Curing and Functionalization of Olefin / Silane Interpolymers.

Abstract

1. A process for forming a crosslinked composition comprising heat treating the composition at a temperature of 25° C. or greater in the presence of moisture, the composition comprising the following components: a) olefin / silane interpolymers; b) a curing catalyst selected from the following: i) a metal alkoxide, ii) a metal carboxylate, iii) a metal sulfonate, iv) an arylsulfonic acid, v) a tris-arylborane, vi) any combination of two or more of i) to v), and a composition comprising the following components a and b as described above. A process for forming an olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer, and corresponding composition, comprising heat treating a composition comprising the following components: a) an olefin / silane interpolymer, b) an alcohol, and c) a Lewis acid.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 043,204, filed June 24, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0002] Ethylene-based polymers can be crosslinked by a variety of methods, including, for example, peroxide, bis-azide, and maleic anhydride functional reactive crosslinking. All of these techniques typically require a pretreatment step, such as adding functional groups to the polymer, before it can be crosslinked.

[0003] U.S. Patent No. 3,646,155 discloses crosslinking of polyolefins by first reacting the polyolefin with an unsaturated hydrolyzable silane at temperatures above 140°C in the presence of a compound capable of generating free radical sites in the polyolefin. The resulting polyolefin is then exposed to moisture and a condensation catalyst (see Abstract). U.S. Patent No. 4,291,136 discloses water-curable silane-modified alkylene alkyl acrylate copolymers produced by reacting an alkylene alkyl acrylate copolymer with a silane in the presence of an organotitanate catalyst (see Abstract). U.S. Patent No. 5,068,304 discloses moisture-curable resins formed from polyols and polyalkoxysilanes (see, for example, Abstract and Claim 1).

[0004] U.S. Patent No. 5,296,561 discloses the copolymerization of C6-C14 alpha-olefins with ω-alkenylhalosilanes or ω-alkenylalkoxysilanes using a Ziegler-Natta catalyst to produce copolymers containing halosilyl or alkoxysilyl side chains. The resulting copolymers containing halosilyl side chains are reacted with alcohols to create alkoxysilyl chains (see, e.g., column 5, lines 24-39). Preferred Ziegler-Natta catalysts include diethylaluminum chloride / aluminum-activated titanium trichloride (see, e.g., column 5, lines 40-52 and column 11, lines 56-12, line 5). This patent also discloses moisture-curable polymers prepared by polymerizing alpha-olefins with conjugated dienes to produce copolymers containing ethylenically unsaturated chains. In the presence of a hydrosilylation catalyst, the ethylenic unsaturation is hydrosilylated with a hydrosilane (see, e.g., claim 1). See also U.S. Patent No. 5,397,648 and WO 1992 / 05226.

[0005] The reference, "Rapid, Metal-Free Room Temperature Vulcanization Produces Silicone Elastomers," Journal of Polymer Science Part A: Polymer Chemistry (2013), 51, abstract, discloses the crosslinking of hydrogen-terminated silicone polymers with tri- or tetraalkoxy-silane crosslinkers in a condensation process catalyzed by trispentafluorophenylborane, and U.S. Patent No. 6,624,254 discloses the synthesis of silane-functionalized polymers and their polymer transformations by coupling, hydrolysis, hydrolysis and neutralization, condensation, oxidation, and hydrosilylation (see Abstract). Conversion processes also include alcoholysis under basic or acidic conditions (see, for example, column 24, line 57 to column 25, line 8, and claim 1). Multifunctional linker compounds can be used to modify and crosslink polymers (column 26, lines 27-45). Additives that promote reactions such as hydrolysis and condensation reactions include Lewis bases and organometallic compounds (column 27, lines 20-47). See also U.S. Pat. No. 6,258,902 and European Patent No. 1259556(B1).

[0006] There remains a need for new crosslinking reactions for olefin-based polymers that do not require a prior processing step. This need is solved by the following inventions (first and second aspects) as described below.

[0007] A reaction is also needed that can easily and predictably convert an olefin / silane interpolymer to an olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer, and that can easily process the converted interpolymer on conventional thermoplastic equipment to form a final product that can be cured offline by exposure to moisture. Many of the current techniques used to synthesize "alkoxysilane-containing" olefin-based interpolymers are based on a radical grafting approach.

[0008] WO 2005 / 118682 discloses the silicone condensation reaction between alkoxysilanes or siloxanes and organohydrosilanes or siloxanes using a Lewis acid catalyst (see Abstract). U.S. Pat. No. 5,824,718 discloses ethylene-based polymers grafted with silane crosslinkers using radical chemistry. U.S. Pat. No. 6,331,597 discloses moisture-curable polyolefins using azidosilane grafting agents. A mixture of the polymer and azidosilane is heated to affect decomposition of the azide functionality. EP 0 321 259 (A2) discloses the polymerization of alkenylsilanes and alpha-olefins in the presence of a catalyst containing a titanium compound supported on a magnesium halide support and an organoaluminum compound (see Abstract). See U.S. Pat. No. 5,296,561 discussed above. See also U.S. Patent No. 5,397,648 and WO 1992 / 05226. See U.S. Patent No. 6,624,254, discussed above. See also U.S. Patent No. 6,258,902 and EP 1259556(B1).

[0009] However, as discussed above, there is a need for a reaction that can easily and predictably convert an olefin / silane interpolymer into an olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer, which can be processed and cured using conventional equipment. These needs are met by the following inventions (third and fourth aspects), as described below. Summary of the Invention

[0010] In a first aspect, there is provided a process for forming a crosslinked composition, the process comprising: and heat treating the composition at a temperature of 25°C or greater in the presence of moisture, the composition comprising: a) olefin / silane interpolymers; b) The following compounds i) to vi): i) metal alkoxides, ii) metal carboxylates; iii) metal sulfonates; iv) aryl sulfonic acids v) tris-arylboranes, vi) a curing catalyst selected from any combination of two or more of i) to v).

[0011] In a second embodiment, the composition comprises the following components: a) olefin / silane interpolymers; b) the following compounds i) to vi): i) metal alkoxides, ii) metal carboxylates; iii) metal sulfonates; iv) aryl sulfonic acids v) tris-arylboranes, vi) A curing catalyst selected from any combination of two or more of i) to v).

[0012] In a third aspect, there is provided a process for forming an olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer, the process comprising: a) olefin / silane interpolymers; b) Alcohol c) heat treating the composition containing the Lewis acid.

[0013] In a fourth embodiment, a composition comprises an olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer having a molecular weight distribution (MWD) of 1.6 to 5.0 and comprising 0.20 wt % to 40 wt % of an alkoxysilane-derived monomer, based on the weight of the interpolymer. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] DMA profiles (G' vs. temperature, G" vs. temperature, and Tan δ vs. temperature) of a control composition (Terpolymer 1) are shown. [Figure 2]1 shows the DMA profiles (G′ vs. temperature, G″ vs. temperature, and tan delta vs. temperature) of a composition (Terpolymer 1 and dibutyltin dilaurate) that has not been subjected to moisture curing. [Figure 3] 1 shows the DMA profiles (G' vs. temperature, G" vs. temperature, and Tan δ vs. temperature) of a composition (Terpolymer 1 and dibutyltin dilaurate) subjected to moisture curing at 85°C / 85% RH for 6 days. With reference to Figures 1-3, at a reference temperature of 38°C, the order of the profiles from top to bottom is as follows: G' vs. temperature, G" vs. temperature, and Tan δ vs. temperature. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows the DMA profiles (G' vs. temperature) for the following compositions: terpolymer 2 and no DBSA, terpolymer 2 and DBSA (2000 ppm) (subjected to air cure at 85°C for 1 day), and terpolymer 2 and DBSA (2000 ppm) (subjected to air cure at 85°C for 5 days). Figure 4 also lists the gel content for each composition. [Figure 5] 1 shows the DMA profiles (G' vs. temperature) of compositions containing Terpolymer 1 with FAB (50, 100, and 200 ppm) or without FAB, subjected to moisture cure at 85 C / 85% RH for 6 days. [Figure 6] DMA profiles (G' vs. temperature) of compositions containing Terpolymer 1 with or without DBU (1000 ppm) are shown, where the compositions with DBU were either not subjected to moisture cure or were subjected to moisture cure at 85°C / 85% RH for 7 days. [Figure 7] 1 shows the 1H NMR profile of ethylene / alkoxysilane copolymer 1A. [Figure 8] 1 shows the GPC profile of ethylene / alkoxysilane copolymer 1B. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] A curing process for olefin / silane interpolymers has been discovered that provides a high level of crosslinking and does not require prior chemical modification of the interpolymer. The interpolymers can be processed on conventional equipment in the art before and after crosslinking. Additionally, the crosslink density can be controlled by adjusting the amount of silane groups in the interpolymer.

[0016] There is provided a process for forming a crosslinked composition as described in the first aspect of the invention discussed above. There is also provided a composition as described in the second aspect of the invention discussed above. The process (first aspect) may comprise a combination of two or more embodiments as described herein. The composition (second aspect) may comprise a combination of two or more embodiments as described herein. Each of components a and b may comprise a combination of two or more embodiments as described herein.

[0017] The olefin / silane interpolymer It has also been discovered that they can be easily converted to olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymers by reaction with an alcohol ROH (e.g., methanol, ethanol, or isopropanol) in the presence of a catalytic amount of Lewis acid (e.g., B(CF)). See the reaction scheme below. This process allows for control of the amount of functionalization and crosslink density by adjusting the amount of silane groups in the interpolymer.

[0018] [ka]

[0019] Thus, there is provided a process for forming an olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer, as described in the third aspect of the present invention discussed above. Also provided is a composition, as described in the fourth aspect of the present invention discussed above. The process (third aspect) may comprise a combination of two or more embodiments, as described herein. The composition (fourth aspect) may comprise a combination of two or more embodiments, as described herein. Each of components a, b, and c may comprise a combination of two or more embodiments, as described herein.

[0020] The following embodiments apply to the first and second aspects of the present invention.

[0021] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the heat treatment is carried out at a RH (Relative Humidity) of 5% or more, or 10% or more, or 15% or more, or 20% or more, or 25% or more, or 30% or more, or 35% or more, or 40% or more, or 45% or more, or 50% or more, or 55% or more, or 60% or more, or 65% or more, or 70% or more, or 75% or more, or 80% or more.

[0022] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the moisture includes moisture from water adsorbed and / or absorbed by the curing catalyst, as well as water further adsorbed by the curing catalyst.

[0023] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, component i) is selected from c1):M—[O(H)—(CH2)n—CH3]4c1), where M=Ti or Sn, n≧1, and further where M=Ti, and further where n=2-10, or n=2-8, or n=2-6, or n=2-4, or n=2-3.

[0024] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, compound ii) is selected from the group consisting of c2): (C n H2n+1 )2-M--[OC(O)-C m H 2m+1 ]2c2), wherein M=Ti or Sn, n≧1, and m≧3, and further M=Sn, and further n=1-10, and m=2-20, or n=2-8 and m=4-18, or n=2-6 and m=6-16, or n=2-4 and m=6-14.

[0025] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, compound iv) is selected from c4) or c4'):

[0026] [ka] c4), wherein n≧3, further n=4 to 20, further n=6 to 18, further n=6 to 16; Further, n=6 to 14, further, n=6 to 12, or

[0027] [ka] c4'), wherein n≧3, further n=4 to 20, further n=6 to 20, further n=6 to 18, further n=6 to 16, further n=6 to 14.

[0028] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, compound v) is tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane (c5).

[0029] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the curing catalyst of component b) is selected from compounds c1), c2), c3), c4), c4'), c5), or any combination thereof, further selected from compounds c1), c2), c4), c4'), c5), or any combination thereof.

[0030] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the curing catalyst of component b) is selected from the following: dibutyltin dilaurate, tetrabutyl titanium oxide, dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid, bismuth trifluorosulfonate, or tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane (FAB), and also dibutyltin dilaurate, tetrabutyl titanium oxide, dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid, or tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane.

[0031] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the curing catalyst of component b) is selected from the following: i), ii), or iv)-vi).

[0032] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the olefin / silane interpolymer (component a) is an ethylene / alpha-olefin / silane interpolymer, and also an ethylene / alpha-olefin / silane terpolymer.

[0033] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the silane of the olefin / silane interpolymer is derived from a monomer selected from the following: H2C=CH-R1-Si(R)(R')-H, where R1 is alkylene, R and R' are each independently alkyl, and R and R' can be the same or different.

[0034] Also provided are crosslinked compositions formed from compositions of any one embodiment, or combinations of two or more embodiments, each described herein.

[0035] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the crosslinked composition has a gel content of 30 wt % or more, or 35 wt % or more, or 40 wt % or more, or 45 wt % or more, or 50 wt % or more, or 55 wt % or more, or 60 wt % or more, or 65 wt % or more, or 70 wt % or more, or 75 wt % or more, based on the weight of the crosslinked composition. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the crosslinked composition has a gel content of 100 wt % or less, or 98 wt % or less, or 96 wt % or less, or 94 wt % or less, or 92 wt % or less, or 90 wt % or less, based on the weight of the crosslinked composition.

[0036] Also provided are articles that include at least one component, each formed from a composition of any one embodiment or combination of two or more embodiments described herein.

[0037] The following embodiments apply to the third and fourth aspects of the present invention.

[0038] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, component c is selected from the following i) to vi): i)B(R 1 )(R 2 )(R 3 )(wherein, R 1 , R 2 and R 3 each of which is independently a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group, including substituted aryl groups; ii) BX3, where X is a halo group; iii) AlR3, where R is a substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group; iv) AlX3, where X is a halo group; v) SiX4, where X is a halo group; vi) Any combination of two or more of i) to v).

[0039] As used herein, the term "substituted" with respect to an alkyl or aryl group refers to the replacement of one or more hydrogen atoms with one or more chemical groups, including at least one heteroatom such as F.

[0040] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, component c is B(C6F5)3.

[0041] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, component b is selected from the group consisting of: n H 2n+1 OH, wherein n≧1, and further wherein n is 1-20, further 1-10, further 1-5, further 1-3.

[0042] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the olefin / silane interpolymer (component a) is an ethylene / silane interpolymer, and further an ethylene / silane copolymer.

[0043] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the silane of the olefin / silane interpolymer (component a) is derived from a monomer selected from the following: H2C=CH-R1-Si(R)(R')-H, where R1 is alkylene, R and R' are each independently alkyl, and R and R' can be the same or different.

[0044] Also provided are compositions comprising olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymers formed from the process of one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein.

[0045] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer comprises, in polymerized form, 0.20 wt. % or more, or 0.40 wt. % or more, or 0.60 wt. % or more, or 0.80 wt. % or more, or 1.0 wt. % or more, or 1.5 wt. % or more, or 2.0 wt. % or more, or 2.5 wt. % or more, or 3.0 wt. % or more of an alkoxysilane-derived monomer (formed from polymerized silane monomer), based on the weight of the interpolymer. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer comprises, in polymerized form, 40% or less, or 35% or less, or 30% or less, or 25% or less, or 20% or less, or 18% or less, or 16% or less, or 14% or less, or 12% or less, or 10% or less, or 8.0% or less, or 6.0% or less, or 4.0% or less by weight of alkoxysilane-derived monomer, based on the weight of the interpolymer.

[0046] In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer has a molecular weight distribution (MWD=Mw / Mn) of 1.6 or greater, or 1.8 or greater, or 2.0 or greater, or 2.5 or greater. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer has a molecular weight distribution (MWD) of 5.0 or less, or 4.5 or less, or 4.0 or less, or 3.8 or less, or 3.6 or less.

[0047] Also provided is a crosslinked composition formed by heat treating the composition of any one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, in the presence of moisture.

[0048] Also provided are articles that include at least one component, each formed from a composition of any one embodiment or combination of two or more embodiments described herein.

[0049] Silane Monomer As used herein, a silane monomer comprises at least one Si—H group. In one embodiment, the silane monomer is represented by Formula 1: A-(SiBC-O) x -Si-EFH (Formula 1), wherein A is an alkenyl group; B is a hydrocarbyl group or hydrogen, C is a hydrocarbyl group or hydrogen, and B and C may be the same or different; H is hydrogen and x≧0; E is a hydrocarbyl group or hydrogen, F is a hydrocarbyl group or hydrogen, and E and F may be the same or different.

[0050] Some examples of silane monomers include hexenylsilane, allylsilane, vinylsilane, octenylsilane, hexenyldimethylsilane, octenyldimethylsilane, vinyldimethylsilane, vinyldiethylsilane, vinyldi(n-butyl)silane, vinylmethyloctadecylsilane, vinyldiphenylsilane, vinyldibenzylsilane, allyldimethylsilane, allyldiethylsilane, allyldi(n-butyl)silane, allylmethyloctadecylsilane, allyldiphenylsilane, bishexenylsilane, and allyldibenzylsilane. Mixtures of the aforementioned alkenylsilanes can also be used.

[0051] More specific examples of silane monomers include the following: (5-hexenyl-dimethylsilane (HDMS), 7-octenyldimethylsilane (ODMS), allyldimethylsilane (ADMS), 3-butenyldimethylsilane, 1-(but-3-en-1-yl)-1,1,3,3-tetramethyldisiloxane (BuMMH), 1-(hex-5-en-1-yl)-1,1,3,3-tetramethyldisiloxane (HexMMH), (2-bicyclo[2.2.1]hept-5-en-2-yl)ethyl)-dimethylsilane (NorDMS), and 1-(2-bicyclo[2.2.1]hept-5-en-2-yl)ethyl)-1,1,3,3-tetramethyldisiloxane (NorMMH).

[0052] curing catalyst As used herein, a cure catalyst is a compound that, in the presence of moisture, cures pendant silane moieties, e.g., —Si(R 1 )(R 2 )H. Examples of curing catalysts include metal alkoxides, metal carboxylates, metal sulfonates, arylsulfonic acids, and tris-arylboranes.

[0053] Metal alkoxides are typically M(OR) n where M is a metal, R is an alkyl group, and n > 1. In one embodiment, M is Ti or Sn.

[0054] Metal carboxylates are typically represented by the formula M[OC(O)-R] m wherein M is a metal, R is alkyl, and m≧1; or (R′) n M[OC(O)-R] m wherein R′ and R are each independently alkyl, M is a metal, and n≧1 and m≧1. In one embodiment, M is Ti or Sn, and further preferably Sn.

[0055] Metal sulfonates are typically M[OS(O)R] nwhere M is a metal, R is a substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group, and n > 1. For example, one or more hydrogen atoms on the alkyl group can be substituted with a halo group such as F. In one embodiment, M is bismuth.

[0056] Aryl sulfonic acids contain at least one aryl group and at least one sulfonic acid group. An example of an aryl sulfonic acid is represented by Ar-S(O)2-OH, where Ar is an aryl group containing one or more alkyl groups. The aryl group can be bicyclic, tricyclic, etc. Examples of aryl sulfonic acids are described in WO 2002 / 12355.

[0057] Tris-arylboranes are typically represented by B(Ar), where B is boron and Ar is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group. For example, one or more hydrogen atoms on the aryl group can be replaced with a halo group, such as F.

[0058] Lewis acids Lewis acids are chemical species that contain vacant orbitals that can accept electron pairs. This term is known in the art. Some examples of Lewis acids include boron trihalides, organoboranes (e.g., tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane), boron trifluoride, tetrafluorosilane (SiF), and aluminum trihalides (e.g., AlCl).

[0059] alcohol Alcohols are hydrocarbons containing an OH group (e.g., ROH, where R is alkyl). Suitable alcohols include those of formula C n H 2n+1 OH, where n > 1. Alcohols include, but are not limited to, methanol, ethanol, propanol, isopropanol, butanol, pentanol, hexanol, octanol, and decanol.

[0060] additives The compositions of the present invention may include one or more additives, including, but not limited to, UV stabilizers, antioxidants, fillers, scorch retarders, tackifiers, waxes, compatibilizers, adhesion promoters, plasticizers, blocking agents, antiblocking agents, antistatic agents, release agents, antiblocking additives, colorants, dyes, pigments, and combinations thereof.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] As used herein, the term "polymer" refers to a polymeric compound prepared by polymerizing the same or different types of monomers. Thus, the general 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.

[0064] As used herein, the term "interpolymer" refers to polymers prepared by the polymerization of at least two different types of monomers.

[0065] Thus, the term interpolymer includes the term copolymer (used to refer to polymers prepared from two different types of monomers) and polymers prepared from more than two different types of monomers.

[0066] As used herein, the term "olefin-based polymer" refers to a polymer that comprises 50 weight percent or majority weight percent (based on the weight of the polymer) of an olefin, such as ethylene or propylene or octene, in polymerized form, and may optionally contain one or more comonomers.

[0067] 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.

[0068] As used herein, the term "octene-based polymer" refers to a polymer that, in polymerized form, comprises a majority weight percent octene (based on the weight of the polymer) and may optionally include one or more comonomers.

[0069] 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.

[0070] As used herein, the term "ethylene / α-olefin interpolymer" refers to a random interpolymer comprising, in polymerized form, 50 weight percent or a majority weight percent ethylene, and an α-olefin (based on the weight of the interpolymer).

[0071] As used herein, the term "ethylene / α-olefin copolymer" refers to a random copolymer that contains, in polymerized form, 50% by weight or a majority amount of ethylene monomer (based on the weight of the copolymer), and an α-olefin, as the only two monomer types.

[0072] As used herein, the term "olefin / silane interpolymer" refers to a random interpolymer comprising, in polymerized form, 50% or a majority weight percent (based on the weight of the interpolymer) of an olefin and a silane monomer. As used herein, the interpolymer comprises at least one "-Si-H group," and the phrase "at least one "-Si-H" group" refers to the type of "-Si-H" group. It is understood in the art that an interpolymer comprises a plurality of this silane species. The olefin / silane interpolymer is formed by copolymerization of at least an olefin and a silane monomer (e.g., using a bis-biphenyl-phenoxy metal complex). An example of a silane monomer is shown in Formula 1, as described herein. The silane monomer may or may not contain one or more siloxane (-Si-O-Si-) bonds.

[0073] As used herein, the term "ethylene / silane interpolymer" refers to a random interpolymer comprising, in polymerized form, 50% by weight or a majority by weight of ethylene (based on the weight of the interpolymer) and a silane monomer. As used herein, the interpolymer comprises at least one "-Si-H" group, as discussed above. The ethylene / silane interpolymer is formed by copolymerization of at least ethylene and a silane monomer. The silane monomer may or may not contain one or more siloxane bonds.

[0074] As used herein, the term "ethylene / silane copolymer" refers to a random copolymer that, in polymerized form, contains 50% or a majority weight percent (based on the weight of the copolymer) of ethylene and a silane monomer as the only two monomer species. As used herein, an interpolymer contains at least one "-Si-H" group, as discussed above. The ethylene / silane copolymer is formed by copolymerization of ethylene with a silane monomer. The silane monomer may or may not contain one or more siloxane bonds.

[0075] The term "ethylene / alpha-olefin / silane interpolymer," as used herein, refers to a random interpolymer comprising, in polymerized form, 50% or a majority weight percent (based on the weight of the interpolymer) of ethylene, an alpha-olefin, and a silane monomer. As used herein, the interpolymer comprises at least one "-Si-H" group, as discussed above. The ethylene / alpha-olefin / silane interpolymer is formed by copolymerization of at least ethylene, an alpha-olefin, and a silane monomer. The silane monomer may or may not contain one or more siloxane bonds.

[0076] As used herein, the term "ethylene / alpha-olefin / silane terpolymer" refers to a random terpolymer that, in polymerized form, contains 50% or a majority weight percent (based on the weight of the terpolymer) of ethylene, an alpha-olefin, and a silane monomer as the only three monomer species. As used herein, a terpolymer contains at least one "-Si-H" group, as discussed above. The ethylene / alpha-olefin / silane terpolymer is formed by copolymerization of ethylene, an alpha-olefin, and a silane monomer. The silane monomer may or may not contain one or more siloxane bonds.

[0077] As used herein, the term "olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer" refers to a random interpolymer comprising, in polymerized form, 50% or a majority weight percent (based on the weight of the interpolymer) of an olefin and an alkoxysilane formed from a polymerized silane monomer and an alcohol. As used herein, the interpolymer contains at least one "-Si-OR group" (wherein R is a hydrocarbon), and the phrase "at least one '-Si-OR' group" refers to the type of 'Si-OR' group. It is understood in the art that an interpolymer contains a plurality of this alkoxysilane species. The silane monomer may or may not contain one or more siloxane bonds.

[0078] As used herein, the term "ethylene / alkoxysilane interpolymer" refers to a random interpolymer comprising, in polymerized form, 50% or a majority weight percent of ethylene (based on the weight of the interpolymer) and an alkoxysilane formed from a polymerized silane monomer and an alcohol. As used herein, the interpolymer comprises at least one "-Si-OR group," as discussed above. The silane monomer may or may not contain one or more siloxane bonds.

[0079] As used herein, the term "ethylene / alkoxysilane copolymer" refers to a random copolymer containing, in polymerized form, 50% or a majority weight percent of ethylene (based on the weight of the copolymer) and an alkoxysilane formed from polymerized silane monomer and an alcohol. Ethylene and silane monomer are the only two monomeric species. As used herein, an interpolymer contains at least one "-Si-OR group," as discussed above. The silane monomer may or may not contain one or more siloxane bonds.

[0080] As used herein, the term "ethylene / alpha-olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer" refers to a random interpolymer comprising, in polymerized form, 50% or a majority weight percent (based on the weight of the interpolymer) of ethylene, an alpha-olefin, and an alkoxysilane formed from a polymerized silane monomer and an alcohol. As used herein, the interpolymer comprises at least one "-Si-OR group," as discussed above. The silane monomer may or may not contain one or more siloxane bonds.

[0081] As used herein, the term "ethylene / alpha-olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer" refers to a random terpolymer comprising, in polymerized form, 50% or a majority weight percent (based on the weight of the terpolymer) of ethylene, an alpha-olefin, and an alkoxysilane formed from a polymerized silane monomer and an alcohol. Ethylene, an alpha-olefin, and a silane monomer are the only three monomer species. As used herein, an interpolymer contains at least one "-Si-OR group," as discussed above. The silane monomer may or may not contain one or more siloxane bonds.

[0082] The phrase "major weight percent" when used herein with respect to a polymer (interpolymer, terpolymer, or copolymer) refers to the amount of monomer that is present in the greatest amount in the polymer.

[0083] The terms "hydrocarbon group," "hydrocarbyl group," and similar terms, as used herein, refer to chemical groups containing only carbon and hydrogen atoms.

[0084] As used herein with respect to a chemical formula or structure, R=R 1 , R2=R 2 , R3=R 3 And so on.

[0085] The term "crosslinked composition" as used herein means It refers to a composition that has a network structure due to the formation of chemical bonds between polymer chains, the extent of which is indicated by an increase in the complex viscosity or shear storage modulus of the melt, or by an increase in gel content, as discussed herein.

[0086] The term "crosslinked olefin / silane interpolymer" and similar terms, as used herein, refer to an olefin / silane interpolymer having a network structure due to the formation of chemical bonds between polymer chains. The degree of formation of this network structure is indicated by an increase in the complex viscosity or shear storage modulus of the melt, or by an increase in gel content, as discussed herein. The term "crosslinked olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer" and similar terms are also used.

[0087] For example, as used herein with respect to compositions comprising an olefin / silane interpolymer or an olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer, the terms "heat treating," "heat treatment," and similar terms refer to the application of heat to the composition. Heat can be applied by conduction (e.g., a heating coil), by convection (e.g., heat transfer through a fluid such as water or air), and / or by radiation (e.g., heat transfer using electromagnetic waves). Preferably, heat is applied by conduction or convection. It should be noted that the temperature at which heat treatment is carried out refers to the internal temperature of an oven or other device used to cure (or crosslink) the interpolymer.

[0088] As used herein, the phrase "in the presence of moisture" refers to the presence of an atmosphere containing water. The amount of water in the atmosphere may be indicated by %RH (relative humidity), as described herein.

[0089] The term "alkenyl group," as used herein, refers to an organic chemical group containing at least one carbon-carbon double bond (C=C). In preferred embodiments, an alkenyl group is a hydrocarbon group containing at least one carbon-carbon double bond and further containing only one carbon-carbon double bond.

[0090] 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 or not. 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 that which is not essential to operability and excludes any other component, step, or procedure from the scope of any subsequent recitation. The term "consisting of" excludes any component, step, or procedure not specifically defined or listed.

[0091] Some process and composition features are listed below: A] A process for forming a crosslinked composition, comprising heat treating the composition at a temperature of 25°C or higher in the presence of moisture (H2O), wherein the composition comprises the following components: a) olefin / silane interpolymers; b) the following compounds i) to vi): i) metal alkoxides, ii) metal carboxylates; iii) metal sulfonates; iv) aryl sulfonic acids v) tris-arylboranes, vi) A process comprising a curing catalyst selected from any combination of two or more of i)-v). B] The process described in A] above, wherein the heat treatment is carried out at a RH (relative humidity) of 5% or more, or 10% or more, or 15% or more, or 20% or more, or 25% or more, or 30% or more, or 35% or more, or 40% or more, or 45% or more, or 50% or more, or 55% or more, or 60% or more, or 65% or more, or 70% or more, or 75% or more, or 80% or more. C] The process of A] or B] above, wherein the heat treatment is carried out at a relative humidity (RH) of 100% or less, or 98% or less, or 96% or less, or 94% or less, or 92% or less, or 90% or less, or 88%, or 86%, or 85%, or 84%, or 83%, or 82% or less. D] The process described in A] above, wherein the moisture is derived from water adsorbed and / or absorbed by the curing catalyst, and further includes moisture derived from water adsorbed by the curing catalyst. E] Compound i) is c1):M—[O(H)—(CH2) n —CH3]4c1), wherein M=Ti or Sn, and n≧1, and further M=Ti, and further n=2-10, n=2-8, n=2-6, n=2-4, or n=2-3. F] Compound ii) is c2): (C n H 2n+1 )2-M--[OC(O)-C m H 2m+1 ]2c2) wherein M=Ti or Sn, n≧1 and m≧3, and further M=Sn, further n=1-10 and m=2-20, or n=2-8 and m=4-18, or n=2-6 and m=6-16, or n=2-4 and m=6-14. G] The process described in any one of A] to F] above, wherein compound iii) is bismuth trifluorosulfonate (c3). H] Compound iv) is c4) or c4'):

[0092] [ka] c4, wherein n≧3, further n=4 to 20, further n=6 to 18, further n=6 to 16, further n=6 to 14, further n=6 to 12; or

[0093] [ka] c4'), wherein n≧3, further n=4-20, further n=6-20, further n=6-18, further n=6-16, further n=6-14. I] Compound iv) is c4):

[0094] [ka] c4), wherein n≧3, further n=4-20, further n=6-18, further n=6-16, further n=6-14, further n=6-12. J] The process described in any one of A] to I] above, wherein compound v) is tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane (c5). K] The process according to any one of A] to J] above, wherein the curing catalyst of component b) is selected from compounds c1), c2), c3), c4), c4'), c5) or any combination thereof, further from compounds c1), c2), c4), c4'), c5) or any combination thereof, further from compounds c1), c2), c4), c5) or any combination thereof. L] The process according to any one of A] to K] above, wherein the curing catalyst of component b) is selected from the following: dibutyltin dilaurate, tetrabutyl titanium oxide, dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid, bismuth trifluorosulfonate, or tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane (FAB), further dibutyltin dilaurate, tetrabutyl titanium oxide, dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid, or tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane. M] The process described in any one of A] to L] above, wherein the curing catalyst of component b) is selected from the following compounds i), ii), or iv) to vi): N] The process described in any one of A] to M] above, wherein the curing catalyst of component b) is selected from compounds i). O] The process described in any one of A] to M] above, wherein the curing catalyst of component b) is selected from compounds ii). P] The process described in any one of A] to M] above, wherein the curing catalyst of component b) is selected from compounds iv). Q] The process described in any one of A] to M] above, wherein the curing catalyst of component b) is selected from compounds v). R] The process described in any one of A] to Q] above, wherein the olefin / silane interpolymer (component a) is an ethylene / alpha-olefin / silane interpolymer and further an ethylene / alpha-olefin / silane terpolymer. S] The process described in R] above, wherein the alpha-olefin of the ethylene / alpha-olefin / silane interpolymer is a C3 to C20 alpha-olefin, further a C3 to C10 alpha-olefin, further propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene, 1-octene and 1-decene, further propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene or 1-octene, further propylene, 1-butene or 1-octene, further 1-butene or 1-octene, further 1-octene. T] The process of any one of A] through S] above, wherein the silane of the olefin / silane interpolymer is derived from a monomer selected from the following: H2C=CH-R1-Si(R)(R')-H, where R1 is alkylene, R and R' are each independently alkyl, and R and R' can be the same or different. U] the silane of the olefin / silane interpolymer is selected from the group consisting of:

[0095] [ka] wherein R2 is alkylene. V] the silane of the olefin / silane interpolymer is selected from the group consisting of:

[0096] [ka] The process according to any one of A] to U] above, wherein the monomer is derived from a monomer selected from: W] The process of any one of A] to V] above, wherein the composition is heat treated at a temperature of 30°C or higher, or 35°C or higher, or 40°C or higher, or 45°C or higher, or 50°C or higher, or 55°C or higher, or 60°C or higher, or 65°C or higher, or 70°C or higher, or 75°C or higher, or 80°C or higher, or 90°C or higher, or 100°C or higher, or 110°C or higher, or 120°C or higher, or 130°C or higher, or 140°C or higher, or 150°C or higher, or 160°C or higher, or 170°C or higher, or 180°C or higher, or 185°C or higher. X] The process described in any one of A] to W] above, wherein the composition is heat treated at a temperature of 215°C or less, or 210°C or less, or 205°C or less, or 200°C or less, or 195°C or less, or 190°C or less. Y] The process of any one of A] to X] above, wherein the composition is heat treated in air at a relative humidity (RH) of 5% or more, or 10% or more, or 15% or more, or 20% or more, or 25% or more, or 30% or more, or 35% or more, or 40% or more, or 45% or more, or 50% or more, or 55% or more, or 60% or more, or 65% or more, or 70% or more, or 75% or more, or 80% or more. Z] The process described in any one of A] to Y] above, wherein the composition is heat-treated in air at a relative humidity (RH) of 100% or less, or 98% or less, or 96% or less, or 94% or less, or 92% or less, or 90% or less, or 88%, or 86%, or 85% or less, or 84% or less, or 83% or less, or 82% or less. A2] The process described in any one of A] to Z] above, wherein, prior to the heat treatment in the presence of moisture, components a and b are mixed at a melt temperature of 50°C or higher, or 55°C or higher, or 60°C or higher, or 65°C or higher, or 70°C or higher, or 75°C or higher, or 80°C or higher, or 85°C or higher. B2] The process according to any one of A] to A2] above, wherein, prior to the heat treatment in the presence of moisture, components a and b are mixed at a melt temperature of 180°C or less, or 170°C or less, or 160°C or less, or 150°C or less, or 140°C or less, or 130°C or less, or 120°C or less, or 110°C or less, or 100°C or less, or 90°C or less. C2] The process described in any one of A] to B2] above, wherein the weight ratio of component a to component b is 100 or more, or 200 or more, or 400 or more, or 600 or more, or 700 or more, or 800 or more, or 900 or more. D2] The process described in any one of A] to C2] above, wherein the weight ratio of component a to component b is 10,000 or less, or 5,000 or less, or 2,000 or less, or 1,800 or less, or 1,600 or less, or 1,400 or less, or 1,200 or less, or 1,000 or less. E2] The process described in any one of A] to D2] above, wherein the composition comprises, based on the weight of the composition, 50.0 wt.% or more, or 60.0 wt.% or more, or 70.0 wt.% or more, or 80.0 wt.% or more, or 85.0 wt.% or more, or 90.0 wt.% or more, or 95.0 wt.% or more, or 98.0 wt.% or more, or 99.0 wt.% or more of the component. F2] The process described in any one of A] to E2] above, wherein the composition comprises 99.9 wt. % or less, or 99.8 wt. % or less, or 99.7 wt. % or less, or 99.6 wt. % or less of component a, based on the weight of the composition. G2] The process by weight described in any one of A] to F2] above, wherein the composition comprises 0.02 wt. % or more, or 0.04 wt. % or more, or 0.06 wt. % or more, or 0.08 wt. % or more, or 0.10 wt. % or more of component b, based on the weight of the composition. H2] The process of any one of A] to G2] above, wherein the composition comprises 2.00 wt. % or less, or 1.80 wt. % or less, or 1.60 wt. % or less, or 1.40 wt. % or less, or 1.20 wt. % or less, or 1.00 wt. % or less, or 0.80 wt. % or less, or 0.60 wt. % or less, or 0.40 wt. % or less, or 0.20 wt. % or less of component b, based on the weight of the composition. I2] The process described in any one of A] to H2] above, wherein the composition further comprises a solvent (a substance (typically liquid at ambient conditions) that dissolves components a and b). J2] The process described in any one of A] to I2] above, wherein the composition comprises 1.0 wt % or less, or 0.5 wt % or less, or 0.05 wt % or less, or 0.01 wt % or less of a solvent, based on the weight of the composition. K2] The process described in any one of A] to H2] above, wherein the composition does not contain a solvent. L2] The process of any one of A] to K2] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a comprises, based on the weight of the interpolymer, 0.20 wt. % or more, or 0.40 wt. % or more, or 0.60 wt. % or more, or 0.80 wt. % or more, or 1.0 wt. % or more, or 1.5 wt. % or more, or 2.0 wt. % or more, or 2.5 wt. % or more, or 3.0 wt. % or more of silane monomer. M2] The process of any one of A] to L2] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a comprises, based on the weight of the interpolymer, 40 wt% or less, or 35 wt% or less, or 30 wt% or less, or 25 wt% or less, or 20 wt% or less, or 18 wt% or less, or 16 wt% or less, or 14 wt% or less, or 12 wt% or less, or 10 wt% or less, or 8.0 wt% or less, or 6.0 wt% or less, or 4.0 wt% or less of silane monomer. N2] The process described in any one of A] to M2] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a comprises, based on the weight of the interpolymer, 0 wt. % or more, or 0.5 wt. % or more, or 1.0 wt. % or more, or 2.0 wt. % or more, or 4.0 wt. % or more, or 6.0 wt. % or more, or 8.0 wt. % or more, or 10 wt. % or more, or 12 wt. % or more, or 14 wt. % or more, or 16 wt. % or more of an alpha-olefin. O2] The process described in any one of A] to N2] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a contains, based on the weight of the interpolymer, 70 wt% or less, or 60 wt% or less, or 50 wt% or less, or 40 wt% or less, or 35 wt% or less, or 30 wt% or less, or 25 wt% or less, or 20 wt% or less of alpha olefins. P2] The process of any one of A] to O2] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a comprises, in polymerized form, 0.10 mol % or more, or 0.20 mol % or more, or 0.30 mol % or more, or 0.40 mol % or more, or 0.50 mol % or more, or 0.60 mol % or more of silane monomer, based on the total moles of monomers in the interpolymer. Q2] The process of any one of A] to P2] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a comprises, in polymerized form, 20 mol% or less, or 15 mol% or less, or 10 mol% or less, or 5.0 mol% or less, or 4.5 mol% or less, or 4.0 mol% or less, or 3.5 mol% or less, or 3.0 mol% or less, or 2.5 mol% or less, or 2.0 mol% or less, or 1.5 mol% or less, or 1.0 mol% or less of silane monomer, based on the total moles of monomers in the interpolymer. R2] The process of any one of A] to Q2] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a comprises, in polymerized form, 0 or more, or 0.5 mol% or more, or 1.0 mol% or more, or 2.0 mol% or more, or 3.0 mol% or more, or 3.5 mol% or more, or 4.0 mol% or more, or 4.5 mol% or more of alpha-olefin, based on the total moles of monomers in the interpolymer. S2] The process of any one of A]-R2] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a comprises, in polymerized form, 40 mol% or less, or 35 mol% or less, or 30 mol% or less, or 25 mol% or less, or 20 mol% or less, or 18 mol% or less, or 16 mol% or less, or 14 mol% or less, or 12 mol% or less, or 10 mol% or less, or 8.0 mol% or less, or 6.0 mol% or less of alpha-olefins, based on the total moles of monomers in the interpolymer. T2] The process described in any one of A] to S2] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a molecular weight distribution (MWD=Mw / Mn) of 1.8 or more, or 2.0 or more, or 2.2 or more, or 2.4 or more. U2] The interpolymer of component a is The process of any one of A] to T2] above, wherein the polymer has a molecular weight distribution (MWD) of 5.0 or less, or 4.5 or less, or 4.0 or less, or 3.8 or less, or 3.6 or less. V2] The process described in any one of A] to U2] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 10,000 g / mol or more, or 15,000 g / mol or more, or 20,000 g / mol or more, or 22,000 g / mol or more, or 24,000 g / mol or more, or 26,000 g / mol or more, or 28,000 g / mol or more. W2] The process of any one of A] to V2] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 100,000 g / mol or less, or 95,000 g / mol or less, or 90,000 g / mol or less, or 85,000 g / mol or less, or 80,000 g / mol or less, or 75,000 g / mol or less, or 70,000 g / mol or less, or 65,000 g / mol or less, or 60,000 g / mol or less, or 55,000 g / mol or less, or 50,000 g / mol or less. X2] The process described in any one of A] to W2] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 40,000 g / mol or more, or 50,000 g / mol or more, or 60,000 g / mol or more, or 70,000 g / mol or more, or 80,000 g / mol or more, or 90,000 g / mol or more, or 100,000 g / mol or more. Y2] The process described in any one of A] to X2] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 500,000 g / mol or less, or 400,000 g / mol or less, or 350,000 g / mol or less, or 300,000 g / mol or less, or 280,000 g / mol or less, or 260,000 g / mol or less, or 240,000 g / mol or less, or 220,000 g / mol or less, or 200,000 g / mol or less. Z2] The process described in any one of A] to Y2] above, wherein the composition further comprises a thermoplastic polymer that differs from the olefin / silane interpolymer of component a in one or more characteristics, such as the type and / or amount of monomer, Mn, Mw, MWD, or any combination thereof. A3] A crosslinked composition formed from the process described in any one of A] to Z2] above. B3] The crosslinked composition according to A3] above, wherein the crosslinked composition has a gel content of 30% by weight or more, or 35% by weight or more, or 40% by weight or more, or 45% by weight or more, or 50% by weight or more, or 55% by weight or more, or 60% by weight or more, or 65% by weight or more, or 70% by weight or more, or 75% by weight or more, based on the weight of the crosslinked composition. C3] The crosslinked composition according to any one of A3] to B3] above, wherein the crosslinked composition has a gel content of 100% by weight or less, or 98% by weight or less, or 96% by weight or less, or 94% by weight or less, or 92% by weight or less, or 90% by weight or less, based on the weight of the crosslinked composition. D3] A composition comprising the following components: a) olefin / silane interpolymers; b) the following compounds i) to vi): i) metal alkoxides, ii) metal carboxylates; iii) metal sulfonates; iv) aryl sulfonic acids v) tris-arylboranes, vi) A composition comprising a curing catalyst selected from any combination of two or more of i) to v). E3] Compound i) is c1):M--[O(H)-(CH2) n —CH3]4c1), wherein M=Ti or Sn, n≧1, and further M=Ti, and further n=2-10, or n=2-8, or n=2-6, or n=2-4, or n=2-3. F3] Compound ii) is c2): (C n H 2n+1 )2-M--[OC(O)-C m H 2m+1 ]2c2), wherein M=Ti or Sn, n≧1, and m≧3, and further M=Sn, and further n=1 to 10, m=2 to 20, or n=2 to 8 and m=4 to 18, or n=2 to 6 and m=6 to 16, or n=2 to 4 and m=6 to 14. G3] The composition according to any one of the above D3] to F3], wherein the compound iii) is bismuth trifluorosulfonate (c3). H3] A composition described in any one of D3] to G3] above, wherein compound iv) is selected from c4) described above or c4') described above. I3] A composition described in any one of D3] to H3] above, wherein compound iv) is selected from c4) described above. J3] The composition according to any one of the above D3] to I3], wherein compound v) is tris(pentafluorophenyl)-borane (c5). K3] The composition according to any one of the above D3] to J3], wherein the curing catalyst of component b) is selected from compounds c1), c2), c3), c4), c4'), c5) or any combination thereof, further from c1), c2), c4), c4'), c5) or any combination thereof, further from c1), c2), c4), c5) or any combination thereof. L3] The composition according to any one of the above D3] to K3], wherein the curing catalyst of component b) is selected from the following: dibutyltin dilaurate, tetrabutyl titanium oxide, dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid, bismuth trifluorosulfonate, or tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane (FAB), further selected from dibutyltin dilaurate, tetrabutyl titanium oxide, dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid, or tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane. M3] The composition according to any one of D3] to L3] above, wherein the curing catalyst of component b) is selected from the following compounds i), ii), or iv) to vi). N3] The composition according to any one of D3] to M3] above, wherein the curing catalyst of component b) is selected from compounds i). O3] The composition according to any one of D3] to M3] above, wherein the curing catalyst of component b) is selected from compounds ii). P3] The composition according to any one of D3] to M3] above, wherein the curing catalyst of component b) is selected from compounds iv). Q3] The composition according to any one of the above D3] to M3], wherein the curing catalyst of component b) is selected from compounds v). R3] The composition described in any one of D3] to Q3] above, wherein the olefin / silane interpolymer (component a) is an ethylene / alpha-olefin / silane interpolymer, further an ethylene / alpha-olefin / silane terpolymer. S3] The composition of R3] above, wherein the alpha-olefin of the ethylene / alpha-olefin / silane interpolymer is a C3 to C20 alpha-olefin, further a C3 to C10 alpha-olefin, further propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene, 1-octene and 1-decene, further propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene or 1-octene, further propylene, 1-butene or 1-octene, further 1-butene or 1-octene, further 1-octene. T3] The composition of any one of D3]-S3] above, wherein the silane of the olefin / silane interpolymer is derived from a monomer selected from the following: H2C=CH-R1-Si(R)(R')-H, where R1 is alkylene, R and R' are each independently alkyl, and R and R' can be the same or different. U3] The silane of the olefin / silane interpolymer is selected from the group consisting of:

[0097] [ka] The composition according to any one of the above D3] to T3], wherein R2 is alkylene. V3] The composition described in any one of D3] to U3] above, wherein the silane of the olefin / silane interpolymer is derived from a monomer selected from the following: ODMS, HDMS, or ADMS, each of which is described above. W3] The composition according to any one of D3] to V3] above, wherein the composition is heat treated at a temperature of 30°C or higher, or 35°C or higher, or 40°C or higher, or 45°C or higher, or 50°C or higher, or 55°C or higher, or 60°C or higher, or 65°C or higher, or 70°C or higher, or 75°C or higher, or 80°C or higher, or 90°C or higher, or 100°C or higher, or 110°C or higher, or 120°C or higher, or 130°C or higher, or 140°C or higher, or 150°C or higher, or 160°C or higher, or 170°C or higher, or 180°C or higher, or 185°C or higher. X3] The composition according to any one of D3] to W3] above, wherein the composition is heat-treated at a temperature of 215°C or less, or 210°C or less, or 205°C or less, or 200°C or less, or 195°C or less, or 190°C or less. Y3] The composition described in any one of D3] to X3] above, wherein the composition is further heat-treated in the presence of moisture at a relative humidity (RH) of 5% or more, or 10% or more, or 15% or more, or 20% or more, or 25% or more, or 30% or more, or 35% or more, or 40% or more, or 45% or more, or 50% or more, or 55% or more, or 60% or more, or 65% or more, or 70% or more, or 75% or more, or 80% or more. Z3] The composition described in any one of D3] to Y3] above, wherein the composition is further heat-treated in the presence of moisture at a relative humidity (RH) of 100% or less, or 98% or less, or 96% or less, or 94% or less, or 92% or less, or 90% or less, or 88%, or 86%, or 85% or less, or 84% or less, or 83% or less, or 82% or less. A4] The composition according to any one of D3] to Z3] above, wherein the weight ratio of component a to component b is 100 or more, or 200 or more, or 400 or more, or 600 or more, or 700 or more, or 800 or more, or 900 or more. B4] The composition according to any one of D3] to A4] above, wherein the weight ratio of component a to component b is 10,000 or less, or 5,000 or less, or 2,000 or less, or 1,800 or less, or 1,600 or less, or 1,400 or less, or 1,200 or less, or 1,000 or less. C4] The composition according to any one of D3] to B4] above, wherein the composition comprises, based on the weight of the composition, 50.0 wt. % or more, or 60.0 wt. % or more, or 70.0 wt. % or more, or 80.0 wt. % or more, or 85.0 wt. % or more, or 90.0 wt. % or more, or 95.0 wt. % or more, or 98.0 wt. % or more, or 99.0 wt. % or more of component a. D4] A composition described in any one of D3] to C4] above, wherein the composition comprises 99.9 wt% or less, or 99.8 wt% or less, or 99.7 wt% or less, or 99.6 wt% or less of component a, based on the weight of the composition. E4] The composition according to any one of D3] to D4] above, wherein the composition comprises, based on the weight of the composition, 0.02 wt. % or more, or 0.04 wt. % or more, or 0.06 wt. % or more, or 0.08 wt. % or more, or 0.10 wt. % or more of component b. F4] A composition described in any one of D3] to E4] above, wherein the composition comprises 2.00 wt. % or less, or 1.80 wt. % or less, or 1.60 wt. % or less, or 1.40 wt. % or less, or 1.20 wt. % or less, or 1.00 wt. % or less, or 0.80 wt. % or less, or 0.60 wt. % or less, or 0.40 wt. % or less, or 0.20 wt. % or less of component b, based on the weight of the composition. G4] A composition described in any one of D3] to F4] above, wherein the composition further comprises a solvent (a substance that dissolves components a and b (typically a liquid at ambient conditions)). H4] A composition described in any one of D3] to G4] above, wherein the composition comprises 1.0 wt % or less, or 0.5 wt % or less, or 0.05 wt % or less, or 0.01 wt % or less of a solvent, based on the weight of the composition. I4] The composition according to any one of the above D3] to H4], wherein the composition does not contain a solvent. J4] A composition described in any one of D3] to I4] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a comprises, in polymerized form, 0.20 wt. % or more, or 0.40 wt. % or more, or 0.60 wt. % or more, or 0.80 wt. % or more, or 1.0 wt. % or more, or 1.5 wt. % or more, or 2.0 wt. % or more, or 2.5 wt. % or more, or 3.0 wt. % or more of silane monomer, based on the weight of the interpolymer. K4] The composition of any one of D3] to J4] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a comprises, based on the weight of the interpolymer, 40 wt% or less, or 35 wt% or less, or 30 wt% or less, or 25 wt% or less, or 20 wt% or less, or 18 wt% or less, or 16 wt% or less, or 14 wt% or less, or 12 wt% or less, or 10 wt% or less, or 8.0 wt% or less, or 6.0 wt% or less, or 4.0 wt% or less of silane monomer. L4] The composition of any one of D3] to K4] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a comprises, based on the weight of the interpolymer, 0 wt. % or more, or 0.5 wt. % or more, or 1.0 wt. % or more, or 2.0 wt. % or more, or 4.0 wt. % or more, or 6.0 wt. % or more, or 8.0 wt. % or more, or 10 wt. % or more, or 12 wt. % or more, or 14 wt. % or more, or 16 wt. % or more of an alpha-olefin. M4] The composition of any one of D3] to L4] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a comprises 70 wt% or less, or 60 wt% or less, or 50 wt% or less, or 40 wt% or less, or 35 wt% or less, or 30 wt% or less, or 25 wt% or less, or 20 wt% or less of an alpha olefin, based on the weight of the interpolymer. N4] The composition described in any one of D3] to M4] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a molecular weight distribution (MWD = Mw / Mn) of 1.8 or more, or 2.0 or more, or 2.2 or more, or 2.4 or more. O4] A composition described in any one of D3] to N4] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a molecular weight distribution MWD of 5.0 or less, or 4.5 or less, or 4.0 or less, or 3.8 or less, or 3.6 or less. P4] The composition described in any one of D3] to O4] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 10,000 g / mol or more, or 15,000 g / mol or more, or 20,000 g / mol or more, or 22,000 g / mol or more, or 24,000 g / mol or more, or 26,000 g / mol or more, or 28,000 g / mol or more. Q4] The composition described in any one of D3] to P4] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 100,000 g / mol or less, or 95,000 g / mol or less, or 90,000 g / mol or less, or 85,000 g / mol or less, or 80,000 g / mol or less, or 75,000 g / mol or less, or 70,000 g / mol or less, or 65,000 g / mol or less, or 60,000 g / mol or less, or 55,000 g / mol or less, or 50,000 g / mol or less. R4] The composition described in any one of D3] to Q4] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 40,000 g / mol or more, or 50,000 g / mol or more, or 60,000 g / mol or more, or 70,000 g / mol or more, or 80,000 g / mol or more, or 90,000 g / mol or more, or 100,000 g / mol or more. S4] The composition according to any one of D3] to R4] above, wherein component a has a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 500,000 g / mol or less, or 400,000 g / mol or less, or 350,000 g / mol or less, or 300,000 g / mol or less, or 280,000 g / mol or less, or 260,000 g / mol or less, or 240,000 g / mol or less, or 220,000 g / mol or less, or 200,000 g / mol or less. T4] The composition described in any one of D3] to S4] above, wherein the composition further comprises a thermoplastic polymer that differs from the olefin / silane interpolymer of component a in one or more characteristics, such as the type and / or amount of monomer, Mn, Mw, MWD, or any combination thereof. U4] A crosslinked composition formed from any one of the compositions D3] to T4] above. V4] The crosslinked composition according to U4] above, wherein the crosslinked composition has a gel content of 30% by weight or more, or 35% by weight or more, or 40% by weight or more, or 45% by weight or more, or 50% by weight or more, or 55% by weight or more, or 60% by weight or more, or 65% by weight or more, or 70% by weight or more, or 75% by weight or more, based on the weight of the crosslinked composition. W4] The crosslinked composition according to any one of U4] to V4] above, wherein the crosslinked composition has a gel content of 100 wt% or less, or 98 wt% or less, or 96 wt% or less, or 94 wt% or less, or 92 wt% or less, or 90 wt% or less, based on the weight of the crosslinked composition. X4] An article comprising at least one component formed from the composition described in any one of A3] to W4] above. A5] A process for forming an olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer, the process comprising: a) olefin / silane interpolymers; b) alcohol, c) a process comprising heat treating a composition comprising a Lewis acid. B5] The process according to A5] above, wherein component c is an organoborane. C5] component c is one of the following i) to vi): i)B(R 1 )(R 2 )(R 3 )(wherein, R 1 , R 2 and R 3 each of which is independently a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group, including substituted aryl groups; ii) BX3, where X is a halo group; iii) AlR3, where R is a substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group; iv) AlX3, where X is a halo group; v) SiX4, where X is a halo group; vi) The process according to A5] or B5] above, wherein the process is selected from any combination of two or more of i) to v). D5] The process according to any one of A5] to C5] above, wherein component c is selected from i), ii), or iv) to vi). E5] The process described in any one of A5] to D5] above, wherein component c is B(C6F5)3. F5] component b is the following: C n H 2n+1 OH, wherein n≧1, and further n is 1-20, further 1-10, further 1-5, further 1-3. G5] The process of any one of A5] to F5] above, wherein the olefin / silane interpolymer (component a) is an ethylene / silane interpolymer, further an ethylene / silane copolymer. H5] The process of any one of A5] to G5] above, wherein the olefin / silane interpolymer (component a) is an ethylene / alpha-olefin / silane interpolymer, further an ethylene / alpha-olefin / silane terpolymer. I5] The process according to H5] above, wherein the alpha-olefin is a C3 to C20 alpha-olefin, further a C3 to C10 alpha-olefin, further propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene, 1-octene and 1-decene, further propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene or 1-octene, further propylene, 1-butene or 1-octene, further 1-butene or 1-octene, further 1-octene. J5] The process of any one of A5] to I5] above, wherein the silane of the olefin / silane interpolymer (component a) is derived from a monomer selected from the following: H2C=CH-R1-Si(R)(R')-H, where R1 is alkylene, R and R' are each independently alkyl, and R and R' can be the same or different. K5] The silane of the olefin / silane interpolymer (component a) is selected from the group consisting of:

[0098] [ka] The process according to any one of A5] to J5] above, wherein R2 is alkylene. L5] The process described in any one of A5] to K5] above, wherein the silane of the olefin / silane interpolymer (component a) is derived from a monomer selected from the following: ODMS, HDMS, or ADMS, each of which is described above. M5] The process of any one of A5] to L5] above, wherein the composition is heat treated at a temperature of 50°C or higher, or 60°C or higher, or 70°C or higher, or 80°C or higher, or 90°C or higher, or 100°C or higher. N5] The process of any one of A5] to M5] above, wherein the composition is heat treated at a temperature of 160°C or less, or 150°C or less, or 140°C or less, or 130°C or less, or 120°C or less, or 110°C or less. O5] The process of any one of A5] to N5] above, further comprising a solvent (a substance (typically liquid at ambient conditions) that dissolves components a to c), wherein the solvent is not component b. P5] The process of any one of A5]-O5] above, wherein the process comprises 1.0 wt. or less, or 0.5 wt. % or less, or 0.05 wt. % or less, or 0.01 wt. % or less of a solvent, based on the weight of the process. Q5] The process of any one of A5] to N5] above, wherein the process does not involve a solvent. R5] The process of any one of A5] to Q5] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a comprises, based on the weight of the interpolymer, 0.20 wt. % or more, or 0.40 wt. % or more, or 0.60 wt. % or more, or 0.80 wt. % or more, or 1.0 wt. % or more, or 1.5 wt. % or more, or 2.0 wt. % or more, or 2.5 wt. % or more, or 3.0 wt. % or more of silane monomer. S5] The process of any one of A5]-R5] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a comprises 40 wt% or less, or 35 wt% or less, or 30 wt% or less, or 25 wt% or less, or 20 wt% or less, or 18 wt% or less, or 16 wt% or less, or 14 wt% or less, or 12 wt% or less, or 10 wt% or less, or 8.0 wt% or less, or 6.0 wt% or less, or 4.0 wt% or less of silane monomer, based on the weight of the interpolymer. T5] The process described in any one of A5] to S5] above, wherein component a has a molecular weight distribution (MWD=Mw / Mn) of 1.8 or more, or 2.0 or more, or 2.2 or more, or 2.4 or more. U5] The process described in any one of A5] to T5] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a molecular weight distribution MWD of 5.0 or less, or 4.5 or less, or 4.0 or less, or 3.8 or less, or 3.6 or less. V5] The process of any one of A5] to U5] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 10,000 g / mol or more, or 15,000 g / mol or more, or 20,000 g / mol or more, or 22,000 g / mol or more, or 24,000 g / mol or more, or 26,000 g / mol or more, or 28,000 g / mol or more. W5] The process of any one of A5] through V5] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 100,000 g / mol or less, or 95,000 g / mol or less, or 90,000 g / mol or less, or 85,000 g / mol or less, or 80,000 g / mol or less, or 75,000 g / mol or less, or 70,000 g / mol or less, or 65,000 g / mol or less, or 60,000 g / mol or less, or 55,000 g / mol or less, or 50,000 g / mol or less. X5] The process of any one of A5] to W5] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 40,000 g / mol or greater, or 50,000 g / mol or greater, or 60,000 g / mol or greater, or 70,000 g / mol or greater, or 80,000 g / mol or greater, or 90,000 g / mol or greater, or 100,000 g / mol or greater. Y5] The process of any one of A5] to X5] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 500,000 g / mol or less, or 400,000 g / mol or less, or 350,000 g / mol or less, or 300,000 g / mol or less, or 280,000 g / mol or less, or 260,000 g / mol or less, or 240,000 g / mol or less, or 220,000 g / mol or less, or 200,000 g / mol or less. Z5] The process of any one of A5] to Y5] above, wherein the composition further comprises a thermoplastic polymer that differs from the olefin / silane interpolymer of component a in one or more characteristics, such as type and / or amount of monomer, Mn, Mw, MWD, or any combination thereof. A6] The process of any one of A5] to Z5], wherein the molar ratio of component b to component a is 10 or greater, or 15 or greater, or 20 or greater, or 25 or greater, or 30 or greater, or 35 or greater, or 40 or greater. B6] The process of any one of A5]-A6], wherein the molar ratio of component b to component a is 80 or less, or 75 or less, or 70 or less, or 65 or less, or 60 or less. C6] The process of any one of A5] to B6], wherein the molar ratio of component a to component c is 200 or more, or 250 or more, or 300 or more, or 350 or more, or 400 or more, or 450 or more, or 500 or more. D6] The process of any one of A5]-C6], wherein the molar ratio of component a to component c is 1200 or less, or 1100 or less, or 1000 or less, or 900 or less, or 800 or less. E6] A composition comprising an olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer formed from the process described in any one of A5]-D6] above. F6] compositions having a molecular weight distribution (MWD=Mw / Mn) of 1.6 or greater, or 1.8 or greater, or 2.0 or greater, or 2.5 to 5.0 or less, or 4.5 or less, or 4.0 or less, or 3.8 or less, or 3.6 or less, or 3.4 or less, or 3.2 or less, or 3.0 or less, or 2.8 or less, and a molecular weight of 0.20 wt.% or greater, or 0.40 wt.% or greater, or 0.60 wt.% or greater, or 0.80 wt.% or greater, or 1.0 wt.% or greater, or 1.5 wt.%, based on the weight of the interpolymer. % or more, or 2.0 wt.% or more, or 2.5 wt.% or more, or 3.0 wt.% or more to 40 wt.% or less, or 35 wt.% or less, or 30 wt.% or less, or 25 wt.% or less, or 20 wt.% or less, or 18 wt.% or less, or 16 wt.% or less, or 14 wt.% or less, or 12 wt.% or less, or 10 wt.% or less, or 8.0 wt.% or less, or 6.0 wt.% or less, 4.0 wt.% or less of alkoxysilane-derived monomer. G6] The composition of E6] above, wherein the olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer comprises, in polymerized form, 0.20 wt. % or more, or 0.40 wt. % or more, or 0.60 wt. % or more, or 0.80 wt. % or more, or 1.0 wt. % or more, or 1.5 wt. % or more, or 2.0 wt. % or more, or 2.5 wt. % or more, or 3.0 wt. % or more of an alkoxysilane-derived monomer, based on the weight of the interpolymer. H6] The composition of any one of E6]-G6] above, wherein the olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer comprises, in polymerized form, no more than 40 wt%, or no more than 35 wt%, or no more than 30 wt%, or no more than 25 wt%, or no more than 20 wt%, or no more than 18 wt%, or no more than 16 wt%, or no more than 14 wt%, or no more than 12 wt%, or no more than 10 wt%, or no more than 8.0 wt%, or no more than 6.0 wt%, or no more than 4.0 wt%, of alkoxysilane-derived monomer, based on the weight of the interpolymer. I6] The composition according to any one of E6] to H6] above, wherein the olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer is an ethylene / alkoxysilane interpolymer, further an ethylene / alkoxysilane copolymer. J6] The composition according to any one of E6] to I6] above, wherein the olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer is an ethylene / alpha-olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer, and further an ethylene / alpha-olefin / alkoxysilane terpolymer. K6] The composition according to J6] above, wherein the alpha-olefin is a C3 to C20 alpha-olefin, further a C3 to C10 alpha-olefin, further propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene, 1-octene and 1-decene, further propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene or 1-octene, further propylene, 1-butene or 1-octene, further 1-butene or 1-octene, further 1-octene. L6] The composition of any one of E6] or G6] through K6] above, wherein the olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer has a molecular weight distribution (MWD=Mw / Mn) of 1.6 or greater, or 1.8 or greater, or 2.0 or greater, or 2.5 or greater. M6] The composition of any one of E6] or G6]-L6] above, wherein the olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer has a molecular weight distribution (MWD) of 5.0 or less, or 4.5 or less, or 4.0 or less, or 3.8 or less, or 3.6 or less, or 3.4 or less, or 3.2 or less, or 3.0 or less, or 2.8 or less. N6] The composition of any one of E6] to M6] above, wherein the olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer has a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 10,000 g / mol or more, or 20,000 g / mol or more, or 30,000 g / mol or more, or 40,000 g / mol or more, or 50,000 g / mol or more, or 60,000 g / mol or more. O6] The composition of any one of E6] to N6] above, wherein the olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer has a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 100,000 g / mol or less, or 95,000 g / mol or less, or 85,000 g / mol or less, or 80,000 g / mol or less. P6] The composition of any one of E6]-O6] above, wherein the olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer has a number average molecular weight (Mw) of 50,000 g / mol or greater, 60,000 g / mol or greater, or 70,000 g / mol or greater, or 80,000 g / mol or greater, or 90,000 g / mol or greater, or 100,000 g / mol or greater, or 110,000 g / mol or greater, or 120,000 g / mol or greater, or 130,000 g / mol or greater, or 140,000 g / mol or greater. Q6] The composition of any one of E6] to P6] above, wherein the olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer has a number average molecular weight (Mw) of 300,000 g / mol or less, or 280,000 g / mol or less, or 260,000 g / mol or less, or 240,000 g / mol or less, or 220,000 g / mol or less, or 200,000 g / mol or less. R6] The composition of any one of E6]-Q6] above, wherein the olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer has a z number average molecular weight (Ms.) of 300,000 g / mol or greater, or 320,000 g / mol or greater, or 340,000 g / mol or greater, or 360,000 g / mol or greater, or 380,000 g / mol or greater, or 400,000 g / mol or greater. S6] The composition of any one of E6] to R6] above, wherein the olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer has a z-average molecular weight (Mz) of 500,000 g / mol or less, or 480,000 g / mol or less, or 460,000 g / mol or less, or 440,000 g / mol or less, or 420,000 g / mol or less. T6] The composition described in any one of E6] to S6] above, wherein the composition further comprises a thermoplastic polymer that differs from the olefin / silane interpolymer of component a in one or more characteristics, such as the type and / or amount of monomer, Mn, Mw, MWD, or any combination thereof. U6] A crosslinked composition formed by heat treating the composition described in any one of E6] to T6] above in the presence of moisture. V6] A crosslinked composition according to U6] above, wherein the composition is heat treated at a temperature of 25°C or higher, or 30°C or higher, or 35°C or higher, or 40°C or higher, or 45°C or higher, or 50°C or higher, or 55°C or higher, or 60°C or higher, or 65°C or higher, or 70°C or higher, or 75°C or higher, or 80°C or higher. W6] The crosslinked composition of U6] or V6] above, wherein the composition is heat treated at a temperature of 100°C or less, or 95°C or less, or 90°C or less, or 85°C or less. X6] The crosslinked composition according to any one of U6] to W6] above, wherein the composition is heat-treated at a relative humidity (RH) of 5% or more, or 10% or more, or 15% or more, or 20% or more, or 25% or more, or 30% or more, or 35% or more, or 40% or more, or 45% or more, or 50% or more, or 55% or more, or 60% or more, or 65% or more, or 70% or more, or 75% or more, or 80% or more, and further heat-treated in air. Y6] The composition according to any one of U6] to X6] above, wherein the composition is heat-treated at a relative humidity (RH) of 100% or less, or 98% or less, or 96% or less, or 94% or less, or 92% or less, or 90% or less, or 88%, or 86%, or 85% or less, or 84% or less, or 83% or less, or 82%, and further heat-treated in air. Z6] An article comprising at least one component formed from the composition described in any one of E6] to Y6] above.

[0099] Test Method 1H NMR characterization of interpolymers For 1H NMR experiments, each polymer sample was dissolved in tetrachloroethane-d2 (with or without 0.001M Cr(acac)3) in an 8 mm NMR tube. The concentration was approximately 100 mg / 1.8 mL. The tube was then heated in a heating block set at 110 °C. The sample tube was repeatedly vortexed and heated to achieve a homogeneous flowing fluid. 1H NMR spectra were acquired on a BRUKER AVANCE 500 MHz spectrometer equipped with a 10 mm C / HDUAL cryoprobe. Standard single-pulse 1H NMR experiments were performed using the following acquisition parameters: a 70 s relaxation delay, a 17.2 μs, 32-scan 90-degree pulse. The spectra were centered at 1.3 ppm with a spectral width of 20 ppm. All measurements were performed at 110 °C without sample rotation. 1H NMR spectra were referenced to 5.99 ppm relative to the solvent (residual protonated tetrachloroethane) resonance peak. For each Cr-containing sample, data were acquired with a 16-second relaxation delay and 128 scans. "mol% silane" was calculated based on the integrals of the SiMe proton resonances versus the integrals of the CH2 protons associated with the ethylene units and the CH3 protons associated with the octene units. "mol% octene (or other alpha-olefin)" was similarly calculated with reference to the CH3 protons associated with octene (or other alpha-olefin). 1H NMR was also used for Study 2—monitoring the conversion of "-Si-H" to "-Si-OR."

[0100] 13C NMR characterization of interpolymers For C NMR experiments, each polymer sample was dissolved in tetrachloroethane-d2 (with or without 0.025 M Cr(acac)3) in a 10 mm NMR tube. The concentration was approximately 300 mg / 2.8 mL. The tube was then heated in a heating block set at 110 °C. The sample tube was repeatedly vortexed and heated to obtain a homogeneous, flowing fluid. C NMR spectra were acquired on a BRUKER AVANCE 600 MHz spectrometer equipped with a 10 mm C / H DUAL cryoprobe. The following acquisition parameters were used: a 60 s relaxation delay, a 12.0 μs, 256 scans of 90° pulse. Spectra were centered at 100 ppm, with a spectral width of 250 ppm. All measurements were performed at 110 °C without spinning the sample. C NMR spectra were referenced at 74.5 ppm relative to the solvent resonance peak. For samples with Cr, data were acquired with a 7 second relaxation delay and 1024 scans. "mol % silane" was calculated based on the integrals of the SiMe carbon resonances versus the integrals of the CH carbons associated with the ethylene units and the CH / CH carbons associated with the octene units. "mol % octene (or other alpha-olefin)" was similarly calculated with reference to the CH / CH carbons associated with octene (or other alpha-olefin).

[0101] Gel Permeation Chromatography 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.

[0102] Calibration of the GPC column set was performed using 21 narrow molecular weight distribution polystyrene standards ranging from 580 to 8,400,000, arranged in six "cocktail" mixtures with at least 10-fold spacing between individual molecular weights. The standards were purchased from Agilent Technologies. Polystyrene standards were prepared in 0.025 grams in 50 milliliters of solvent for molecular weights above 1,000,000 and 0.05 grams in 50 milliliters for molecular weights below 1,000,000. The polystyrene standards were dissolved at 80°C with gentle stirring for 30 minutes. The peak molecular weights of the polystyrene standards were converted to polyethylene molecular weights using Equation 1 (as described in Williams and Ward, J. Polym. Sci., Polym. Let., 6, 621 (1968)). M ポリエチレン =A×(M ポリスチレン ) B (Formula 1) where M is the molecular weight, A has a value of 0.4315, and B is equal to 1.0.

[0103] 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.

[0104] Total plate counts for the GPC column set were performed using decane (prepared with 0.04 g TCB in 50 milliliters and dissolved for 20 minutes with gentle stirring). Plate counts (Equation 2) and symmetry (Equation 3) were measured with a 200 microliter injection according to the following equations:

[0105]

number

[0106]

number

[0107] Samples were prepared semi-automatically using PolymerChar "Instrument Control" software to target a sample weight of 2 mg / ml, and the solvent (containing 200 ppm BHT) was added via the PolymerChar high-temperature autosampler to a septa-capped vial that had been pre-sparged with nitrogen. Samples were dissolved at 160°C for 2 hours under "slow" shaking.

[0108] Mn (GPC) , Mw (GPC) , and Mz (GPC) The calculation of was based on GPC results using the internal IR5 detector (measurement channel) of the PolymerChar GPC-IR chromatograph according to Equations 4-6 using PolymerChar GPCOne™ software, baseline-subtracted IR chromatograms at each equally spaced data collection point (i), and polyethylene equivalent molecular weights obtained from a narrow standard calibration curve at point (i) of Equation 1. Equations 4-6 are as follows:

[0109]

number

[0110] 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 RV-aligning the respective decane peak in the sample (RV (FM sample)) with that of the decane peak in the narrow standard calibration (RV (FM calibrated)). Any time change in the decane marker peak was then assumed to be related to a linear shift in flow rate (flow rate (effective)) throughout the run. To facilitate the highest accuracy in the RV measurement of the flow rate marker 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 from 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. An acceptable flow rate correction is such that the effective flow rate should be within + / - 0.7% of the apparent flow rate.

[0111] Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) The rheological properties of the molded discs were characterized by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) as a function of temperature using an ARES-G2 rheometer fitted with 25 mm parallel plates (disposable aluminum) operated in oscillatory shear mode at a frequency of 1 rad / s and a strain amplitude of <0.1%. After loading the sample disc, a preload of 100 g force was used to ensure good contact with the plates. At the start of the run, the environment was equilibrated at 25°C. A temperature ramp was initiated, and the sample was heated from 25°C to 200°C at 2.0°C / min using heated N2 gas while measuring the complex viscosity or shear storage modulus.

[0112] Gel Content - Soxhlet Extraction Each Soxhlet extraction was performed according to ASTM D2765-16. Method A.

[0113] experiment Synthesis of Terpolymer 1, Terpolymer 2, and Copolymer 1 Ethylene / octene / silane copolymerizations were carried out in an autoclave batch reactor designed for ethylene homopolymerization and copolymerization. The reactor was equipped with an electric heating zone and an internal cooling coil containing refrigerated glycol. Both the reactor and the heating / cooling system were controlled and monitored by a process computer. The bottom of the reactor was fitted with a dump valve that discharged the reactor contents into a dump pot vented to the atmosphere.

[0114] All chemicals and catalyst solutions used in the polymerization were passed through a purification column before use. ISOPAR-E, 1-octene, ethylene, and silane monomers were also passed through the column. Ultra-high-purity grade nitrogen (Airgas) and hydrogen (Airgas) were used. The catalyst cocktail was prepared in an inert glovebox by mixing a scavenger (MMAO), an activator (bis(hydrogenated tallow alkyl)methyltetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate(1<->)amine), and catalyst with the appropriate amount of toluene to achieve the desired molar concentration solution. The solution was then diluted with ISOPAR-E or toluene to achieve the desired volume for polymerization and drawn into a syringe for transfer to the catalyst shot tank.

[0115] In a typical polymerization, the reactor was charged with ISOPAR-E and 1-octene (if desired) via separate flow meters. The silane monomer was then added via a shot tank piped through an adjacent glove box. After solvent / comonomer addition, hydrogen (if desired) was added while the reactor was heated to the polymerization set point of 120 °C. Ethylene was then added to the reactor via a flow meter at the desired reaction temperature to maintain the predetermined reaction pressure set point. The catalyst solution was transferred via syringe to the shot tank and then added to the reactor via a high-pressure nitrogen stream after the reactor pressure set point was reached. A run timer was started upon catalyst injection, after which an exotherm and a drop in reactor pressure were observed, indicating a successful run.

[0116] Ethylene was then added using a pressure controller to maintain the reaction pressure set point in the reactor. The polymerization was allowed to proceed for a set time or ethylene uptake, after which the agitator was stopped and the bottom dump valve was opened to discharge the reactor contents into a dump pot. The contents of the pot were poured into a tray, which was placed in a fume hood, and the solvent was allowed to evaporate overnight. The tray containing the remaining polymer was then transferred to a vacuum oven and heated to 100°C under reduced pressure to remove any remaining solvent. After cooling to ambient temperature, the polymer was weighed for yield / efficiency and transferred to a container for storage and analytical testing. The polymerization conditions and catalyst are shown in Tables 1A and 1B, respectively. Polymer properties are shown in Table 2.

[0117] [Table 1]

[0118] [Table 2]

[0119] [Table 3] *mol% silane and octene based on the total moles of monomers in the polymer (for Terpolymer 1) 13 C or (for terpolymer 2 and copolymer 1) 1 Determined by H NMR. A: ODMS = 7-octenyldimethylsilane. B: HDMS = 5-hexenyldimethylsilane.

[0120] Study 1 - Moisture Curing of Olefin / Silane Interpolymers Commercially available materials The following compounds were tested as cure catalysts: Dibutyltin dilaurate 95% available from Sigma-Aldrich. Tetrabutyl titanium dioxide available from Sigma-Aldrich. 1,8-Diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene (DBU) available from SigmaAldrich. Dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid (DBSA) available from SigmaAldrich. Bismuth trifluorosulfonic acid available from SigmaAldrich. Tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane (FAB) available from SigmaAldrich.

[0121] Moisture curing Terpolymer 1 or terpolymer 2 was added to a HAAKE dispersion mixer set at 85°C. The polymers were mixed until the measured mixer torque stopped changing, typically about 2 minutes. A certain amount of cure catalyst was added to the mixed polymer, e.g., a "1000 ppm addition" of cure catalyst by weight of terpolymer. Mixing of the catalyst into the terpolymer continued for 5 minutes, and then the resulting mixture was quickly removed from the mixer. No change in torque was observed during mixing of the catalyst and terpolymer. The cooled polymer formulation was then molded into DMA disks (25 mm diameter x 2 mm thick). These disks were compression molded using a Carver Press (20,000 lbs force, 80°C, 4 minutes) and then immediately cooled between water-cooled platens for 2 minutes.

[0122] Each composition (disk) was measured for its temperature-dependent rheological properties with and without exposure to moisture. These moisture-exposed sample disks were placed in a Blue M SPX programmable environmental chamber set at 85°C and 85% relative humidity for 5-7 days. Note that the compositions readily equilibrate (in less than 30 minutes) to the set temperature of the environmental chamber. A control composition (disk) containing no curing catalyst was also tested. DMA was performed using an ARES-G2 Rheometrics analyzer at temperatures between 25°C and 200°C at a rate of 2.0°C / min. Each sample disk was tested in a parallel plate geometry using 25 mm diameter plates.

[0123] Figures 1-3 show DMA profiles for formulations containing dibutyltin dilaurate. Figure 1 represents the control composition (Terpolymer 1). Figure 2 represents a composition (Terpolymer 1 and dibutyltin dilaurate) that was not subjected to moisture curing but was subjected only to compression molding as described above. Figure 3 represents a composition (Terpolymer 1 and dibutyltin dilaurate) that was subjected to moisture curing for 6 days at 85°C / 85% RH. As can be seen in Figure 1, the DMA data show that the terpolymer without a curing catalyst (control) has a normal temperature-dependent rheology, exhibiting melting behavior near 105°C and a decrease in melt viscosity with increasing temperature. Figure 2 shows that the presence of dibutyltin dilaurate in the composition (without moisture curing) does not significantly change the polymer rheology. Figure 3 shows that after 6 days of moisture curing, the polymer exhibits a significantly crosslinked rubbery rheology above the melting point, with both a nearly flat storage modulus and a nearly flat Tan δ function with respect to temperature.

[0124] See also Figures 4-6. Figure 4 (Terpolymer 2) shows the DMA profiles for formulations with and without DBSA, with those with DBSA (2000 ppm) subjected to air cure at 85°C for 1 or 5 days. Figure 5 (Terpolymer 1) shows the DMA profiles for formulations with FAB (50, 100, and 200 ppm) or without FAB, subjected to moisture cure at 85°C / 85% RH for 6 days. Figure 6 (Terpolymer 1) shows the DMA profiles for formulations with DBU (1000 ppm) or without DBU, with those with DBU either not subjected to moisture cure or subjected to moisture cure at 85°C / 85% RH for 7 days.

[0125] Table 3 lists some cure results for this study. As can be seen in Table 3, optimal cure was observed for Inventive Compositions 1, 2, and 4.

[0126] [Table 4] *RH = relative humidity, which is the ratio of the partial pressure of water vapor to the equilibrium vapor pressure of water at a given temperature, where RH is set and monitored by the environmental chamber of the Blue M SPX programmable oven (which has a built-in hygrometer), as discussed above. ** It was cured in air at 85°C.

[0127] Study 2 - Functionalization of Olefin / Silane Interpolymers Conversion of Si-H to Si-OMe (Ethylene / Alkoxysilane Copolymer 1A)

[0128] [ka] Copolymer 1 (191 mg) and anhydrous toluene (5 mL) were added to a 40 mL glass bottle containing a magnetic stir bar under N2. The bottle was placed on a preheated hot plate (100 °C) to completely dissolve the polymer. B(CF5)3 (0.25 mg, dissolved in 0.25 mL toluene) was then added to the bottle, followed by the slow addition of 1.7 mL of a methanol / toluene solution (1:5 methanol / toluene, v / v, dried over molecular sieves). After the addition, the mixture was stirred at 100 °C for 2 hours, then cooled to room temperature and filtered. Product (Ethylene / Alkoxysilane Copolymer 1A): White solid, 190 mg, and 1 H NMR (tetrachloroethane-d2, 500 MHz): 3.48 (singlet, 3H, Si-OCH3), 1.60-1.15 (broad peak, 235H), 0.69 (triplet, J = 7.5 Hz, 2H, -CH2-Si), 0.17 (s, 6H, -Si(CH3)2).

[0129] The analysis is 1 H NMR (tetrachloroethane-d, 110 °C) was performed. The Si-H groups were completely consumed, as evidenced by the absence of a resonance at 3.95 ppm. The appearance of a peak (singlet) at 3.48 ppm corresponded to the product -SiMe-O-CH. See Figure 7.

[0130] Conversion of Si-H to Si-OEt (Ethylene / Alkoxysilane Copolymer 1B)

[0131] [ka] Copolymer 1 (2.4 g) and anhydrous toluene (50 mL) were added to a 100 mL glass bottle containing a magnetic stir bar under N2. The bottle was placed on a preheated hot plate (100 °C) to completely dissolve the polymer. B(CF5)3 (2.4 mg, dissolved in 2.4 mL toluene) was then added to the bottle, followed by the slow addition of 7.0 mL of an ethanol / toluene solution (1:1 ethanol / toluene, v / v, dried over molecular sieves). After the addition, the mixture was stirred at 100 °C for 2 hours, then cooled to room temperature and filtered. Product (Ethylene / Alkoxysilane Copolymer 1B): White solid, 2.5 g, and 1 H NMR (tetrachloroethane-d, 500 MHz): 3.74 (quartet, J = 7.5 Hz, 2H, Si-OCH), 1.60-1.15 (broad peak, 228H, overlapping with peak at 1.23 ppm (triplet, J = 7.5 Hz, -CH)), 0.68 (triplet, J = 7.5 Hz, 2H, -CH-Si), 0.16 (s, 6H, -Si(CH)).

[0132] The analysis is 1 H NMR (tetrachloroethane-d, 110 °C) was performed. The Si-H groups were completely consumed, as evidenced by the absence of a resonance at 3.95 ppm. The appearance of peaks at 3.74 ppm (quartet) and 1.23 ppm (triplet) corresponded to the product -SiMe-O-CHCH. The GPC results are shown in Table 4. See also Figure 8.

[0133] [Table 5]

[0134] Conversion of Si-H to Si-OiPr (ethylene / alkoxysilane copolymer 1C)

[0135] [ka] Copolymer 1 (230 mg) and anhydrous toluene (5 mL) were added to a 40 mL glass vial containing a magnetic stir bar under N2. The vial was placed on a preheated hot plate (100 °C) to completely dissolve the polymer. B(CF5)3 (0.3 mg, dissolved in 0.3 mL toluene) was then added to the vial, followed by the slow addition of 2.5 mL of an isopropanol / toluene solution (1:5 isopropanol / toluene, v / v, dried over molecular sieves). After the addition, the mixture was stirred at 100 °C for 2 hours, then cooled to room temperature and filtered. Product (Ethylene / Alkoxysilane Copolymer 1C): White powder, 235 mg, and 1 H NMR (tetrachloroethane-d, 500 MHz): 4.07 (multiplet, 1H, Si-OCH-), 1.60-1.23 (broad peak, 220H), 1.22 (doublet, J = 5.0 Hz, 6H, -O-CH(CH)), 0.66 (triplet, J = 5.0 Hz, 2H, -CH-Si), 0.16 (s, 6H, -Si(CH)).

[0136] The analysis is 1 H NMR (tetrachloroethane-d, 110 °C) was performed. The Si-H groups were completely consumed, as evidenced by the absence of a resonance at 3.95 ppm. The appearance of peaks at 4.07 ppm (multiplet) and 1.22 ppm (doublet) corresponds to the product -SiMe-O-CH(CH). The GPC results are shown in Table 5.

[0137] [Table 6]

[0138] The ethylene / alkoxysilane copolymers of the present invention should be readily processed in conventional thermoplastic equipment to form final products, which can be cured offline, for example, by exposure to moisture in the presence of a condensation catalyst. Furthermore, the present application relates to the invention described in the claims, but may also include the following as other aspects. (1) A process for forming a crosslinked composition, said process comprising heat treating a composition at a temperature of 25°C or greater in the presence of moisture, said composition comprising the following components: a) olefin / silane interpolymers; b) the following compounds i) to vi): i) metal alkoxides, ii) metal carboxylates; iii) metal sulfonates; iv) arylsulfonic acids, v) tris-arylboranes, vi) A process comprising a curing catalyst selected from any combination of two or more of i)-v). (2) The process according to (1) above, wherein the heat treatment is carried out at a relative humidity (RH) of 5% or more. (3) The process according to (1) above, wherein the moisture comprises moisture derived from water adsorbed and / or absorbed by the curing catalyst. (4) The process according to any one of (1) to (3) above, wherein the curing catalyst of component b) is selected from the following compounds i), ii), or iv) to vi): (5) The silane of the olefin / silane interpolymer is selected from the group consisting of: 2 The process of any one of (1) to (4) above, wherein the monomer is derived from a monomer selected from C=CH-R1-Si(R)(R')-H, wherein R1 is alkylene, R and R' are each independently alkyl, and R and R' may be the same or different. (6) A composition comprising the following components: a) olefin / silane interpolymers; b) the following compounds i) to vi): i) metal alkoxides, ii) metal carboxylates; iii) metal sulfonates; iv) arylsulfonic acids, v) tris-arylboranes, vi) A composition comprising a curing catalyst selected from any combination of two or more of i) to v). (7) The silane of the olefin / silane interpolymer is selected from the group consisting of: 2 The composition described in (6) above, which is derived from a monomer selected from C=CH-R1-Si(R)(R')-H, wherein R1 is alkylene, R and R' are each independently alkyl, and R and R' may be the same or different. (8) A crosslinked composition formed from the composition described in (6) or (7) above. (9) An article comprising at least one component formed from the composition described in (6) or (7) above. (10) A process for forming an olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer, said process comprising: a) olefin / silane interpolymers; b) Alcohol c) a process comprising heat treating a composition comprising a Lewis acid. (11) Component c is one of the following i) to vi): i)B(R 1 )(R2 )(R 3 )(wherein, R 1 、R 2 and R 3 each of which is independently a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group; ii) BX 3 wherein X is a halo group; iii) AIRR 3 wherein R is a substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group; iv)AlX 3 wherein X is a halo group; v) SiX 4 wherein X is a halo group; vi) The process according to (10) above, wherein the process is selected from any combination of two or more of i) to v). (12) Component b is the following: C n H 2n+1 OH, wherein n≧1. (13) The silane of the olefin / silane interpolymer (component a) is selected from the group consisting of: 2 The process of any one of (10) to (12) above, wherein the silane monomer is derived from a silane monomer selected from C=CH-R1-Si(R)(R')-H, wherein R1 is alkylene, R and R' are each independently alkyl, and R and R' can be the same or different. (14) A composition comprising an olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer formed from the process described in any one of (10) to (13) above. (15) An article comprising at least one component formed from the composition described in (14) above.

Claims

1. 1. A process for forming a crosslinked composition, said process comprising heat treating a composition at a temperature of 25° C. or greater in the presence of moisture, said composition comprising the following components: a) olefin / silane interpolymers; b) the following compounds i) to vi): i) metal alkoxides, ii) metal carboxylates; iii) metal sulfonates; iv) arylsulfonic acids, v) tris-arylboranes, and vi) a curing catalyst selected from any combination of two or more of i) through v); A process wherein the silane of said olefin / silane interpolymer is derived from a monomer selected from the following: H 2 C═CH—R1—Si(R)(R′)—H, wherein R1 is alkylene, R and R′ are each independently alkyl, and R and R′ can be the same or different.

2. 10. The process of claim 1, wherein the heat treatment is carried out at 5% RH (relative humidity) or higher.

3. 10. The process of claim 1, wherein the moisture comprises moisture from water adsorbed and / or absorbed by the curing catalyst.

4. 1. A composition comprising the following components: a) olefin / silane interpolymers; b) the following compounds i) to vi): i) metal alkoxides, ii) metal carboxylates; iii) metal sulfonates; iv) arylsulfonic acids, v) tris-arylboranes, and vi) a curing catalyst selected from any combination of two or more of i) through v); A composition wherein the silane of the olefin / silane interpolymer is derived from a monomer selected from the following: H 2 C═CH—R1—Si(R)(R′)—H, wherein R1 is alkylene, R and R′ are each independently alkyl, and R and R′ can be the same or different.

5. A crosslinked composition formed from the composition of claim 4.

6. 6. An article comprising at least one component formed from the composition of claim 4 or 5.

7. 1. A process for forming an olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer, said process comprising: a) olefin / silane interpolymers; b) alcohol, and c) heat treating the composition comprising the Lewis acid; The process comprising converting the a) olefin / silane interpolymer to an olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer.

8. Component c is selected from the following i) to vi): i) B(R １ ) (R ２ ) (R ３ ) (wherein, R １ , R ２ and R ３ each independently is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group; ii) BX ３ wherein X is a halo group; iii) AlR ３ wherein R is a substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group; iv) AlX ３ wherein X is a halo group; v) SiX ４ wherein X is a halo group; vi) selected from any combination of two or more of i) to v).

9. A method for forming a composition comprising an olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer, the method comprising forming the olefin / alkoxysilane interpolymer from a process described in claim 7 or 8.

10. A method for forming an article comprising at least one component, the method comprising forming the component from the composition of claim 9.

Images