Polyamide composition

Abstract

A nylon composition comprising a blend, the blend comprising: (a) at least one polyamide; and (b) at least one modifier, the modifier comprising a substantially linear functionalized ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer having at least one pendant furan moiety crosslinked with at least one maleimide structure, a process for making the composition, and articles made from the composition.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to polyamide compositions comprising a blend of polyamide and modifier, more particularly, the present invention relates to nylon compositions comprising a combination or blend of polyamide and a thermally reversibly crosslinked impact modifier to toughen the polyamide. [Background technology]

[0002] Nylon is a well-known synthetic thermoplastic polymer based on aliphatic or semi-aromatic polyamides in which at least 85 weight percent of the amide linkages (—CO—NH—) are directly bonded to two aliphatic groups. Nylon materials can be melt-processed into various fibers, films, or shapes to form articles / products and parts for use in a variety of applications. For example, nylon polymers can be formed into shapes such as molded parts for vehicles, electrical equipment, and the like. In some applications, there is an increasing demand for articles / products and parts that are thinner than previously used articles / products and parts while maintaining the same high impact toughness as the original, thicker previously used articles / products and parts. For example, users of nylon products are requesting that compounders provide them with thin nylon products that have high impact toughness while maintaining the high flowability and modulus of the product, allowing users to use such products in automotive and electrical applications. In the automotive industry, automobile manufacturers desire smaller parts with thinner walls that can reduce vehicle weight and thus improve the automobile's fuel economy and / or lower its carbon footprint, and in the electrical industry, manufacturers desire to use smaller components with thinner walls to reduce the weight of electrical components.

[0003] Although nylon polymers can be mixed with a wide variety of additives to achieve many different property variations, one method of increasing the impact toughness of articles / products and parts is to first add a crosslinker as a toughening additive (or impact modifier) ​​to the nylon polymer to form a blend of the nylon and the modifier composition, and then use the blended composition to make articles / products and parts with high impact toughness.

[0004] For example, Published Application No. 2014 / 034615(A) discloses a thermoplastic elastomer, a method for producing the thermoplastic elastomer, and an electric wire and cable. Published Application No. 2014 / 034615(A) exemplifies a thermoplastic elastomer used in an electric wire and cable, which is a combination of (1) a halogen-containing elastomer having a conjugated diene structure bonded to the main chain of the elastomer via an amino group and (2) a crosslinker having a dienophile structure. The above reference discloses insulation in the form of a neat material for wire and cable. For example, the sheath is formed from the elastomer that functions as the insulation. Furthermore, this reference discloses a halogenated rubber used as the elastomer, but does not teach non-halogenated elastomers.

[0005] U.S. Patent No. 6,512,051 (B2) discloses an elastomer composition having functional groups that form reversible crosslinks in a temperature-induced Diels-Alder (DA)-type reaction. The reversible crosslinks refer to crosslink structures that can dissociate at high temperatures (e.g., >150°C) and associate at low temperatures (e.g., <150°C). The base polymer (elastomer) disclosed in the patent is butadiene rubber, employing furfuryl mercaptan and bismaleimide diphenylmethane. A distinct structure is identified by NMR, FTIR, and rheology, and mechanical testing demonstrates the reversibility of this type of DA-modified elastomer. While the patent discloses chemistry similar to DA chemistry, the patent only discloses the use of rubber as an elastomer and does not teach the use of rubber as a nylon compound or a toughening agent for nylon compounds.

[0006] CN Patent No. 109535626(A) discloses similar DA chemistry using solutions and does not disclose melts (i.e., molten materials). Also, the above references only disclose the use of rubber as an elastomer and do not teach nylon compounds or the use of rubber as a toughening agent for nylon compounds.

[0007] U.S. Patent No. 10,100,133 (B2) discloses the general concept of thermoreversibility using azide chemistry, but does not disclose DA-modified elastomers, nor does the patent disclose any other types of toughening agents.

[0008] Therefore, it is desirable to provide toughening agents (also called impact modifier compounds) for use with nylon materials to increase the toughness properties of the nylon materials by combining the toughening agents with the nylon materials to form toughened nylon polymer compositions. Summary of the Invention

[0009] One embodiment of the present invention relates to a nylon polymer composition comprising a nylon compound blended with an impact modifier (toughener) compound, where the impact modifier provides the nylon polymer composition with (1) thermoreversible properties via a reversible crosslinking Diels-Alder (DA) type reaction, and (2) increased toughness properties. In a preferred embodiment, the impact modifier is a substantially linear functionalized ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer having at least one side chain comprising a furan moiety bridged with at least one maleimide structure.

[0010] In one or more other embodiments, the nylon polymer composition of the present invention comprises, for example, a blend including: (a) 70 weight percent (wt %) to 98 wt %, based on the weight of components (a) and (b), of a polyamide; and (b) 2 wt % to 30 wt %, based on the weight of components (a) and (b), of a modifier, wherein the modifier is a substantially linear functionalized ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer having at least one side chain comprising a furan moiety bridged with at least one maleimide structure.

[0011] In one or more other embodiments, the present invention includes the above-described impact modifiers and processes for producing the above-described nylon polymer compositions having thermoreversible and increased toughness properties.

[0012] In yet one or more other embodiments, the present invention includes articles produced using the nylon polymer compositions described above. In one or more preferred embodiments of the above articles, the production process of the present invention includes an extrusion process.

[0013] Additional features and advantages of embodiments of the present invention are set forth in the detailed description that follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the description, or may be learned by practicing the embodiments described herein, including the detailed description and claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] "Elastomeric" or "elastomer" or "polyolefin elastomer (POE)" as used herein with respect to polymers beneficially has a viscosity of about 0.920 g / cm in one general embodiment. 3 less than about 0.900 g / cc in another embodiment, and less than about 0.895 g / cm 3 less than about 0.880 g / cc in yet another embodiment, and less than about 0.875 g / cm 3 and in yet another embodiment, less than about 0.870 g / cm 3 "Ethylene / alpha(α)-olefin (EAO) polymers or EAO polymer blends having a density less than about 0.850 g / cm and a percent (%) crystallinity less than 33% in one general embodiment, less than 29% in another embodiment, and less than about 23% in yet another embodiment. Density generally refers to a density less than about 0.850 g / cm. 3 The percent crystallinity is determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC).

[0015] A "polymer" is a polymeric compound prepared by polymerizing monomers, whether of the same or different types. Thus, the generic term "polymer" encompasses the terms "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 "interpolymer," which includes copolymers (used to refer to polymers prepared from two different types of monomers), terpolymers (used to refer to polymers prepared from three different types of monomers), and polymers prepared from more than three different types of monomers. Trace amounts of impurities, such as catalyst residues, may be incorporated into and / or within the polymer. It also encompasses all forms of copolymers, e.g., random, block, etc. While polymers are often referred to as "made of" one or more specific monomers, "based on" a particular monomer or monomer type, "containing" a particular monomer content, etc., it should be noted that in this context, the term "monomer" is understood to refer to the polymerized residue of a particular monomer, not to the unpolymerized species. Generally, polymers herein are referred to as being based on "units" that are the polymerized form of the corresponding monomers.

[0016] The "Diels-Alder (DA) reaction" is a chemical reaction between a conjugated diene and a substituted alkene to form a substituted cyclohexene derivative. This reaction is used to produce modifiers that can increase the impact toughness of articles / products and parts using a method of reversible crosslinking, for example, via a temperature-induced Diels-Alder (DA) reaction. Reversible crosslinking relates to and provides a crosslinked structure that can dissociate at high temperatures (e.g., >150°C) and associate at low temperatures (e.g., <150°C), providing a composition with high flowability during processing and high molecular weight growth after cooling the composition, resulting in a composition with excellent toughening. The DA reaction is thermoreversible when applied to polymer compositions. The DA reaction can provide reversible crosslinking functionality while allowing the reactive composition to undergo relatively fast rates and mild reaction conditions.

[0017] As used herein, "thermoreversible" or "thermoreversible" refers to a reversible reaction induced by temperature.

[0018] As used herein, "room temperature (RT)" and / or "ambient temperature" means, unless otherwise specified, a temperature between 20° C. and 26° C. Temperatures used herein are in degrees Celsius (° C.).

[0019] The term "composition" refers to a mixture of materials that comprise the composition, as well as reaction products and decomposition products formed from the materials of the composition.

[0020] As used herein, "nylon polymer composition" means a nylon polymer that has been melt blended with an impact modifier to provide a heterogeneous blend of nylon and impact modifier.

[0021] The term "impact toughness" or "impact strength" as used herein refers to the amount of energy a material can withstand when a load is suddenly applied to the material. This term may also be defined as the threshold force per unit area before the material undergoes fracture.

[0022] "Impact modifier" or "modifier" herein means a substantially linear, functionalized ethylene copolymer that is useful for modifying the room temperature impact strength of another polymer, such as a polyamide.

[0023] As used herein, "room temperature impact strength" refers to impact strength tested at room temperature (RT) conditions, for example, 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH).

[0024] "Substantially linear functionalized ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer," as used herein with respect to a polymer composition, means characterized by a narrow molecular weight distribution (MWD) and a narrow short chain branching distribution (SCBD). In one embodiment, the substantially linear functionalized ethylene copolymer may be prepared using procedures described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,272,236 and 5,278,272.

[0025] "Substantially linear," as used herein with respect to a polymer, means that the polymer has a backbone substituted with 0.01 to 3 long chain branches per 1,000 carbons in the backbone.

[0026] A "POE-g-MAH" compound or component herein means a POE that has been grafted with at least one maleic anhydride (MAH) to form an MAH-grafted POE or POE-g-MAH.

[0027] A "POE-g-FFA" compound or component, as used herein, means a POE that has been grafted with at least one furan compound, such as furfurylamine (FFA), to form an FFA-grafted POE or POE-g-FFA.

[0028] "Substantially linear functionalized ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer (SLFC) having at least one side chain comprising a furan moiety bridged with at least one maleimide structure" as used herein refers to an impact modifier comprising a modified POE-g-MAH having a furan moiety and a maleimide structure to provide a polymer with DA reaction properties.

[0029] A "furan" is a heterocyclic organic compound consisting of a five-membered aromatic ring with four carbon atoms and one oxygen atom, as shown by the general chemical structure of formula (I). Chemical compounds containing such a ring are also called furans.

[0030] [ka]

[0031] "Furan conversion level" in reference to a polymer composition herein means the conversion rate of maleic anhydride to imide rings after adding furfurylamine to a maleic anhydride group-containing compound.

[0032] By "high performance" polyolefin elastomer herein is meant toughening performance measured as at least ≧10% increase in RT impact strength according to CHARPY ISO 179-1.

[0033] The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and their derivatives are not intended to exclude the presence of any additional components, steps, or procedures, whether specifically disclosed herein. For the avoidance of doubt, all compositions claimed through the use of the term "comprising" may include any additional additives, adjuvants, or compounds, whether polymeric or otherwise, unless specifically stated to the contrary. In contrast, the term "consisting essentially of" excludes any other component, step, or procedure from the scope of any succeeding description, except those that are not essential to operability. The term "consisting of" excludes any component, step, or procedure not expressly delineated or listed. The term "or," unless otherwise stated, refers to the listed members individually as well as in any combination. The use of the singular includes the use of the plural, and vice versa.

[0034] Numerical ranges disclosed herein include all values ​​between and including the lower and upper limits. Ranges containing explicit values ​​(e.g., ranges of 1, or 2, or 3-5, or 6, or 7) include any subranges between any two explicit values ​​(e.g., the range 1-7 above includes the subranges 1-2, 2-6, 5-7, 3-7, 5-6, etc.).

[0035] As used throughout this specification, the following abbreviations have the following meanings, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise: "=" means "equal to" or "equal to", "<" means "less than", ">" means "greater than", "≦" means "less than or equal to", "≧" means "greater than or equal to", "±" means "plus or minus", "@" means "at", μm = micrometer, g = gram, mg = milligram, g / L = gram per liter, g / cm 3 " or "g / cc" = grams per cubic centimeter, "kg / m 3 = kilograms per cubic meter, ppm = parts per million by weight, pbw = parts by weight, rpm = revolutions per minute, m = metre, mm = millimetre, cm = centimetre, μm = micrometre, min = minute, s = second, ms = millisecond, hr = hour, Pa = pascal, MPa = megapascal, Pa·s = pascal-second, mPa-s = millipascal-second, g / mol = grams per mole, g / eq = grams per equivalent, M n = number average molecular weight, M w = weight average molecular weight, pts = parts by weight, 1 / s or seconds -1 = reciprocal of seconds [s -1 ], °C = degrees Celsius, psig = pounds per square inch, kPa = kilopascals, % = percent, vol% = volume percent, mol% = mole percent, wt% = weight percent, and KJ / m 2 = kilojoules per square meter.

[0036] Unless otherwise specified, all percentages, parts, ratios, and other amounts are defined by weight. For example, all percentages set forth herein are weight percentages (wt %) unless otherwise indicated.

[0037] Specific embodiments of the present invention are described herein below. These embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the inventive subject matter to those skilled in the art.

[0038] Generally, the present invention comprises a nylon blend or composition useful for producing nylon articles / products or components with increased toughness for various applications, such as producing automotive parts. The nylon composition comprises a combination, mixture, or blend of (a) at least one polyamide (i.e., nylon) and (b) at least one impact modifier. In one preferred embodiment, the nylon composition comprises, for example, a blend of (a) 70% to 98% by weight, based on the weight of components (a) and (b), of at least one polyamide compound, such as a nylon material, and (b) 2% to 30% by weight, based on the weight of components (a) and (b), of at least one impact modifier, where component (b) is a substantially linear, functionalized ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer having at least one side chain comprising a furan moiety bridged with at least one maleimide structure.

[0039] The nylon composition of the present invention may optionally further comprise (c) one or more other compounds.

[0040] The terms "nylon" and "polyamide" are used interchangeably herein.

[0041] The polyamide compound, component (a) of the nylon composition, is a polymer containing repeating amide groups (R—CO—NH—R′) as an integral part of the polymer backbone. The polyamide compound useful in the present invention can include one or more polyamide compounds. For example, the polyamide can be selected from the group consisting of nylon polymers including Nylon 6 (a polycaprolactam made from self-polymerizing caprolactam), Nylon 6,6 (a hexamethylenediamine-adipic acid condensation product, a long-chain synthetic polyamide with repeating amide groups in the polymer backbone), Nylon 4, Nylon 11, Nylon 12, Nylon 6,10, Nylon 4,6, Nylon 6I, Nylon 6T, and Nylon 9T. In one preferred embodiment, the polyamide compound useful in the present invention is Nylon 6 or Nylon 6,6.

[0042] Some examples of commercially available polyamide compounds useful in the present invention may include, for example, Zytel 7304 NC010 (available from Dupont), PA6-YH800 (available from Yueyang Baling Shihua Chemical & Synthetic Fiber Co. Ltd.).

[0043] The concentration of the polyamide compound, component (a), used to prepare the nylon composition of the present invention includes, for example, in one embodiment, 42% to 97% by weight, in another embodiment, 50% to 90% by weight, and in yet another embodiment, 65% to 84% by weight, based on the weight of components (a) and (b).

[0044] In one embodiment, component (b), the impact modifier, comprises a base polymer that has been modified or functionalized with, for example, a furan moiety and a maleimide moiety to form a substantially linear, functionalized ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer having at least one pendant furan moiety crosslinked with at least one maleimide structure. An impact modifier comprising a substantially linear, functionalized ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer having at least one pendant furan moiety crosslinked with at least one maleimide structure is referred to herein as a "substantially linear functionalized copolymer (SLFC)."

[0045] In one general embodiment, the impact modifiers used in the present invention are produced by modifying a base polymer, such as a polyolefin elastomer (POE), using various components and various grafting and / or compounding techniques to produce an SLFC impact modifier. For example, in a preferred embodiment, the SLFC impact modifiers used in the present invention are produced by (bi) modifying at least one POE-g-MAH with (bii) at least one furan compound, such as furfurylamine (FFA), and grafting the FFA onto the POE-g-MAH to form a POE-g-FFA, and then (biii) compounding the POE-g-FFA with at least one maleimide compound, such as 1,1'-(methylenedi-4,1-phenylene)bismaleimide, and compounding with the POE-g-FFA to form an SLFC.

[0046] In one preferred embodiment, the process for producing the SLFC impact modifier comprises: (A) producing component (bi), POE-g-MAH, by either (1) grafting POE with at least one maleic anhydride (MAH) to form a MAH-grafted POE (POE-g-MAH), or (2) sourcing a commercially available POE-g-MAH compound, such as Exxelor VA 1801 or Exxelor VA 1803, available from ExxonMobil; (B) grafting the POE-g-MAH from step (A) with at least one furan compound, such as FFA, component (bii), to form a furan partially grafted polyolefin elastomer (e.g., POE-g-FFA); (C) blending the POE-g-FFA obtained from step (B) with at least one maleimide compound, component (biii), such that at least one side chain furan moiety of the POE-g-FFA crosslinks with at least one maleimide structure of the maleimide compound to form the final SLFC impact modifier.

[0047] For example, in step (B) above, POE-g-MAH is grafted with FFA to provide an FFA-grafted polyolefin elastomer, or FFA-functionalized POE (POE-g-FFA). The final impact modifier, comprising a substantially linear functionalized ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer having at least one pendant furan moiety in the SLFC, has a furan conversion level of at least 80% in one embodiment, 80% to 95% in another embodiment, and 80% to 90% in yet another embodiment.

[0048] The above grafting step (B) for functionalizing POE-g-MAH with FFA to form a POE-g-FFA product can be illustrated in the following reaction scheme (I):

[0049] [ka]

[0050] Once the POE-g-MAH is functionalized with an FFA to form the POE-g-FFA product, the impact modifier production process includes step (C) of blending the POE-g-FFA with a maleimide compound, such as a bismaleimide (BMI) compound. For example, in one preferred embodiment, the POE-g-FFA can be blended with a BMI compound, component (biii), such as 1,1'-(methylenedi-4,1-phenylene)bismaleimide, as illustrated in the following general reaction scheme (II):

[0051] [ka]

[0052] Base polymers used to form the SLFC include, for example, elastomeric ethylene / alpha (α)-olefin (EAO) polymers (also called "ethylene polymers" or polyolefin elastomers (POEs). POE polymers useful in preparing the SLFCs of the present invention include, for example, interpolymers and diene-modified interpolymers. Exemplary base polymers include, for example, ethylene / octene (EO) copolymers, ethylene / hexene (EH) polymers, ethylene / propylene / diene modified (EPDM) interpolymers, and mixtures thereof.

[0053] In other embodiments, EAO polymers may include, for example, homogeneously branched linear EAO copolymers of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) (e.g., Tafmer polymers available from Mitsui PetroChemicals Company Limited and Exact polymers available from Exxon Chemical Company), and homogeneously branched substantially linear EAO polymers (such as ENGAGE™ polymers available from The Dow Chemical Company). In a preferred embodiment, the EAO polymers used in the present invention have a molecular weight of, in one embodiment, 0.85 g / cm. 3 ~0.92g / cm 3 , in another embodiment, 0.85 g / cm 3 ~0.90g / cm 3 and a melt index (MI or I2) (measured in accordance with ASTM D-1238 (190°C / 2.16 kg load)) from 0.01 g / 10 min to 30 g / 10 min in one embodiment, and from 0.05 g / 10 min to 10 g / 10 min in another embodiment.

[0054] In one embodiment, a POE-g-MAH compound useful as one of the components for forming an impact modifier can be formed by grafting a maleic anhydride compound (MAH) onto a POE component using conventional grafting methods known in the grafting art to form component (bi), POE-g-MAH.

[0055] In another embodiment, POE-g-MAH compounds useful as component (bi) for producing the impact modifiers of the present invention may include, for example, any of the commercially available POE-g-MAH compounds available from The Dow Chemical Company, any of the commercially available POE-g-MAH compounds such as Exxelor VA 1801 or Exxelor VA 1803 available from ExxonMobil, and mixtures thereof.

[0056] In some embodiments, some of the properties of POE-g-MAH compounds useful in the present invention include, for example: The MAH level of the POE-g-MAH compounds can be, for example, 0.3 wt % to 1.5 wt % in one general embodiment, 0.3 wt % to 1.2 wt % in another embodiment, 0.3 wt % to 0.9 wt % in yet another embodiment, and 0.8 wt % to 0.9 wt % in yet another embodiment.

[0057] The density of the POE-g-MAH compound is, for example, 0.84 g / cm in one typical embodiment. 3 ~0.88g / cm 3 , and 0.85 g / cm in another embodiment 3 ~0.88g / cm 3 , and 0.85 g / cm in yet another embodiment 3 ~0.87g / cm 3 It could be.

[0058] The melt index (MI) of the POE-g-MAH compound can be, for example, 0.2 g / 10 min to 30 g / 10 min in one general embodiment, 0.2 g / 10 min to 20 g / 10 min in another embodiment, 0.2 g / 10 min to 10 g / 10 min in yet another embodiment, 0.2 g / 10 min to 5 g / 10 min in yet another embodiment, 0.2 g / 10 min to 3 g / 10 min in yet another embodiment, and 0.2 g / 10 min to 2 g / 10 min in yet another embodiment.

[0059] The furan compound (i.e., a compound containing a furan moiety), which is component (bii) useful for preparing POE-g-FFA, one of the components useful for producing the impact modifier of the present invention, can include, for example, one or more compounds containing an FFA.

[0060] The concentration of the FFA compound used to prepare POE-g-FFA includes, for example, in one typical embodiment, 0.2% to 5% by weight based on the total weight of components (bi) and (bii).

[0061] The present invention involves the use of DA chemistry as a thermoreversible crosslinking tool, for example, to build dynamic high molecular weight of a POE-g-FFA compound and then toughen the nylon compound using the POE-g-FFA compound in a nylon composition. For example, the reactivity of POE-g-FFA allows for the introduction of a certain degree of DA functionality into the POE-g-FFA compound without sacrificing the flowability of the composition. It is hypothesized that POE-g-FFA compounds provide a reversible crosslinking technique that can mitigate the trade-off between high nylon toughness and the sacrifice of flowability of the composition by providing an impact modifier that effectively dissociates at high temperatures (e.g., >150°C) and provides a crosslinked structure that can associate at low temperatures (e.g., <150°C). POE-g-FFA provides a highly flowable composition during processing of the composition at high temperatures and develops the high molecular weight of the composition (increasing toughness) after cooling the composition to low temperatures. Thus, the reversible crosslinking technique can be successfully applied to nylon compositions, especially when an article made from the composition requires thinner walls. The reversible crosslinking technique can improve the stiffness-toughness-flow balance; for example, a reduced POE-g-FFA loading can provide the same or better stiffness-toughness-flow characteristics as a non-crosslinked nylon compound with similar stiffness and flow characteristics. In addition, because the induction temperature of DA covalent bonds exceeds 150°C, the resulting crosslinked polymer generally exhibits higher melt strength than the non-crosslinked polymer. The HDT performance of nylon compositions can also be improved using POE-g-FFA.

[0062] Examples of the maleimide compound (biii) include 1,1'-(methylenedi-4,1-phenylene)bismaleimide, bis-maleimide ethane BM(PEG)3 (1,11-bismaleimide-triethylene glycol), BM(PEG)2 (1,8-bismaleimide-diethylene glycol), DTME (dithio-bis-maleimide ethane), 3,3'-sulfinylbis(N-(2-(2,5-dioxo-2,5-dihydro-1H-pyro)methyl ... The polymer may comprise one or more compounds including N,N'-(1,3-phenylene)dimaleimide, N,N'-(4-methyl-1,3-phenylene)bismaleimide, 1,1'-(3,3'-dimethyl-1,1'-biphenyl-4,4'-diyl)bismaleimide, 2-[8-(3-hexyl-2,6-dioctylcyclohexyl)octyl]pyromellitic diimide oligomer (maleimide terminated, low viscosity).

[0063] In one preferred embodiment, the maleimide compounds useful in the present invention can be 1,1'-(methylenedi-4,1-phenylene)bismaleimide, BM(PEG)3 (1,11-bismaleimide-triethylene glycol), and mixtures thereof.

[0064] The concentration of the maleimide compound, component (biii), used to prepare the impact modifier of the present invention includes, for example, in one general embodiment, 0.2 wt % to 3.0 wt %, and in another embodiment, 0.5 wt % to 1.5 wt %, based on the total weight of components (bii) and (biii).

[0065] Examples of some advantageous properties exhibited by the impact modifier compounds of the present invention include, for example, impact modifier compounds having high Charpy impact strength or toughening according to CHARPY ISO 179-1 of at least > 10 percent (%) increase in RT impact strength according to CHARPY ISO 179-1 in one embodiment, from 10% to 15% in another embodiment, from 10% to 20% in yet another embodiment, from 10% to 30% in yet another embodiment, from 10% to 40% in yet still another embodiment, from 10% to 50% in yet another embodiment, and from 10% to 60% in another embodiment.

[0066] The concentration of the impact modifier compound, component (b), blended with the nylon compound, component (a), to prepare the nylon composition of the present invention comprises, for example, from 1 wt % to 50 wt % in one embodiment, from 3 wt % to 30 wt % in another embodiment, and from 5 wt % to 20 wt % in yet another embodiment, based on the weight of components (a) and (b).

[0067] If desired, the nylon composition of the present invention may be compounded with any one or more optional materials, ingredients, additives, or agents conventionally added to polymers. Optional compounds useful as component (c) in the nylon composition of the present invention may include, for example, other unmodified EAOs, antioxidants, reinforcing fillers such as glass fiber, calcium carbonate, talc, silicon limestone, mica, flame retardants, UV additives, pigments, process oils, plasticizers, lubricants, mold release agents, and mixtures thereof. These materials may be compounded with the nylon composition of the present invention either before or after the nylon composition is mixed with the impact modifier. A skilled artisan can easily select any suitable combination of additives and amounts, as well as the appropriate timing of compounding, without undue experimentation.

[0068] For example, in one preferred embodiment, a filler may be added to the nylon composition, and the filler may be selected from the group consisting of glass fiber, calcium carbonate, calcium silicate, calcium sulfate, magnesium carbonate, barium sulfate, barytes, alumina, hydrated alumina, mica, clay, silica or glass, fumed silica, titanium dioxide, titanates, talc, flame retardants, carbon black or graphite, antimony oxide, magnesium hydroxide, borates, and combinations thereof.

[0069] Generally, fillers useful in the present invention are selected to contribute to the mechanical strength and stiffness of the part and to control shrinkage of the part. High aspect ratio (HAR) talc is used to improve the stiffness / toughness balance in the nylon composition of the present invention. HAR talc fillers can provide the required stiffness level at reduced loading levels, further contributing to weight reduction due to lower compounding density. Lower filler loading levels also allow for better flow of the nylon composition of the present invention.

[0070] When talc fillers are combined with the impact modifiers of the present invention, the combination can provide a higher stiffness / toughness balance for thinner, down-gauge parts at the higher flow required compared to standard TPO compounds. Furthermore, such high-flow nylon compositions allow for more complex shapes. Metal replacement for exterior automotive parts is another advantage of using the nylon compositions of the present invention. Other advantages of using the nylon compositions of the present invention include lighter weight and better manufacturing efficiency.

[0071] The concentration of the filler in the composition can be up to 50% by weight based on the composition. Generally, the concentration of the optional ingredient, component (c), when used in the composition can be, for example, 0% to 50% by weight in one embodiment, 0.1% to 40% by weight in another embodiment, 1% to 35% by weight in yet another embodiment, and 1% to 10% by weight in yet another embodiment.

[0072] Impact modifiers are designed to improve the impact performance of nylon compositions, add flexibility to nylon compositions, and increase the filler capacity in nylon compositions. Impact modifiers advantageously function as toughening agents for nylon compositions, i.e., the POE-g-FFA / maleimide structure can be an effective impact modifier for increasing the low-temperature toughness of various polymer compounds, such as nylons and nylon compositions. In one embodiment, for example, impact modifiers (1) provide high toughening efficiency to nylon compounds and (2) can improve the toughness-fluidity balance of nylon compounds.

[0073] In a typical embodiment, nylon compositions containing SLFC as an impact modifier advantageously exhibit at least a 10% improvement in RT impact strength compared to nylon compositions containing unmodified substantially linear functionalized ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymers lacking pendant furan moieties and pendant maleimide structures. In another embodiment, the impact modifier exhibits at least a 15% improvement in RT impact strength, and in yet another embodiment, the impact modifier exhibits at least a 20% improvement in RT impact strength.

[0074] Due to the improved RT impact strength, the nylon composition can be used to manufacture lightweight articles / products or parts with thinner walls and using less composition. Some other advantageous properties and / or benefits of the compositions of the present invention include, for example, better high temperature resistance, better flex, and better flow.

[0075] A general method for producing the nylon composition of the present invention comprises mixing, combining, or blending (a) at least one polyamide and (b) an SLFC impact modifier. In one embodiment, the polyamide used as component (a) is a nylon compound or composition, and the impact modifier used as component (b) is a substantially linear, functionalized ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer having at least one side chain comprising a furan moiety bridged with at least one maleimide structure.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment, a process for producing a nylon composition includes blending (a) 70% to 98% by weight of a polyamide, based on the weight of components (a) and (b), with (b) 2% to 30% by weight of a modifier of the present invention, based on the weight of components (a) and (b), where the modifier is a substantially linear functionalized ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer having at least one pendant furan moiety and at least one pendant maleimide structure. For example, the process includes mixing components (a) and (b), each of which is in a molten state at a temperature of 230°C to 350°C, to form a uniform or homogeneous mixture. Conventional mixing equipment used by those skilled in the art of mixing is used in the above-described mixing step.

[0077] Once components (a) and (b) of the toughened nylon composition of the present invention have been thoroughly and uniformly mixed as described above, the resulting molten mixture can be used to form an article / product or molded part using conventional processes and equipment. For example, an injection molding, compression molding, extrusion, or blow molding process can be used to form an article / product or molded part from the composition. In one preferred embodiment, the article / product or molded part is produced and processed using, for example, an injection molding process and extrusion equipment such as a twin-screw extruder, which are well known in the art. The resulting article produced using the above process has an energy density of 44 KJ / m in one embodiment. 2 ~75KJ / m 2 , and 40 KJ / m in another embodiment 2 ~65KJ / m2 , and in yet another embodiment 50 KJ / m 2 ~80KJ / m 2 It has RT impact resistance strength (toughness characteristics).

[0078] The toughened nylon composition of the present invention can be used to form articles / products or molded parts for a variety of applications. For example, the toughened articles / products or parts produced from the nylon composition can be used in automotive applications, such as rigid automotive articles or parts with excellent low-temperature impact performance for interior and exterior applications, electrical applications, such as wire and cable coatings with improved physical properties, molded article applications, such as packaging, toys, or household appliances, profile extrusion applications, such as flexible and transparent tubing, flexible and tough roof membranes, motorcycle components, boat components, airplane components, tools, sporting goods, personal protective equipment, such as safety helmets, sportswear, electronic equipment, machine housings, luggage, caster wheels, gears, and bearings.

[0079] Generally, the nylon compositions of the present invention are used in applications requiring parts with higher impact strength (i.e., increased toughness and durability) than parts made from conventional copolymers. In one preferred embodiment, articles / products produced from the nylon compositions of the present invention as described above are used in automotive applications, including, for example, automotive rigid articles or parts such as bumper fascias, instrument panels, body panels, and airbag covers.

[0080] The nylon compositions of the present invention are also useful in the automotive industry because their use allows Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to further reduce the weight of existing plastic parts and / or replace metal parts made from the compositions.

[0081] To create thinner, and therefore lighter, parts, nylon compositions must be able to flow through thinner walls. The use of the nylon compositions of the present invention provides improved flow properties and toughness. Such enhanced performance allows for reduced gauge for interior and exterior automotive parts that require superior impact resistance. [Example]

[0082] The following inventive examples (Inventive Examples) and comparative examples (Comparative Examples) (collectively "Examples") are presented herein to further illustrate features of the present invention, but are not intended to be construed as limiting the scope of the claims, either explicitly or implicitly. Inventive examples are identified by Arabic numerals, and comparative examples are designated by alphabetic letters. The following experiments analyzed the performance of embodiments of the compositions described herein. Unless otherwise specified, all parts and percentages are by weight based on total weight.

[0083] The various raw materials or ingredients used in the examples are described in Table 1 as follows:

[0084] [Table 1]

[0085] General Process for Producing Modifiers The components of the impact modifier compositions (referred to as "Modifiers 1, 2, 3, and 4") used in the examples are listed in Table II. POE-g-MAH1 and POE-g-MAH2 are maleic anhydride (MAH)-grafted polyolefin elastomer compounds proprietary to and available from The Dow Chemical Company.

[0086] [Table 2]

[0087] Modifiers using the ingredients listed in Table II were prepared according to the following general procedure.

[0088] A Leistritz twin-screw extruder, ZSE27, with L / D=48 and D=27 mm was used for reactive extrusion. The POE-g-MAH compound (POE-g-MAH1 or POE-g-MAH2) was fed into the extruder through the main port of the extruder. After the resin was melted, furfurylamine was fed into the extruder using a liquid pump. The speed of the twin-screw extruder was set at 250 rpm. The feed rate of the POE-g-MAH resin to the extruder was set at 10 kg / h, and the barrel temperature of the extruder was set in the range of 120°C to 180°C to obtain a melt temperature of 120°C to 250°C in one embodiment, 150°C to 250°C in another embodiment, and 180°C to 250°C in yet another embodiment. Furfurylamine was grafted onto POE-g-MAH (POE-g-MAH1 or POE-g-MAH2) via a reaction between furfurylamine and the MAH group of the POE-g-MAH compound. After extrusion, the POE-g-FFA product obtained from the extruder was pelletized to form pellets. The POE-g-FFA pellets were collected from the pelletizer and then dried in a dehumidifying system at 40°C for 12 hours.

[0089] The compound 1,1'-(methylenedi-4,1-phenylene) bismaleimide in the form of a solid powder was blended with the above-mentioned POE-g-FFA pellets, and then the resulting blended mixture was pelletized to form the SLFC impact modifier of the present invention in the form of pellets. The process conditions for blending and pelletizing the modifier were the same as above. The impact modifier of the present invention produced according to the above process comprises a reversibly crosslinked elastomer.

[0090] The impact modifiers produced according to the above process were analyzed using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy as follows to confirm the chemical structure of the modifiers: Table III lists the FTIR data for the impact modifiers using POE-g-MAH1, and Table IV lists the FTIR data for the impact modifiers using POE-g-MAH2.

[0091] [Table 3]

[0092] [Table 4]

[0093] Test methods and measurements Samples of this composition and test specimens prepared from the above compositions and used in the examples were subjected to the following test methods.

[0094] FTIR characterization Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is used in the examples to generate either emission or absorption infrared spectra of test samples. Attenuated total reflectance (ATR) sampling techniques are used in parallel with FTIR spectroscopy, which ultimately qualify samples as observed directly in either the solid or liquid state without additional preparation.

[0095] The instrument used in the examples for ATR-FTIR analysis is a Perkin Elmer Spectrum Spotlight 200 with a Smart DuraSamplIR Diamond ATR (available from Perkin Elmer). The sample to be analyzed is placed on the diamond / ZnSe crystal, and appropriate pressure is applied to the sample to ensure optimal contact. ATR-FTIR spectra are then collected between 4,000 cm and 650 cm. Each analyzed sample was scanned eight times. The FTIR spectral data is then analyzed.

[0096] Impact Resistance Method The impact performance of the example sample compositions was tested using the procedure set forth in CHARPY ISO 179 ("ISO" stands for "International Organization for Standardization"). ISO 179 specifies a method for determining the Charpy impact strength of plastics under defined conditions. The specimens used in this test are flat test specimens made from the compositions of Table V having the following dimensions: length 63.5 mm x width 10 mm x thickness 4 mm.

[0097] CHARPY ISO 179-1 defines the method used to determine the resistance of plastics to fracture when impacted in a three-point bending configuration using a pendulum system with an appropriately sized hammer arm. The test is uninstrumented and is used to determine the energy required to fracture the specimen. Different test parameters are specified according to the type of material from which the specimen is made, as well as the type of notch cut in the specimen.

[0098] The specimen is mounted horizontally and supported free at both ends. The hammer arm is released and penetrates the specimen. If the first hammer arm used does not result in specimen failure, each subsequent hammer arm heavier than the first is used sequentially until specimen breakage / fracture occurs. The energy obtained and type of failure are then recorded. Prior to impact resistance testing at RT, the test specimen is first conditioned at 23°C and 50% RH for at least 40 hours. The test specimen is then tested at 23°C immediately after the conditioning period. Impact resistance testing is performed with a pendulum capacity of 4 joules.

[0099] For impact resistance testing at -30°C, the test specimens are first conditioned at 23°C and 50% RH for a first conditioning period of at least 40 hours, followed by another second conditioning period of more than 1 hour (without humidity control) at -30°C. Immediately after the second conditioning period, the test specimens are then tested at -30°C. For impact resistance testing conditions, the pendulum capacity is 4 joules.

[0100] Tensile Method The sample compositions of the examples were tested for tensile properties using the procedure described in ISO 527. The test specimens used for the tests were flat test specimens made from the compositions having the following dimensions: 165 mm length x 10 mm width x 4 mm thickness.

[0101] The test specimen is elongated along its major longitudinal axis at a constant rate until the specimen breaks or until the stress (load) or strain (elongation) reaches a predetermined value. The load and elongation supported by the specimen are measured during this procedure. Using an Instron 5566 instrument, the tensile properties of the test specimen are measured as follows: (1) the test parameters are a temperature of 23.0°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 10% RH, and (2) the load cell is 10 KN at a test speed of 50 mm / min.

[0102] Bending method The relationship between stress and strain (while the specimen is bent or flexed) of a test specimen made from a plastic material, i.e., the flexural properties of the specimen, can be measured using the test method described in ISO 178. Using the ISO 178 test method, the flexural properties of test specimens made from the example compositions were determined by performing a "three-point flexural test" on a universal testing system. The three-point flexural test applies a force to the midpoint of a rectangular specimen that is freely supported at either end. The dimensions of the rectangular specimen used were 80 mm long x 10 mm x 4 mm thick. The applied force is measured by a load cell, and the resulting deflection is measured either by the system's crosshead displacement or by a direct strain measurement device. The elastic modulus was measured using a deflectometer. The testing machine used was an Instron 5566 instrument, maintaining a constant test speed of 1 mm / min to 500 mm / min.

[0103] A rectangular cross-section test specimen resting on two supports is deflected by a loading edge acting on the specimen midway between the supports. The test specimen is deflected in this manner at a constant rate at mid-span until fracture occurs on the outer surface of the specimen or a maximum strain of 5% is reached, whichever occurs first. During this procedure, the force applied to the specimen and the resulting deflection of the specimen at mid-span are measured. An Instron 5566 instrument is used for the test, which is conducted using the following parameters: a temperature of 23.0°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 10% RH. Additionally, a load cell of 1 KN and a test speed of 1.3 mm / min were used.

[0104] Melt Index Method The test method used in the examples to determine melt index (MI) is ASTM-D1238, which describes a process for determining the melt flow rate of an extrudate of a molten thermoplastic resin using an extrusion plastometer.

[0105] After a specific preheating time, the molten resin is extruded through a die with a specific length and orifice diameter under predetermined conditions of temperature, load, and piston position in the barrel. The equipment used in the examples was a Tinus Olsen MP600N. The parameters used were a temperature of 235°C and a load weight of 5 kg.

[0106] HDT method The test method described in ISO 75 was used in the examples to determine the temperature at which a specific amount of test specimen deflects when loaded in three-point bending at a specific maximum outer fiber stress. The temperature at which a plastic specimen deflects under load (flexural stress under three-point load) as determined by the above method is called the heat deflection temperature (HDT). The HDT can be used to determine the short-term heat resistance of the specimen.

[0107] In testing the specimen, the test specimen is placed on a support with the specimen's longitudinal axis perpendicular to the support. The loading assembly is then placed in a heating bath and a force calculated to impart a flexural stress of 0.45 MPa (pressure units) to the test specimen is applied to the test specimen as specified in the relevant portion of ISO-75. Five minutes after the initial application of force to the specimen, the deflection measuring device is set to a zero reading. The temperature of the bath is then increased at a uniform rate of (120°C / hr ± 10°C / hr). The temperature at which the initial deflection of the bar has increased by the standard deflection is recorded.

[0108] Examples 1 to 3 of the present invention and Comparative Examples A to C The nylon compositions listed in Table V were prepared and tested.

[0109] [Table 5]

[0110] General Procedure for Producing Nylon Blend Compositions The nylon compositions listed in Table V were prepared using the following general procedure: Nylon 6 resin in pellet form and the modifier pellets produced above were compounded in a twin-screw extruder to form toughened nylon compositions. The barrel temperature of the extruder was set in the range of 220°C to 250°C. The screw speed of the extruder was set at 250 rpm. The output rate of the extruder was set at 10 kg / hr.

[0111] Inventive Example 4 and Comparative Example D Using the nylon compositions listed in Table V, molded specimens listed in Table VI were prepared to test the performance of the nylon compositions (Inventive Example 4 and Comparative Example D). Pellets of the PA6-YH800 compounds listed in Table V were dried at 105°C for 4 hours, and then the pellets were used for injection molding. A FANUC ROBOSHOT S-2000Ib injection molding machine was used to fabricate molded test specimens using the PA6-YH800-based compounds listed in Table V. The test results for the molded specimens listed in Table VI were obtained using the following molding process conditions: barrel temperature was set at 50°C / 250°C / 260°C / 260°C / 260°C / 260°C, mold temperature was 60°C, injection speed was 30 mm / sec, injection pressure was 25 MPa, injection time was 1.2 seconds, hold pressure was 20 MPa, and cooling time was 10 seconds. The molded specimens were tested using the test methods described above in the Test Methods and Measurements section.

[0112] Table VI lists the general mechanical performance of molded specimens, including Comparative Example D and Inventive Example 4. RT and -30°C impact strength were tested using CHARPY ISO 179. Flexural performance was tested using ISO 178, and melt index was tested using ASTM-D 1238. Tensile testing was performed according to ISO 527, and HDT was determined according to ISO 75, as described above. Table VI shows that molded specimens of Inventive Example 4 (made from the composition of Inventive Example 1) exhibit significantly higher impact strength (at both RT and -30°C), as well as higher flexural strength at yield and higher HDT, than the comparative molded specimen of Comparative Example D (made from the composition of Comparative Example A). The results in Table VI also show that tensile strength at yield is maintained at a similar level for molded specimens of both Inventive Example 4 and Comparative Example D.

[0113] The results in Table VI also show that the molded specimens of Inventive Example 4 have better overall mechanical and heat resistance properties than the molded specimens of Comparative Example D. In addition, the melt index results listed in Table VI also show that the composition of Inventive Example 1 (used to make the test molded specimens of Inventive Example 4) has better flow properties than the composition of Comparative Example A (used to make the test molded specimens of Comparative Example D). Thus, the results in Table VI support that SLFC with DA characteristics is a more efficient impact modifier than conventional impact modifiers made from POE-g-MAH.

[0114] [Table 6] Notes for Table VI: * The MI of pellets made from this composition was measured, but not of molded specimens.

[0115] Inventive Example 5 and Comparative Examples E and F The PA6-YH800 compound and the Nylon 6 compound were compounded with an impact modifier to form the nylon compositions described in Table V, and the compounded materials were used to prepare sample molded specimens for testing the performance of the nylon compositions. The molded specimens were molded using the same molding process described above for Inventive Example 4 and Comparative Example D, and the molded specimens were tested using the test methods described above in the Test Methods and Measurements section. The test results for the molded specimens are listed in Table VII.

[0116] Table VII lists the general mechanical performance of PA6-YH800-based nylon compositions, including both Comparative Examples E and F and Inventive Example 5. RT and -20°C impact strength was tested using CHARPY ISO 179, and flexural performance was tested using ISO 178. Melt index was tested according to ASTM-D1238, and tensile testing and HDT were performed according to ISO 527 and ISO 75, respectively, as described above. Table VII shows that the molded specimens tested for Inventive Example 5 (made from the composition of Inventive Example 2) exhibited significantly higher impact strength (at both RT and -20°C) than those tested for Comparative Example E (made from the composition of Comparative Example B), supporting the idea that the molded specimens for Inventive Example 2 have better mechanical properties than those for Comparative Example E. Meanwhile, the melt index results also indicate that the molded specimens for Inventive Example 5 have slightly better flow properties than those for Comparative Example E.

[0117] [Table 7] Notes for Table VII: * The MI of pellets made from this composition was measured, but not of molded specimens.

[0118] Based on all the above results, the modifiers used in Examples 1 to 5 of the present invention have significantly better toughening efficiency than the modifiers used in Comparative Examples A to F. Therefore, the tougher nylon compositions of the present invention with better flow can be provided to the automotive industry for use in, for example, automotive applications.

[0119] Other embodiments One embodiment of the toughened nylon composition of the present invention involves the use of an ethylene-octene high performance low density polyolefin elastomer for the base polyolefin elastomer used to make the SLFC.

[0120] In another embodiment, the inventive method for making a toughened nylon composition comprises the steps of: (A) grafting at least one furan compound onto at least one MAH-grafted polyolefin elastomer to form a furan-grafted polyolefin elastomer (e.g., POE-g-FFA), (B) blending the furan-grafted polyolefin elastomer obtained from step (A) with at least one maleimide compound to form an SLFC modifier, and then (C) mixing the SLFC modifier, component (b), with at least one polyamide, component (a). In a preferred embodiment, the at least one modifier, component (b), is a substantially linear, functionalized ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer having at least one pendant furan moiety and at least one pendant maleimide structure.

[0121] In other embodiments, the concentrations of components used in the method for producing the nylon composition include, for example, 70% to 98% by weight of component (a), at least one polyamide, and 2% to 30% by weight of component (b), at least one modifier, based on the weight of components (a) and (b).

[0122] In yet another embodiment, the SLFC impact modifier of the present invention comprises a mixture of (bi) at least one MAH-grafted polyolefin elastomer compound, (bii) at least one furan-grafted polyolefin elastomer compound, and (biii) at least one maleimide compound, and the method for producing a nylon composition uses the above-described SLFC modifier.

[0123] In yet another embodiment, a method for producing a nylon composition of the present invention includes the steps of: (A) (bi) grafting a polyolefin elastomer compound (e.g., POE-g-MAH) compounded with at least one MAH with (bii) at least one furan compound to form a furan-grafted polyolefin elastomer (e.g., POE-g-FFA); (B) compounding the furan-grafted polyolefin elastomer obtained from step (A) with (biii) at least one maleimide compound, such that at least one side chain furan moiety crosslinks with at least one maleimide structure of the maleimide compound to form an SLFC modifier; and (C) blending the SLFC modifier with a polyamide.

[0124] In still yet other embodiments, the method of producing the SLFC modifier of the present invention may comprise the alternative steps of either (1) blending a furan-grafted polyolefin elastomer (e.g., POE-g-FFA) and a crosslinker bismaleimide (BMI) compound with an ethylene copolymer, or (2) soaking the furan-grafted polyolefin elastomer (e.g., POE-g-FFA) and BMI in an ethylene copolymer. Examples of the invention of this application include the following. [1] A nylon composition comprising: (a) at least one polyamide; (b) at least one modifier, wherein the modifier is a substantially linear functionalized ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer having at least one pendant furan moiety bridged with at least one maleimide structure. [2] The composition of [1] above, wherein the composition exhibits at least a 10 percent increase in room temperature impact strength compared to an unmodified, substantially linear, functionalized ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer having no side chain furan moieties and no side chain maleimide structures. [3] The composition according to [1] above, wherein the at least one side chain furan moiety of the functionalized substantially linear ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer is produced by modifying the ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer with furfurylamine, and the at least one maleimide structure of the functionalized substantially linear ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer is produced by modifying the ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer with 1,1'-(methylenedi-4,1-phenylene)bismaleimide. [4] The composition of [1] above, wherein (a) the concentration of the at least one polyamide is from 70 weight percent to 98 weight percent, based on the weight of components (a) and (b), and (b) the concentration of the at least one modifier is from 2 weight percent to 30 weight percent, based on the weight of components (a) and (b). [5] The composition according to [1] above, wherein the polyamide is selected from the group consisting of polycaprolactam, polyamides containing hexamethylenediamine-adipic acid condensation products, or combinations thereof. [6] The composition of [1] above, wherein the functionalized substantially linear ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer having at least one pendant furan moiety is made by converting maleic anhydride groups present in the functionalized substantially linear ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer to furan groups at a conversion level of at least 80 percent. [7] The modifier has a viscosity of 0.900 g / cm 3 The composition according to [1] above, having a density of less than 10 ... [8] The composition of [1] above, wherein the modifier provides the composition with thermoreversible properties via a reversible crosslinking Diels-Alder type reaction. [9] The composition of [1] above, further comprising up to 50 weight percent, based on the composition, of a filler selected from the group consisting of glass fiber, calcium carbonate, calcium silicate, calcium sulfate, magnesium carbonate, barium sulfate, baryte, alumina, hydrated alumina, mica, clay, silica or glass, fumed silica, titanium dioxide, titanates, talc, flame retardants, carbon black or graphite, antimony oxide, magnesium hydroxide, borates, and combinations thereof.

[10] An article manufactured from the composition according to any one of [1] to [9] above.

Claims

1. 1. A nylon composition comprising: (a) 70 weight percent to 98 weight percent of at least one polyamide, based on the weight of components (a) and (b); (b) 2 weight percent to 30 weight percent of at least one modifier, based on the weight of components (a) and (b); and wherein the modifier is a substantially linear functionalized ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer having at least one pendant furan moiety bridged with at least one maleimide structure.

2. 2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the at least one pendant furan moiety of the functionalized substantially linear ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer is produced by modifying the ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer with furfurylamine, and the at least one maleimide structure of the functionalized substantially linear ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer is produced by modifying the ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer with 1,1'-(methylenedi-4,1-phenylene)bismaleimide.

3. 2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the polyamide is selected from the group consisting of polycaprolactam, polyamides comprising hexamethylenediamine-adipic acid condensation products, or combinations thereof.

4. 10. The composition of claim 1, wherein the substantially linear functionalized ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer having at least one pendant furan moiety is made by converting maleic anhydride groups present in the substantially linear functionalized ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer to furan groups at a conversion level of at least 80 percent.

5. The modifier has a viscosity of 0.900 g / cm ３ 10. The composition of claim 1 having a density of less than 1000 .mu.m.

6. 10. The composition of claim 1, wherein the modifier provides the composition with thermoreversible properties via a reversible crosslinking Diels-Alder type reaction.

7. 10. The composition of claim 1, wherein the composition further comprises up to 50 weight percent, based on the composition, of a filler selected from the group consisting of glass fiber, calcium carbonate, calcium silicate, calcium sulfate, magnesium carbonate, barium sulfate, barite, alumina, hydrated alumina, mica, clay, silica or glass, fumed silica, titanium dioxide, titanates, talc, flame retardants, carbon black or graphite, antimony oxide, magnesium hydroxide, borates, and combinations thereof.

8. An article made from the composition of any one of claims 1 to 7.

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