, such as LOTADER® AX8700 or LOTADER® AX8750.

[0047] In the implementation scheme, based on the weight of the E-MA copolymer, the methyl acrylate (MA) content of the E-MA copolymer is measured by FTIR and is in the range of 14% to 34% by weight, or 16% to 32% by weight, or 18% to 30% by weight, or 20% to 28% by weight, or 22% to 26% by weight, or 23% to 25% by weight.

[0048] In the implementation scheme, based on the weight of the E-BA copolymer, the butyl acrylate (BA) content of the E-BA copolymer is measured by FTIR and is in the range of 14% to 34% by weight, or 16% to 32% by weight, or 18% to 30% by weight, or 20% to 28% by weight, or 22% to 26% by weight, or 23% to 25% by weight.

[0049] In some embodiments, the E-MA copolymer may be a commercially available product, such as LOTRYL® 24MA07T, 24MA02T, 24MA02, 24MA005, 20MA08, 18MA02, 29MA03T, 29MA03, or 28MA07 (from SK Corporation). In some embodiments, the E-BA copolymer may be a commercially available product, such as LOTRYL® 28BA175, 28BA175T, 30BA02, or 35BA40 (from SK Corporation).

[0050] In some embodiments, the impact modifier component includes at least one additional impact modifier. Examples of additional impact modifiers that may be included in the impact modifier component in some embodiments include core-shell polymers, wherein the core is composed of a rubbery polymer and the shell is composed of a styrene copolymer.

[0051] Examples of other impact modifiers that may be used include, but are not limited to, ethylene / propylene terpolymers; styrene-based block copolymer impact modifiers; and various acrylic core / shell impact modifiers. Residues of such additives are also intended to be part of the polyester composition.

[0052] Other examples of commercially available impact modifiers include: Modiper® 4300 and Modiper® 4400 are from Nippon Oil & Fat Corporation; KaneAce® M300 is from Kaneka Americas Holding, Inc.; Kane Ace® B564 is from Kaneka Americas Holding, Inc.; Kane Ace® ECO 1000 is from Kaneka Americas Holding, Inc.

[0053] The copolyesters that can be used in this invention contain aromatic diacid residues and residues of two or more diols.

[0054] As used herein, the term "copolyester" is intended to include "polyester" and should be understood to mean a synthetic polymer prepared by reacting one or more difunctional and / or polyfunctional carboxylic acids with one or more difunctional and / or polyfunctional hydroxy compounds. Typically, the difunctional carboxylic acid can be a dicarboxylic acid, and the difunctional hydroxy compound can be a dihydric alcohol, such as a diol. Furthermore, as used herein, the interchangeable terms "diacid" or "diacarboxylic acid" include polyfunctional acids, such as branching agents. As used herein, the term "diol" includes, but is not limited to, diols, diols, and / or polyfunctional hydroxy compounds. Optionally, the difunctional carboxylic acid can be a hydroxycarboxylic acid, such as p-hydroxybenzoic acid, and the difunctional hydroxy compound can be an aromatic nucleus with two hydroxyl substituents, such as hydroquinone. As used herein, the term "residue" means any organic structure introduced into the polymer from the corresponding monomer through polycondensation and / or esterification reactions. As used herein, the term "repeating unit" refers to an organic structure having a dicarboxylic acid residue and a diol residue bonded by a carbonyloxy group. Thus, for example, a dicarboxylic acid residue can be derived from a dicarboxylic acid monomer or its associated acyl halide, ester, salt, anhydride, or mixture thereof. Therefore, as used herein, the term "dicarboxylic acid" is intended to include dicarboxylic acids and any derivatives thereof, including their associated acyl halide, ester, half-ester, salt, half-salt, anhydride, mixed anhydride, or mixture thereof, which can be used in reactions with diols to prepare polyesters. As used herein, the term "terephthalic acid" is intended to include terephthalic acid itself and its residues, as well as any derivatives thereof, including their associated acyl halide, ester, half-ester, salt, half-salt, anhydride, mixed anhydride, or mixture thereof, or residues thereof, which can be used in reactions with diols to prepare polyesters. The term "modified aromatic diacid" refers to an aromatic dicarboxylic acid other than terephthalic acid. The term "modified diol" refers to diols other than cyclohexanediol (CHDM) or 2,2,4,4-tetramethylcyclobutane-1,3-diol (TMCD).

[0055] In one embodiment, terephthalic acid may be used as a starting material. In another embodiment, dimethyl terephthalate may be used as a starting material. In yet another embodiment, a mixture of terephthalic acid and dimethyl terephthalate may be used as a starting material and / or an intermediate material.

[0056] The copolyesters used in this invention are typically prepared from dicarboxylic acids and diols, which react in substantially equal proportions and are introduced into the copolyester polymer as their respective residues. Therefore, the copolyesters of this invention may contain substantially equimolar proportions of acid residues (100 mol%) and diol (and / or polyfunctional hydroxyl compound) residues (100 mol%), such that the total number of repeating units is equal to 100 mol%. Thus, the molar percentages provided in this disclosure may be based on the total number of moles of acid residues, the total number of moles of diol residues, or the total number of moles of repeating units. For example, a copolyester containing 30 mol% isophthalic acid based on total acid residues means that the copolyester contains 30 mol% isophthalic acid residues in a total of 100 mol% acid residues. Therefore, there are 30 moles of isophthalic acid residues in every 100 moles of acid residues. In another example, a copolyester containing 30 mol% 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol based on total glycol residues means that the copolyester contains 30 mol% 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol residues out of a total of 100 mol% glycol residues. Therefore, there are 30 mol% 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol residues per 100 mol% of glycol residues.

[0057] In an embodiment, the copolyester comprises 70 mol% to 100 mol% terephthalic acid (TPA). Optionally, the copolyester comprises 80 mol% to 100 mol% TPA, or 90 mol% to 100 mol% TPA, or 95 mol% to 100 mol% TPA, or 100 mol% TPA. For the purposes of this disclosure, the terms "terephthalic acid" and "dimethyl terephthalate" are used interchangeably herein.

[0058] In addition to terephthalic acid, the dicarboxylic acid component of the copolyesters used in this invention may also contain up to 30 mol%, up to 20 mol%, up to 10 mol%, up to 5 mol%, or up to 1 mol% of one or more modified aromatic dicarboxylic acids. Another embodiment contains 0 mol% of the modified aromatic dicarboxylic acid. Therefore, if present, the amount of one or more modified aromatic dicarboxylic acids is contemplated to be within any of these foregoing endpoints, including, for example, 0.01 mol% to 30 mol%, 0.01 mol% to 20 mol%, 0.01 mol% to 10 mol%, 0.01 mol% to 5 mol%, and 0.01 mol% to 1 mol%. In one embodiment, the modified aromatic dicarboxylic acids used in this invention include, but are not limited to, those having up to 20 carbon atoms, and may be linear, para-oriented, or symmetrical. Examples of modified aromatic dicarboxylic acids that can be used in this invention include, but are not limited to, isophthalic acid, 4,4'-biphenyl dicarboxylic acid, 1,4-naphthalenedicarboxylic acid, 1,5-naphthalenedicarboxylic acid, 2,6-naphthalenedicarboxylic acid, 2,7-naphthalenedicarboxylic acid, and trans-4,4'-stilbene dicarboxylic acid and their esters. In one embodiment, the modified aromatic dicarboxylic acid is isophthalic acid.

[0059] The carboxylic acid component of the copolyester used in this invention may be further modified with up to 10 mol%, such as up to 5 mol% or up to 1 mol%, of one or more aliphatic dicarboxylic acids containing 2 to 16 carbon atoms, such as malonic acid, succinic acid, glutaric acid, adipic acid, pimelic acid, octanoic acid, azelaic acid, and dodecanoic acid dicarboxylic acid. Some embodiments may also contain 0.01 mol% or more, such as 0.1 mol% or more, 1 mol% or more, 5 mol% or more, or 10 mol% or more of one or more modified aliphatic dicarboxylic acids. Another embodiment contains 0 mol% of modified aliphatic dicarboxylic acid. Therefore, if present, the amount of one or more modified aliphatic dicarboxylic acids is expected to be within any of these foregoing endpoint values, including, for example, 0.01 mol% to 10 mol% and 0.1 mol% to 10 mol%. The total mol% of the dicarboxylic acid component is 100 mol.

[0060] Esters of terephthalic acid and other modified dicarboxylic acids, or their corresponding esters and / or salts, may be used instead of dicarboxylic acids. Suitable examples of dicarboxylic acid esters include, but are not limited to, dimethyl esters, diethyl esters, dipropyl esters, diisopropyl esters, dibutyl esters, and diphenyl esters. In one embodiment, the ester is selected from at least one of the following: methyl esters, ethyl esters, propyl esters, isopropyl esters, and phenyl esters.

[0061] Based on the total molar percentage of diol residues or diacid residues, the copolyesters used in the copolyester compositions of the present invention may contain 0 mol% to 10 mol%, for example, 0.01 mol% to 5 mol%, 0.01 mol% to 1 mol%, 0.05 mol% to 5 mol%, 0.05 mol% to 1 mol%, or 0.1 mol% to 0.7 mol% of one or more residues of branching monomers (also referred to herein as branching agents) having three or more carboxyl substituents, hydroxyl substituents, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the branching monomers or branching agents may be added before and / or during and / or after polyester polymerization. Therefore, the copolyesters used in the present invention may be linear or branched.

[0062] Examples of branched monomers include, but are not limited to, polyfunctional acids or alcohols such as trimellitic acid, trimellitic anhydride, pyromellitic dianhydride, trimethylolpropane, glycerol, pentaerythritol, citric acid, tartaric acid, 3-hydroxyglutaric acid, etc. In one embodiment, the branched monomer residues may comprise 0.1 mol% to 0.7 mol% of one or more residues selected from at least one of: trimellitic anhydride, pyromellitic dianhydride, glycerol, sorbitol, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, pentaerythritol, trimethylolethane, and / or pyromellitic acid. Branched monomers may be added to a polyester reaction mixture or blended with a polyester in the form of a concentrate, as described, for example, in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,654,347 and 5,696,176, the disclosures of which regarding branched monomers are incorporated herein by reference.

[0063] In one embodiment, CHDM can be 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol. 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol can be cis, trans, or a mixture thereof, for example, a cis / trans ratio of 60:40 to 40:60. In another embodiment, trans-1,4-cyclohexanediethanol can be present in an amount of 60 mol% to 80 mol%. Optionally, 1,2-cyclohexanediethanol and / or 1,3-cyclohexanediethanol can be used alone or in combination with each other and / or in combination with 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol.

[0064] The diol component of the copolyester portion of the copolyester composition that can be used in various embodiments may contain a modified diol that is not CHDM or TMCD; in one embodiment, the copolyester that can be used in the present invention may contain less than 15 mol%, or 10 mol% or less of one or more modified diols.

[0065] The modified diol used in the copolyester used in the embodiments refers to a diol other than CHDM or TMCD, and may contain 2 to 20, or 2 to 16 carbon atoms. Examples of suitable modified diols include, but are not limited to, ethylene glycol, 1,2-propanediol, 1,3-propanediol, neopentyl glycol, 1,4-butanediol, 1,5-pentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, p-xylenediol, isosorbide, or mixtures thereof. In another embodiment, the modified diol is 1,3-propanediol and / or 1,4-butanediol.

[0066] In an embodiment, the copolyester composition comprises at least one polyester, said polyester comprising: (a) The dicarboxylic acid component, which comprises: i) 70 mol% to 100 mol% of terephthalic acid residues; ii) 0 mol% to 30 mol% of aromatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 20 carbon atoms; and iii) 0 mol% to 10 mol% of aliphatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 16 carbon atoms; and (b) The diol component, comprising: i) 5 mol% to 55 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol (TMCD) residues; and ii) 45 mol% to 95 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol (CHDM) residues, wherein the total mol% of the dicarboxylic acid component is 100 mol% and the total mol% of the diol component is 100 mol%; and The intrinsic viscosity of the polyester is 0.5 dL / g to 1.2 dL / g, which was determined at 25°C in 60 / 40 (wt / wt) phenol / tetrachloroethane at a concentration of 0.5 g / 100 ml; and the polyester has a Tg of 100°C to 200°C.

[0067] In one embodiment, the polyester composition comprises at least one polyester, said polyester comprising: (a) The dicarboxylic acid component, which comprises: i) 70 mol% to 100 mol% of terephthalic acid residues; ii) 0 mol% to 30 mol% of aromatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 20 carbon atoms; and iii) 0 mol% to 10 mol% of aliphatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 16 carbon atoms; and (b) The diol component, comprising: i) 20 mol% to 40 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol residues; and ii) 60 mol% to 80 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol residues, wherein the total mol% of the dicarboxylic acid component is 100 mol% and the total mol% of the diol component is 100 mol%; and The intrinsic viscosity of the polyester is 0.35 dL / g to 0.85 dL / g, which was determined at 25°C in 60 / 40 (wt / wt) phenol / tetrachloroethane at a concentration of 0.5 g / 100 ml; and the polyester has a Tg of 100°C to 120°C.

[0068] In one embodiment, the polyester composition comprises at least one polyester, said polyester comprising: (a) The dicarboxylic acid component, which comprises: i) 70 mol% to 100 mol% of terephthalic acid residues; ii) 0 mol% to 30 mol% of aromatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 20 carbon atoms; and iii) 0 mol% to 10 mol% of aliphatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 16 carbon atoms; and (b) The diol component, comprising: i) 40 mol% to 55 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol residues; and ii) 45 mol% to 60 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol residues, wherein the total mol% of the dicarboxylic acid component is 100 mol% and the total mol% of the diol component is 100 mol%; and The intrinsic viscosity of the polyester is 0.35 dL / g to 0.85 dL / g, which was determined at 25°C in 60 / 40 (wt / wt) phenol / tetrachloroethane at a concentration of 0.5 g / 100 ml; and the polyester has a Tg of 120°C to 140°C.

[0069] In one embodiment, the polyester composition comprises at least one polyester, said polyester comprising: (a) The dicarboxylic acid component, which comprises: i) 70 mol% to 100 mol% of terephthalic acid residues; ii) 0 mol% to 30 mol% of aromatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 20 carbon atoms; and iii) 0 mol% to 10 mol% of aliphatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 16 carbon atoms; and (b) The diol component, comprising: i) 15 mol% to 70 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol residues; and ii) 30 mol% to 85 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol residues, wherein the total mol% of the dicarboxylic acid component is 100 mol% and the total mol% of the diol component is 100 mol%; and The intrinsic viscosity of the polyester is 0.35 dL / g to 0.85 dL / g, which was determined at 25°C in 60 / 40 (wt / wt) phenol / tetrachloroethane at a concentration of 0.5 g / 100 ml; and the polyester has a Tg of 100°C to 140°C.

[0070] In one embodiment, the polyester composition comprises at least one polyester, said polyester comprising: (a) The dicarboxylic acid component, which comprises: i) 70 mol% to 100 mol% of terephthalic acid residues; ii) 0 mol% to 30 mol% of aromatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 20 carbon atoms; and iii) 0 mol% to 10 mol% of aliphatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 16 carbon atoms; and (b) The diol component, comprising: i) 15 mol% to 90 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol residues; and ii) 10 mol% to 85 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol residues, wherein the total mol% of the dicarboxylic acid component is 100 mol% and the total mol% of the diol component is 100 mol%; and The intrinsic viscosity of the polyester is 0.1 dL / g to 1.2 dL / g, which was determined at 25°C in 60 / 40 (wt / wt) phenol / tetrachloroethane at a concentration of 0.5 g / 100 ml; and the polyester has a Tg of 100°C to 200°C.

[0071] In embodiments, any of the polyesters or polyester compositions described herein may further contain residues of at least one branching agent. In embodiments, any of the polyesters or polyester compositions described herein may contain at least one heat stabilizer or its reaction product.

[0072] In one embodiment, the polyester may contain less than 15 mol% of ethylene glycol residues, for example, from 0.01 mol% to less than 15 mol% of ethylene glycol residues. In another embodiment, the polyester used in the present invention may contain less than 10 mol%, or less than 5 mol%, or less than 4 mol%, or less than 2 mol%, or less than 1 mol% of ethylene glycol residues, for example, from 0.01 mol% to less than 10 mol%, or from 0.01 mol% to less than 5 mol%, or from 0.01 mol% to less than 4 mol%, or from 0.01 mol% to less than 2 mol%, or from 0.01 mol% to less than 1 mol% of ethylene glycol residues. In one embodiment, the polyester used in the present invention may be free of ethylene glycol residues.

[0073] In other embodiments, the diol component of the polyester may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following ranges: 5 mol% to less than 55 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol and more than 45 mol% to a maximum of 95 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol; 5 mol% to less than 50 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol and more than 50 mol% to a maximum of 95 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol; 5 mol% to less than 45 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol and more than 55 mol% to a maximum of 95 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol. 1,4-Cyclohexanediethanol; 5 mol% to less than 40 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol and more than 60 mol% to a maximum of 95 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol; 10 mol% to 40 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol and 60 mol% to 90 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol; 10 mol% to 35 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol and 65 mol% to 90 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol; 10 mol% to 30 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol. - Cyclobutanediol and 70 mol% to 90 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediol; 10 mol% to 25 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol and 75 mol% to 90 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediol; 15 mol% to 40 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol and 60 mol% to 85 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediol; 15 mol% to 35 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol and 65 mol% to 85 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediol; 15 mol% to 30 mol% of 2,2,4,4-cyclobutanediol and 70 mol% to 90 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediol; 2,4,4-Tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol and 70 mol% to 85 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediol; 15 mol% to 25 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol and 75 mol% to 85 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediol; 15 mol% to 20 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol and 75 mol% to 80 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediol; and 17 mol% to 23 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol and 77 mol% to 83 mol% of 1,4-cyclohexanediol.

[0074] In some embodiments, the diol component of the polyester portion of the polyester composition may contain 25 mol% or less of one or more modified diols that are not 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol or 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol; in one embodiment, the polyester used in the present invention may contain less than 15 mol% of one or more modified diols. In another embodiment, the polyester may contain 10 mol% or less of one or more modified diols. In another embodiment, the polyester may contain 5 mol% or less of one or more modified diols. In another embodiment, the polyester may contain 3 mol% or less of one or more modified diols. In another embodiment, the polyester may contain 0 mol% of modified diols. Some embodiments may also contain 0.01 mol% or more, such as 0.1 mol% or more, 1 mol% or more, 5 mol% or more, or 10 mol% or more of one or more modified diols. Therefore, if present, the amount of one or more modified diols is expected to be within any of these aforementioned endpoint values, including, for example, 0.01 mol% to 15 mol% and 0.1 mol% to 10 mol%.

[0075] In embodiments, the modified diol in the polyester may refer to diols other than 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol and 1,4-cyclohexanediol, and may contain 2 to 16 carbon atoms. In some embodiments, suitable examples of modified diols include, but are not limited to, ethylene glycol, 1,2-propanediol, 1,3-propanediol, neopentyl glycol, 1,4-butanediol, 1,5-pentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, p-xylenediol, or mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the modified diol is ethylene glycol. In another embodiment, the modified diol is 1,3-propanediol and / or 1,4-butanediol. In another embodiment, ethylene glycol is excluded as a modified diol. In another embodiment, 1,3-propanediol and 1,4-butanediol are excluded as modified diols. In another embodiment, 2,2-dimethyl-1,3-propanediol is excluded as a modified diol.

[0076] In the implementation scheme, certain polyesters contain cis-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol in a molar percentage greater than 50 mol% or greater than 55 mol% or greater than 70 mol%; wherein the total molar percentage of cis-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol and trans-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol equals 100 mol.

[0077] In the embodiments, the molar percentage of the 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol isomer in certain polyesters is 30 mol% to 70 mol% of cis-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol or 30 mol% to 70 mol% of trans-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol, or 40 mol% to 60 mol% of cis-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol or 40 mol% to 60 mol% of trans-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol, wherein the total molar percentage of cis-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol and trans-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol equals 100 mol.

[0078] In some embodiments, the polyester can be amorphous or semi-crystalline. In one aspect, some polyesters may have a relatively low degree of crystallinity. Therefore, some polyesters may have a substantially amorphous morphology, meaning that the polyester contains substantially disordered polymer regions.

[0079] In the embodiments, the Tg of the polyester can be at least one of the following ranges: 100°C to 200°C; 100°C to 190°C; 100°C to 180°C; 100°C to 170°C; 100°C to 160°C; 100°C to 155°C; 100°C to 150°C; 100°C to 145°C; 100°C to 140°C; 100°C to 138°C; 100°C to 135°C; 100°C to 130°C; 100°C to 125°C; 100°C to 120°C; 100°C to 115°C; 100°C to 110°C; 105°C to 200°C; 105°C to 190°C; 105°C to 180°C; 105°C to 170°C; 105°C to 160°C; 105°C to 155°C; 10 5°C to 150°C; 105°C to 145°C; 105°C to 140°C; 105°C to 138°C; 105°C to 135°C; 105°C to 130°C; 105°C to 125°C; 105°C to 120°C; 105°C to 115°C; 105°C to 110°C; greater than 105°C to 125°C; greater than 105°C to 120°C; greater than 105℃ to 115℃; greater than 105℃ to 110℃; 110℃ to 200℃; 110℃ to 190℃; 110℃ to 180℃; 110℃ to 170℃; 110℃ to 160℃; 110℃ to 155℃; 110℃ to 150℃; 110℃ to 145℃; 110℃ to 140℃; 110℃ to 138℃; 110℃ to 140 ... ℃ to 135℃; 110℃ to 130℃; 110℃ to 125℃; 110℃ to 120℃; 110℃ to 115℃; 115℃ to 200℃; 115℃ to 190℃; 115℃ to 180℃; 115℃ to 170℃; 115℃ to 160℃; 115℃ to 155℃; 115℃ to 150℃; 115℃ to 14℃ 5℃; 115℃ to 140℃; 115℃ to 138℃; 115℃ to 135℃; 110℃ to 130℃; 115℃ to 125℃; 115℃ to 120℃; 120℃ to 200℃; 120℃ to 190℃; 120℃ to 180℃; 120℃ to 170℃; 120℃ to 160℃; 120℃ to 155℃; 1 20℃ to 150℃; 120℃ to 145℃; 120℃ to 140℃; 120℃ to 138℃; 120℃ to 135℃; 120℃ to 130℃; 125℃ to 200℃; 125℃ to 190℃; 125℃ to 180℃; 125℃ to 170℃; 125℃ to 160℃; 125℃ to 155℃; 125℃ to 150℃; 125℃ to 145℃; 125℃ to 140℃; 125℃ to 138℃; 125℃ to 135℃; 127℃ to 200℃; 127℃ to 190℃; 127℃ to 180℃; 127℃ to 170℃; 127℃ to 160℃; 127℃ to 150℃; 127℃ to 145℃; 127℃ to 140℃;127°C to 138°C; 127°C to 135°C; 130°C to 200°C; 130°C to 190°C; 130°C to 180°C; 130°C to 170°C; 130°C to 160°C; 130°C to 155°C; 130°C to 150°C; 130°C to 145°C; 130°C to 140°C; 130°C to 138°C; 130°C to 135°C; 135°C to 200°C; 135°C to 190°C; 135°C to 180°C; 135°C to 170°C; 135°C to 160°C; 135°C to 155°C; 135°C to 150°C; 135°C to 145°C; 135°C to 140°C; 140°C to 200°C; 1 40°C to 190°C; 140°C to 180°C; 140°C to 170°C; 140°C to 160°C; 140°C to 155°C; 140°C to 150°C; 140°C to 145°C; 148°C to 200°C; 148°C to 190°C; 148°C to 180°C; 148°C to 170°C; 148°C to 160°C; 148°C to 155°C; 148°C to 150°C; 150°C to 200°C; 150°C to 190°C; 150°C to 180°C; 150°C to 170°C; 150°C to 160°C; 155°C to 190°C; 155°C to 180°C; 155°C to 170°C; and 155°C to 165°C.

[0080] The glass transition temperature (Tg) of polyester can be determined using a TA DSC2920 from Thermal Analyst Instrument at a scan rate of 20 °C / min.

[0081] In the embodiments, the polyester may have an HDT in at least one of the following ranges: 70°C to 120°C; 70°C to 110°C; 70°C to 100°C; 70°C to 95°C; 70°C to 90°C; 72°C to 120°C; 72°C to 110°C; 72°C to 100°C; 72°C to 95°C; 72°C to 90°C; 75°C to 120°C; 75°C to 110°C; 75°C to 100°C; 75°C to 95°C; 75°C to 90°C; 76°C to 120°C; 76°C to 110°C; 76°C to 100°C; 76℃ to 95℃; 76℃ to 90℃; 77℃ to 120℃; 77℃ to 110℃; 77℃ to 100℃; 77℃ to 95℃; 77℃ to 90℃; 78℃ to 120℃; 78℃ to 110℃; 78℃ to 100℃; 78℃ to 95℃; 78℃ to 90℃; 79℃ to 120℃; 79℃ to 110℃; 79℃ to 100℃; 79℃ to 95℃; 79℃ to 90℃; 80℃ to 120℃; 80℃ to 110℃; 80℃ to 100℃; 80℃ to 95℃; 80℃ to 90℃. The heat distortion temperature (HDT) of polyester can be determined according to ASTM D648 using a 3.2 mm thick injection molding strip and an applied stress of 1.82 MPa.

[0082] For certain embodiments, the polyester may exhibit at least one of the following intrinsic viscosities: 0.10 dL / g to 1.2 dL / g; 0.10 dL / g to 1.1 dL / g; 0.10 dL / g to 1 dL / g; 0.10 dL / g to less than 1 dL / g; 0.10 dL / g to 0.98 dL / g; 0.10 dL / g to 0.95 dL / g; 0.10 dL / g to 0.90 dL / g; 0.10 dL / g to 0.85 dL / g; 0.10 dL / g to 0.80 dL / g; 0.10 dL / g to 0.75 dL / g; 0.10 dL / g to less than 0.75 dL / g; 0.10 dL / g to 0.72 dL / g; 0.10 dL / g to 0.70 dL / g; 0.10 dL / g to less than 0.70 dL / g; 0.10 dL / g to 0.68 dL / g; 0.10 dL / g to less than 0.68 dL / g; 0.10 dL / g to 0.65 dL / g; 0.20 dL / g to 1.2 dL / g; 0.20 dL / g to 1.1 dL / g; 0.20 dL / g to 1 dL / g; 0.20 dL / g to less than 1 dL / g; 0.20 dL / g to 0.98 dL / g; 0.20 dL / g to 0.95 dL / g; 0.20 dL / g to 0.90 dL / g dL / g; 0.20 dL / g to 0.85 dL / g; 0.20 dL / g to 0.80 dL / g; 0.20 dL / g to 0.75 dL / g; 0.20 dL / g to less than 0.75 dL / g; 0.20 dL / g to 0.72 dL / g; 0.20 dL / g to 0.70 dL / g; 0.20 dL / g to less than 0.70 dL / g; 0.20 dL / g to 0.68 dL / g; 0.20 dL / g to less than 0.68 dL / g; 0.20 dL / g to 0.65 dL / g; 0.35 dL / g to 1.2 dL / g; 0.35 dL / g to 1.1 dL / g; 0.35 dL / g to 1 dL / g; 0.35 dL / g to less than 1 dL / g; 0.35 dL / g to 0.98 dL / g; 0.35 dL / g to 0.95 dL / g; 0.35 dL / g to 0.90 dL / g; 0.35 dL / g to 0.85 dL / g; 0.35 dL / g to 0.80 dL / g; 0.35 dL / g to 0.75 dL / g; 0.35 dL / g to less than 0.75 dL / g; 0.35 dL / g to 0.72 dL / g; 0.35 dL / g to 0.70 dL / g; 0.35 dL / g to less than 0.70 dL / g; 0.35 dL / g to 0.68 dL / g; 0.35 dL / g to less than 0.68 dL / g; 0.35 dL / g to 0.65 dL / g; 0.40 dL / g to 1.2 dL / g; 0.40 dL / g to 1.1 dL / g; 0.40 dL / g to 1 dL / g; 0.40 dL / g to less than 1 dL / g; 0.40 dL / g to 0.98 dL / g; 0.40 dL / g to 0.95 dL / g; 0.40 dL / g to 0.90 dL / g; 0.40 dL / g to 0.85 dL / g; 0.40 dL / g to 0.80 dL / g; 0.40 dL / g to 0.75 dL / g; 0.40 dL / g to less than 0.75 dL / g; 0.40 dL / g to 0.72 dL / g; 0.40 dL / g to 0.70 dL / g; 0.40 dL / g to less than 0.70 dL / g; 0.40 dL / g to 0.68 dL / g; 0.40 dL / g to less than 0.68 dL / g; 0.40 dL / g to 0.65 dL / g; greater than 0.42 dL / g to 1.2 dL / g; greater than 0.42 dL / g to 1.1 dL / g; greater than 0.42 dL / g to 1 dL / g; greater than 0.42 dL / g to less than 1 dL / g; greater than 0.42 dL / g to 0.98 dL / g; greater than 0.42 dL / g. dL / g to 0.95 dL / g; greater than 0.42 dL / g to 0.90 dL / g; greater than 0.42 dL / g to 0.85 dL / g; greater than 0.42 dL / g to 0.80 dL / g; greater than 0.42 dL / g to 0.75 dL / g; greater than 0.42 dL / g to less than 0.75 dL / g; greater than 0.42 dL / g to 0.72 dL / g; greater than 0.42 dL / g to less than 0.70 dL / g; greater than 0.42 dL / g to 0.68 dL / g; greater than 0.42 dL / g to less than 0.68 dL / g; and greater than 0.42 dL / g to 0.65 dL / g, which is at 25°C at 60 / 40 The concentration of phenol / tetrachloroethane was determined at 0.5 g / 100 ml (weight / weight).

[0083] For certain embodiments, the polyester may exhibit at least one of the following intrinsic viscosities: 0.45 dL / g to 1.2 dL / g; 0.45 dL / g to 1.1 dL / g; 0.45 dL / g to 1 dL / g; 0.45 dL / g to 0.98 dL / g; 0.45 dL / g to 0.95 dL / g; 0.45 dL / g to 0.90 dL / g; 0.45 dL / g to 0.85 dL / g; 0.45 dL / g to 0.80 dL / g; 0.45 dL / g to 0.75 dL / g; 0.45 dL / g to less than 0.75 dL / g; 0.45 dL / g to 0.72 dL / g; 0.45 dL / g to 0.70 dL / g; 0.45 dL / g to less than 0.70 dL / g; 0.45 dL / g to 0.68 dL / g; 0.45 dL / g to less than 0.68 dL / g; 0.45 dL / g to 0.65 dL / g; 0.50 dL / g to 1.2 dL / g; 0.50 dL / g to 1.1 dL / g; 0.50 dL / g to 1 dL / g; 0.50 dL / g to less than 1 dL / g; 0.50 dL / g to 0.98 dL / g; 0.50 dL / g to 0.95 dL / g; 0.50 dL / g to 0.90 dL / g; 0.50 dL / g to 0.85 dL / g; 0.50 dL / g to 0.80 dL / g; 0.50 dL / g to 0.75 dL / g; 0.50 dL / g to less than 0.75 dL / g; 0.50 dL / g to 0.72 dL / g; 0.50 dL / g to 0.70 dL / g; 0.50 dL / g to less than 0.70 dL / g; 0.50 dL / g to 0.68 dL / g; 0.50 dL / g to less than 0.68 dL / g; 0.50 dL / g to 0.65 dL / g; 0.55 dL / g to 1.2 dL / g; 0.55 dL / g to 1.1 dL / g; 0.55 dL / g to 1 dL / g; 0.55 dL / g to less than 1 dL / g; 0.55 dL / g to 0.98 dL / g; 0.55 dL / g to 0.95 dL / g; 0.55 dL / g to 0.90 dL / g; 0.55 dL / g to 0.85 dL / g; 0.55 dL / g to 0.80 dL / g; 0.55 dL / g to 0.75 dL / g; 0.55 dL / g to less than 0.75 dL / g; 0.55 dL / g to 0.72 dL / g; 0.55 dL / g to 0.70 dL / g; 0.55 dL / g to less than 0.70 dL / g; 0.55 dL / g to 0.68 dL / g; 0.55 dL / g to less than 0.68 dL / g; 0.55 dL / g to 0.65 dL / g; 0.58 dL / g to 1.2 dL / g; 0.58 dL / g to 1.1 dL / g; 0.58 dL / g to 1 dL / g; 0.58 dL / g to less than 1 dL / g; 0.58 dL / g to 0.98 dL / g; 0.58 dL / g to 0.95 dL / g; 0.58 dL / g to 0.90 dL / g; 0.58 dL / g to 0.85 dL / g; 0.58 dL / g to 0.80 dL / g; 0.58 dL / g to 0.75 dL / g; 0.58 dL / g to less than 0.75 dL / g; 0.58 dL / g to 0.72 dL / g; 0.58 dL / g to 0.70 dL / g; 0.58 dL / g to less than 0.70 dL / g; 0.58 dL / g to 0.68 dL / g; 0.58 dL / g to less than 0.68 dL / g; 0.58 dL / g to 0.65 dL / g; 0.60 dL / g to 1.2 dL / g; 0.60 dL / g to 1.1 dL / g; 0.60 dL / g to 1 dL / g; 0.60 dL / g to less than 1 dL / g; 0.60 dL / g to 0.98 dL / g; 0.60 dL / g to 0.95 dL / g; 0.60 dL / g to 0.90 dL / g dL / g; 0.60 dL / g to 0.85 dL / g; 0.60 dL / g to 0.80 dL / g; 0.60 dL / g to 0.75 dL / g; 0.60 dL / g to less than 0.75 dL / g; 0.60 dL / g to 0.72 dL / g; 0.60 dL / g to 0.70 dL / g; 0.60 dL / g to less than 0.70 dL / g; 0.60 dL / g to 0.68 dL / g; 0.60 dL / g to less than 0.68 dL / g; 0.60 dL / g to 0.65 dL / g; 0.65 dL / g to 1.2 dL / g; 0.65 dL / g to 1.1 dL / g; 0.65 dL / g to 1 dL / g; 0.65 dL / g to less than 1 dL / g; 0.65 dL / g to 0.98 dL / g; 0.65 dL / g to 0.95 dL / g; 0.65 dL / g to 0.90 dL / g; 0.65 dL / g to 0.85 dL / g; 0.65 dL / g to 0.80 dL / g; 0.65 dL / g to 0.75 dL / g; 0.65 dL / g to less than 0.75 dL / g; 0.65 dL / g to 0.72 dL / g; 0.65 dL / g to 0.70 dL / g; 0.65 dL / g to less than 0.70 dL / g; 0.68 dL / g to 1.2 dL / g; 0.68 dL / g to 1.1 dL / g; 0.68 dL / g to 1 dL / g; 0.68 dL / g to less than 1 dL / g; 0.68 dL / g to 0.98 dL / g; 0.68 dL / g to 0.95 dL / g; 0.68 dL / g to 0.90 dL / g; 0.68 dL / g to 0.85 dL / g; 0.68 dL / g to 0.80 dL / g; 0.68 dL / g to 0.75 dL / g; 0.68 dL / g to less than 0.75 dL / g; 0.68 dL / g to 0.72 dL / g; greater than 0.76 dL / g to 1.2 dL / g. dL / g; greater than 0.76 dL / g to 1.1 dL / g; greater than 0.76 dL / g to 1 dL / g; greater than 0.76 dL / g to less than 1 dL / g; greater than 0.76 dL / g to 0.98 dL / g; greater than 0.76 dL / g to 0.95 dL / g; greater than 0.76 dL / g to 0.90 dL / g; greater than 0.80 dL / g to 1.2 dL / g; greater than 0.80 dL / g to 1.1 dL / g; greater than 0.80 dL / g to 1 dL / g; greater than 0.80 dL / g to less than 1 dL / g; greater than 0.80 dL / g to 1.2 dL / g; greater than 0.80 dL / g to 0.98 dL / g. dL / g; greater than 0.80 dL / g to 0.95 dL / g; greater than 0.80 dL / g to 0.90 dL / g, determined at 25°C in 60 / 40 (wt / wt) phenol / tetrachloroethane at a concentration of 0.5 g / 100 ml.

[0084] In some embodiments, unless otherwise stated, the polyester composition is expected to have at least one of the intrinsic viscosity ranges described herein and at least one of the monomer ranges of the compositions described herein. Unless otherwise stated, the polyester composition is also expected to have at least one of the Tg ranges described herein and at least one of the monomer ranges of the compositions described herein. Unless otherwise stated, the polyester composition is also expected to have at least one of the Tg ranges described herein, at least one of the intrinsic viscosity ranges described herein, and at least one of the monomer ranges of the compositions described herein.

[0085] In embodiments, the molar ratio of cis / trans-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol may vary depending on their respective pure forms or mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the molar percentage of cis-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol and / or trans-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol is greater than 50 mol% cis and less than 50 mol% trans; or greater than 55 mol% cis and less than 45 mol% trans; or 30 mol% to 70 mol% cis and 70 mol% to 30 mol% trans; or 40 mol% to 60 mol% cis and 60 mol% to 40 mol% trans; or 50 mol% cis and trans. % to 70 mol% trans and 50 mol% to 30 mol% cis or 50 mol% to 70 mol% cis and 50 mol% to 30 mol% trans; or 60 mol% to 70 mol% cis and 30 mol% to 40 mol% trans; or greater than 70 mol% cis and less than 30 mol% trans; wherein the sum of the molar percentages of cis-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol and trans-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol equals 100 mol%. The molar ratio of cis / trans-1,4-cyclohexanediol may vary from 50 / 50 to 0 / 100, such as between 40 / 60 and 20 / 80.

[0086] The polyester portion of the polyester composition can be prepared by methods known in the literature, such as methods in a homogeneous solution, methods involving ester group transfer in a melt, and methods at a two-phase interface. Suitable methods include those disclosed in U.S. Publication Application 2006 / 0287484, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0087] In embodiments, polyesters can be prepared by a method comprising reacting one or more dicarboxylic acids (or derivatives thereof) with one or more diols under conditions providing the polyester, including but not limited to reacting one or more dicarboxylic acids (or derivatives thereof) with one or more diols at a temperature of 100°C to 315°C and a pressure of 0.1 mmHg to 760 mmHg for a time sufficient to form a polyester. For methods of producing polyesters, please refer to U.S. Patent No. 3,772,405, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0088] In an embodiment, the polyester composition may be a polymer blend comprising: (a) 5% to 95% by weight of at least one polyester of the polyesters described herein; and (b) 5% to 95% by weight of at least one additional polymer component. Suitable examples of polymeric components include, but are not limited to: nylon, polyesters different from those described herein, such as polyethylene terephthalate or polybutylene terephthalate (PET or PBT), polyamides, such as ZYTEL®, from DuPont; polystyrene, polystyrene copolymers, styrene-acrylonitrile copolymers, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers (e.g., GP-35 ABS (from Ineos-Styrolution)), poly(methyl methacrylate), acrylic copolymers, poly(ether-imide), such as ULTEM® (poly(ether-imide), from General Electric); polyphenylene ether, such as poly(2,6-dimethylphenylene ether), or poly(phenylene ether) / polystyrene blends, such as NORYL 1000® (a blend of poly(2,6-dimethylphenylene ether) and polystyrene resin, from General Electric); polyphenylene sulfide; polyphenylene sulfide / polyphenyl sulfone; poly(ester-carbonate); polycarbonate, such as LEXAN® Polycarbonate (from General Electric) or Makrolon (polycarbonate, from Covestro); polysulfone; polysulfone ether; and poly(ether-ketone) of aromatic dihydroxy compounds; or mixtures of any of the foregoing polymers. Blends can be prepared by conventional processing techniques known in the art, such as melt blending or solution blending. In one embodiment, polycarbonate is absent from the polyester composition. However, polyester compositions suitable for use in the present invention are also contemplated to exclude or include polycarbonate. In embodiments, additional polymeric components are present in amounts of 5% to 25% by weight, or 5% to 20% by weight, or 5% to 15% by weight, or 5% to 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the polyester composition.

[0089] In addition, the copolyester composition may also contain one or more additional additives selected from colorants, dyes, release agents, flame retardants, plasticizers, processing aids, rheology modifiers, nucleating agents, antioxidants, light stabilizers, fillers, and reinforcing materials.

[0090] In embodiments, the polyester composition and polymer blend composition may also contain 0.01% to 25% by weight of common additives (in addition to the components described herein) of the total composition, such as colorants, dyes, mold release agents, flame retardants, plasticizers, nucleating agents, stabilizers (including but not limited to UV stabilizers, heat stabilizers and / or their reaction products), fillers, and other impact modifiers. For example, UV additives may be introduced into articles (e.g., ophthalmic products) by adding them to the body or hard coating.

[0091] In some embodiments, the polyester composition and polymer blend composition may contain fillers or reinforcing additives, such as glass (or other) fibers, in amounts of 1% to 45% by weight, or 1% to 40% by weight, or 1% to 35% by weight, or 1% to 30% by weight, or 5% to 45% by weight, or 5% to 40% by weight, or 5% to 35% by weight, or 5% to 30% by weight, or 10% to 45% by weight, or 10% to 40% by weight, or 10% to 35% by weight, or 10% to 30% by weight, or 15% to 45% by weight, or 15% to 40% by weight, or 15% to 35% by weight, or 15% to 30% by weight, or 20% to 45% by weight, or 20% to 40% by weight, or 20% to 35% by weight, or 20% to 30% by weight. In some embodiments that include such fillers or reinforcing additives, the polyester composition and polymer blend composition may also contain (in addition to the components and fillers / reinforcing additives described herein) 0.01% to 25% by weight, or 0.01% to 20% by weight, or 0.01% to 15% by weight, or 0.01% to 10% by weight of other common additives, such as those discussed above, in the total composition.

[0092] In some embodiments, the polyester composition and polymer blend composition may contain a colorant, such as TiO2, in an amount of 1% to 40% by weight, or 1% to 35% by weight, or 1% to 30% by weight, or 1% to 25% by weight, or 5% to 40% by weight, or 5% to 35% by weight, or 5% to 30% by weight, or 5% to 25% by weight, or 10% to 40% by weight, or 10% to 35% by weight, or 10% to 30% by weight, or 10% to 25% by weight, or 15% to 40% by weight, or 15% to 35% by weight, or 15% to 30% by weight, or 15% to 25% by weight, or 20% to 40% by weight, or 20% to 35% by weight, or 20% to 30% by weight, or 20% to 25% by weight, based on the total composition. In some embodiments that include such colorants, the polyester composition and polymer blend composition may also contain (in addition to the components and colorants described herein) 0.01% to 25% by weight, or 0.01% to 20% by weight, or 0.01% to 15% by weight, or 0.01% to 10% by weight of other common additives, such as those discussed above, in the total composition.

[0093] In embodiments, the polyester composition and polymer blend composition may contain one or more antioxidants in amounts of 0.01% to 2% by weight, or 0.01% to 1.5% by weight, or 0.01% to 1% by weight, or 0.01% to 0.75% by weight, or 0.01% to 0.5% by weight, or 0.01% to 0.4% by weight, or 0.01% to 0.3% by weight, based on the total composition. Examples of antioxidants may include Irganox 1010, Irgafos 168, or combinations thereof.

[0094] In one aspect, the copolyester composition of the present invention comprises a copolyester composition containing any of the copolyesters described above and an impact modifier component.

[0095] In embodiments, the polyester may contain at least one chain extender. Suitable chain extenders include, but are not limited to, polyfunctional (including, but not limited to, difunctional) isocyanates, polyfunctional epoxides (including, for example, epoxidized phenolic resins), and phenoxy resins. In some embodiments, the chain extender may be added at the end of the polymerization process or after the polymerization process. If added after the polymerization process, the chain extender may be introduced by compounding or by addition during a conversion process such as injection molding or extrusion. The amount of chain extender used may vary depending on the specific monomer composition used and the desired physical properties, but is typically from 0.1 wt% to 10 wt% based on the total weight of the polyester, such as from 0.1 wt% to 5 wt%.

[0096] Heat stabilizers are compounds that stabilize polyesters during polyester manufacturing and / or post-polymerization processes, including but not limited to phosphorus compounds, such as phosphoric acid, phosphorous acid, phosphonic acid, hypophosphonic acid, phosphonous acid, and various esters and salts thereof. Esters can be alkyl, branched alkyl, substituted alkyl, difunctional alkyl, alkyl ethers, aryl, and substituted aryl. In one embodiment, the number of ester groups present in a particular phosphorus compound can vary from zero to a maximum permissible value based on the number of hydroxyl groups present on the heat stabilizer used. The term "heat stabilizer" is intended to include its reaction products. The term "reaction product," used in conjunction with the heat stabilizers of this invention, refers to any product of a polycondensation or esterification reaction between the heat stabilizer and any monomer used to prepare the polyester, as well as the product of a polycondensation or esterification reaction between a catalyst and any other type of additive. In embodiments, these may be present in the polyester composition.

[0097] In one embodiment, the reinforcing material can be used in the polyester composition. The reinforcing material may include, but is not limited to, carbon filaments, silicates, mica, clay, talc, titanium dioxide, wollastonite, glass sheets, glass beads, and fibers, as well as polymer fibers and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the reinforcing material is glass, such as fiber glass filaments, mixtures of glass and talc, mixtures of glass and mica, and mixtures of glass and polymer fibers.

[0098] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a copolyester composition comprising a copolyester produced by a method comprising: (I) In the presence of a catalyst, a mixture of monomers comprising any of the copolyesters that can be used in the present invention is heated at a temperature of 150°C to 240°C for a time sufficient to produce an initial copolyester. (II) The initial copolyester from step (I) is heated at a temperature of 240°C to 320°C for 1 hour to 4 hours; and (III) Remove any unreacted diols.

[0099] Catalysts suitable for this method include, but are not limited to, organozinc or tin compounds. The use of this type of catalyst is well known in the art. Examples of catalysts that can be used in this invention include, but are not limited to, zinc acetate, butyltin tri-2-ethylhexanoate, dibutyltin diacetate, and dibutyltin oxide. Other catalysts may include, but are not limited to, those based on titanium, zinc, manganese, lithium, germanium, and cobalt. The amount of catalyst may range from 10 ppm to 20,000 ppm or 10 ppm to 10,000 ppm, or 10 ppm to 5,000 ppm or 10 ppm to 1,000 ppm or 10 ppm to 500 ppm, or 10 ppm to 300 ppm or 10 ppm to 250 ppm, based on the catalyst metal and the weight of the final polymer. The method can be carried out as a batch or continuous process.

[0100] Typically, step (I) can be carried out until 50% by weight or more of the diol has reacted. Step (I) can be carried out at pressures ranging from atmospheric pressure to 100 psig. The term "reaction product" used in conjunction with any catalyst that may be used in this invention refers to any product of a polycondensation or esterification reaction using a catalyst and any monomer used to prepare a polyester, as well as the product of a polycondensation or esterification reaction between the catalyst and any other type of additive.

[0101] Typically, steps (II) and (III) can be performed simultaneously. These steps can be performed by methods known in the art, such as by placing the reaction mixture at a pressure of 0.002 psig to below atmospheric pressure, or by blowing hot nitrogen gas over the mixture.

[0102] Impact modifier components can be incorporated into copolyesters in concentrate form using any conventional method to ultimately form the product.

[0103] Impact modifiers can be introduced into plastic compounding lines (such as twin-screw compounding lines) to form copolyester composition concentrates. The pellets are then fed into the throat of an extruder and melted at 430℉ to 520℉ (221°C to 271°C) to produce a viscous thermoplastic material. Optionally, the impact modifier is added together with a loss-in-weight feeder or added separately in a loss-in-weight feeder. The rotation of the two screws disperses the impact modifier into the copolyester. The mixture is then extruded through a die to produce multiple filaments. In some embodiments, the filaments are fed through a water tank to cool the pellets. After exiting the water tank, the filaments are dried and fed to a pelletizer to cut them into pellets. Optionally, the mixture can also be extruded into water through a circular flat die with multiple openings. The flat die has a rotary cutter that cuts the filaments as they are extruded from the die to produce pellets. A continuous flow of water cools the pellets and conveys them to a drying section (usually a centrifuge) to separate the pellets from the water.

[0104] Optionally, an impact modifier can be introduced into a plastic compounding production line (such as a twin-rotor continuous compounding mixer, such as a Farrell continuous mixer) to form a copolyester composition concentrate. In this case, the copolyester granules are dried at 150℉ to 190℉ (65.6℃ to 87.8℃) for 4 to 6 hours to reduce moisture. The copolyester granules and impact modifier are fed into the throat of the continuous mixer and melted into a homogeneous mixture at 430℉ to 520℉ (221℃ to 271℃). The output rate of the mixer is controlled by varying the area of ​​the discharge orifice. The melt can be cut into 'loaves' and fed into the throat of a twin-roll mill or a single-screw extruder. When the melt is fed into the twin-roll mill, it covers one of the rolls to form a sheet of concentrate, which is then cut into strips and fed into the throat of the single-screw extruder. The mixture is then extruded through a die to produce multiple filaments. The filaments are fed through a water tank to cool the pellets. After exiting the water tank, the filaments are dried and fed to a pelletizer to cut them into pellets. Alternatively, the mixture can be extruded into water through a circular flat die with multiple openings. The flat die has a rotary cutter that cuts the filaments as they are extruded to produce pellets. A continuous flow of water cools the pellets and conveys them to a drying section (typically a centrifuge) to separate the pellets from the water. The mixture is extruded through a die to produce multiple filaments when the 'lumps' (the relatively larger portion of the concentrate) are fed into a single-screw extruder. The filaments can be fed through a water tank to cool the pellets. After exiting the water tank, the filaments are dried and fed to a pelletizer to cut them into pellets. Alternatively, the mixture can be extruded into water through a circular flat die with multiple openings. The flat die has a rotary cutter that cuts the wire as it is extruded from the die to produce pellets. A continuous flow of water cools the pellets and conveys them to a drying section (usually a centrifuge) to separate the pellets from the water.

[0105] Optionally, an impact modifier can be introduced into a high-intensity mixer (such as a Banbury® batch mixer) to form a copolyester composition concentrate. In this case, the copolyester granules can be dried at 150℉ to 190℉ (65.6℃ to 87.8℃) for 4 to 6 hours to reduce moisture. The copolyester granules and impact modifier are filled into the high-intensity mixer, and the pressure head is lowered to compress the granule / impact modifier mixture into the mixing chamber. Two rotating mixer blades melt the granules and disperse the impact modifier into the melt. When the desired temperature is reached, the door at the bottom of the mixer is opened, and the mixture is dripped onto a twin-roll mill. The strip from the twin-roll mill can then be fed into a single-screw extruder. The mixture is then extruded through a die to produce multiple filaments. The filaments can be fed through a water bath to cool the granules. After leaving the water bath, the filaments are dried and fed into a pelletizer to cut the filaments into pellets. Alternatively, the mixture can be extruded into water through a circular flat die with multiple openings. The flat die has a rotary cutter that cuts the wire as it is extruded from the die to produce pellets. A continuous flow of water cools the pellets and conveys them to a drying section (typically a centrifuge) to separate the pellets from the water.

[0106] This invention includes plastic articles comprising a copolyester composition. The plastic articles can be manufactured by methods including, but not limited to: extruding the copolyester composition to produce continuous flat sheets or profiles, or injection molding to produce discrete articles, or calendering to produce continuous films or sheets, or additive manufacturing of powders or filaments to produce three-dimensional shapes.

[0107] The films and / or sheets used in this invention can have any thickness known to those skilled in the art. In one embodiment, the film of this invention has a thickness of less than 30 mils, or less than 20 mils, or less than 10 mils, or less than 5 mils. In one embodiment, the sheet of this invention has a thickness of greater than 30 mils. In one embodiment, the sheet of this invention has a thickness of 30 mils to 100 mils, or 30 mils to 200 mils, or 30 mils to 500 mils.

[0108] This invention also relates to films and / or sheets comprising the polyester compositions of this invention. Methods for forming polyester into films and / or sheets are well known in the art. Examples of the films and / or sheets of this invention include, but are not limited to, extruded films and / or sheets, calendered films and / or sheets, compression-molded films and / or sheets, injection-molded films or sheets, and solution-cast films and / or sheets. Methods for manufacturing the films and / or sheets include, but are not limited to, extrusion, calendering, extrusion molding, compression molding, and solution casting. These films or sheets may be manufactured or further processed, such as orientation (uniaxial or biaxial), heat setting, surface treatment, etc.

[0109] One embodiment of the invention includes flat sheets or profiles. The sheets or profiles are prepared by extruding a copolyester composition to produce the flat sheets or profiles. In this case, the copolyester composition pellets are dried at 150℉ to 190℉ (65.6℃ to 87.8℃) for 4 to 6 hours, and then fed into a single-screw extruder, a twin-screw extruder, or a conical twin-screw extruder. The copolyester composition pellets are conveyed and compressed along the extruder barrel by the screw, thereby melting the pellets and causing the melt to exit from the end of the extruder. The melt is fed through a screening device to remove debris and / or through a melt pump to reduce pressure changes caused by the extruder. The melt is then fed through a die to produce continuous flat sheets, or fed into a profile die to produce continuous shapes. In one embodiment of the invention including a flat sheet die, the melt is extruded onto a series of metal rollers (typically three) to cool the melt and finish the sheet. The flat sheet is then conveyed continuously for a sufficient distance or time to allow it to cool. The sheet is then trimmed to the desired width and rolled, or cut or sawn into sheets of the desired size. The flat sheet can also be mechanically shaped into a molded product to form the desired shape, and then cooled by spraying water onto the molded product, conveying it through a water tank, or blowing air onto it. The product is then sawn or cut to the desired length. Regarding profile dies, the die is designed to produce profiles of the desired shape. After leaving the die, the profile is cooled by spraying water onto it, conveying it through a water tank, or blowing air onto it. The profile is then sawn or cut to the desired length. Regarding fibers, fibers can be drawn from the spinneret of an extrusion die to the desired fiber diameter and crystallized to enhance physical properties.

[0110] Another embodiment of the invention includes mixing pure copolyester pellets with a concentrate of an impact modifier, followed by extrusion of the copolyester composition. The impact modifier concentrate can be used as pellet compound. The pellets are dried at 150℉ to 190℉ (65.6℃ to 87.8℃) for 4 to 6 hours, followed by extrusion. The pellets are blended in a low-intensity mixer (such as a belt mixer, roller mixer, or conical screw mixer) and then dried. The pellets are then fed into an extruder, including but not limited to a single-screw extruder, a twin-screw extruder, or a conical twin-screw extruder. The pellets are conveyed and compressed along the extruder barrel by the screw, thereby melting the pellets and allowing the melt to exit from the end of the extruder. The melt is typically fed through a screening device to remove debris and / or through a melt pump to reduce pressure variations caused by the extruder. The melt is then fed through a die to produce continuous flat sheets, or fed into a profile die to produce continuous shapes. In the case of sheet dies, the melt is extruded onto a series of metal rollers (usually three) to cool the melt and finish the sheet. The sheet is then conveyed continuously for a distance or time sufficient for cooling. It can then be trimmed to the desired width and rolled, or sheared or sawn into sheet form. Sheets can also be mechanically shaped to the desired form and then cooled by spraying water onto the formed product, passing it through a water bath, or blowing air onto it. The product can then be sawn or sheared to the desired length. In the case of films, films can be produced and wound into rolls. In the case of profile dies, the die is designed to produce products of the desired shape. After leaving the die, the profile can be cooled by spraying water onto it, passing it through a water bath, or blowing air onto it. The profile can then be sawn or sheared to the desired length. In the case of fibers, fibers can be drawn from the spinneret of an extrusion die to the desired fiber diameter and crystallized to enhance physical properties.

[0111] Another embodiment may include mixing pure copolyester pellets with an impact modifier concentrate, and then extruding them together with short-filament or long-filament glass fiber reinforcements, or extruding them into continuous glass fiber composite films, sheets, or tapes. The impact modifier may be compounded as a single pellet. The pellets are dried at 150℉ to 190℉ (65.6℃ to 87.8℃) for 4 to 6 hours, and then extruded. The pellets are blended in a low-intensity mixer (such as a belt mixer, roller mixer, or conical screw mixer) and then dried individually or together. The pellets are then fed into a single-screw extruder, a twin-screw extruder, or a conical twin-screw extruder. The pellets are conveyed and compressed along the extruder barrel by the screw, thereby melting the pellets and allowing the melt to exit from the end of the extruder. The melt may be fed through a screening device to remove debris and / or fed through a melt pump to reduce pressure changes caused by the extruder. The melt can then be fed through a die to produce continuous flat sheets, or fed into a profile die to produce continuous shapes. In the case of a flat sheet die, the melt is extruded onto a series of metal rollers (usually three) to cool the melt and finish the sheet. The flat sheet is then conveyed as a continuous sheet to cool. The flat sheet can then be trimmed to the desired width and then rolled into a roll or sheared or sawn into sheet form. The flat sheet can also be mechanically shaped to form the desired shape and then cooled by spraying water onto the profile, passing the profile through a water tank, or blowing air onto the profile. The profile can then be cut, for example, sawn or sheared to the desired length, or a film can be produced and wound into a roll. In the case of a profile die, the die is designed to produce articles of the desired shape. After leaving the die, the profile can then be cooled by spraying water onto the profile, passing the profile through a water tank, or blowing air onto the profile. The profile can then be cut or sheared to the desired length. In the case of fibers, fibers can be drawn from the spinneret of an extrusion die to achieve the desired fiber diameter and then crystallized to enhance their physical properties.

[0112] Another embodiment may include a fully compounded granule of an extruded copolyester composition (comprising a copolyester and an impact modifier) ​​to produce an injection-molded article. In this case, the granule is dried at 150℉ to 190℉ (65.6℃ to 87.8℃) for 4 to 6 hours to dry the granule, which is then fed into an injection molding machine. Once the granule reaches the desired temperature, the gate at the end of the extruder is opened, and the molten plastic is pumped through a screw into a heated mold to form an article of the desired shape. Once the mold is filled, coolant is pumped through the mold to cool the mold and the molten plastic. Once the plastic has solidified, the mold is opened and the article is removed from the mold.

[0113] Another embodiment may include mixing pure copolyester pellets with a concentrate of impact modifiers, with or without short-filament or long-filament glass fibers, to form a copolyester composition, which is then molded to produce an injection-molded article. The pellets are dried at 150℉ to 190℉ (65.6℃ to 87.8℃) for 4 to 6 hours, and then fed into an injection molding machine. Once the pellets reach the desired temperature, the gate at the end of the extruder is opened, and the molten plastic is pumped through a screw into a heated mold to form an article of the desired shape. Once the mold is filled, coolant is pumped through the mold to cool the mold and the molten plastic. Once the plastic has solidified, the mold is opened, and the article is removed from the mold.

[0114] Another embodiment may include mixing pure copolyester pellets with a concentrate of impact modifier to form a copolyester composition, and then calendering the copolyester composition to produce a film product. Calendering is a well-known method of forming films or sheets by continuously rotating parallel rolls in the same direction. In some calendering methods, if the processing temperature is low enough (e.g., 350℉ to 400℉; 177°C to 204°C), pre-drying of the pellets is not required. In this case, degradation and hydrolysis of the polyester may not occur in large quantities. The copolyester and impact modifier composition can be melted using a high-intensity mixer or extruder, including but not limited to a Buss Ko-kneader, a planetary gear extruder, a Farrell continuous mixer, a twin-screw extruder, or a Banbury® type mixer. The melt is then conveyed to a calender. Calenders typically consist of a system of three or more large-diameter heated rolls that convert high-viscosity plastics into films or sheets. Flat sheets or films are conveyed in continuous webs to cool them. The flat sheets can then be trimmed to the desired width and then rolled into rolls or cut or sawn into sheet form.

[0115] While copolyester compositions can be prepared by mixing or blending a concentrate of the impact modifier with a copolyester, they can also optionally be prepared by directly blending the impact modifier with the copolyester using any of the mixing or blending methods previously described for preparing copolyester compositions by blending a concentrate of the impact modifier with a copolyester. The impact modifier can be mixed or blended with the copolyester simultaneously or sequentially.

[0116] In embodiments, articles comprising any of the copolyester compositions described herein may include articles or components of articles configured for or applicable to any application in which chemical resistance and impact resistance are beneficial, such as one or more of the following applications: medical device housings or components, housings of electronic devices or peripheral devices, personal electronic device components, television or monitor housings or components, power tool housings or components, power adapter housings or components, home automation equipment components, gaming device housings or components, building and construction materials and components, furniture and home décor components, wiring and connector housings or components, and automotive structural or decorative components.

[0117] The present invention can be further illustrated by the following embodiments of certain implementations thereof, but it should be understood that, unless otherwise specifically stated, these embodiments are included for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0118] Example Use the following abbreviations: J is joule; J / m is joule per meter; kJ is kilojoule; kJ / m 2 =KJ / m²; MPa is megapascal; wt% is weight percentage; CS is core-shell; IM is impact modifier; TPA is terephthalic acid; TMCD is 2,2,4,4-tetramethylcyclobutane-1,3-diol, and 1,4-CHDM is 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol. The materials used in the tests are listed in Table 1.

[0119] Table 1: Materials used in the test.

[0120]

[0121] The copolyester composition was prepared by compounding on a Coperion ZSK-26mm co-rotating twin-screw extruder. Prior to blending and compounding, TX1500HF granules were dried in dry air at 88°C for 6 hours, Makrolon 2207 polycarbonate was dried in dry air at 110°C for 6 hours, and Terluran GP-35 ABS was dried in dry air at 82°C for 6 hours, without drying the impact modifier. The materials were fed into the extruder at a specified ratio using a loss-in-weight gravimetric analyzer. A barrel temperature of 260-275°C was used.

[0122] The extruded wire is granulated using a water bath / cutter or underwater granulator system to obtain suitable pellet size / shape for further processing. The prepared formulations are shown in Table 2 below.

[0123] Table 2 - Formulations for Examples

[0124] The copolyester composition was molded into test parts using an injection molding machine (Toyo 90-ton injection molding machine). Prior to molding, the compound granules were dried in dry air at 88°C for 6 hours, and then the test parts were molded under the following conditions: barrel temperature range of 265°C–275°C and water-cooled mold temperature range of 35°C–45°C. Test strips were molded to thicknesses of 3.2 mm (for notched cantilever beam, HDT, flexural modulus, and chemical / weathering tests) and 12.5 mm (for simply supported beam impact tests). Tests were performed on the materials and controls described herein, and the results are shown in Table 3 below.

[0125] Standard Cantilever Beam Test (1 / 8"): The standard notched cantilever beam test was performed using a 3.2 mm thick injection-molded strip (machine-notched, notch radius 0.25 mm) according to ASTM D256 Test Method A. The hammer weight was 2.7 joules or 13.6 joules, depending on the inherent brittleness of the sample, according to ASTM method. The sample was conditioned for 48 hours at 23°C and 50% RH after notching and before testing. Impact resistance values ​​are reported in joules per meter of thickness (J / m).

[0126] Simply supported beam test with and without aging (1 / 2"): The simply supported beam test was performed according to ASTM D6110 using 12.7 mm thick injection-molded strips (cut to 63 mm lengths and machine-notched with a notch radius of 0.10 mm or 0.25 mm). The span was 51 mm. The hammer weight was 15 joules. After notching and before testing, the samples were conditioned at 23°C and 50% RH for 48 hours. One set of tests was performed on the untreated injection-molded strips, and another set of tests was performed after aging the strips in an oven at 80°C for 72 hours. Impact resistance values ​​were reported in joules per meter of thickness (J / m).

[0127] HDT: The heat distortion temperature (HDT) was determined according to ASTM D648 using a 3.2 mm thick injection molding strip and an applied stress of 1.82 MPa. The samples were conditioned for 48 hours at 23°C and 50% RH after notching and before testing.

[0128] Flexural modulus: The flexural tangential modulus was measured using a 3.2 mm thick injection-molded strip at a beam movement speed of 1.27 mm / min according to ASTM D790 procedure A. The samples were conditioned for 48 hours at 23°C and 50% RH prior to testing.

[0129] Paint Effect: To assess the embrittlement effect of the paint, a 3.2 mm × 12.7 mm × 127 mm injection-molded strip was cut into 63 mm sections. Rust-Oleum® Acrylic Enamel 2X Gloss Clear Coating was then sprayed onto one 12.7 mm × 63 mm face of the strip and allowed to dry for 24 hours. The strip was then mounted in a simply supported beam tester with the span reduced to 46 mm, so that the sprayed face was opposite the hammer's striker. When the striker was released, the strip either broke in two (B) or bent (D). Three replicates were performed.

[0130] Canola oil resistance: The method for measuring canola oil embrittlement is similar to ASTM D543-21 Practice B. For this test, 3.2 mm × 12.7 mm × 127 mm injection-molded strips are held at 1.5% strain around a half-tube with a radius of 106.4 mm for 120 minutes, while canola oil is applied to one 12.7 mm × 127 mm face of each strip. After exposure, the strips are removed from the fixture, the oil is removed from the strips, and the strips are mounted in a simply supported beam tester with a span of 102 mm, such that the oil-exposed face is opposite the hammer's striker. When the striker is released, the strip either breaks in half (B) or bends (D). Three replicates were performed.

[0131] Weathering Resistance: In a Q-Lab Q-SUN Xe-3-HS weathering machine, a 3.2 mm thick × 12.7 mm wide × 63 mm long injection-molded strip was weathered using the xenon arc method, ASTM G155 cycle 1, with 0.35 W / m² / nm @ 340 nm wavelength, 102 minutes of continuous light exposure, 63°C black plate temperature (BPT), 55% RH, 18 minutes of light exposure, and spray-unspecified BPT. After the required intervals for weathering, the strip was impact-tested according to the ASTM D6395 planar bending impact resistance method using a 2.7 joule or 13.6 joule hammer (depending on the inherent brittleness of the sample). Impact resistance values ​​are reported in kJ / m².

[0132] Melt viscosity: Melt viscosity as a function of frequency was measured at 280°C using a Rheometrics Dynamic Analyzer (RDAII) with parallel plates, according to ASTM D4440. The frequency range was from 1 to 400 rad / sec. The values ​​obtained at 280°C and 400 rad / sec, in poise, are reported in Table 3 below.

[0133] IV: Intrinsic viscosity (IV) was determined according to ASTM D4603 at 25°C in 60 / 40 (wt / wt) phenol / tetrachloroethane at a concentration of 0.5 g / 100 ml.

[0134]

[0135] A review of Table 3 reveals that compositions with a certain combination of E-MA-GMA and E-MA additives exhibit improved resistance to embrittlement caused by paint, canola oil, and UV exposure compared to other materials tested, while maintaining adequate viscosity, HDT, flexural modulus, cantilever beam impact, and simply supported beam impact.

[0136] The present invention has been described in detail with reference to the embodiments disclosed herein, but it should be understood that various changes and modifications can be made within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A copolyester composition comprising: (a) about 50% to about 95% by weight of a copolyester, said copolyester comprising: (i) Diacid components, which include 70 mol% to 100 mol% of terephthalic acid residues, 0 mol% to 30 mol% of modified aromatic diacid residues having 8 to 12 carbon atoms, and 0 mol% to 10 mol% aliphatic dicarboxylic acid residues; and (ii) a diol component, which includes 45 mol% to 95 mol% of cyclohexanediethanol (CHDM) residues, 5 mol% to 65 mol% of 2,2,4,4-tetramethylcyclobutane-1,3-diol (TMCD) residues, and 0 mol% to 10 mol% of modified diols having 2 to 20 carbon atoms; The intrinsic viscosity of the copolyester is from 0.5 dL / g to 1.2 dL / g, and this intrinsic viscosity was determined at 25°C at a concentration of 0.5 g / 100 ml in 60 / 40 (wt / wt) phenol / tetrachloroethane. The weight percentage is based on the weight of the copolyester, wherein the total molar percentage of the dicarboxylic acid component is 100 mol%, and the total molar percentage of the diol component is 100 mol%; and (b) About 5% by weight to about 20% by weight of an impact modifier component comprising one or more polymers, said one or more polymers comprising ethylene (E), alkyl acrylate (AA) and glycidyl (GMA and / or GA) groups, wherein the weight ratio of alkyl acrylate to glycidyl (GMA) is about 3.0:1 to about 9.0:1; The copolyester composition wherein the heat distortion temperature (HDT) is at least 75°C; and The copolyester composition has a notched cantilever beam impact strength of 600 joules / meter or greater, or 700 joules / meter or greater, as measured according to ASTM D256.

2. The copolyester composition of claim 1, wherein the copolyester composition has a notched simply supported beam impact strength of 300 joules / meter, or 500 joules / meter, or 500 joules / meter or greater, as measured according to ASTM D6110 using a 12.7 mm thick strip.

3. The copolyester composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the copolyester composition, measured according to ASTM D6110 using 12.7 mm thick strips aged in an oven at 80°C for 72 hours, has a notched simply supported beam impact strength of 300 joules / meter, or 500 joules / meter, or 500 joules / meter or greater.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. The copolyester composition according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein when tested as described in the examples below, the copolyester composition does not show fracture in three replicates of an impact test after exposure to acrylic enamel and / or canola oil.

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

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

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

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

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

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

20. The article of manufacture according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the article of manufacture is selected from housings of electronic devices or peripherals, personal electronic device components, housings or components of televisions or monitors, housings or components of power tools, housings or components of power adapters, components of home automation equipment, housings or components of gaming devices, building and construction materials and components, furniture and home décor components, wiring and connector housings or components, and automotive structural or decorative components.

21. The article of claim 20, wherein the article of claim 20 is selected from power tool housings or components thereof.

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