Compositions containing high melt index ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymers

Abstract

1. A composition comprising: a) at least one ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer comprising soft segments (SS) and hard segments (HS), having the following characteristics: i) Melt index (I2) ≥ 30 dg / min; ii) the molar ratio of "alpha-olefins in SS" to "alpha-olefins in HS" ≥ 18; iii) the weight ratio of SS to HS is ≦12.0; an interpolymer comprising b) at least one tackifier and / or at least one oil.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] 1 / 10 (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 017537, filed April 29, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] Adhesive compositions containing ethylene / alpha-olefin multiblock copolymers are used in a wide variety of applications. However, there is a need for low-viscosity adhesives with improved processability while maintaining or improving adhesive properties such as loop tack and peel strength. Typical hot melt adhesive formulations include polymers, tackifiers, oils, or other low molecular weight components. Reducing the viscosity or molecular weight of the polymer component or reducing the content of this polymer is a typical method for lowering the final adhesive viscosity. However, because the polymer component represents the only high molecular weight species in the formulation, the polymer is responsible for the mechanical strength and cohesive strength of the adhesive. Therefore, reducing the viscosity or molecular weight of the polymer or reducing its content often results in deterioration of adhesive properties.

[0003] U.S. Patent No. 9,243,173 discloses an adhesive composition comprising: a) an olefin block copolymer containing ethylene and an alpha-olefin comonomer; b) a tackifier; and c) an oil. The olefin block copolymer comprises: i) a hard block, the hard block comprising 1-8 mol% of the comonomer and present in an amount of 20-45 wt% of the olefin block copolymer; and ii) a soft block, the soft block comprising 10-14 mol% of the comonomer. The olefin block copolymer has a Mw of 15,000-100,000 g / mol, a total crystallinity of 5-30 wt%, a Tm of 60-105°C, and a Tc of 45-100°C. See claim 1. In Table 1, the patent discloses two high melt index interpolymers with high density and / or high hard segment (HS) content. Both high density and high HS content act to increase the crystallinity of the adhesive composition, thus reducing the tackiness of the composition.

[0004] U.S. Patent No. 7,524,911 discloses adhesive compositions comprising at least one ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymer, at least one tackifier, and optionally at least one additive such as a plasticizer, wax, or antioxidant. See Abstract. However, these compositions typically contain high molecular weight multi-block interpolymers, or, as shown in Table 10b, high density, higher melt index interpolymers that reduce tack.

[0005] Additional adhesive compositions are disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011 / 0262747, U.S. Patent No. 7,989,543, and U.S. Patent No. 7,608,668. However, as discussed above, there remains a need for lower viscosity adhesive compositions that maintain or improve adhesive properties such as loop tack and peel strength. This need has been met by the following invention. Summary of the Invention

[0006] 1. A composition comprising: a) at least one ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer comprising soft segments (SS) and hard segments (HS), having the following characteristics: i) Melt index (I2) ≥ 30 dg / min; ii) the molar ratio of "alpha-olefins in SS" to "alpha-olefins in HS" ≥ 18; iii) a weight ratio of SS to HS of ≦12.0; and b) at least one tackifier and / or at least one oil. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] As discussed above, a composition comprising: a) at least one ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer comprising soft segments (SS) and hard segments (HS), having the following characteristics: i) Melt index (I2) ≥ 30 dg / min; ii) the molar ratio of "alpha-olefins in SS" to "alpha-olefins in HS" ≥ 18; iii) a weight ratio of SS to HS of ≦12.0; and b) at least one tackifier and / or at least one oil.

[0008] The composition may comprise a combination of two or more embodiments as described herein. The ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer (component a) may comprise a combination of two or more embodiments as described herein. Component b may comprise a combination of two or more embodiments as described herein.

[0009] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer (component a) has a melt index (I2) of ≥ 35, or ≥ 40, or ≥ 45, or ≥ 50, or ≥ 55 dg / min. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a melt index (I2) of ≤ 300, or ≤ 250, or ≤ 200, or ≤ 150, or ≤ 140, or ≤ 130, or ≤ 120, or ≤ 110 dg / min.

[0010] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein: The ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a molar ratio of "alpha-olefin in SS" to "alpha-olefin in HS" of ≧19, or ≧20, or ≧21. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a molar ratio of "alpha-olefin in SS" to "alpha-olefin in HS" of ≦100, or ≦80, or ≦60, or ≦50, or ≦40, or ≦30.

[0011] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has an alpha-olefin content in the HS of ≦0.90 mol%, or ≦0.88 mol%, or ≦0.86 mol%, or ≦0.84 mol%, based on the total moles of monomers in the HS. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has an alpha-olefin content in the HS of ≧0.50 mol%, or ≧0.55 mol%, or ≧0.60 mol%, or ≧0.65 mol%, or ≧0.70 mol%, based on the total moles of monomers in the HS.

[0012] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has an alpha-olefin content in the SS of ≦20.0 mol%, or ≦19.5 mol%, or ≦19.0 mol%, or ≦18.5 mol%, or ≦18.0 mol%, or ≦17.8 mol%, or ≦17.6 mol%, or ≦17.5 mol%, based on the total moles of monomers in the SS. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has an alpha-olefin content in the SS of ≧15.0 mol%, or ≧15.5 mol%, or ≧16.0 mol%, or ≧16.5 mol%, or ≧17.0 mol%, based on the total moles of monomers in the SS.

[0013] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a weight ratio of SS to HS of ≦11.8, or ≦11.6, or ≦11.4, or ≦11.2, or ≦11.0, or ≦10.8, or ≦10.6, or ≦10.4, or ≦10.2. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a weight ratio of SS to HS of ≧5.0, or ≧5.5, or ≧6.0, or ≦6.2, or ≧6.4, or ≧6.6, or ≧6.8, or ≧7.0, or ≧7.2.

[0014] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a total amount of alpha-olefins of ≧10 mol%, or ≧11 mol%, or ≧12 mol%, or ≧13 mol%, or ≧14 mol%, or ≧15 mol%, based on the total moles of monomers in the interpolymer. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a total amount of alpha-olefins of ≦50 mol%, or ≦40 mol%, or ≦30 mol%, or ≦25 mol%, or ≦20 mol%, or ≦18 mol%, or ≦16 mol%, based on the total moles of monomers in the interpolymer.

[0015] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a Density of ≥ 0.856 g / cc, or ≥ 0.858 g / cc, or ≥ 0.860 g / cc, or ≥ 0.862 g / cc, or ≥ 0.863 g / cc, or ≥ 0.864 g / cc, or ≥ 0.865 g / cc, or ≥ 0.866 g / cc, or ≥ 0.867 g / cc (1 cc = 1 cm 3 In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a density of ≦0.874 g / cc, or ≦0.873 g / cc, or ≦0.872 g / cc, or ≦0.871 g / cc, or ≦0.870 g / cc, or ≦0.869 g / cc.

[0016] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a molecular weight distribution (MWD) (= Mw / Mn) of ≥ 1.5, or ≥ 1.6, or ≥ 1.7, or ≥ 1.8, or ≥ 1.9, or ≥ 2.0, or ≥ 2.1. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a molecular weight distribution (MWD) of ≤ 3.0, or ≤ 2.9, or ≤ 2.8, or ≤ 2.7, or ≤ 2.6, or ≤ 2.5, or ≤ 2.4, or ≤ 2.3, or ≤ 2.2.

[0017] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the composition includes at least one tackifier or at least one oil.

[0018] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the composition comprises at least one tackifier and at least one oil.

[0019] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the composition comprises ≧98.5 wt.%, or ≧99.0 wt.%, or ≧99.1 wt.%, or ≧99.2 wt.%, or ≧99.3 wt.%, or ≧99.4 wt.% of the sum of components a and b, based on the weight of the composition. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the composition comprises ≦100.0 wt.%, or ≦99.9 wt.%, ≦99.8 wt.%, or ≦99.7 wt.%, or ≦99.6 wt.%, or ≦99.5 wt.% of the sum of components a and b, based on the weight of the composition.

[0020] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the composition has a viscosity (177°C) of ≥ 2,000 cP, or ≥ 2,400 cP, or ≥ 2,600 cP, or ≥ 2,800 cP, or ≥ 3,000 cP, or ≥ 3,200 cP. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the composition has a viscosity (177°C) of ≦15,000 cP, or ≦14,000 cP, or ≦13,000 cP, or ≦12,000 cP, or ≦11,000 cP, or ≦10,000 cP, or ≦9,000 cP, or ≦8,000 cP, or ≦7,000 cP, or ≦6,800 cP, or ≦6,600 cP, or ≦6,400 cP, or ≦6,200 cP.

[0021] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the composition satisfies the following relationship: [(Loop Tack (N) / (Viscosity (cP))×(1000(cP / N))]≧4.0, or ≧4.2, or ≧4.4, or ≧4.6, or ≧4.8, or ≧5.0, or ≧5.2. Viscosity is measured at 177° C.

[0022] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the composition satisfies the following relationship: [(90° Peel (lb / in) / (Viscosity) (cP)) x (1000 (cP in / lb))] ≥ 1.0, or ≥ 1.1, or ≥ 1.2, or ≥ 1.3, where the viscosity is measured at 177°C.

[0023] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, alpha (component a) of the multi-block interpolymer is a C3 to C20 alpha-olefin, and further C3 to C10 alpha-olefin. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the alpha-olefin is selected from propylene, 1-butene, 1-pentene, 1-hexene, or 1-octene, further propylene, 1-butene, or 1-octene, further 1-butene or 1-octene, and further 1-octene.

[0024] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer is an ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block copolymer. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer is selected from the following: ethylene / propylene multi-block copolymer, ethylene / butene multi-block copolymer, or ethylene / octene multi-block copolymer, and further ethylene / butene multi-block copolymer, or ethylene / octene multi-block copolymer, and further ethylene / octene multi-block copolymer.

[0025] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the composition is an adhesive composition, and further a hot melt adhesive or a pressure sensitive adhesive, and further a hot melt adhesive.

[0026] Also provided is an article comprising at least one component formed from the composition of any one embodiment or combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the article is a diaper or a medical garment.

[0027] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the composition of the present invention further comprises a thermoplastic polymer that differs from the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer (component a) in one or more characteristics, such as the type, distribution, and / or amount of monomer, density, melt index (I2), Mn, Mw, Mz, MWD, V0.1, V100, RR (V0.1 / V100), or any combination thereof, and further in one or more characteristics, such as the type, distribution, and / or amount of monomer, density, melt index (I2), Mn, Mw, MWD, or any combination thereof. Polymers include, but are not limited to, ethylene-based polymers, propylene-based polymers, and olefin multi-block interpolymers. Suitable ethylene-based polymers include, but are not limited to, linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), very low density polyethylene (VLDPE), ultra-low density polyethylene (ULDPE), homogeneously branched linear ethylene-based polymers, and homogeneously branched substantially linear ethylene-based polymers (i.e., homogeneously branched long-chain branched ethylene polymers). Examples of propylene-based polymers include polypropylene homopolymer and propylene / ethylene copolymers.

[0028] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the composition includes only one ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer for component a.

[0029] Ethylene / Alpha-Olefin Multi-Block Interpolymer Ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymers are characterized by multiple blocks or segments of two or more polymerized monomer units that differ in chemical or physical properties. In some embodiments, the multi-block copolymers have the following formula: (AB): n where n is at least 1 and preferably an integer greater than 1, e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, or more. "A" represents a hard block or segment, and "B" represents a soft block or segment. Preferably, the A and B segments are linked in a substantially linear fashion, as opposed to a substantially branched or substantially star-shaped fashion. In other embodiments, the A and B segments are randomly distributed along the polymer chain. In other words, for example, a block copolymer typically does not have the following structure: AAA-AA-BBB-BB. In still other embodiments, a block copolymer typically does not have a third type of block or segment containing a different comonomer. In still other embodiments, each of the A and B blocks has monomers or comonomers distributed substantially randomly within the block. In other words, neither block A nor block B includes two or more sub-segments (or sub-blocks) of distinct composition, such as a tip segment having a substantially different composition than the remainder of the block.

[0030] As used herein, the term "hard segment (HS)" refers to a block of polymerized monomer units in which ethylene is present in an amount of ≥ 95 mol%, or ≥ 98 mol%, or ≥ 99 mol%, based on the total moles of polymerized monomers in the block. In one embodiment, ethylene is present in an amount of ≤ 99.8 mol%, or ≤ 99.6 mol%, or ≤ 99.4 mol%, or ≤ 99.3 mol%, based on the total moles of polymerized monomers in the block.

[0031] As used herein, the term "soft segment (SS)" refers to a block of polymerized monomer units in which ethylene is present in an amount of ≦90 mol%, or ≦88 mol%, or ≦86 mol%, or ≦84 mol%, based on the total moles of polymerized monomers in the block. In one embodiment, ethylene is present in an amount of ≧80 mol%, or ≧81 mol%, or ≧82 mol%, based on the total moles of polymerized monomers in the block.

[0032] Typically, ethylene constitutes 50 mole percent or the majority of the mole percent of the total multi-block copolymer, i.e., ethylene constitutes at least 50 mole percent of the total polymer. More preferably, ethylene is at least 60 mole percent, at least 70 mole percent, or at least 80 mole percent, with the substantial remainder of the total polymer being at least one other comonomer, preferably an alpha-olefin having 3 or more carbon atoms.

[0033] As discussed above, ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymers preferably comprise two or more chemically distinct regions or segments (referred to as "blocks") linked linearly. In one embodiment, the blocks differ in the amount or type of incorporated comonomer, density, amount of crystallinity, crystallite size resulting from polymers of such composition, type or degree of stereoregularity (isotactic or syndiotactic), regioregularity or site irregularity, amount of branching (including long-chain branching or hyperbranching), uniformity, or any other chemical or physical property. Compared to prior art block interpolymers, including interpolymers produced by continuous monomer addition, flow catalyst, or anionic polymerization techniques, the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymers of the present invention, in one embodiment, are characterized by a unique distribution of both polymer polydispersity (PDI or Mw / Mn or MWD), block length distribution, and / or block number distribution due to the effect of shuttling agents in combination with the multiple catalysts used in their preparation.

[0034] Olefin block copolymers are commonly produced via a chain shuttling process, such as that described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,858,706, which is incorporated herein by reference. Some chain shuttling agents and related information are listed at column 16, line 39 to column 19, line 44. Some catalysts are listed at column 19, line 45 to column 46, line 19, and some cocatalysts are listed at column 46, line 20 to column 51, line 28. Some process features are listed at column 51, line 29 to column 54, line 56. See also: U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,608,668, 7,893,166, and 7,947,793, as well as U.S. Patent Publication No. 2010 / 0197880. See also U.S. Pat. No. 9,243,173.

[0035] tackifier Tackifiers are known in the art and can be solid, semi-solid, or liquid at room temperature. Non-limiting examples of tackifiers include: (1) natural or modified rosins (e.g., gum rosin, wood rosin, tall oil rosin, distilled rosin, hydrogenated rosin, dimerized rosin, and polymerized rosin); (2) glycerol and pentaerythritol esters of natural and modified rosins (e.g., glycerol ester of plain wood rosin, glycerol ester of hydrogenated rosin, glycerol ester of polymerized rosin, pentaerythritol ester of hydrogenated rosin, and phenol-modified pentaerythritol ester of rosin); (3) copolymers and terpolymers of natural terpenes (e.g., styrene / (4) polyterpene resins and hydrogenated polyterpene resins; (5) phenol-modified terpene resins and their hydrogenated derivatives (e.g., resin products resulting from the condensation of bicyclic terpenes and phenols in an acidic medium); (6) aliphatic or alicyclic hydrocarbon resins and their hydrogenated derivatives (e.g., resins resulting from the polymerization of monomers consisting primarily of olefins and diolefins); (7) alicyclic petroleum hydrocarbon resins and their hydrogenated derivatives; (8) aromatic-modified aliphatic or alicyclic hydrocarbon resins and their hydrogenated derivatives, and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the tackifier is selected from hydrogenated hydrocarbons.

[0036] oil Non-limiting examples of oils include olefin oligomers, low molecular weight polyolefins such as liquid polybutene, phthalates, mineral oils such as naphthenic, paraffinic, or hydrogenated (white) oils (e.g., KAYDOL oil), vegetable and animal oils and derivatives thereof, petroleum-derived oils, and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the oil is selected from a mineral oil, a hydrogenated oil, or a petroleum-derived oil.

[0037] definition Unless stated to the contrary, implicit from 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] As used herein, the term "polymer" refers to a polymeric compound prepared by polymerizing the same or different types of monomers. 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 herein 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" amounts) of one or more stabilizers.

[0040] 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 more than two different types of monomers.

[0041] As used herein, the term "olefin-based polymer" refers to a polymer that contains, in polymerized form, 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] As used herein, the term "ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer" refers to a multi-block interpolymer comprising, in polymerized form, 50% by weight or a majority of ethylene (based on the weight of the interpolymer) and an alpha-olefin. As used herein, the term "ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block copolymer" refers to a multi-block copolymer comprising, in polymerized form, 50% by weight or a majority of ethylene monomer (based on the weight of the copolymer) and an alpha-olefin as the only two monomer types. See the discussion above.

[0045] 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 otherwise, unless specifically stated to the contrary. In contrast, the term "consisting essentially of" excludes from the scope of any succeeding recitation 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 delineated or listed.

[0046] Listing of some compositional features A] A composition comprising: a) at least one ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer comprising soft segments (SS) and hard segments (HS), the interpolymer having the following characteristics: i) Melt index (I2) ≥ 30 dg / min; ii) the molar ratio of "alpha-olefins in SS" to "alpha-olefins in HS" ≥ 18; iii) a weight ratio of SS to HS of ≦12.0; and b) at least one tackifier and / or at least one oil.

[0047] B] The composition described in A] above, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer (component a) has a melt index (I2) of ≥ 35, or ≥ 40, or ≥ 45, or ≥ 50, or ≥ 55 dg / min.

[0048] C] The composition described in A] or B] above, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a melt index (I2) of ≦300, or ≦250, or ≦200, or ≦150, or ≦140, or ≦130, or ≦120, or ≦110 dg / min.

[0049] D] The ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a molar ratio of "alpha-olefin in SS" to "alpha-olefin in HS" of ≧19, or ≧20, or ≧21. A composition according to any one of A] to C] (A] to C]).

[0050] E] The ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a molar ratio of "alpha-olefin in SS" to "alpha-olefin in HS" of ≦100, or ≦80, or ≦60, or ≦50, or ≦40, or ≦30. Compositions described in any one of A] to D] above.

[0051] F] The ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has an alpha-olefin content in the HS of ≦0.90 mol%, or ≦0.88 mol%, or ≦0.86 mol%, or ≦0.84 mol%, based on the total moles of monomers in the HS. A composition according to any one of A] to E] above.

[0052] G] The composition of any one of A] to F] above, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has an alpha-olefin content in the HS of ≧0.50 mol%, or ≧0.55 mol%, or ≧0.60 mol%, or ≧0.65 mol%, or ≧0.70 mol%, based on the total moles of monomers in the HS.

[0053] H] The ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has an alpha-olefin content in the SS of ≦20.0 mol%, or ≦19.5 mol%, or ≦19.0 mol%, or ≦18.5 mol%, or ≦18.0 mol%, or ≦17.8 mol%, or ≦17.6 mol%, or ≦17.5 mol%, based on the total moles of monomers in the SS. Compositions described in any one of A] to G] above.

[0054] I] The ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has an alpha-olefin content in the SS of ≧15.0 mol%, or ≧15.5 mol%, or ≧16.0 mol%, or ≧16.5 mol%, or ≧17.0 mol%, based on the total moles of monomers in the SS. Compositions described in any one of A] to H] above.

[0055] J] The ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a weight ratio of SS to HS of ≦11.8, or ≦11.6, or ≦11.4, or ≦11.2, or ≦11.0, or ≦10.8, or ≦10.6, or ≦10.4, or ≦10.2. A composition according to any one of A] to I] above.

[0056] K] The composition of any one of A] to J] above, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a weight ratio of SS to HS of ≧5.0, or ≧5.5, or ≧6.0, or ≦6.2, or ≧6.4, or ≧6.6, or ≧6.8, or ≧7.0, or ≧7.2.

[0057] L] The composition described in any one of A] to K] above, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has an SS amount of ≦98 wt%, or ≦96 wt%, or ≦94 wt%, or ≦92 wt%, based on the total weight of SS and HS.

[0058] M] ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymers, The composition described in any one of A] to L] above, having an SS amount of ≧70 wt%, or ≧75 wt%, or ≧80 wt%, or ≦82 wt%, or ≧84 wt%, or ≧86 wt%, or ≧88 wt%, based on the total weight of SS and HS.

[0059] N] The ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has an HS content of ≦20 wt%, or ≦18 wt%, or ≦16 wt%, or ≦14 wt%, or ≦12 wt%, based on the total weight of SS and HS. A composition described in any one of A] to M] above.

[0060] O] The composition described in any one of A] to N] above, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has an HS amount of ≥ 7 wt%, or ≥ 8 wt%, or ≥ 9 wt%, based on the total weight of SS and HS.

[0061] P] The composition of any one of A] to O] above, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a total amount of alpha-olefin of ≧10 mol%, or ≧11 mol%, or ≧12 mol%, or ≧13 mol%, or ≧14 mol%, or ≧15 mol%, based on the total moles of monomers in the interpolymer.

[0062] Q] The composition of any one of A] to P] above, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a total amount of alpha-olefin of ≦50 mol%, or ≦40 mol%, or ≦30 mol%, or ≦25 mol%, or ≦20 mol%, or ≦18 mol%, or ≦16 mol%, based on the total moles of monomers in the interpolymer.

[0063] R] the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a Molecular Weight of ≥ 0.856 g / cc, ≥ 0.858 g / cc, ≥ 0.860 g / cc, or ≥ 0.862 g / cc, ≥ 0.863 g / cc, or ≥ 0.864 g / cc, or ≥ 0.865 g / cc, or ≥ 0.866 g / cc, or ≥ 0.867 g / cc (1 cc = 1 cm 3 The composition according to any one of A] to Q] above, having a density of

[0064] S] The composition described in any one of A] to R] above, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a density of ≦0.874 g / cc, or ≦0.873 g / cc, or ≦0.872 g / cc, or ≦0.871 g / cc, or ≦0.870 g / cc, or ≦0.869 g / cc.

[0065] T] The composition described in any one of A] to S] above, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a molecular weight distribution MWD (= Mw / Mn) of ≧1.5, or ≧1.6, or ≧1.7, or ≧1.8, or ≧1.9, or ≧2.0, or ≧2.1.

[0066] U] The ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a molecular weight distribution MWD of ≦3.0, or ≦2.9, or ≦2.8, or ≦2.7, or ≦2.6, or ≦2.5, or ≦2.4, or ≦2.3, or ≧2.2. A composition described in any one of A] to T] above.

[0067] V] The composition of any one of A] to U] above, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a number average molecular weight Mn of ≥ 14,000 g / mol, or ≥ 15,000 g / mol, or ≥ 16,000 g / mol, or ≥ 17,000 g / mol, or ≥ 18,000 g / mol.

[0068] W] The composition of any one of A] to V] above, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a number average molecular weight Mn of ≦30,000 g / mol, or ≦28,000 g / mol, or ≦26,000 g / mol, or ≦24,000 g / mol, or ≦22,000 g / mol.

[0069] X] The composition of any one of A] to W] above, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a weight average molecular weight Mw of ≥ 30,000 g / mol, or ≥ 32,000 g / mol, or ≥ 34,000 g / mol, or ≥ 36,000 g / mol, or ≥ 38,000 g / mol.

[0070] Y] the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a modulus of ≦60,000 g / mol, or ≦58,000 g / mol, or ≦56,000 g / mol, or ≦54,000 g / mol, or ≦52,000 g / mol, or ≦50,000 g / mol; The composition according to any one of A] to X] above, having a weight average molecular weight Mw of ≦48,000 g / mol, or ≦46,000 g / mol.

[0071] Z] The composition according to any one of A] to Y] above, wherein the composition comprises at least one tackifier or at least one oil.

[0072] AA] The composition according to any one of A] to Y] above, wherein the composition comprises at least one tackifier and at least one oil.

[0073] BB] The composition of any one of A]-Y] or AA] above, wherein the composition comprises at least one tackifier and at least one oil, and the weight ratio of the at least one tackifier to the at least one oil is ≧2.0, or ≧2.5, ≧3.0, or ≧3.5, or ≧4.0.

[0074] CC] The composition of any one of A]-Y], AA], or BB], wherein the composition comprises at least one tackifier and at least one oil, and the weight ratio of the at least one tackifier to the at least one oil is ≦6.0, or ≦5.5, or ≦5.0, or ≦4.5.

[0075] DD] The composition described in any one of A] to CC] above, wherein the composition comprises at least one tackifier and optionally at least one oil, and the weight ratio of the at least one tackifier to the at least one ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer is ≧0.8, or ≧1.0, or ≧1.2, or ≧1.4.

[0076] EE] The composition of any one of A] to DD above, wherein the composition comprises at least one tackifier and optionally at least one oil, and the weight ratio of the at least one tackifier to the at least one ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer is ≦3.0, or ≦2.8, or ≦2.6, or ≦2.4, or ≦2.2, or ≦2.0, or ≦1.8, or ≦1.6.

[0077] FF] The composition of any one of A] to EE] above, wherein the composition comprises at least one oil and optionally at least one tackifier, and the weight ratio of the at least one ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer to the at least one oil is ≧2.0, or ≧2.2, or ≧2.4, or ≧2.5, or ≧2.6, or ≧2.7.

[0078] GG] The composition of any one of A] to FF] above, wherein the composition comprises at least one oil and optionally at least one tackifier, and the weight ratio of the at least one ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer to the at least one oil is ≦4.0, or ≦3.8, or ≦3.6, or ≦3.4, or ≦3.2, or ≦3.0.

[0079] HH] The composition of any one of A] to GG] above, wherein the composition comprises ≧20 wt%, or ≧22 wt%, or ≧24 wt%, or ≧26 wt%, or ≧28 wt%, or ≧30 wt%, or ≧32 wt%, or ≧34 wt% of at least one ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer, based on the weight of the composition.

[0080] II] The composition of any one of A] to HH] above, wherein the composition comprises, based on the weight of the composition, ≦50 wt%, or ≦48 wt%, or ≦46 wt%, or ≦44 wt%, or ≦42 wt%, or ≦40 wt%, or ≦38 wt%, or ≦36 wt% of at least one ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer.

[0081] JJ] A composition described in any one of A] to II] above, wherein the composition comprises at least one tackifier and further comprises ≧40 wt%, or ≧42 wt%, or ≧44 wt%, or ≧46 wt%, or ≧48 wt%, or ≧50 wt%, or ≧51 wt%, or ≧52 wt%, of at least one tackifier, based on the weight of the composition.

[0082] KK] The composition described in any one of A] to JJ] above, wherein the composition comprises at least one tackifier and further comprises ≦70 wt.%, or ≦65 wt.%, or ≦60 wt.%, or ≦58 wt.%, or ≦56 wt.%, or ≦54 wt.% of at least one tackifier, based on the weight of the composition.

[0083] LL] A composition described in any one of A] to KK] above, wherein the composition comprises at least one oil and further comprises ≧6 wt.%, or ≧8 wt.%, or ≧10 wt.%, or ≧11 wt.%, or ≧12 wt.% of at least one oil, based on the weight of the composition.

[0084] MM] The composition described in any one of A] to LL] above, wherein the composition comprises at least one oil and further comprises ≦20 wt. %, or ≦18 wt. %, or ≦16 wt. %, or ≦14 wt. % of at least one oil, based on the weight of the composition.

[0085] NN] The composition described in any one of A] to MM] above, wherein the composition comprises a total of ≧98.5 wt%, ≧99.0 wt%, or ≧99.1 wt%, or ≧99.2 wt%, or ≧99.3 wt%, or ≧99.4 wt% of at least one ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer, at least one tackifier, and at least one oil, based on the weight of the composition.

[0086] OO] The composition described in any one of A] to NN] above, wherein the composition comprises, based on the weight of the composition, ≦100.0 wt.%, or ≦99.9 wt.%, or ≦99.8 wt.%, or ≦99.7 wt.%, or ≦99.6 wt.%, or ≦99.5 wt.% of the total of at least one ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer, at least one tackifier, and at least one oil.

[0087] PP] The composition described in any one of A] to OO], wherein the composition has a viscosity (177°C) of ≥ 2,000 cP, or ≥ 2,400 cP, or ≥ 2,600 cP, or ≥ 2,800 cP, or ≥ 3,000 cP, or ≥ 3,200 cP.

[0088] QQ) The composition of any one of A] to PP] above, wherein the composition has a viscosity (177°C) of ≦15,000 cP, or ≦14,000 cP, or ≦13,000 cP, or ≦12,000 cP, or ≦11,000 cP, or ≦10,000 cP, or ≦9,000 cP, or ≦8,000 cP, or ≦7,000 cP, or ≦6,800 cP, or ≦6,600 cP, or ≦6,400 cP, or ≦6,200 cP.

[0089] RR] A composition described in any one of A] to QQ above, wherein the composition has a loop tack of ≧24N, or ≧26N, or ≧28N or more, or ≧30N, or ≧32N.

[0090] SS] The composition described in any one of A] to RR above, wherein the composition has a loop tack of ≦100N, or ≦90N, or ≦80N, or ≦70N, or ≦60N, or ≦50N, or ≦45N.

[0091] TT] The composition described in any one of A] to SS] above, wherein the composition has a 90-degree peel of ≥ 5.0 lb / in, or ≥ 6.0 lb / in, or ≥ 6.5 lb / in, or ≥ 7.0 lb / in, or ≥ 7.5 lb / in, or ≥ 8.0 lb / in.

[0092] UU] The composition described in any one of A] to TT above, wherein the composition has a 90 degree peel of ≦50 lb / in, or ≦40 lb / in, or ≦30 lb / in, or ≦20 lb / in, or ≦15 lb / in.

[0093] The composition according to any one of A] to UU] above, wherein the composition satisfies the following relationship: [(Loop Tack (N) / (Viscosity (cP))×(1000(cP / N))]≧4.0, or ≧4.2, or ≧4.4, or ≧4.6, or ≧4.8, or ≧5.0, or ≧5.2. The viscosity was measured at 177°C.

[0094] WW] The composition described in any one of A] to VV] above, wherein the composition satisfies the following relationship: [(Loop Tack (N) / (Viscosity (cP))×(1000 (cP / N))]≦20, or ≦18, or ≦16, or ≦14, or ≦12. The viscosity was measured at 177°C.

[0095] XX] The composition according to any one of A] to WW] above, wherein the composition satisfies the following relationship: [(90-degree peel (lb / in) / (viscosity (cP))×(1000 (cP·in / lb))] ≧ 1.0, or ≧ 1.1, or ≧ 1.2, or ≧ 1.3. The viscosity was measured at 177°C.

[0096] YY] composition, The composition according to any one of A] to XX] above, which satisfies the following relationship: [(90-degree peel (lb / in) / (viscosity (cP))×(1000 (cP·in / lb))]≦4.0, or ≦3.5, or ≦3.0, or ≦2.9. The viscosity was measured at 177°C.

[0097] ZZ] The composition described in any one of A] to YY] above, wherein the alpha-olefin of the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer (component a) is a C3 to C20 alpha-olefin, and further is a C3 to C10 alpha-olefin.

[0098] A3] The alpha-olefin of the ethylene / alpha-olefin multiblock interpolymer (component a) is propylene, 1-butene, 1-pentene, 1-hexene or 1-octene, and further propylene, 1-butene or 1-octene, and further selected from 1-butene or 1-octene, and further selected from 1-octene.

[0099] B3] The composition according to any one of A] to A3] above, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer is an ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block copolymer.

[0100] C3] The composition according to any one of A] to B3] above, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer is selected from the following: ethylene / propylene multi-block copolymer, ethylene / butene multi-block copolymer, or ethylene / octene multi-block copolymer, and further ethylene / butene multi-block copolymer, or ethylene / octene multi-block copolymer, and further ethylene / octene multi-block copolymer.

[0101] D3] The composition of any one of A] to C3] above, wherein the composition further comprises a thermoplastic polymer that differs from the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer (component a) in one or more characteristics, such as monomer type, distribution, and / or amount, density, melt index (I2), Mn, Mw, Mz, MWD, Mooney viscosity, V0.1, V100, RR, or any combination thereof, and further in one or more characteristics, such as monomer type, distribution, and / or amount, density, melt index (I2), and / or amount, Mn, Mw, MWD, or any combination thereof.

[0102] E3] The composition of any one of A] to D3] above, wherein the composition comprises only one ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer for component a.

[0103] F3] A composition described in any one of A] to E3] above, wherein the composition comprises ≧98.5%, ≧99.0 wt%, or ≧99.1 wt%, or ≧99.2 wt%, or ≧99.3 wt%, or ≧99.4 wt% of the sum of components a) and b), based on the weight of the composition.

[0104] G3] A composition described in any one of A] to F3] above, wherein the composition comprises ≦100.0 wt.%, or ≦99.9 wt.%, or ≦99.8 wt.%, or ≦99.7 wt.%, or ≦99.6 wt.%, or ≦99.5 wt.% of the sum of components a) and b), based on the weight of the composition.

[0105] H3] The composition according to any one of A] to G3 above, wherein the composition is an adhesive composition, and further a pressure-sensitive adhesive or a hot-melt adhesive, and further a hot-melt adhesive.

[0106] I3] An article comprising at least one component formed from the composition described in any one of A] through H3] above.

[0107] J3] The article according to I3] above, wherein the article is a diaper or a medical garment.

[0108] Test Method Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) The chromatography system consisted of a PolymerChar GPC-IR (Valencia, Spain) high-temperature GPC chromatograph equipped with an internal IR5 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 "Mixed A" 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.

[0109] The GPC column set was calibrated using 21 "narrow molecular weight distribution" polystyrene standards with molecular weights ranging from 580 to 8,400,000. The standards were prepared as six "cocktail" mixtures with at least a 10-fold separation between individual molecular weights. The standards were purchased from Agilent Technologies. The polystyrene standards were prepared at 0.025 grams in 50 milliliters of solvent for molecular weights ≥ 1,000,000 and 0.05 grams in 50 milliliters for molecular weights < 1,000,000. The polystyrene standards were dissolved at 80°C for 30 minutes with gentle stirring. 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)).

[0110] Mpolyethylene = A x (Mpolystyrene)B (Equation 1) where M is the molecular weight, A has a value of 0.4315, and B is equal to 1.0.

[0111] A fifth-order polynomial was used to fit each polyethylene-equivalent calibration point. A small adjustment (approximately 0.375 to 0.445) was made to A to correct for column resolution and band-broadening effects for a linear homopolymer polyethylene standard obtained at 120,000 MW.

[0112] A total plate count for the GPC column set was performed using decane (prepared at 0.04 g in 50 mL of TCB and dissolved for 20 minutes with gentle agitation). Plate count (Equation 2) and symmetry (Equation 3) were calculated using Measured for a 200 microliter injection by the following equation:

[0113]

number

[0114]

number

[0115] Samples were prepared semi-automatically using PolymerChar Instrument Control software, with a target sample weight of 2 mg / ml, by adding the solvent (containing 200 ppm BHT) via the PolymerChar high-temperature autosampler to a septa-capped vial pre-sparged with nitrogen. Samples were dissolved at 160°C for 2 hours under slow shaking.

[0116] Mn (GPC) , Mw (GPC) , and Mz (GPC) was 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:

[0117]

number

[0118] To monitor deviations over time, a flow rate marker (decane) was introduced into each sample via a micropump controlled by the PolymerChar GPC-IR system. This flow rate marker (FM) was 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 that of the decane peak in the narrow standard calibration (RV(FM calibrated)). Any change in the decane marker peak over time was then assumed to be related to a linear shift in the flow rate (flow rate (effective)) throughout the run. To facilitate the highest accuracy in the RV measurement of the flow rate marker peaks, a least-squares fitting routine was used to fit the peaks in the flow rate marker concentration chromatogram to a quadratic equation. The first derivative of the quadratic equation was then used to determine the true peak position. After calibrating the system based on the flow rate marker peaks, the effective flow rate (with respect to the narrow standard calibration) was calculated as in Equation 7: Flow rate (effective) = Flow rate (apparent) * (RV(FM calibrated) / RV(FM sample)) (Equation 7). Processing of flow rate marker peaks was performed via PolymerChar GPCOne™ software. Acceptable flow rate corrections are those where the effective flow rate is within + / - 0.7% of the apparent flow rate.

[0119] Melt Index The melt index I2 of ethylene-based polymers is measured according to ASTM D-1238, condition 190°C / 2.16 kg. The melt flow rate MFR of propylene-based polymers is measured according to ASTM D-1238, condition 230°C / 2.16 kg.

[0120] density The density of the polymer is measured by preparing a polymer sample according to ASTM D1928 and then measuring the density according to ASTM D792, Method B within one hour of sample pressing.

[0121] C NMR to measure: A) the amount of hard segments (HS) and the amount of soft segments (SS), B) the amount of alpha-olefin in the hard segments (HS) and the amount of alpha-olefin in the soft segments (SS), C) the total amount of alpha-olefin in the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer. C NMR spectroscopy is one of several techniques known in the art for measuring the incorporation of comonomers into polymers. An example of this technique is described in Randall's Journal of Macromolecular Science, Reviews in Macromolecular Chemistry and Physics, C29(2&3), 201-317 (1989), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, for determining the comonomer content of ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymers. The basic procedure for determining the comonomer content of ethylene / alpha-olefin interpolymers involves acquiring a C NMR spectrum under conditions in which the intensity of the peaks corresponding to different carbons in the sample is directly proportional to the total number of contributing nuclei in the sample. Methods for ensuring this proportionality are known in the art and include allowing sufficient time for relaxation after the pulse, gated decoupling techniques, the use of relaxation agents, etc. The relative intensity of a peak or group of peaks is actually obtained by computer integration of the peaks. After acquiring the spectrum and integrating the peaks, these peaks are assigned to those associated with the comonomer. This assignment can be made by reference to known spectra or literature, or by synthesis and analysis of model compounds, or by the use of isotopically labeled comonomers. The mole % comonomer can be determined by the ratio of the integral corresponding to the moles of comonomer to the integral corresponding to the moles of total monomers in the interpolymer, as described in the Randall reference cited above.

[0122] Because hard segments generally have less than about 2.0 wt. % comonomer, their primary contribution to the spectrum is only for the integral at about 30 ppm. The hard segments contributing to the "not at 30 ppm" peak are assumed to be negligible at the beginning of the analysis. Therefore, for the starting point, the integral of the "not at 30 ppm" peak is assumed to come solely from the soft segments. These integrals are fitted to a first-order Markov statistical model for the copolymer using linear least-squares minimization to determine the fitting parameters used (i.e., the probability of octene insertion after octene, P oo and the probability of octene insertion after ethylene, P eo ) and calculate the soft segment contribution to the 30 ppm peak. The difference between the "total measured 30 ppm peak integral" and the "calculated soft segment integral contribution to the 30 ppm peak" is the contribution from the hard segment. Therefore, the experimental spectrum is now deconvoluted into two integral lists describing the soft and hard segments, respectively. Calculating the weight percent of the hard segment is straightforward and is calculated by the ratio of the integral sum for the hard segment spectrum to the integral sum for the entire spectrum.

[0123] From the deconvoluted soft segment integral list, the comonomer composition can be calculated, for example, according to the Randall method. From the comonomer composition of the entire spectrum and the comonomer composition of the soft segments, a mass balance can be used to calculate the comonomer composition of the hard segments. From the comonomer composition of the hard segments, Bernoulli statistics are used to calculate the hard segment contribution to the "non-30 ppm peak" integral. Because there is typically very little octene present in the hard segments, typically about 0 to about 1 mol%, Bernoulli statistics are a reasonable and robust approximation. These contributions are then subtracted from the experimental integral of the "non-30 ppm peak." The resulting "non-30 ppm peak" integral is then fitted to a first-order Markov statistical model for the copolymer, as described in the paragraph above. The iterative process is performed in the following manner: fit the total "non-30 ppm peak", then calculate the soft cement contribution to the 30 ppm peak, then calculate the soft / hard segment split, then calculate the hard cement contribution to the "non-30 ppm peak", then correct for the hard segment contribution to the "non-30 ppm peak", and fit the resulting "non-30 ppm peak". This is repeated until the values ​​for the soft / hard segment split converge to a minimum error function. The final comonomer composition for each segment is reported.

[0124] Validation of the measurements is achieved through the analysis of several in situ polymer blends. By design of the polymerization and catalyst concentration, the expected splitting is compared with the measured NMR splitting values. Table A shows the chemical shift assignments for ethylene octene polymers.

[0125] [Table 1]

[0126] The following experimental procedure was used. Each sample was prepared by adding approximately 2.6 grams of a 50 / 50 mixture of tetrachloroethane-d2 / orthodichlorobenzene, 0.025M in chromium acetylacetonate (relaxation agent), to 0.2 grams of sample in a 10 mm NMR tube. The sample was dissolved and homogenized by heating the tube and its contents to 150°C. Data were collected using a Bruker 400 MHz spectrometer equipped with a Bruker Dual DUL high-temperature CryoProbe. Data were acquired at a sample temperature of 120°C using 160 scans per data file and a 6-second pulse repetition delay. Acquisition was performed using a spectral width of 25,000 Hz and a file size of 32K data points.

[0127] Adhesive Viscosity The viscosity of each composition (8-9 grams) was measured using a Brookfield Digital Viscometer, Model DV-I Prime, equipped with a Brookfield temperature controller and a Thermosel, according to ASTM Standard D 1986. Spindle SC4-31 was used, and the temperature was 177°C.

[0128] Loop Tuck Loop tack was measured on stainless steel plates (2" x 6"; available from Chem Instruments) using an INSTRON at a test speed of 12 inches / minute according to PSTC-16, Method A. Each adhesive formulation was coated onto corona-treated polyester film (MYLAR) using a hot melt knife coater at 150°C with a coating weight of 20±2 g / m. 2 to form tapes. Each tape was finished with a CHEMINSTRUMENTS RP-12 silicone release liner (to protect the adhesive layer before testing) and cut into 1-inch wide strips. The adhesive side of the tape was contacted to a stainless steel plate according to PSTC-16, Method A. At least three test samples were tested and the average reported.

[0129] 90 degree peel Peel adhesion was measured on stainless steel plates (see above) using an INSTRON at a test speed of 12 inches / minute according to PSTC-101, Method F. Each adhesive formulation was coated onto corona-treated polyester film (MYLAR) using a hot melt knife coater at 150°C with a coating weight of 20±2 g / m. 2 to form tapes. Each tape was finished with a CHEMINSTRUMENTS RP-12 silicone release liner (to protect the adhesive layer before testing) and cut into 1-inch wide strips. The adhesive side of the tape was contacted to a stainless steel plate according to PSTC-101, Method F. At least three test samples were tested and the average reported.

[0130] experiment Polymer Synthesis and Properties Continuous solution polymerizations were conducted in a batch reactor (e.g., CSTR) equipped with an internal stirrer. Purified mixed alkane solvent (ISOPAR E, available from ExxonMobil), monomer, and molecular weight regulator (hydrogen or chain shuttling agent) were fed to a 3.8 L reactor jacketed for temperature control. The solvent feed to the reactor was measured by a mass flow controller. A pump controlled the solvent flow rate and the pressure to the reactor. At the pump discharge, a side stream was taken to provide flush flows to the procatalyst, cocatalyst, and chain shuttling agent (catalyst component solution) injection lines. These flows were measured and controlled to maintain an efficient production rate. 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. This solution stream entered the bottom of the reactor.

[0131] The catalyst component solutions were metered using pumps and 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. The reactor effluent was quenched by addition and reaction of a suitable reagent (water), and other additives were added for polymer stabilization. Following catalyst quenching and additive addition, the polymer was removed from the non-polymer stream by devolatilization. The isolated polymer melt was pelletized and collected. The polymerization conditions are shown in Table 1, and the polymer properties are shown in Tables 2A and 2B. In Table 1, each "ppm" amount is based on the weight of the respective catalyst (or cocatalyst) feed solution, and the "wt%" of polymer is based on the weight of the reactor contents.

[0132] As discussed, polymer properties, including those of INFUSE 9807 (The Dow Chemical Company), are shown in Tables 2A and 2B. In Table 2B, the notation SS refers to the soft segment, HS refers to the hard segment, and C8 refers to polymerized octene.

[0133] [Table 2] * OBC 1 = Ethylene / octene multiblock copolymer #1. ** OBC2 = ethylene / octene multiblock copolymer #2. A: [N-[2,6-bis(1-methylethyl)phenyl]-alpha-[2-(1-methylethyl)phenyl]-6-(1-naphthalenyl-kappaC2)-2-pyridinemethanaminato(2-)-kappaN1,kappaN2]dimethyl-hafnium (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011 / 0262747 and U.S. Patent No. 7,524,911). B: Bis[2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)-6-[[(2-methylcyclohexyl)imino-kappa-N]methyl]phenolato- kappa O ]dimethyl-zirconium (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011 / 0262747 and U.S. Patent No. 7,524,911 ). C: Amine, bis(hydrogenated tallow alkyl)methyl, tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate(1-). D (Chain shuttling agent): Diethyl zinc / triethyl aluminum.

[0134] [Table 3]

[0135] [Table 4] a: mole percent of octene in OBC, based on total moles of monomers in OBC. Determined by 13C NMR. b: weight percent octene in OBC, determined from "mol percent octene in OBC" from 13C NMR. c: Mole percent of octene in each segment (SS or HS) based on the total moles of monomer in each segment, as determined by 13C NMR. d: Weight percent of each segment (SS of HS) based on the total weight of SS and HS, as determined by 13C NMR.

[0136] Adhesive Compositions and Coatings Each adhesive composition contained the following components: 35 wt% OBC + 52.5 wt% tackifier (REGALITE 1090) + 12.5 wt% oil (PARALUX 6001). The formulations were prepared and mixed in a PARR 4560 mini benchtop reactor using a 4848 reactor controller. The formulations were mixed at 150°C and 150 rpm. All formulation components were placed in the PARR reactor and mixed for 30 minutes. Each adhesive formulation was applied at 150°C to a corona-treated polyester film at a thickness of 20±2 g / m². 2 The coating weight was 100g. See "Test Methods" section above.

[0137] Adhesiveness Viscosity (177°C), "Loop Tack," and "90° Peel" were examined for each composition. The results are shown in Table 3. As can be seen, each inventive composition had a much lower viscosity, yet exhibited significantly higher tack and peel values.

[0138] [Table 5] Examples of the invention of this application include the following. [1] A composition comprising: a) at least one ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer comprising soft segments (SS) and hard segments (HS), having the following characteristics: i) Melt index (I2) ≥ 30 dg / min; ii) the molar ratio of the alpha-olefin in the SS to the alpha-olefin in the HS is ≥ 18; iii) the weight ratio of the SS to the HS is ≦12.0; an interpolymer comprising b) at least one tackifier and / or at least one oil. [2] The composition described in [1] above, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has an alpha-olefin content of ≧10 mol%, based on the total moles of monomers in the interpolymer. [3] The composition according to [1] or [2] above, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a density of ≧0.856 g / cc. [4] The composition according to any one of [1] to [3] above, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a density of ≦0.874 g / cc. [5] The composition according to any one of the above [1] to [4], wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a molecular weight distribution MWD (=Mw / Mn) of ≧1.5. [6] The composition according to any one of the above [1] to [5], wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a molecular weight distribution MWD (=Mw / Mn) of ≦3.0. [7] The composition according to any one of the above [1] to [6], wherein the composition comprises at least one tackifier and at least one oil. [8] The composition according to any one of [1] to [7] above, wherein the composition comprises ≧98.5 wt. % of the sum of components a and b, based on the total weight of the composition. [9] The composition according to any one of the above [1] to [8], wherein the composition has a viscosity (177°C) of ≧2000 cP.

[10] The composition according to any one of the above [1] to [9], wherein the composition has a viscosity (177°C) of ≦15,000 cP.

[11] The composition described in any one of [1 to 10] above, wherein the composition satisfies the following relationship: [(Loop Tack (N) / (Viscosity (cP))×(1000(cP / N))]≧4.0.

[12] The composition according to any one of the above [1] to

[11] , wherein the composition satisfies the following relationship: [(90-degree peel (lb / in) / (viscosity (cP))×(1000 (cP·in / lb))]≧1.0.

[13] The composition according to any one of the above [1] to

[12] , wherein the alpha-olefin of the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer (component a) is a C3 to C20 alpha-olefin.

[14] The composition according to any one of the above [1] to

[13] , wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer is an ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block copolymer.

[15] An article comprising at least one component formed from the composition according to any one of [1] to

[14] above.

Claims

1. 1. A composition comprising: a) at least one ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer comprising soft segments (SS) and hard segments (HS), having the following characteristics: i) a melt index (I2) ≥ 30 dg / min (measured in accordance with ASTM D-1238, Condition 190°C / 2.16 kg); ii) the molar ratio of the alpha-olefin in the SS to the alpha-olefin in the HS is ≧18; iii) the weight ratio of the SS to the HS is ≦12.0; an interpolymer comprising b) at least one tackifier and / or at least one oil.

2. 10. The composition of claim 1, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has an alpha-olefin amount of ≧10 mol %, based on the total moles of monomers in the interpolymer.

3. 3. The composition of claim 1 or 2, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a density of ≧0.856 g / cc.

4. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a density of ≦0.874 g / cc.

5. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a molecular weight distribution MWD (=Mw / Mn) of ≥ 1.

5.

6. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer has a molecular weight distribution MWD (=Mw / Mn) of ≦3.

0.

7. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the composition comprises ≥ 98.5 wt% of the sum of components a and b, based on the total weight of the composition.

8. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the alpha-olefin of the ethylene / alpha-olefin multi-block interpolymer (component a) is a C3 to C20 alpha-olefin.

9. An article comprising at least one component formed from the composition of any one of claims 1-8.

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