ETHYLENE / ALPHA-OLEFIN INTERPOLYMER COMPOSITIONS FOR EXTRUSION APPLICATIONS - Patent application

Abstract

1. A composition and associated process comprising the following components a) and b): a) a first composition comprising a multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer, the first composition having the following properties: i) a density of 0.855 to 0.900 g / cc; ii) V100(190°C)≦1000 Pa·s; and iii) [V0.1(190°C) / V100(190°C)]≧8.0; and b) at least one peroxide. 1. A composition and related process comprising the following components a) to c): a) a first composition comprising a multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer, the first composition having the following properties: i) a density of 0.855 to 0.900 g / cc; ii) a[V0.1(190°C) / V100(190°C)]≧5.0; b) at least one peroxide; and c) at least one Tempo compound represented by Structure I) selected from Structure IA, Structure IB, or Structure IC, each as described herein.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Vulcanized EPDM is the current material of choice for weatherstrip profile materials, highly loaded with carbon black and plasticizer oils and cured with a complex sulfur curative system. Today, the automotive industry is striving to produce light-weight vehicles (especially light-weight electric vehicles) with low electrical conductivity, low VOC values, and therefore low odor. Typical vulcanized EPDM cannot adequately meet all of these demands.

[0002] Extrusion and continuous vulcanization (CV) are the most common processing methods for making weatherstrip profiles. Conventional EPDM is not suitable for making "high polymer content" profiles because large amounts of carbon black and oil are required to reduce EPDM's inherently high viscosity. Fillers increase the weight of the profile.

[0003] When a profile is extruded using a conventional polyolefin elastomer (POE) composition containing a high polymer content (e.g., ≥ 90 wt. % based on the weight of the composition) and then crosslinked under high-temperature CV, there is usually a trade-off between the surface quality of the extrudate and the shape retention of the extrudate. If the "POE composition" has high fluidity, a good quality surface can be obtained by extrusion, but the profile shape cannot be maintained during the CV process. A composition containing a high molecular weight (high viscosity) POE can help the extrudate maintain its shape, but the surface of the extrudate becomes uneven and rough (i.e., a low-quality surface).

[0004] There is a need for new polymer compositions that can be extruded with good surface quality and that can also maintain the shape of the extrudate during curing in a CV tunnel. Such compositions should be free of fillers or contain small amounts of fillers.

[0005] WO 2021 / 128128 discloses a composition comprising the following components a) to c): a) an alpha composition comprising a multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer, the alpha composition having the following properties: i) Mz / Mn≧8.0, ii) density 0.855-0.890 g / cc, iii) V100(100°C)≦2,000 Pa·s, iv) V1.0(100°C)≧15,000 Pa·s, and v) Mn≧16,000 g / mol; b) a peroxide; and c) a silane coupling agent.

[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 9,102,824 discloses a composition comprising a first composition, the first composition comprising: A) a first interpolymer comprising, in polymerized form, ethylene, an alpha-olefin, and a non-conjugated polyene; and B) a second interpolymer comprising, in polymerized form, ethylene, an alpha-olefin, and a non-conjugated polyene, wherein the first composition has a [(ML(1+4, 125° C.)) / Mw(conv)] greater than 0.429 mol / g. * 1000, the Mooney ratio (ML, 1+4, 125°C) of the first interpolymer to the second interpolymer is 1.1 to 1.2, and the first interpolymer has a Mooney viscosity (ML, 1+4, 125°C) of 120 or less. See claim 1. Vulcanizing agents include, but are not limited to, sulfur-containing compounds and peroxides (see, e.g., column 10, lines 33-60).

[0007] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0276573 discloses a multimodal elastomer comprising a copolymer of ethylene and at least one alpha-olefin monomer, the multimodal elastomer comprising: a 20-90 wt% high molecular weight (HMW) fraction having a number average molecular weight (Mn) of at least 50 kg / mol and comprising at least 35 wt% ethylene and at least 30 wt% alpha-olefin comonomer; and a low molecular weight (LMW) fraction having a Mn of 4-25 kg / mol and comprising at least 50 wt% ethylene and at least 29 wt% alpha-olefin comonomer. The ratio of Mn of the HMW fraction to Mn of the LMW fraction is at least 5-1. The multimodal elastomer has a density of 0.853 to 0.875 g / cc, a shear viscosity of less than 2,500 Pa-s at 100 rad / s, and a shear viscosity of less than 120,000 Pa-s at 0.1 rad / s. See claim 1.

[0008] US Patent No. 6,541,592 discloses a thermoplastic elastomer composition containing 5 to 95% by weight of (A) and 5 to 95% by weight of (B), wherein (A) has a tensile stress M of 2.5 MPa or less. 100 (B) is an ethylene-alpha-olefin polymer having a tensile stress M of 2.5 MPa or more; 100 The present application discloses a thermoplastic elastomer composition, which is a polyolefin resin having the formula: The flow index I, as determined by a flow property test using a capillary rheometer, is 1.35 or greater. See Abstract. The composition may be crosslinked using sulfur, peroxides, metal ions, silanes, water, or other conventional methods (see column 9, lines 53-57).

[0009] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0263018 discloses a composition comprising: A) an ethylene / alpha-olefin / diene interpolymer; B) a peroxide containing at least one peroxide linkage; and C) a bis-TEMPO compound having structure (I) described therein. The ratio of the molar amount of nitroxide groups in component C to the molar amount of peroxide linkages in component (B) is 0.100:1.000 to 2.000:1.000. See Abstract.

[0010] WO 2020 / 140067 discloses a curable composition comprising A) a polyolefin component and B) a curing component comprising a crosslinker. 1 L 1 and an unsaturated polyolefin of formula A 1 L 1 Medium, L 1 is a polyolefin, and A 1 is a vinyl group, formula CH2=C(Y 1 )-, a vinylidene group represented by the formula Y 1 Vinylene group, vinyl group represented by CH=CH- and formula Y 1 a mixture of vinyl groups and vinylene groups represented by the formula CH═CH—; 1 )-, a mixture of vinylidene groups represented by the formula CH2=C(Y 1 )- and vinylene groups of the formula YCH=CH-, and mixtures of vinyl groups and vinylene groups of the formula CH=C(Y 1 )- and a vinylidene group represented by formula Y 1 and a mixture of vinylene groups represented by CH═CH—; 1is independently at each occurrence a C1 to C30 hydrocarbyl group. See claim 1. The curing component may also contain a scorch inhibitor / retarder, such as hindered phenols, semi-hindered phenols, TEMPO, TEMPO derivatives, 1,1-diphenylethylene, 2,4-diphenyl-4-methyl-1-pentene, and allyl-containing compounds described in U.S. Patent No. 6,277,925 B1. See paragraph

[0247] . See also WO 2020 / 140061, WO 2020 / 135681, WO 2020 / 135708, WO 2020 / 135680, WO 2020 / 139993, and WO 2020 / 140058.

[0011] U.S. Patent No. 8,581,094 discloses an electronic device module comprising A) at least one electronic device and B) a polymeric material in intimate contact with at least one surface of the electronic device. The polymeric material comprises the following components (1) and, optionally, (2) and (3): (1) a polyolefin copolymer having at least one of: (a) a density less than about 0.90 g / cc; (b) a 2% secant modulus less than about 150 megapascals (mPa); (c) a melting point less than about 95°C; (d) an alpha-olefin content of at least about 15% by weight and less than about 50% by weight, based on the weight of the polymer; (e) a Tg less than about -35°C; and (f) an SCBDI of at least about 50; (2) optionally, a free radical initiator (e.g., a peroxide or an azo compound) or a photoinitiator (e.g., benzophenone); and (3) optionally, a coagent. See Abstract. Typically, the polyolefin copolymer is an ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer. Optionally, the polymeric material can further comprise a vinyl silane and / or a scorch inhibitor, and the copolymer can be uncrosslinked or crosslinked. See Abstract. Scorch inhibitors include 4-hydroxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl, also known as nitroxyl 2, or NR 1, or 4-oxypiperidol, or tanol, or tempol, or tmpn, or 4-hydroxy-TEMPO (see column 11, lines 30-54).

[0012] J. Kruzelak, et al., Vulcanization of Rubber Compounds with Peroxide Curing Systems, Rubber Chemistry and Technology, 90(1), 60-88, 2017, discloses the characterization of organic peroxides as curing agents and their decomposition mechanisms. This reference also discloses the classification and characterization of coagents used in peroxide crosslinking with respect to the properties of the prepared materials, as well as the interaction and reaction mechanisms between peroxides, coagents, and the rubber matrix. See Abstract. This reference discloses scorch retarders such as 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol (BHT); 2,4-diphenyl-4-methyl-1-pentene (methylstyrene dimer, MSD); 1,1-diphenylethylene (DPE); (2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-piperidin-1-yl)oxyl (TEMPO); bis-(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinyl) sebacate (bis-TEMPO); or acrylate-functionalized TEMPO; 4-acryloyloxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-piperidine-N-oxyl (AOTEMPO). See page 83.

[0013] Further polymer compositions are disclosed in the following references: EP 2958151 A1, EP 2637217 A1, EP 2747150 A1, WO 2011 / 033232, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0273718.

[0014] However, as mentioned above, there is still a need for new polymer compositions that can be extruded with good surface quality and that can maintain the shape of the extrudate during curing in a CV tunnel. Such compositions should not contain fillers or should contain only small amounts of fillers. These needs have been met by the following inventions. Summary of the Invention

[0015] In a first aspect, a composition is provided, comprising the following components a) and b): a) a first composition comprising a multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer having the following characteristics: i) density of 0.855 to 0.900 g / cc; ii)V100(190℃)≦1000Pa·s, iii)[V0.1(190℃) / V100(190℃)]≧8.0 a first composition comprising: b) at least one peroxide; A composition comprising:

[0016] In a second aspect, a composition is provided, comprising the following components a) to c): a) a first composition comprising a multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer having the following characteristics: i) density of 0.855 to 0.900 g / cc; ii) [V0.1(190℃) / V100(190℃)]≧5.0 a first composition comprising: b) at least one peroxide; c) at least one Tempo compound represented by Structure I), each selected from Structure IA, Structure IB, or Structure IC described herein; A composition comprising:

[0017] In a third aspect, there is provided a process for forming a crosslinked composition, the composition comprising the following components a) and b): a) a first composition comprising a multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer having the following characteristics: i) density of 0.855 to 0.900 g / cc; ii)V100(190℃)≦1000Pa·s, iii)[V0.1(190℃) / V100(190℃)]≧8.0 a first composition comprising: b) at least one peroxide; and heat treating the composition comprising:

[0018] In a fourth aspect, there is provided a process for forming a crosslinked composition, the composition comprising: The following components a) to c): a) a first composition comprising a multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer having the following characteristics: i) density of 0.855 to 0.900 g / cc; ii) [V0.1(190℃) / V100(190℃)]≧5.0, a first composition comprising: b) at least one peroxide; c) at least one Tempo compound represented by Structure I) selected from Structure IA, Structure IB, or Structure IC, each as described herein; and heat treating the composition comprising: DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] We have discovered compositions that contain high levels of polymer (e.g., ≧90 wt. %, based on the weight of the composition), that can be extruded with good surface quality, and that also maintain the extrudate shape during curing in a CV tunnel.

[0020] As described above, in a first aspect, the composition comprises the following components a) and b), each as described herein. In a second aspect, the composition comprises the following components a) to c), each as described herein. In a third aspect, the process for forming a crosslinked composition comprises heat-treating a composition comprising the following components a) and b), each as described herein. In a fourth aspect, the process for forming a crosslinked composition comprises heat-treating a composition comprising the following components a) to c), each as described herein. Each composition may comprise a combination of two or more embodiments as described herein. Each process may comprise a combination of two or more embodiments as described herein. Each component a, b, and c may comprise a combination of two or more embodiments as described herein. Unless otherwise specified, the following embodiments apply to the first, second, third, and fourth aspects.

[0021] As used herein with respect to Structure IA, Structure IB, or Structure IC (see component c), R=R 1 , R2=R 2 , R3=R 3 and the like. Also, with respect to the number of carbon atoms in a chemical substituent of Structure IA, Structure IB, or Structure IC, a notation such as "C1-C18" (where "1-18" represents a sequential number from 1 to 18) refers to "1 to 18 carbon atoms" that may be present in the substituent. An "alkyl" group can be linear, branched, cyclic, or any combination thereof. An "alkylene" group can be linear, branched, cyclic, or any combination thereof.

[0022] With respect to the first and third aspects, each described herein, in one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, the first composition has a V0.1 (190°C, Pa s) ≥ 3,000, or ≥ 3,200, or ≥ 3,400, or ≥ 3,600, or ≥ 4,000, or ≥ 4,500, or ≥ 5,000, and / or ≤ 30,000, or ≤ 25,000, or ≤ 20,000, or ≤ 18,000.

[0023] With respect to the second and fourth aspects, each described herein, in one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, the first composition has a melt index (I2, g / 10 min) ≦5.0, or ≦4.8, or ≦4.6 and / or ≧0.1, or ≧0.2, or ≧0.4, or ≧0.6, or ≧0.8, or ≧1.0.

[0024] With respect to the first and third aspects, each described herein, in one embodiment, or in a combination of two or more embodiments, the composition further comprises, as component c, at least one Tempo compound represented by structure I, as described herein.

[0025] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the molar ratio of NO· from the at least one Tempo compound (component c) to peroxide (OO) bonds from the at least one peroxide (component b) is ≧0.30, or ≧0.31, or ≧0.33, or ≧0.34, and / or ≦0.90, or ≦0.88, or ≦0.85, or ≦0.82, or ≦0.80, or ≦0.78, or ≦0.75, or ≦0.72, or ≦0.70, or ≦0.68, or ≦0.65, or ≦0.62, or ≦0.60, or ≦0.58.

[0026] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, component c is present in an amount, based on 100 parts of component a, of ≥ 0.20, or ≥ 0.22, or ≥ 0.25, or ≥ 0.28, or ≥ 0.30, or ≥ 0.32, or ≥ 0.35, or ≥ 0.38, or ≥ 0.40, or ≥ 0.42, or ≥ 0.45 phr, and / or ≤ 0.90, or ≤ 0.88, or ≤ 0.85, or ≤ 0.82, or ≤ 0.80, or ≤ 0.78, or ≤ 0.75 phr.

[0027] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the first composition has a viscosity of ≧0.20 / 1000C, or ≧0.25 / 1000C, or ≧0.30 / 1000C, or ≧0.35 / 1000C, or ≧0.40 / 1000C, or ≧0.45 / 1000C, or ≧0.50 / 1000C, or ≧ and / or a total unsaturation of 0.51 / 1000C, or ≧0.52 / 1000C, or ≧0.53 / 1000C, and / or ≦15.0 / 1000C, or ≦10.0 / 1000C, or ≦5.00 / 1000C, or ≦2.00 / 1000C, or ≦1.50 / 1000C, or ≦1.20 / 1000C, or ≦1.00 / 1000C.

[0028] In one embodiment, or in a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is selected from multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymers.

[0029] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, component a further comprises a second multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer having a density of 0.855 to 0.900 g / cc and a total unsaturation of ≧0.20 / 1000 C, wherein the second multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer differs from the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer and further differs in one or more characteristics selected from density, total unsaturation, melt index (I2), or any combination thereof.

[0030] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the second multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is a multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer.

[0031] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ratio of the density of the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer to the density of the second multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is ≧0.80, or ≧0.85, or ≧0.90, or ≧0.92, or ≧0.94, or ≧0.96, or ≧0.98, or ≧1.0, and / or ≦1.25, or ≦1.20, or ≦1.18, or ≦1.16, or ≦1.14, or ≦1.12, or ≦1.11.

[0032] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the composition comprises ≦10 wt. %, or ≦5.0 wt. %, or ≦2.0 wt. %, or ≦1.0 wt. %, or ≦0.5 wt. %, or ≦0.1 wt. % of a filler, based on the weight of the composition, and further, the composition is free of a filler.

[0033] With respect to the third and fourth aspects, each described herein, in one embodiment, or in a combination of two or more embodiments, the heat treatment is carried out in air.

[0034] Also provided are crosslinked compositions formed from one or more embodiments of the composition described herein or from one or more embodiments of the process described herein. Also provided are articles comprising at least one component formed from one or more embodiments of the composition described herein or from one or more embodiments of the crosslinked composition described herein.

[0035] Multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymers In one embodiment, the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer comprises at least two ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer fractions. Each ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer fraction independently comprises, in polymerized form, ethylene and an alpha-olefin. The alpha-olefin may be either an aliphatic or aromatic compound. The alpha-olefin is preferably a C3 to C20 aliphatic compound, more preferably a C3 to C10 aliphatic compound such as propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene, and 1-octene. The distribution of the monomer units, particularly the alpha-olefins, may be random, block, uniform, heterogeneous, or the like. Preferably, the multimodal interpolymer is a random interpolymer (i.e., comprises a random distribution of its monomer constituents).

[0036] In one embodiment, the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is obtained by using different catalysts, different catalyst configurations, or different reactor conditions. For example, two catalysts are used in one reactor during the polymerization process to form two interpolymer fractions (in-situ blends). The multimodal interpolymer can also be obtained by a physical blend of at least two ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymers. In one embodiment, the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is formed from one of the following: a) two catalysts in one reactor, b) a single catalyst used under different polymerization conditions, or c) two catalysts each used under different polymerization conditions, or d) a physical blend. In a further embodiment, the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is formed from one of the following: a) two catalysts in one reactor, or b) a single catalyst used under different polymerization conditions, and also a) two catalysts in one reactor.

[0037] Tempo compound (component c) Tempo compounds have structure IA, structure IB, or structure IC, each of which is described herein. Examples of Tempo compounds include, but are not limited to, bis-(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-1-piperidinyloxy-4-yl) sebacate.

[0038] Peroxide (ingredient b) As used herein, a peroxide contains at least one oxygen-oxygen bond (OO). Peroxides include, but are not limited to, dialkyl, diaryl, and dialkaryl peroxides having the same or different respective alkyl, aryl, alkaryl, or aralkyl moieties, and also each dialkyl, diaryl, dialkaryl, or diaralkyl peroxide having the same respective alkyl, aryl, alkaryl, or aralkyl moiety.

[0039] Exemplary organic peroxides include dicumyl peroxide ("DCP"); tert-butyl peroxybenzoate, di-tert-amyl peroxide ("DTAP"), bis(t-butyl-peroxyisopropyl)benzene ("BIPB"), isopropylcumyl t-butyl peroxide, t-butylcumyl peroxide, di-t-butyl peroxide, 2,5-bis(t-butylperoxy)-2,5-dimethylhexane ("LUPEROX"). 101"); 2,5-bis(t-butylperoxy)-2,5-dimethylhexane-3, 1,1-bis(t-butylperoxy)-3,3,5-trimethylcyclohexane, isopropyl cumyl cumyl peroxide, butyl 4,4-di(tert-butylperoxy)valerate, di(isopropyl cumyl) peroxide, 1,1-di-(tert-butylperoxy)cyclohexane ("LUPEROX 331"); 1,1-di-(tert-amylperoxy)cyclohexane ("LUPEROX 531"); tert-butyl peroxyacetate ("TBPA"); tert-amyl peroxyacetate ("TAPA"); tert-butylperoxy-2-ethylhexyl carbonate ("tert-butylperoxy-2-ethylhexyl carbonate, TBEC"), and mixtures of two or more thereof.

[0040] The peroxide may be a cyclic peroxide. Examples of cyclic peroxides include those derived from acetone, methyl amyl ketone, methyl heptyl ketone, methyl hexyl ketone, methyl propyl ketone, methyl butyl ketone, diethyl ketone, methyl ethyl ketone, methyl octyl ketone, methyl nonyl ketone, methyl decyl ketone, methyl undecyl ketone, and combinations thereof. The cyclic peroxides can be used alone or in combination with each other. Some cyclic peroxides, such as 3,6,9-triethyl-3,6,9-trimethyl-1,4,7-triperoxonane, are commercially available, for example, under the trade name TRIGONOX.

[0041] additives The compositions of the present invention may contain one or more additives, including, but not limited to, crosslinking aids, foaming agents, antioxidants, UV stabilizers, colorants, processing aids (e.g., zinc stearate), and fillers (in minor amounts).

[0042] Crosslinking coagents include, but are not limited to, triallyl isocyanurate (TAIC), triallyl cyanurate (TAC), triallyl trimellitate (TATM), trimethylolpropane triacylate (TMPTA), trimethylolpropane trimethyl acrylate (TMPTMA), 1,6-hexanediol diacrylate, pentaerythritol tetraacrylate, dipentaerythritol pentaacrylate, tris(2-hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate triacrylate, trivinylcyclohexane (TVCH), or combinations thereof. Additional crosslinking coagents include alkenyl-functional monocyclic organosiloxanes (e.g., monocyclic organosiloxanes of the formula [R1,R2SiO2 / 2]n, where the subscript n is an integer greater than or equal to 3, and each R1 is independently (C2-C4)alkenyl or HC=C(R1a)-C(=O)-O, as disclosed in PCT Publication Nos. WO 2019 / 000311 and WO 2019 / 000654, the entireties of which are incorporated herein by reference). -(CH)-, where R is H or methyl, subscript m is an integer from 1 to 4, and each R is independently H, (C-C) alkyl, phenyl, or R; for example, but not limited to, 2,4,6,8-tetramethyl-2,4,6,8-tetravinylcyclotetrasiloxane, 2,4,6-trimethyl-2,4,6-trivinyl-cyclotrisiloxane, or combinations thereof.

[0043] In one embodiment, the additive is present in an amount of ≧0.10, or ≧0.20, or ≧0.30, or ≧0.35, or ≧0.40 phr based on 100 parts of component a, and / or ≦5.0, or ≦4.0, or ≦3.0, or ≦2.0, or ≦1.0 wt. %, or ≦0.50 phr based on 100 parts of component a.

[0044] definition Unless stated to the contrary, implicit from the context, or customary in the art, all parts and percentages are by weight and all test methods are current as of the filing date of this disclosure.

[0045] As used herein, the term "composition" includes a mixture of materials, including the composition and reaction and decomposition products formed from the materials of the composition. Any reaction or decomposition products are typically present in trace or residual amounts.

[0046] As used herein, the term "polymer" refers to a polymeric compound prepared by polymerizing monomers of the same or different types. Thus, the generic term polymer includes the term homopolymer (used to refer to a polymer prepared from only one type of monomer, with the understanding that trace amounts of impurities may be incorporated into the polymer structure) and the term interpolymer, as defined below. Trace amounts of impurities, such as catalyst residues, may be incorporated into and / or within the polymer. Typically, polymers are stabilized with very small amounts ("ppm (parts per million)" amounts) of one or more stabilizers.

[0047] As used herein, the term "interpolymer" refers to a polymer prepared by the polymerization of at least two different types of monomers. Thus, the term interpolymer includes the term copolymer (used to refer to a polymer prepared from two different types of monomers) and polymers prepared from three or more different types of monomers.

[0048] As used herein, the term "olefin-based polymer" refers to a polymer that, in polymerized form, comprises 50 weight percent or a majority weight percent (based on the weight of the polymer) of an olefin, such as ethylene or propylene, and may optionally contain one or more comonomers.

[0049] As used herein, the term "propylene-based polymer" refers to a polymer that, in polymerized form, comprises a majority weight percent propylene (based on the weight of the polymer) and may optionally include one or more comonomers.

[0050] As used herein, the term "ethylene-based polymer" refers to a polymer that, in polymerized form, contains at least 50 weight percent or majority weight percent ethylene (based on the weight of the polymer), and may optionally contain one or more comonomers.

[0051] As used herein, the term "ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer" refers to an interpolymer that comprises, in polymerized form, 50 weight percent or a majority weight percent (based on the weight of the interpolymer) ethylene and an alpha-olefin.

[0052] As used herein, the term "ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer" refers to a copolymer that, in polymerized form, contains 50 weight percent or majority weight percent ethylene (based on the weight of the copolymer) and an alpha-olefin as the only two monomer types.

[0053] As used herein, the term "multimodal" in the polymer term "multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer (or copolymer)" refers to an interpolymer (or copolymer) having a broad molecular weight distribution (MWD ≥ 2.8, even ≥ 3.0). This broad MWD typically results from multiple interpolymer fractions present in the multimodal interpolymer (or copolymer). Each interpolymer fraction can be obtained, for example, from the use of a different catalyst, different catalyst configuration, or different reactor conditions in the polymerization process (each type of process results in an in-situ blend of two or more fractions). For example, two catalysts are used in one reactor during the polymerization process to form two interpolymer fractions (in-situ blends). Each fraction can also be obtained from a physical blend of multiple ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymers or from the product of a post-reactor chemical reaction into a polymer, such as reactive extrusion. In one embodiment, the broad MWD is obtained from an in-situ blend or physical blend of two or more interpolymer (or copolymer) fractions, or two or more interpolymers (or copolymers). In a further embodiment, the broad MWD results from an in-situ blend or physical blend of two interpolymer (or copolymer) fractions, or two interpolymers (or copolymers).

[0054] The phrase "major weight percent" with respect to a polymer (or interpolymer or copolymer) refers to the amount of monomer present in the greatest amount in the polymer.

[0055] The term "heteroatom" refers to an atom other than hydrogen or carbon (e.g., O, S, N, or P). The term "heteroatomic group" refers to a heteroatom or a chemical group that contains one or more heteroatoms.

[0056] As used herein, the terms "hydrocarbon," "hydrocarbyl," and similar terms refer to respective compounds or chemical groups containing only carbon and hydrogen atoms. A divalent "hydrocarbylene group" is similarly defined.

[0057] As used herein, the terms "heterohydrocarbon," "heterohydrocarbyl," and similar terms refer to a hydrocarbon or hydrocarbyl group, respectively, in which at least one carbon atom has been replaced with a heteroatom group (e.g., O, S, N, or P). A monovalent heterohydrocarbyl group can be bonded to the remainder of the compound of interest through a carbon atom or through a heteroatom. A divalent "heterohydrocarbylene group" is similarly defined; a divalent heterohydrocarbylene group can be bonded to the remainder of the compound of interest through two carbon atoms, two heteroatoms, or a carbon atom and a heteroatom.

[0058] As used herein, the terms "substituted hydrocarbon," "substituted hydrocarbyl group," and similar terms refer to each hydrocarbon or hydrocarbyl group in which one or more hydrogen atoms have been independently replaced with a heteroatom group. A "substituted hydrocarbylene group" is similarly defined.

[0059] As used herein, the terms "substituted heterohydrocarbon," "substituted heterohydrocarbyl group," and similar terms refer to heterohydrocarbon or heterohydrocarbyl groups, respectively, in which one or more hydrogen atoms have been independently replaced with a heteroatom group. A "substituted heterohydrocarbylene group" is similarly defined.

[0060] As used herein, the term "crosslinked composition" refers to a composition having a network structure due to the formation of chemical bonds between polymer chains. The degree of network structure formation is indicated by an increase in the difference between "MH-ML" compared to the uncrosslinked composition. Crosslinked compositions typically have a gel content of ≥ 60 wt%, further ≥ 70 wt%, further ≥ 80 wt%, and even ≥ 90 wt%, based on the weight of the crosslinked composition. The gel content can be measured by refluxing the crosslinked composition in xylene. For example, approximately 0.5 g of the crosslinked composition (Ws) is sealed in a metal mesh (mesh number 120) to form a packed sample, and the packed sample is weighed (Wt1). The packed sample is then transferred to a flask (500 mL) equipped with a condenser and containing 350 mL of xylene. After refluxing for 5 hours, the packed sample is removed from the xylene, placed in a vacuum oven, and heated at 120°C under vacuum conditions for 2 hours. The packed sample is then removed from the oven and weighed (Wt2). Gel content = 1-[(Wt1-Wt2) / Ws] * 100%.

[0061] As used herein, "heat treating," "heat treated," "heat treatment," and similar terms, with respect to the compositions discussed herein, refer to raising the temperature of the composition by the application of heat. By way of example, heat may be applied by electrical means (e.g., heating coils), and / or by radiation, and / or by hot oil, and / or by mechanical shear. Note that the temperature at which heat treatment is carried out refers to the temperature of the "heating" device, or, if the device contains an enclosed or semi-enclosed atmosphere, the temperature of the atmosphere within the device, e.g., an oven or tunnel (e.g., the air temperature within a hot air oven or hot air tunnel).

[0062] As used herein, the term "extrudate" refers to the polymer composition exiting the extruder, typically in molten form.

[0063] As used herein, the term "extruder configuration" refers to the arrangement and number (n > 1) of extruders used in an extrusion process. Typically, two or more extruders are arranged in a series orientation.

[0064] The term "average barrel temperature," as used herein with respect to an extrusion process using one or more extruders, each containing at least one barrel, refers to the average temperature of the sum of the barrel temperatures if more than one barrel is present, or the temperature of that barrel if only one barrel is present.

[0065] The term "Garvey die" as used herein in connection with extrusion processes refers to a particular die shape that conforms to ASTM D2230-17 and allows for observation of the appearance and profile of the extrudate.

[0066] The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and their derivatives are not intended to exclude the presence of any additional component, step, or procedure, whether or not it is specifically disclosed. For the avoidance of doubt, all compositions claimed through the use of the term "comprising" may include any additional additive, adjuvant, or compound, whether polymeric or not, unless stated to the contrary. In contrast, the term "consisting essentially of" excludes from the scope of any succeeding description any other component, step, or procedure, except those that are not essential to operability. The term "consisting of" excludes any component, step, or procedure not specifically defined or listed.

[0067] List of some compositions and processes A] the following components a) and b), namely; a) a composition, wherein the first composition comprises a multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer, the first composition having the following properties: i) a density of 0.855 to 0.900 g / cc, ii) V100(190°C)≦1000 Pa·s, and iii) [V0.1(190°C) / V100(190°C)]≧8.0; b) at least one peroxide; A composition comprising: B] The composition of A] above, wherein the first composition has a V0.1 (190°C, Pa·s) of ≥ 3,000, or ≥ 3,200, or ≥ 3,400, or ≥ 3,600, or ≥ 4,000, or ≥ 4,500, or ≥ 5,000, and / or ≤ 30,000, or ≤ 25,000, or ≤ 20,000, or ≤ 18,000. C] The composition of A] or B] above, wherein the first composition has a [V100(190°C), Pa·s]≦1,000, or ≦950, or ≦900, and / or ≧300, or ≧350, or ≧400, or ≧450, or ≧500, or ≧550, or ≧600. D] Any one of the compositions A] to C] above, wherein the first composition has a V0.1 / V100 value of ≧9.0, or ≧10, or ≧11, or ≧12, or ≧13, and / or ≦50, or ≦40, or ≦35, or ≦30, or ≦25. E] Any one of the compositions A] to D] above, further comprising as component c at least one Tempo compound of structure I) as described in the specification (see I] below). F] The composition of E] above, wherein the molar ratio of NO· from at least one Tempo compound (component c) to peroxide (0-0) bonds from at least one peroxide (component b) is 0.30 to 0.90. G] The composition of E] or F] above, wherein component c is present in an amount of 0.20 to 0.90 phr based on 100 parts of component a. H] Any one of the compositions A] to G] above, wherein the first composition has a melt index (I2, g / 10 min or dg / min) ≧0.1, or ≧0.2, or ≧0.4, or ≧0.6, or ≧0.8, or ≧1.0, and / or ≦2000, or ≦1000, or ≦500, or ≦200, or ≦100, or ≦50, or ≦20, or ≦10, or ≦5.0. I] A composition comprising the following components a) to c): a) a first composition comprising a multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer, a first composition having the following properties: i) a density of 0.855 to 0.900 g / cc; ii) [V0.1(190°C) / V100(190°C)]≧5.0; b) at least one peroxide; c) at least one Tempo compound represented by Structure I) selected from Structure IA, Structure IB, or Structure IC, wherein Structure IA, Structure IB, or Structure IC is each: Structure IA is

[0068] [ka] and wherein n is an integer ≧1; R1, R2, R3, and R4 are each independently selected from H or C1-C18 alkyl; X is CH2, ether (-O-), thioether (-S m -, m≧1), carbonyl (—C(O)—), ester (—OC(O)— or —C(O)—O—), amine (—N(R)—), amide (—N(R)—C(O)— or —C(O)—N(R)—), urethane (—OC(O)—NH or —NH—C(O)—O—), carbamide (—NH—C(O)—NH—), or imide (—C(O)—N(R)—C(O)—); R' is selected from C1 to C30 alkylene; R" may be present or absent, and when present, R" is selected from C1 to C30 alkylene; Y is CR 4-n (n=1-4), OR 2-n (n=1-2), NR 3-n (n=1-3), SR 2-n (n=1-2), PR 3-n (n=1-3), PR 5-n (n=1-5), SiR 4-n(n=1 to 4), selected from a difunctional CC core, a phenyl core, an ester-substituted phenyl core, an amide-substituted phenyl core, a trisisocyanurate core, or a melamine core; the difunctional CC core is selected from the following structures, where each R′ represents a divalent R′ group in Structure IA above:

[0069] [ka] The phenyl core is selected from the following structures, where each R' is: represents the divalent R' group in structure IA above:

[0070] [ka] The ester-substituted phenyl core is selected from the following structures, where each R′ represents a divalent R′ group in structure IA above:

[0071] [ka] The amido-substituted phenyl core is selected from the following structures, where each R′ represents a divalent R′ group in structure IA above:

[0072] [ka] The tris-isocyanurate core is as follows, where each R′ represents a divalent R′ group in structure IA above;

[0073] [ka] The melamine core is as follows, where each R′ represents a divalent R′ group in structure IA above;

[0074] [ka] Each R group in Structure IA is independently selected from H, unsubstituted hydrocarbyl, substituted hydrocarbyl, unsubstituted heterohydrocarbyl, or substituted heterohydrocarbyl; Structure IB comprises the following substructures IB):

[0075] [ka] wherein n is an integer ≧1; R1, R2, R3, and R4 are each independently selected from H or C1-C18 alkyl; X is CH2, ether (-O-), thioether (-S m -, m≧1), carbonyl (—C(O)—), ester (—OC(O)— or —C(O)—O—), amine (—N(R)—), amide (—N(R)—C(O)— or —C(O)—N(R)—), urethane (—OC(O)—NH or —NH—C(O)—O—), carbamide (—NH—C(O)—NH—), or imide (—C(O)—N(R)—C(O)—; R' is selected from C1 to C30 alkylene; R" may be present or absent, and when present, R" is selected from C1 to C30 alkylene; Each R group in substructure IB is independently selected from H, unsubstituted hydrocarbyl, substituted hydrocarbyl, unsubstituted heterohydrocarbyl, or substituted heterohydrocarbyl; Each in substructure IB * (asterisk) represents the respective chemical termini of structure IB; The structure IC includes the following sub-structures IC):

[0076] [ka] wherein n is an integer ≧1; R1, R2, R3, and R4 are each independently selected from H or C1-C18; X is CH2, ether (-O-), thioether (-S m -, m≧1), carbonyl (-C(O)-), ester (-OC(O)- or -C(O)-O-), amine (-N(R)-), amide (-N(R)-C(O)- or -C(O)-N()-), urethane (-OC(O)-NH- or -NH-C(O)-O-), carbamide (-NH-C(O)-NH-), or imide (-C(O)-N(R)-C(O)-); R' is selected from C1 to C30 alkylene; R" may be present or absent, and when present, R" is selected from C1 to C30 alkylene; Each R''' group in substructure IC is independently selected from unsubstituted hydrocarbyl, substituted hydrocarbyl, unsubstituted heterohydrocarbyl, or substituted heterohydrocarbyl; Each R group in substructure IC is independently selected from H, unsubstituted hydrocarbyl, substituted hydrocarbyl, unsubstituted heterohydrocarbyl, or substituted heterohydrocarbyl; Each sub-structure IC * (asterisk) represents each chemical terminus of structure IC, and if n≧3, each terminus may or may not form a cyclic structure with the other terminus, and at least one Tempo compound. J] The composition of I] above, wherein the first composition has a melt index (I2, g / 10 min) of ≦5.0, or ≦4.8, or ≦4.6, and / or ≧0.1, or ≧0.2, or ≧0.4, or ≧0.6, or ≧0.8, or ≧1.0. K] The composition of I] or J] above, wherein the first composition has a V0.1 / V100 value of ≧5.5, or ≧6.0, or ≧6.5, or ≧7.0, or ≧7.5, or ≧8.0, and / or ≦50, or ≦40, or ≦35, or ≦30, or ≦25. L] Any one of the compositions I] to K] above, wherein the molar ratio of NO· (component c) from at least one Tempo compound to peroxide (0-0) bonds from at least one peroxide is 0.30 to 0.90. M] Any one of the compositions I] through L] above, wherein component c is present in an amount of 0.20 to 0.90 phr based on 100 parts of component a. N] The composition of any one of A] through M] above, wherein the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is selected from a multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer. O] The composition of any one of A] to N] above, wherein the multimodal ethylene / alpha-interpolymer is an in-situ blend or a physical blend. P] Any one of the compositions A]-O] above, wherein the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is an in-situ blend of two or more, and two further multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymers, or two or more, and two further multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymers. Q] The alpha-olefin of the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is C3-C 20 Alpha-olefins, further C3 to C 10 The composition of any one of A] to P] above, wherein the alpha-olefin is further propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene, or 1-octene, further propylene, 1-butene, or 1-octene, further 1-butene, or 1-octene, further 1-octene. R] The composition of any one of A]-Q] above, wherein the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is free, in polymerized form, of ENB, and further diene monomers, and further polyene monomers. S] Any one of the compositions A] - R] above, wherein the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer has a density of ≥ 0.856, or ≥ 0.860, or ≥ 0.862, or ≥ 0.864, or ≥ 0.866, or ≥ 0.868 g / cc, and / or ≤ 0.898, or ≤ 0.896, or ≤ 0.894, or ≤ 0.892, or ≤ 0.890, or ≤ 0.888, or ≤ 0.886, or ≤ 0.884, or ≤ 0.882, or ≤ 0.880, or ≤ 0.878, or ≤ 0.876, or ≤ 0.874, or ≤ 0.872 g / cc. T] the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer (of component a) has a total unsaturation of ≥ 0.20 / 1000C, or ≥ 0.25 / 1000, or ≥ 0.30 / 1000, or ≥ 0.35 / 1000, or ≥ 0.40 / 1000, or ≥ 0.45 / 1000, or ≥ 0.50 / 1000, or ≥ 0.51 / 1000, or ≥ 0.52 / 1000, or ≥ 0.53 / 1000, and / or ≤ 15.0 / 1000C, or ≤ 10.0 / 1000C, or ≤ Any one of the compositions A] to S] above, having a C / H of 5.00 / 1000C, or ≦2.00 / 1000C, ≦1.50 / 1000C, ≦1.20 / 1000C, or ≦1.00 / 1000C. A2] A process for forming a crosslinked composition, comprising the steps of: The following components a) and b), namely: a) a first composition comprising a multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer having the following properties: i) a density of 0.855 to 0.900 g / cc, ii) V100(190°C)≦1000 Pa·s, and iii) [V0.1(190°C) / V100(190°C)]≧8.0; b) heat treating a composition comprising:

[0077] B2] The process of A2] above, wherein the first composition has a V0.1(190°C) of ≥ 3,000, or ≥ 3,200, or ≥ 3,400, or ≥ 3,600, or ≥ 4,000, or ≥ 4,500, or ≥ 5,000 Pa·s, and / or ≤ 30,000, or ≤ 25,000, or ≤ 20,000, or ≤ 18,000. C2] The process of A2] or B2] above, wherein the first composition has a [V100(190°C), Pa·s]≦950, or ≦900, and / or ≧300, or ≧350, or ≧400, or ≧450, or ≧500, or ≧550, or ≧600. D2] The process of any one of A2]-C2] above, wherein the first composition has a V0.1 / V100 value of ≧9.0, or ≧10, or ≧11, or ≧12, or ≧13, and / or ≦50, or ≦40, or ≦35, or ≦30, or ≦25. E2] Any one of the processes A2]-D2] above, wherein the composition further comprises, as component c, at least one Tempo compound of structure I) described herein (see I] above). F2] The process of E2] above, wherein the molar ratio of NO· from at least one Tempo compound (component c) to peroxide (0-0) bonds from at least one peroxide (component b) is 0.30 to 0.90. G2] The process of E2] or F2] above, wherein component c is present in an amount of 0.20 to 0.90 phr based on 100 parts of component a. H2] The process of any one of A2]-G2] above, wherein the first composition has a melt index (I2, g / 10 min) ≥ 0.1, or ≥ 0.2, or ≥ 0.4, or ≥ 0.6, or ≥ 0.8, or ≥ 1.0, and / or ≤ 2000, or ≤ 1000, or ≤ 500, or ≤ 200, or ≤ 100, or ≤ 50, or ≤ 20, or ≤ 10, or ≤ 5.0. I2] A process for forming a crosslinked composition, the composition comprising the following components a) to c): a) a first composition comprising a multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer having the following characteristics: a first composition having i) a density of 0.855 to 0.900 g / cc, and ii) [V0.1(190°C) / V100(190°C)]≧5.0; b) at least one peroxide; c) Structure IA, Structure IB, each as described herein or Structure IC), and at least one Tempo compound (see I] above). J2] The process of I2] above, wherein the first composition has a melt index (I2, g / 10 min) of ≦5.0, or ≦4.8, or ≦4.6, and / or ≧0.1, or ≧0.2, or ≧0.4, or ≧0.6, or ≧0.8, or ≧1.0. K2] The process of I2] or J2] above, wherein the first composition has a V0.1 / V100 value of ≧5.5, or ≧6.0, or ≧6.5, or ≧7.0, or ≧7.5, or ≧8.0, and / or ≦50, or ≦40, or ≦35, or ≦30, or ≦25. L2] Any one of the above processes I2] to K2], wherein the molar ratio of NO· from the at least one Tempo compound (component c) to peroxide (0-0) bonds from the at least one peroxide (component b) is 0.30 to 0.90. M2] The process of any one of I2] through L2] above, wherein component c is present in an amount of 0.20 to 0.90 phr based on 100 parts of component a. N2] Any one of the processes A2] to M2] above, wherein the heat treatment is carried out in air and further at a temperature of 150°C to 240°C. O2] At least the following steps A and B, namely: A) extruding the composition to form a pre-crosslinked composition; B) heat treating the pre-crosslinked composition in air at a temperature of ≥ 150°C to form a crosslinked composition; Any one of the processes A2] to N2] above, including: P2] The process of O2] above, wherein for step A, the composition is extruded at an average barrel temperature of ≥ 50°C, or ≥ 55°C, or ≥ 60°C, or ≥ 65°C, ≥ 70°C, ≥ 75°C, or ≥ 80°C, or ≥ 85°C, or ≥ 90°C, or ≥ 95°C, or ≥ 100°C, or ≥ 105°C, or ≥ 110°C, and / or ≤ 140°C, or ≤ 135°C, or ≤ 130°C, or ≤ 125°C, or ≤ 120°C, or ≤ 115°C. Q2] The process of O2] or P2] above, wherein for step B, the pre-crosslinked composition is heat treated at a temperature of ≧150°C, or ≧155°C, or ≧160°C, or ≧165°C, or ≧170°C, or ≧175°C, or ≧180°C, ≧185°C, ≧190°C, or ≧195°C, and / or at a temperature of ≦240°C, or ≦235°C, or ≦230°C, or ≦225°C, or ≦220°C, or ≦215°C, or ≦210°C, or ≦205°C, or ≦200°C. R2] For step B, any one of the processes 02] to Q2] above, wherein the pre-crosslinked composition is heat treated in a continuous high temperature furnace or CV tunnel. S2] Any one of the processes 02] to R2] above, wherein for step A, the composition is extruded in a series extruder configuration with a Garvey die at the end of the last extruder in the extruder configuration. T2] The process of any one of A2] through S2] above, wherein the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is selected from a multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer. U2] The process of any one of A2] through T2] above, wherein the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is an in-situ blend or a physical blend. V2] The process of any one of A2] through U2] above, wherein the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is an in-situ blend of two or more, and two further multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymers, or two or more, and two further multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymers. W2] The alpha-olefin of the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is C3 to C 20 Alpha-olefins, further C3 to C 10 alpha-olefins, and further propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene or 1-octene, further propylene, 1-butene or 1-octene, further 1-butene or 1-octene, further 1-octene. X2] The process of any one of A2] through W2] above, wherein the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is free, in polymerized form, of ENB, and further diene monomers, and further polyene monomers. Y2] The process of any one of A2] through X2] above, wherein the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer has a density of ≥ 0.856, or ≥ 0.860, or ≥ 0.862, or ≥ 0.864, or ≥ 0.866, or ≥ 0.868 g / cc, and / or ≤ 0.898, or ≤ 0.896, or ≤ 0.894, or ≤ 0.892, or ≤ 0.890, or ≤ 0.888, or ≤ 0.886, or ≤ 0.884, or ≤ 0.882, or ≤ 0.880, or ≤ 0.878, or ≤ 0.876, or ≤ 0.874, or ≤ 0.872 g / cc. Z2] The multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer (of component a) has a total unsaturation of ≥ 0.20 / 1000C, or ≥ 0.25 / 1000C, or ≥ 0.30 / 1000C, or ≥ 0.35 / 1000C, or ≥ 0.40 / 1000C, or ≥ 0.45 / 1000C, or ≥ 0.50 / 1000C, or ≥ 0.51 / 1000C. C, or ≧0.52 / 1000C, or ≧0.53 / 1000C, and / or ≦15.0 / 1000C, or ≦10.0 / 1000C, or ≦5.00 / 1000C, or 2.00 / 1000C, ≦1.50 / 1000C, ≦1.20 / 1000C, or ≦1.00 / 1000C. A4] The composition of any one of A] through T] above, or the process of any one of A2] through Z2] above, wherein the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer of component a has a number average molecular weight Mn > 6,000, or > 8,000, or > 10,000, or > 12,000, or > 14,000, or > 16,000, or > 18,000, or > 20,000 g / mol, and / or < 120,000, or < 100,000, or < 80,000, or < 70,000, or < 60,000, or < 50,000, or < 45,000, or < 40,000, or < 35,000 g / mol. B4] The composition of any one of A] through T] or A4] above, or the process of any one of A2] through Z2] or A4] above, wherein the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer of component a has a weight average molecular weight Mw ≥ 20,000, or ≥ 30,000, or ≥ 40,000, or ≥ 50,000, or ≥ 60,000, or ≥ 70,000 g / mol, and / or ≤ 150,000, or ≤ 145,000, or ≤ 140,000, or ≤ 135,000, or ≤ 130,000, or ≤ 125,000, or ≤ 120,000, or ≤ 115,000 g / mol. C4] The composition of any one of A] to T], A4] or B4] above, or the process of any one of A2] to Z2], A4] or B4] above, wherein the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer of component a has a molecular weight distribution MWD (= Mw / Mn) of ≥ 2.80, or ≥ 2.90, or ≥ 3.00, and / or ≤ 5.00, or ≤ 4.50, or ≤ 4.00, or ≤ 3.80, or ≤ 3.70, or ≤ 3.60, or ≤ 3.50. D4] component a is a second multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer having a density of 0.855 to 0.900 g / cc and a total unsaturation of ≧0.20 / 1000 C, different from the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer; The composition of any one of A] to T] or A4] to C4] above, or the process of any one of A2] to Z2] or A4] to C4] above, further comprising a second multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer differing in one or more characteristics selected from density, total unsaturation, melt index (I2), or any combination thereof. E4] The composition of D4] above or the process of D4] above, wherein the second multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer has a density of ≧0.856, or ≧0.860, or ≧0.862, or ≧0.864, or ≧0.866, or ≧0.868 g / cc, and / or ≦0.898, or ≦0.896, or ≦0.894, or ≦0.892, or ≦0.890, or ≦0.888, or ≦0.886, or ≦0.884, or ≦0.882, or ≦0.880, or ≦0.878, or ≦0.876, or ≦0.874, or ≦0.872 g / cc, ≦0.870 g / cc. F4] the second multimodal interpolymer has a total unsaturation of ≥ 0.20 / 1000C, or ≥ 0.25 / 1000C, or ≥ 0.30 / 1000C, or ≥ 0.35 / 1000C, or ≥ 0.40 / 1000C, or ≥ 0.45 / 1000C, or ≥ 0.50 / 1000C, or ≥ 0.51 / 1000C, or ≥ 0.52 / 1000C C, or ≧0.53 / 1000C, and / or ≦15.0 / 1000C, or ≦10.0 / 1000C, or ≦5.00 / 1000C, or ≦2.00 / 1000C, ≦1.50 / 1000C, ≦1.20 / 1000C, or ≦1.00 / 1000C. G4] The composition of any one of D4]-F4] above, or the process of any one of D4]-F4] above, wherein the second multimodal ethylene / alpha olefin interpolymer has a melt index (I2, g / 10 min or dg / min) ≥ 0.1, or ≥ 0.2, or ≥ 0.5, or ≥ 0.8, or ≥ 1.0, and / or ≤ 2000, or ≤ 1000, or ≤ 500, or ≤ 200, or ≤ 100, or ≤ 50, or ≤ 20, or ≤ 10, or ≤ 5.0, or ≤ 2.0. H4] The composition of any one of D4]-G4] above, or the process of any one of D4]-G4] above, wherein the second multimodal ethylene / alpha olefin interpolymer is a multimodal ethylene / alpha olefin copolymer. I4] The composition of any one of D4]-H4] above, or the process of any one of D4]-H4] above, wherein the second multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is an in-situ blend or a physical blend. J4] The composition of any one of D4]-I4] above, or the process of any one of D4]-I4] above, wherein the second multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is an in-situ blend of two or more, two further multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymers, or two or more, two further multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymers. K4] The alpha-olefin of the second multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is C3-C 20 Alpha-olefins, further C3 to C 10 The composition of any one of D4] to J4] above, or the process of any one of D4] to J4] above, wherein the alpha-olefin is further propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene or 1-octene, further propylene, 1-butene or 1-octene, further 1-butene or 1-octene, further 1-octene. L4] The composition of any one of D4]-K4] above, or the process of any one of D4]-K4] above, wherein the second multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer does not, in polymerized form, comprise ENB, and further diene monomers, and further polyene monomers. M4] The composition of any one of D4] - L4] above, or the process of any one of D4] - L4] above, wherein the ratio of the density of the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer to the density of the second multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is ≧0.80, or ≧0.85, or ≧0.90, or ≧0.92, or ≧0.94, or ≧0.96, or ≧0.98, or ≧1.00, and / or ≦1.25, or ≦1.20, or ≦1.18, or ≦1.16, or ≦1.14, or ≦1.12, or ≦1.11. N4] The composition of any one of D4]-M4] above, or the process of any one of D4]-M4] above, wherein the ratio of the total unsaturation of the multimodal ethylene / alpha olefin interpolymer to the total unsaturation of the second multimodal ethylene / alpha olefin interpolymer is ≧0.8, or ≧0.9, or ≧1.0, or ≧1.1, and / or ≦5.0, or ≦4.5, or ≦4.0, or ≦3.5, or ≦3.0, or ≦2.5, or ≦2.0, or ≦1.5. O4] The composition of any one of D4]-N4] above, or the process of any one of D4]-N4] above, wherein the ratio of the melt index (I2) of the multimodal ethylene / alpha olefin interpolymer to the melt index (I2) of the second multimodal ethylene / alpha olefin interpolymer is ≧0.8, or ≧1.0, or ≧2.0, or ≧2.5, or ≧3.0, or ≧3.5, or ≧4.0, and / or ≦20, or ≦10, or ≦8.0, or ≦6.0, or ≦5.0. P4] The composition of any one of D4]-O4] above, or the process of any one of D4]-O4] above, wherein the weight ratio of the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer to the second ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is ≧0.50, or ≧0.60, or ≧0.70, or ≧0.80, or ≧0.90, or ≧1.0, and / or ≦20, or ≦10, or ≦8.0, or ≦6.0, or ≦4.0, or ≦2.0, or ≦1.5, or ≦1.2. Q4] The composition of any one of D4]-P4] above, or the process of any one of D4]-P4] above, wherein component a comprises ≧80.0 wt%, or ≧85.0 wt%, or ≧90.0 wt%, or ≧95.0 wt%, or ≧98.0 wt%, or ≧99.0 wt%, or ≧99.5 wt%, and / or ≦100.0 wt%, or ≦99.9 wt%, or ≦99.8 wt% of the total of the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer and the second multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer, based on the weight of component a. R4] The composition of any one of A]-T] or A4]-C4] above, or the process of any one of A2]-Z2] or A4]-C4] above, wherein component a comprises ≥ 80.0 wt%, or ≥ 85.0 wt%, or ≥ 90.0 wt%, or ≥ 95.0 wt%, or ≥ 98.0 wt%, or ≥ 99.0 wt%, or ≥ 99.5 wt%, and / or ≤ 100.0 wt%, or ≤ 99.9 wt%, or ≤ 99.8 wt% multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer, based on the weight of component a. S4] The composition of any one of A] to T1] or A4] to R4] above, or the process of any one of A2] to Z2] or A4] to R4] above, wherein for structure I of component c, each of R1, R2, R3, and R4 is the same. T4] Any one of the compositions A] to T] or A4] to R4] above, or any one of the processes A2] to Z2] or A4] to R4] above, wherein for structure I of component c, at least one of R1, R2, R3 and R4 is different from the others of R1, R2, R3 and R4. U4] For structure I of component c, any one of the compositions A] to T] or A4] to R4] above, or any one of the processes A2] to Z2] or A4] to R4] above, wherein each of R1, R2, R3, and R4 is independently selected from H or C1-C5 alkyl, further H or C1-C4 alkyl, further H or C1-C3 alkyl, further H or C1-C2 alkyl, further H or methyl. V4] For structure I of component c, any one of the compositions A] to T] or A4] to R4] above, or any one of the processes A2] to Z2] or A4] to R4] above, wherein each of R1, R2, R3, and R4 is independently selected from C1 to C6 alkyl, further C1 to C5 alkyl, further C1 to C4 alkyl, further C1 to C3 alkyl, further C1 to C2 alkyl, and further methyl. W4] Any one of the compositions A] to T] or A4] to V4] above, or any one of the processes A2] to Z2] or A4] to V4] above, wherein for structure I of component c, X is selected from CH2, ether (-O-), carbonyl (-C(O)-), ester (-O-C(O)- or -C(O)-O-), amine (-N(R)-), or amide (-N(R)-C(O)- or -C(O)-N(R)-), and further CH2, ether (-O-) or ester (-O-C(O)- or -C(O)-O-), and further ester (-O-C(O)- or -C(O)-O-). X4] Any one of the compositions A] to T] or A4] to W4] above, or any one of the processes A2] to Z2] or A4] to W4] above, wherein for structure I of component c, R' is selected from C1 to C6 alkylene, further C1 to C5 alkylene, further C1 to C4 alkylene, further C1 to C3 alkyl, further C1 to C2 alkylene. Y4] Any one of the compositions A] to T] or A4] to X4] above, or any one of the processes A2] to Z2] or A4] to X4] above, wherein for structure I of component c, R'' is selected from C1 to C6 alkylene, further C1 to C5 alkylene, further C1 to C4 alkylene, further C1 to C3 alkyl, further C1 to C2 alkylene, and further methylene. Z4] Any one of the compositions A] to T] or A4] to X4] above, or any one of the processes A2] to Z2] or A4] to X4] above, wherein for structure I of component c, R'' is absent. A5] Any one of the compositions A] to T] or A4] to Z4] above, or any one of the processes A2] to Z2] or A4] to Z4] above, wherein for structure I of component c, n is greater than or equal to 2. B5] The composition of any one of A] to T] or A4] to A5] above, or the process of any one of A2] to Z2] or A4] to A5] above, wherein Structure I (component c) is selected from Structure IA. C5] The composition of any one of B5] above or the process of any one of P2] above, wherein for structure IA, n is 2 to 4, further 2 or 3, further 2. D5] For structure IA, Y is CR 4-n (wherein n=1 to 4), OR 2-n (in the formula, n=1~2), NR 3-n wherein n=1 to 3, a bifunctional CC core as described herein, a phenyl core as described herein, an ester-substituted phenyl core as described herein, an amide-substituted phenyl core as described herein, and further a CR 4-n (wherein n=1 to 4), OR 2-n (in the formula, n=1~2), NR 3-n wherein n=1-3, a bifunctional CC core as described herein, or a phenyl core as described herein, and further comprising a CR 4-n (wherein n=1 to 4), OR 2-n wherein n=1-2, or a bifunctional CC core as described herein, and further comprising CR 4-n (wherein n=1 to 4) or a difunctional CC core described herein, and further selected from a difunctional CC core described herein. E5] a bifunctional CC core,

[0078] [ka] wherein each R' represents a divalent R' group in structure IA above, and further wherein each R in the CC core is H. F5] The composition of any one of B5]-E5] above, or the process of any one of B5]-E5] above, wherein for structure IA, each R is independently selected from H, unsubstituted hydrocarbyl, or substituted hydrocarbyl, and further H or unsubstituted hydrocarbyl, and further H or alkyl, and further H or C1-C5 alkyl. G5] Structure IA may be the following structure IA1:

[0079] [ka] The composition of any one of B5] to F5] above, or the process of any one of B5] to F5] above, H5] The composition of any one of A] to T] or A4] to A5] above, or the process of any one of A2] to Z2] or A4] to A5] above, wherein structure I (component c) is selected from structure IB and includes substructure IB. I5] The composition of H5] above or the process of H5] above, wherein for substructure IB, n≧10, or n≧20, or n≧50, or n≧100. J5] For substructure IB, the composition of H5] or I5] above, or the process of H5] or I5] above, wherein each R group is independently selected from H, unsubstituted hydrocarbyl, or substituted hydrocarbyl, and further H or unsubstituted hydrocarbyl, and further H or alkyl, and further H or C1-C5 alkyl. K5] The composition of any one of A] to T] or A4] to A5] above, or the process of any one of A2] to Z2] or A4] to A5] above, wherein Structure I (component c) is selected from Structure IC and includes substructure IC. L5] The composition of K5] above, or the process of K5] above, wherein for substructure IC, n≧10, or n≧20, or n≧50, or n≧100. M5] The composition of K5] or L5] above, or the process of K5] or L5] above, wherein for substructure IC, each R group is independently selected from H, unsubstituted hydrocarbyl, or substituted hydrocarbyl, and further H or unsubstituted hydrocarbyl, and further H or alkyl, and further H or C1-C5 alkyl. N5] The composition of any one of K5] through M5] above, or the process of any one of K5] through M5] above, wherein for substructure IC, each R''' group is independently selected from H, unsubstituted hydrocarbyl, or substituted hydrocarbyl, and further unsubstituted hydrocarbyl, and further alkyl, and further C1-C5 alkyl. O5] for substructure 1C, n≧3, and *The composition of any one of K5] to N5] above, or the process of any one of K5] to N5] above, wherein the (asterisk) forms a cyclic structure with the other end. P5] Any one of compositions [E]-[T] or [A4]-[O5], or any one of processes [E2]-[Z2] or [A4]-[O5], wherein the molar ratio of NO· from the Tempo compound to peroxide (OO) bonds is ≧0.31, or ≧0.33, or ≧0.34, and / or ≦0.88, or ≦0.85, or ≦0.82, or ≦0.80, or ≦0.78, or ≦0.75, or ≦0.72, or ≦0.70, or ≦0.68, or ≦0.65, or ≦0.62, or ≦0.60, or ≦0.58. Q5] The composition of any one of E]-T] or A4]-P5] above, or the process of any one of E2]-Z2] or A4]-P5] above, wherein component c is present in an amount of ≥ 0.22, or ≥ 0.25, or ≥ 0.28, or ≥ 0.30, or ≥ 0.32, or ≥ 0.35, or ≥ 0.38, or ≥ 0.40, or ≥ 0.42, or ≥ 0.45 phr, and / or ≤ 0.88, or ≤ 0.85, or ≤ 0.82, or ≤ 0.80, or ≤ 0.78, or ≤ 0.75 phr, based on 100 parts of component a. R5] The composition of any one of A] through T] or A4] through Q5] above, or the process of any one of A2] through Z2] or A4] through Q5] above, wherein component b is present in an amount of ≧0.20, or ≧0.40, or ≧0.60, or ≧0.80 phr, and / or ≦2.0, or ≦1.8, or ≦1.6 phr, based on 100 parts of component a. S5] The composition of any one of A] to T] or A4] to R5] above, or the process of any one of A2] to Z2] or A4] to R5] above, wherein the composition comprises ≥ 90.0 wt%, or ≥ 91.0 wt%, or ≥ 92.0 wt%, or ≥ 93.0 wt%, or ≥ 94.0 wt%, or ≥ 95.0 wt%, and / or ≤ 100.0 wt%, or ≤ 99.5 wt%, or ≤ 99.0 wt%, or ≤ 98.7 wt%, of component a, based on the weight of the composition. T5] The composition of any one of A] to T] or A4] to S5] above, or the process of any one of A2] to Z2] or A4] to S5] above, wherein the composition further comprises a crosslinking coagent (component d). U5] The composition of T5] above, or the process of T5] above, wherein component d is present in an amount, based on 100 parts of component a, of ≥ 0.05, or ≥ 0.10, or ≥ 0.15, or ≥ 0.20, or ≥ 0.22, or ≥ 0.25, or ≥ 0.30, or ≥ 0.35, or ≥ 0.38, or ≥ 0.40 phr, and / or ≤ 1.0, or ≤ 0.80, or ≤ 0.75, or ≤ 0.70, or ≤ 0.65, or ≤ 0.60, or ≤ 0.55, or ≤ 0.50, or ≤ 0.48, or ≤ 0.45 phr. V5] Any one of the compositions E]-T] or A4]-U5], or any one of the processes E2]-Z2] or [A4]-U5], wherein the weight ratio of component c to component b is ≧0.20, or ≧0.25, or ≧0.30, or ≧0.35, or ≧0.40, or ≧0.45, or ≧0.50, or ≧0.55, or ≧0.57, and / or ≦5.0, or ≦4.0, or ≦3.0, or ≦2.0, or ≦1.5, or ≦1.0, or ≦0.80, or ≦0.70, or ≦0.65. W5] The composition of any one of A]-T] or A4]-V5], or the process of any one of A2]-Z2] or A4]-V5], wherein the composition comprises ≦10 wt %, or ≦5.0 wt %, or ≦2.0 wt %, or ≦1.0 wt %, or ≦0.5 wt %, or ≦0.1 wt %, of a filler, based on the weight of the composition, and further wherein the composition does not comprise a filler. X5] The composition of any one of A] through T] or A4] through W5] above, or the process of any one of A2] through Z2] or A4] through W5] above, wherein the composition comprises ≥ 94.0 wt%, or ≥ 94.5 wt%, or ≥ 95.0 wt%, or ≥ 95.5 wt%, or ≥ 96.0 wt%, or ≥ 96.5 wt%, and / or ≤ 100.0 wt%, or ≤ 99.5 wt%, or ≤ 99.0 wt%, or ≤ 98.5 wt% of the sum of components a and b, based on the weight of the composition. Y5] The composition of any one of E]-T] or A4]-X5] above, or the process of any one of E2]-Z2] or A4]-X5] above, wherein the composition comprises ≥ 95.0 wt%, or ≥ 95.5 wt%, or ≥ 96.0 wt%, or ≥ 96.5 wt%, or ≥ 97.0 wt%, and / or ≤ 100.0 wt%, or ≤ 99.5 wt%, or ≤ 99.0 wt% of the sum of components a, b, and c, based on the weight of the composition. Z5] The composition of any one of E] to T] or A4] to Y5] above, or the process of any one of E2] to Z2] or A4] to Y5] above, wherein the composition comprises one Tempo compound for component c. A6] The composition of any one of A] to T] or A4] to Z5] above, or the process of any one of A2] to Z2] or A4] to Z5] above, wherein the composition comprises one peroxide for component b. B6] The composition of any one of A]-T] or A4]-A6] above, or the process of any one of A2]-Z2] or A4]-A6] above, wherein the composition further comprises a polymer that differs in one or more characteristics from the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer of component a, such as comonomer type, comonomer content, density, melt index (I2), total unsaturation, Mn, Mw, MWD, or any combination thereof, and also in comonomer type, comonomer content, density, melt index (I2), total unsaturation, or any combination thereof. C6] the composition has a (MH-ML) value MH ≥ 6.0, or ≥ 6.2, or ≥ 6.4 dNm, and / or ≤ 10, or ≤ 9.0, or ≤ 8.0 dNm; Any one of the compositions A] to T] or A4] to B6] above, or any one of the processes A2] to Z2] or A4] to B6] above, wherein the MH and ML values ​​are measured according to the MDR test described herein. D6] The composition of any one of A] to T] or A4] to C6] above, or the process of any one of A2] to Z2] or A4] to C6] above, wherein the composition has a T90 value of ≧4.0, or ≧4.2, or ≧4.5 minutes, and / or ≦6.0, or ≦5.5 minutes, when measured by the MDR test described herein. E6] The composition of any one of A] to T] or A4] to D6] above, or the process of any one of A2] to Z2] or A4] to D6] above, wherein the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is a random interpolymer, and also a random copolymer. F6] The composition of any one of D4]-E6] above or the process of any one of D4]-E6] above, wherein the second multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is a random interpolymer, and also a random copolymer. G6] A crosslinked composition formed from any one of the compositions A]-T] or D4]-F6] above, and by further heat treating these compositions, or formed by the process of any one of A2]-Z2] or A4]-F6] above. H6] An extrudate formed from the composition of any one of A] to T] or A4] to F6] above, or formed by the process of any one of A2] to Z2] or A4] to F6] above. I6] The extrudate of H6] above having a smooth surface. J6] An article comprising at least one component formed from the composition of any one of A] to T] or A4] to F6] above, or formed by the process of any one of A2] to Z2] or A4] to F6] above. K6] An article comprising at least one component formed from the crosslinked composition of G6] above. L6] Automotive parts or building materials, footwear parts, or PV films, and further articles of J6] or K6] above which are automotive parts. Articles as defined above in J6] or K6] that are M6] profiles.

[0080] Test Method Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMS) The viscosity of the first composition (polymer or blend) was measured using dynamic mechanical spectroscopy (DMS). DMS was performed using an Advanced Rheometric Expansion System (ARES) for melt state testing. The test used 25 mm parallel plates at 5% strain. The angular frequency was 0.1 to 100 rad / s at 190°C, with five data points recorded per decade. One sample per composition was tested. V0.1, V100, and V0.1 / V100 values ​​were recorded.

[0081] Melt Strength The melt strength (MS) of the first composition (polymer or blend, approximately 15 grams) was measured using the conditions in Table A below.

[0082] [Table 1]

[0083] Mobile Die Rheometer (MDR) Analysis The MDR cure characteristics of each composition were measured according to ASTM D-5289 using an Alpha Technologies MDR 2000. A 4.5 g sample of the composition was cut from a 4 mm thick sheet prepared from 2 mils (see Experimental Section) and placed in the MDR sample holder. MDR testing was performed at 180°C for 15 minutes at an oscillation frequency of 100 CPM (1.67 Hz) and an oscillation angle of 0.5 degrees (7% strain). The minimum torque (ML) and maximum torque (MH) exerted by the MDR during the test interval are reported in dNm. The difference between MH and ML, i.e., MH-ML, indicates the degree of crosslinking; the greater the difference, the greater the degree of crosslinking. The time required for the torque to reach X% (e.g., 90%) of the MH value or TX value (e.g., T90), is reported in minutes. One sample per composition was tested.

[0084] Melt Index The melt index I2 of an ethylene-based polymer or blend (as used herein) is measured in accordance with ASTM D-1238, condition 190°C / 2.16 kg. The melt flow rate MFR of a propylene-based polymer is measured in accordance with ASTM D-1238, condition 230°C / 2.16 kg.

[0085] Polymer Density ASTM D4703 is used to prepare polymer plaques for density analysis. ASTM D792, Method B is used to measure the density of each polymer.

[0086] 1 H NMR method Sample Preparation: Each sample was prepared by adding approximately 130 mg of sample to 3.25 g of 50 / 50 by weight tetrachloroethane-d₂ / perchloroethylene (TCE-d₂ / PCE) containing 0.001 M Cr(AcAc)₃ in a NORELL 1001-7, 10 mm NMR tube. The sample was purged by bubbling N₂ through the solvent via a pipette inserted into the tube for approximately 5 minutes to prevent oxidation. The tube was then capped and sealed with Teflon tape before being heated to 115°C and vortex mixed to obtain a homogeneous solution.

[0087] Data acquisition parameters and data analysis: Bruker AVANCE 600 MHz spectrometer equipped with a Bruker high temperature CryoProbe, sample temperature 120°C. 1 H NMR was performed. Two experiments were performed to obtain a spectrum for quantifying total polymer protons, a control spectrum, and a double pre-saturation experiment to suppress the strong peaks associated with the polymer chains and enable a highly sensitive spectrum for quantification of end groups. This control was performed with a ZG pulse, 16 scans, AQ 1.82 s, D1 (relaxation delay) 14 s. The double pre-saturation experiment was performed with a modified pulse sequence, lc1prf2.zz, 64 scans, AQ 1.82 s, D1 (pre-saturation time) 2 s, D 13 The experiment was performed with a relaxation delay of 12 seconds. The unsaturation measurements were performed according to the following method: The areas under the resonances from the polymer chains (i.e., CH, CH2, and CH3 in the polymer) were measured from the spectrum obtained during the first experiment (control spectrum) described above.

[0088] The degree of unsaturation was analyzed using the method described in Reference 3 below. Reference 1: Z. Zhou, R. Kummerle, J.C. Stevens, D. Redwine, Y. He, X. Qiu, R. Cong, J. Klosin, N. Montanez, G. Roof, Journal of Magnetic Resonance, 2009, 200, 328. Reference 2: Z. Zhou, R. Kummerle, X. Qiu, D. Redwine, R. Cong, A. Taha, D. Baugh, B. Winniford, Journal of Magnetic Resonance: 187 (2007) 225. Reference 3: Z. Zhou, R. Cong, Y. He, M. Paradkar, M. Demirors, M. Cheatham, W. deGroot, Macromolecular Symposia, 2012, 312, 88.

[0089] The peak areas for each type of unsaturation observed (i.e., vinyl, vinylidene, vinylene, and trisubstituted) were measured from the spectrum acquired during the second (presaturation) experiment. Both spectra were normalized to the solvent peak area. The moles of unsaturation were calculated by dividing the area under each unsaturated resonance by the number of protons contributing to that resonance. The moles of carbon in the polymer were calculated by dividing the area under the polymer chain peak (i.e., CH, CH, and CH in the polymer) by 2. The amount of total unsaturation (the sum of the above unsaturations) was then expressed as the relative ratio of moles of total unsaturation to moles of carbon in the polymer, expressed as unsaturations per 1000 carbons (per 1000 C). The results are relatively similar within <5%.

[0090] Gel Permeation Chromatography—Ethylene-Based Polymers The chromatography system consisted of a PolymerChar GPC-IR (Valencia, Spain) high-temperature GPC chromatograph equipped with an internal infrared detector (IR5). The autosampler oven compartment was set to 160°C, and the column compartment was set to 150°C. The columns were four Agilent "MixedA" 30 cm, 20 micron linear mixed-bed columns. The chromatography solvent was 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene containing 200 ppm butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). The solvent source was nitrogen sparged. The injection volume was 200 microliters, and the flow rate was 1.0 milliliters / minute.

[0091] Calibration of the GPC column set was performed using 21 narrow molecular weight distribution polystyrene standards with molecular weights ranging from 580 to 8,400,000 g / mol, arranged in six "cocktail" mixtures with at least 10 degrees of separation between individual molecular weights. The standards were purchased from Agilent Technologies. The polystyrene standards were prepared in 0.025 grams in 50 milliliters of solvent for molecular weights of 1,000,000 or greater, and in 0.05 grams in 50 milliliters for molecular weights less than 1,000,000. The polystyrene standards were dissolved at 80°C with gentle agitation for 30 minutes. The peak molecular weights of the polystyrene standards were converted to polyethylene molecular weights using Equation 1 (as described in Williams and Ward, J. Polym. Sci., Polym. Let., 6, 621 (1968)): M ポリエチレン =A×(M ポリスチレン ) B (Equation 1), where M is the molecular weight, A has a value of 0.4315, and B is equal to 1.0.

[0092] A fifth-order polynomial is used to fit each polyethylene-equivalent calibration point. A small adjustment (approximately 0.375 to 0.445) is made to A to correct for column resolution and band broadening effects, such that a linear homopolymer polyethylene standard is obtained at 120,000 MW. A total plate count of the GPC column set is performed using decane (prepared in TCB (0.04 g in 50 milliliters) and dissolved with gentle stirring for 20 minutes). The plate count (Equation 2) and symmetry (Equation 3) are calculated using the following equations for a 200 microliter injection: Plate count 5.54 * [(RV ピーク最大 / (peak width at half height)] 2 (Equation 2), where RV is the retention volume in milliliters, Peak Width is in milliliters, Peak Max is the maximum height of the peak, and ½ Height is half the height of the peak max, and

[0093]

number

[0094] Samples are prepared semi-automatically using PolymerChar "Instrument Control" software to target sample weight at 2 mg / ml and add solvent (containing 200 ppm BHT) via the PolymerChar high-temperature autosampler to a septa-capped vial pre-sparged with nitrogen. Samples are dissolved at 160°C for 2 hours under "slow" shaking.

[0095] Mn (GPC) , Mw (GPC) , and Mz (GPC) is calculated based on GPC results using PolymerChar GPCOne™ software, a baseline-subtracted IR chromatograph at each equally spaced data collection point (i), and the polyethylene equivalent molecular weight obtained from a narrow standard calibration curve at point (i) from Equation 1, using the internal IR5 detector (measurement channel) of the PolymerChar GPC-IR chromatograph according to Equations 4-6. Equations 4-6 are as follows:

[0096]

number

[0097] To monitor deviations over time, a flow rate marker (decane) is introduced into each sample via a micropump controlled by the PolymerChar GPC-IR system. This flow rate marker (FM) is used to linearly correct the pump flow rate (Flow Rate (Apparent)) for each sample by aligning the RV of each decane peak in the sample (RV(FM Sample)) with the RV of the decane peak within a narrow standard calibration (RV(FM Calibrated)). Any change in the time of the decane marker peak is then assumed to be related to a linear shift in flow rate (Flow Rate (Effective)) throughout the run. To facilitate the highest accuracy in the RV measurement of the flow rate marker peak, a least-squares fitting routine is used to fit the peaks in the flow rate marker concentration chromatogram to a quadratic equation. The first derivative of the quadratic equation is then used to solve for the true peak position. After calibrating the system based on the flow marker peaks, the effective flow rate (for a narrow standard calibration) is calculated as Equation 7: Flow Rate (Effective) = Flow Rate (Apparent) x (RV (FM Calibrated) / RV (FM Sample)) (Equation 7). Processing of the flow marker peaks is performed via PolymerChar GPCOne™ software. An acceptable flow rate correction is one where the effective flow rate is within + / - 0.7% of the apparent flow rate.

[0098] experiment The commercial polymers, experimental polymers and additives are listed in Table 1.

[0099] [Table 2]

[0100] Commercial and experimental polymers 1 The H NMR, GPC and rheological characterization results are listed below in Tables 2A, 2B and 2C, respectively.

[0101] [Table 3] Note: % of specific unsaturation (%pu) = [(pu / 1000C) / (total unsaturation / 1000C)] x 100, where %pu = % vinyl, % vinylidene, % vinylene, or % trisubstituted. * EO = ethylene / octene copolymer. * CTA = TEA (triethylaluminum).

[0102] [Table 4]

[0103] [Table 5] Note: The density equation for a blend (e.g., an 85 / 15 blend) is: a and w b are the weight fractions of each of the blend components, and p a and p b are the densities of each of the blend components:

[0104]

number

[0105] Polymer synthesis for EO 3 and EO 10 EO 3 and EO 10 were each prepared in a hydraulically charged, 1-gallon polymerization reactor operated at steady-state conditions. The catalyst and cocatalyst are listed in Table 3A. The solvent, hydrogen, catalyst, and cocatalyst were fed to the reactor according to the process conditions outlined in Tables 3B-3D. The solvent was ISOPAR E supplied by ExxonMobil Chemical Company. The reactor temperature was measured at or near the reactor outlet. The copolymers were isolated and pelletized.

[0106] [Table 6]

[0107] [Table 7]

[0108] [Table 8] * "ppm" amounts based on the weight of the respective catalyst feed solution.

[0109] [Table 9] * "ppm" amount based on weight of cocatalyst feed solution. ** The "ppm" amount of Al based on the weight of the cocatalyst feed solution.

[0110] Polymer Synthesis, EO Mono 3 and EO Mono 5 catalyst CAT 2 can be prepared according to the teachings of WO 2011 / 102989(A1) and has the following structure:

[0111] [ka]

[0112] Polymerization of EO Mono 3 and EO Mono 5 EO Mono 3 (A 1 L 1 ) and EO Mono 5 (A 1 L 1Continuous solution polymerizations of 1, 2, and 3 were carried out in computer-controlled autoclave reactors equipped with internal stirrers. Purified mixed alkane solvent (ISOPAR E, available from ExxonMobil), monomer, and molecular weight regulator (hydrogen or chain transfer agent) were fed into a 3.8 L reactor jacketed for temperature control. The solvent feed to the reactor was measured by a mass flow controller. A variable-speed diaphragm pump controlled the solvent flow rate and pressure to the reactor. At the pump outlet, a side stream was taken to provide a steep flow to the procatalyst, activator, and chain transfer agent (CTA) (catalyst component solution) injection lines. These flows were measured by mass flow meters and controlled by control valves. The remaining solvent was mixed with the monomer and hydrogen and fed to the reactor. The temperature of the solvent / monomer solution was controlled using a heat exchanger before entering the reactor. This stream entered the bottom of the reactor. The catalyst component solutions were metered using pumps and mass flow meters and combined with the catalyst flush solvent into the bottom of the reactor. The reactor was filled with liquid at 500 psig under vigorous stirring. Polymer was removed through an outlet line at the top of the reactor. All outlet lines from the reactor were vapor traced and insulated. The product stream was then heated to 230°C by passing it through a post-reactor heater (PRH), where beta-H removal of the polymer-Al was performed. A small amount of isopropyl alcohol, along with any stabilizers or other additives, was added after the PRH and before devolatilization. The polymer product was recovered by extrusion using a devolatilization extruder. The polymerization process conditions and results before the post-reactor heating (PRH) are listed in Tables 4A and 4B.

[0113] The abbreviations in the table are explained as follows: "Co." stands for comonomer, and "sccm" stands for standard cm 3 / min(standard cm 3 / min), "T" refers to temperature, "Cat" refers to procatalyst, and "CAT2" refers to procatalyst as shown above. "CoCAT-1" refers to cocatalyst as defined in Table 4B (footnote), "CTA" refers to chain transfer agent, "Poly Rate" refers to polymer production rate, "Conv" refers to percent ethylene conversion in the reactor, "Eff." refers to efficiency (kg polymer / mg catalyst metal), "TEA" refers to triethylaluminum, and "C2" refers to ethylene.

[0114] [Table 10] * "ppm" amounts based on the weight of each feed solution.

[0115] [Table 11] * The CTA for EO Mono 3 and EO Mono 5 was TEA. ** CoCAT 1 is a methyldi(C)-diamine of tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate prepared by the reaction of a long-chain trialkylamine (ARMEEN M2HT, available from Akzo-Nobel, Inc.), HCl, and Li[B(CF)] substantially as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,919,983, Example 2 (no further purification was performed). 14~18 It is a mixture of alkyl)ammonium salts (Boulder Scientific). *** "ppm" amounts based on the weight of each feed solution.

[0116] composition The compositions of the present invention and the comparative compositions are shown in Table 5 below, along with the rheological properties of the first composition.

[0117] [Table 12] * The first composition was measured. Note: The EO Mono 3 / EO Mono 5 = 85 / 15 (wt / wt) blend has a melt index I2 (MI) of 19.7 g / 10 min.

[0118] Preparation of Compositions IE1-IE3 and CS1-CS3 (without Tempo Compound) immersion For each composition, the polymer or polymer blend (300 grams of pellets) was first rolled with a curing agent (peroxide) in a 1000 mL fluorinated HDPE bottle (manufactured by Shanghai Heqi Glassware Co., Ltd.) on a roller (Model NO: 88881004, DESC: Bottle / Tube Roller, manufactured by Thermo Scientific). (The bottle containing the pellets and curative was rotated 360 degrees along the horizontal axis of the bottle at 70 rpm.) The soaked pellets were used in the following single screw extrusion with a Garvey die and capillary extrusion tests.

[0119] Single screw extrusion using a Garvey die at the end of the extruder: IE1-IE3 and CS1-CS3, and capillary extrusion tests: IE1-IE3 and CS1-CS3 The extrudability of each composition was evaluated using a Brabender single screw extruder equipped with an ASTM extrusion Garvey die. The appearance of the extrudate and its profile were inspected. The extrusion was carried out under the following conditions: barrel temperature of 110°C (temperature of the three barrels: 110°C, and temperature of the Garvey die: 110°C), speed of 50 rpm. The soaked pellets (approximately 250 grams) were added to the extruder and extruded in the form of a continuous profile (Garvey profile). The extrudate (pre-crosslinked, gel content <5% by weight) was cut into approximately "10 cm long" profiles and placed in a hot air oven to form crosslinked profiles. The shape retention of the profiles (knife-cut cross sections) after heat treatment in the oven was evaluated. See Table 6.

[0120] [Table 13]

[0121] Each composition was extruded under the following conditions: Equipment: Gottfert Rheograph 25, length / diameter = 30 / 2, barrel temperature 130°C. Shear rate was increased from 100 / s to 500 / s. The soaked pellets (approximately 20 grams) were extruded into continuous strands (approximately 2-3 mm in diameter). At shear rates of 100 / s, 200 / s, 300 / s, 400 / s, and 500 / s, short strands were cut and inspected for surface quality. Capillary extrusion was also performed at relatively high shear rates of 300 / s and 500 / s (close to actual extrusion manufacturing) to test the surface quality of various compositions. The results (pre-crosslinked) for shear rates of 300 / s and 500 / s are shown in Table 7.

[0122] [Table 14] Slightly coarse = fine regular wave pattern (peaks and valleys). Rough = Overall irregular wave pattern (peaks and valleys).

[0123] As seen in Table 7, comparative compositions CS2 and CS3 (containing ENGAGE 8200 and ENGAGE 8100, respectively) were unable to obtain a smooth surface (even at 300 / s) at 130°C (close to the upper temperature limit for extrusion of typical peroxide-containing compositions). Comparative composition CS1 had a smooth surface at 500 / s. However, as seen in Table 6, comparative compositions CS1 and CS2 were unable to maintain the Garvey die shape even at a relatively low CV temperature of 150°C. At this temperature (150°C), the sharp corners of the profile were rounded. Comparative composition CS3 maintained the profile shape well even at 180°C (see Table 6), but the surface quality of the extrusion stand was very poor (see Table 7). These results suggested that the comparative compositions were unable to achieve good surface quality and shape retention during the extrusion and vulcanization processes.

[0124] Each of the compositions of the present invention (IE1, IE2, and IE3) achieved a smooth surface at a high shear rate of 500 / s (see Table 7). The Garvey die extrusion profiles of the compositions of the present invention (IE1-IE3) maintained their shape much better than the comparative compositions at vulcanization temperatures of 150°C and 180°C (see Table 6).

[0125] Preparation of Compositions IE4, IE5, CS4 and IE6'-IE9' (with Tempo Compound) Soaking and Blending For each composition, each polymer or polymer blend (300 gram pellets) was first soaked on a roller (see above) with curing agent (peroxide + coagent) in a 1000 mL fluorinated HDPE bottle (see above) for 24 hours at 40°C.

[0126] The soaked pellets (1000 grams) were placed in an internal mixer with a 1.5 L cavity at a set temperature of 95°C and a rotor speed of 40 rpm. The pellets were uniformly heated and melted for approximately 2 minutes. Tempo compound (5.4 grams) and carbon black (26 grams) were then weighed and gradually added to the mixing chamber. Mixing continued for an additional 6 minutes. The mixed composition (pre-crosslinked composition, gum form) was rolled on a two-roll mill at 85°C and formed into a sheet (approximately 4 mm thick). The sheet was cut into strips (approximately 1.5 cm wide) for MDR analysis (see Table 8), Garvey die extrusion, and subsequent continuous vulcanization.

[0127] Profile extrusion followed by CV (continuous vulcanization), IE4, IE5 and CS4 Each composition was extruded and then continuously vulcanized using a Krauss Maffie Labstar line consisting of an extruder, a hot air tunnel for vulcanization, and a cooling channel. A Garvey die was added to the extruder outlet. The extrusion conditions were as follows: barrel temperature 95°C (one barrel, Garvey die temperature: 95°C), screw speed 15 rpm. The CV tunnel conditions were as follows: hot air tunnel temperature 200°C, speed 0.6 m / min, tunnel length 4.5 meters. Approximately 800 grams of cut strips of the "pre-crosslinked" composition (approximately 4 mm thick cut strips) were added to the extruder and extruded in the form of a continuous Garvey profile shape (pre-crosslinked, gel content <5 wt%). The Garvey profile was vulcanized by heat treatment in the hot air tunnel. The cooled profile was cut (approximately 1 cm long) to expose the cross section for observation. The results are shown in Table 8.

[0128] [Table 15] * The first composition was measured. ** moles of NO· from Tempo compound = {[weight of bis-Tempo compound / (MW=510.7)] * 2};* moles of peroxide bound from LUPEROX 101 = {[weight of LUPEROX 101 / (MW=290.4)]} * 2}. *** IE5 surface (finger tip test) not tacky after vulcanization, see Table 9 (footnote).

[0129] Further testing, the molar ratio of [NO· / (OO)], IE6'~IE9' Additional comparative compositions (IE6'-IE9') were prepared and cured as described above. They are listed in Table 9. These compositions were compared to IE5 (Table 8). As can be seen in this table, IE6', IE8', and IE9' had lower MH, lower "MH-ML," and higher T90 values ​​(i.e., reduced cure performance) compared to IE5. IE7' maintained cure performance, but the surface was tacky after curing (however, the cured surface of IE5 was not tacky). Some blooming was found on the surfaces of IE6' and IE8', which may have been caused by the low cure level and / or the relatively high Tempo compound loading. Such blooming contributed to some degree to the tacky surface of each example.

[0130] [Table 16] * The first composition was measured. ** Fingertip Test: Hot air crosslinked compositions were tested for surface tack using the fingertip test. The fingertip test is a qualitative laboratory test method in which laboratory personnel use their finger to touch the top surface of the crosslinked sample to provide feedback on the surface tack of the sample.

[0131] overview It has been discovered that compositions of the present invention formed in part from a first composition having unique rheological characteristics (i.e., low viscosity at high shear rates, very high viscosity at low shear rates, and high melt strength) achieve good surface quality and shape retention. Surface quality and shape retention are important for profile production by extrusion and continuous vulcanization (CV). Low viscosity is typically required for surface smoothness of extruded samples. High viscosity at low shear rates and high melt strength contribute to shape retention during CV. DMS values ​​using a wide shear rate range and melt strength are shown in Table 5.

Claims

1. A composition comprising the following components a) and b): a) a first composition comprising a multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer having the following properties: i) a density of 0.855 to 0.900 g / cc; ii) V100 (190°C)≦1000Pa・s, iii) [V0.1 (190°C) / V100 (190°C)]≧8.0 a first composition comprising: b) at least one peroxide; and A composition comprising:

2. 10. The composition of claim 1, wherein the first composition has a V0.1 > 3,000 Pa s.

3. The following components a) to c), namely: a) a first composition comprising a multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer having the following properties: i) a density of 0.855 to 0.900 g / cc; ii) [V0.1 (190°C) / V100 (190°C)]≧5.0 a first composition comprising: b) at least one peroxide; and c) at least one Tempo compound represented by Structure I) selected from Structure IA, Structure IB, or Structure IC, wherein Structure IA, Structure IB, or Structure IC is each: Structure IA is 【Chemical 1】 and wherein n is an integer ≧1; R1, R2, R3 and R4 are each independently selected from H or C1-C18 alkyl; X is CH ２ , ether (—O—), thioether (—S ｍ -, m≧1), carbonyl (-C(O)-), ester (-O-C(O)- or -C(O)-O-), amine (-N(R)-), amide (-N(R)-C(O)- or -C(O)-N(R)-), urethane (-O-C(O)-NH or -NH-C(O)-O-), carbamide (-NH-C(O)-NH-), or imide (-C(O)-N(R)-C(O)-); R' is selected from C1-C30 alkylene; R" may be present or absent, and when present, R" is selected from C1-C30 alkylene; Y is CR ４－ｎ (n=1-4), OR ２－ｎ (n=1-2), NR ３－ｎ (n=1-3), SR ２－ｎ (n=1-2), PR ３－ｎ (n=1-3), PR ５－ｎ (n=1-5), SiR ４－ｎ (n=1 to 4), a bifunctional C-C core, a phenyl core, a phenyl core substituted with an ester, selected from an amide-substituted phenyl core, a trisisocyanurate core, or a melamine core; The difunctional C-C core is selected from the following structures, where each R' represents the divalent R' group in structure IA above: 【Chemistry 2】 The phenyl core is selected from the following structures, where each R' is: represents the divalent R′ group in structure IA above: 【Chemistry 3】 The ester-substituted phenyl core is selected from the following structures, where each R′ represents the divalent R′ group in structure IA above: 【Chemistry 4】 The amido-substituted phenyl core is selected from the following structures, where each R′ represents the divalent R′ group in structure IA above: 【Chemistry 5】 The tris-isocyanurate core is as follows, where each R′ represents the divalent R′ group in structure IA above; 【Chemistry 6】 The melamine core is as follows, where each R′ represents the divalent R′ group in structure IA above: 【Chemistry 7】 Each R group in Structure IA is independently selected from H, unsubstituted hydrocarbyl, substituted hydrocarbyl, unsubstituted heterohydrocarbyl, or substituted heterohydrocarbyl; Structure IB comprises the following substructure IB): 【Chemistry 8】 wherein n is an integer ≧1; R1, R2, R3 and R4 are each independently selected from H or C1-C18 alkyl; X is CH ２ , ether (—O—), thioether (—S ｍ -, m≧1), carbonyl (-C(O)-), ester (-O-C(O)- or -C(O)-O-), amine (-N(R)-), amide (-N(R)-C(O)- or -C(O)-N(R)-), urethane (-O-C(O)-NH or -NH-C(O)-O-), carbamide (-NH-C(O)-NH-), or imide (-C(O)-N(R)-C(O)-; R' is selected from C1-C30 alkylene; R" may be present or absent, and when present, R" is selected from C1-C30 alkylene; Each R group in substructure IB is independently selected from H, unsubstituted hydrocarbyl, substituted hydrocarbyl, unsubstituted heterohydrocarbyl, or substituted heterohydrocarbyl; Each in substructure IB ＊ (asterisk) represents each chemical terminus of structure IB; Structure IC includes the following sub-structures IC): 【Chemistry 9】 wherein n is an integer ≧1; R1, R2, R3 and R4 are each independently selected from H or C1-C18; X is CH ２ , ether (—O—), thioether (—S ｍ -, m≧1), carbonyl (-C(O)-), ester (-O-C(O)- or -C(O)-O-), amine (-N(R)-), amide (-N(R)-C(O)- or -C(O)-N()-), urethane (-O-C(O)-NH- or -NH-C(O)-O-), carbamide (-NH-C(O)-NH-), or imide (-C(O)-N(R)-C(O)-); R' is selected from C1-C30 alkylene; R" may be present or absent, and when present, R" is selected from C1-C30 alkylene; Each R''' group in substructure IC is independently selected from unsubstituted hydrocarbyl, substituted hydrocarbyl, unsubstituted heterohydrocarbyl, or substituted heterohydrocarbyl; Each R group in substructure IC is independently selected from H, unsubstituted hydrocarbyl, substituted hydrocarbyl, unsubstituted heterohydrocarbyl, or substituted heterohydrocarbyl; Each in the sub-structure IC ＊ (asterisk) represents each chemical terminus of structure IC, and when n≧3, each terminus may or may not form a cyclic structure with the other terminus, and at least one Tempo compound.

4. 4. The composition of claim 3, wherein the first composition has a melt index of ≦5.0 g / 10 min.

5. 5. The composition of claim 3, wherein the molar ratio of NO. from the at least one Tempo compound (component c) to peroxide (O-O) bonds from the at least one peroxide (component b) is from 0.30 to 0.

90.

6. The composition of any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein component c is present in an amount of 0.20 to 0.90 phr, based on 100 parts of component a.

7. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is selected from multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymers.

8. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first composition has a total unsaturation of ≥ 0.20 / 1000C.

9. 9. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein component a further comprises a second multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer having a density of 0.855 to 0.900 g / cc and a total unsaturation of ≥ 0.20 / 1000 C, wherein the second multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is different from the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer.

10. 10. The composition of claim 9, wherein the second multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is a multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer.

11. 11. The composition of claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the ratio of the density of the multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer to the density of the second multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer is from 0.80 to 1.

25.

12. 12. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising ≦10 wt.% of filler, based on the weight of the composition.

13. 1. A process for forming a crosslinked composition, the composition comprising the following components a) and b): a) a first composition comprising a multimodal ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer, the first composition having the following properties: i) a density of 0.855 to 0.900 g / cc, ii) V100(190°C)≦1000 Pa s, iii) [V0.1(190°C) / V100(190°C)]≧8.0; b) at least one peroxide; and A process comprising heat treating a composition comprising:

14. 14. The process of claim 13, wherein the first composition has a V0.1(190°C) > 3,000 Pa s.

15. A process for forming a crosslinked composition comprising heat treating the composition of any one of claims 3 to 12.

16. 16. The process of claim 15, wherein the first composition has a melt index (I2) of ≦5.0 g / 10 min.

17. 17. The process of claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the molar ratio of NO. from the at least one Tempo compound (component c) to peroxide (O-O) bonds from the at least one peroxide (component b) is from 0.30 to 0.

90.

18. The process of any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein component c is present in an amount of 0.20 to 0.90 phr, based on 100 parts of component a.

19. The process of any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein the heat treatment is carried out in air.

20. An article comprising at least one component formed from the composition of any one of claims 1 to 12 or from the process of any one of claims 13 to 19.

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