Flame retardant polymer compositions and cables including the same

Abstract

Compositions for a cable include a thermoplastic component, an aromatic polycarbodiimide, and a flame retardant system. The flame retardant system is selected from one of the following: (i) melamine polyphosphate and aluminum diethyl phosphinate; and (ii) a melamine cyanurate component, and, optionally aluminum trihydrate. The thermoplastic component may be a polyether block amide or a copolyester thermoplastic elastomer. In aspects of the disclosure, a composition comprises a copolyester thermoplastic elastomer, an aromatic polycarbodiimide, and a flame retardant system. The flame retardant system may be selected from one of the following: (i) melamine polyphosphate and aluminum diethyl phosphinate; and (ii) melamine cyanurate and optionally aluminum trihydrate. An electric vehicle charging cable may include two or more conductors and an outer jacket at least partially surrounding the two or more conductor and being made from the compositions disclosed herein.

Description

FLAME RETARDANT POLYMER COMPOSITIONS AND CABLES INCLUDING THE SAME CLAIM OF PRIORITY

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 638,690 bearing Attorney Docket Number 1202405 and filed on April 25, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to polymer compositions and, more particularly, to flame retardant polymer compositions that are particularly well-suited for use in cables. BACKGROUND

[0003] In accordance with a growing focus on energy saving and the development of eco- friendly technologies, the supply of electric vehicles has been increasing and spreading throughout the world. As the number of electric vehicles increases, the demand for charging cables has also increased.

[0004] Electric vehicle charging utilizes a charging cable connected to a charging station. The charging cable requires a high flexibility, durability against various oils and other corrosive materials, and flame retardance. The charging cables should also be able to withstand harsh weather conditions, exhibit certain minimum mechanical properties, and meet the other applicable regulations to ensure the safety, durability, and reliability of the cables. Although halogen-containing flame retardants have been used in conventional cables, such materials are not ecologically friendly and may, therefore, be contradictory to the general desire of an electric vehicle user to reduce negative environmental impact. Additionally, there is a growing trend toward restricting halogen-containing materials from use.

[0005] Accordingly, there remains a need for alternative polymer compositions suitable for use in cable applications. SUMMARY

[0006] The following is a brief summary of subject matter that is described in greater detail herein. This summary is not intended to be limiting as to the scope of the claims.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a composition for a cable comprises a thermoplastic component, an aromatic polycarbodiimide, and a flame retardant system. The flame retardant system is selected from one of the following: (i) melamine polyphosphate and aluminum diethyl phosphinate; and (ii) a melamine cyanurate component, and, optionally aluminum trihydrate.

[0008] The thermoplastic component may comprise a polyether block amide or a copolyester thermoplastic elastomer. In any of the aspects herein, the thermoplastic component may be present in an amount of from 50 wt.% to 75 wt.%.

[0009] In any of the aspects disclosed herein, the composition may further comprise an antioxidant, a UV package, a chain extender, a coupling agent, and / or a processing aid. The antioxidant may comprise a primary phenolic antioxidant. The UV package may include TiO2and a hindered amine light stabilizer. In any of the aspects disclosed herein, the coupling agent may comprise an acid modified α-olefin copolymer or linear triblock copolymer based on styrene and ethylene / butylene.

[0010] In any of the aspects disclosed herein, the flame retardant system is melamine polyphosphate and aluminum diethyl phosphinate.

[0011] The composition may have an operating temperature of - 40°C to 105 °C, or - 40°C to 90 °C, as determined according to the UL 2556 standard.

[0012] In aspects of the disclosure, a composition comprises a copolyester thermoplastic elastomer, an aromatic polycarbodiimide, and a flame retardant system. The flame retardant system may be selected from one of the following: (i) melamine polyphosphate and aluminum diethyl phosphinate; and (ii) melamine cyanurate and optionally aluminum trihydrate. The composition has a tensile strength at break of greater than or equal to 20 MPa when measured in accordance with IEC 60811-401.

[0013] In aspects of the disclosure, the copolyester thermoplastic elastomer may have a tear strength of greater than 60 kN / m when measured in accordance with EN 50396, 10.2.

[0014] In any of the aspects disclosed herein, the aromatic polycarbodiimide may be present in the composition in an amount of from about 0.5 wt.% to about 10 wt.% or from about 0.5 wt.% to about 2.5 wt.%. The copolyester thermoplastic elastomer may be present in an amount of from 50 wt.% to 75 wt.%. In any of the aspects, the weight ratio of melamine polyphosphate to aluminum diethyl phosphinate is in the range of 1:5 to 1:2.

[0015] In aspects, the composition may further comprise an antioxidant, a UV package, a chain extender, a coupling agent, and / or a processing aid. The antioxidant may comprise a primary phenolic antioxidant. The UV package may include TiO2 and a hindered amine light stabilizer. The coupling agent may comprise an acid modified α-olefin copolymer or linear triblock copolymer based on styrene and ethylene / butylene.

[0016] In aspects of the disclosure, a composition comprises a thermoplastic polyamide, an aromatic polycarbodiimide, and a flame retardant system. The flame retardant system may be selected from one of the following: (i) melamine polyphosphate and aluminum diethyl phosphinate; and (ii) melamine cyanurate and optionally aluminum trihydrate. The composition may have a tensile strength at break of greater than or equal to 20 MPa when measured in accordance with IEC 60811-501.

[0017] In aspects, the thermoplastic polyamide may comprise a polyether block amide. The aromatic polycarbodiimide may be present in the composition in an amount of from about 0.5 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, or from about 0.5 wt.% to about 2.5 wt.%. The thermoplastic polyamide may be present in the composition in an amount of from about 60 wt.% to about 75 wt.%. The weight ratio of melamine polyphosphate to aluminum diethyl phosphinate may be in the range of 1:5 to 1:2.

[0018] In aspects, the composition may further comprise an antioxidant, a UV package, a chain extender, a coupling agent, and / or a processing aid. The antioxidant may comprise a primary phenolic antioxidant. The UV package may include TiO2and a hindered amine light stabilizer. The coupling agent may comprise an acid modified α-olefin copolymer or linear triblock copolymer based on styrene and ethylene / butylene.

[0019] In another aspect, a composition for a cable comprises from about 60 wt.% to about 75 wt.% of a thermoplastic component based upon the total weight of the composition for a cable, an aromatic polycarbodiimide, and a flame retardant. The thermoplastic component may be selected fromthe group consisting of a polyether block amide and a copolyester thermoplastic elastomer. The flame retardant may comprise at least one of the following: from greater than 0 wt.% to about 12 wt.% of a melamine polyphosphate based upon the total weight of the composition for a cable; from greater than 0 wt.% to about 28 wt.% of an aluminum diethyl phosphinate based upon the total weight of the composition for a cable; from greater than 0 wt.% to about 35 wt.% of a melamine cyanurate based upon the total weight of the composition for a cable; and from greater than 0 wt.% to about 20 wt.% of an aluminum trihydrate based upon the total weight of the composition for a cable.

[0020] In aspects, the composition may further comprise from about 0.1 wt.% to about 1 wt.% of an antioxidant based upon the total weight of the composition, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 4 wt.% of a UV package based upon the total weight of the composition, and / or from about 0.05 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.% of a chain extender based upon the total weight of the composition.

[0021] The composition may have an operating temperature of – 40 °C to 105 °C or – 40 °C to 90 °C as determined according to UL 2556 standard. The composition may have a tensile strength of at least 20 MPa when measured according to IEC 60811-501. In any of the aspects, the composition may have an elongation at break of at least 300% when measured according to IEC 60811-501. The composition may pass a flame test as described by IEC 60332 / 1.

[0022] In various aspects disclosed herein, an electric vehicle charging cable comprises two or more conductors and an outer jacket at least partially surrounding the two or more conductors, wherein the outer jacket comprises the composition for a cable of any of the aspects disclosed herein.

[0023] The electric vehicle charging cable may comprise a first connector device having a first electric contact arrangement coupled to a first end of the electric cable and a second connector device having a second electric contact arrangement coupled to a second end of the electric cable. The electric vehicle charging cable may meet or exceed EVM-1 specification defined in EN 50620 or IEC 62893. In aspects, the electric vehicle charging cable may pass the alternate bending test (EN50396) with greater than or equal to 200,000 cycles.

[0024] The above summary is not an extensive overview of the systems and / or methods discussed herein. It is not intended to identify key / critical elements or to delineate the scope of suchsystems and / or methods. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented in the following paragraphs. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Disclosed herein are compositions including a thermoplastic component, an aromatic polycarbodiimide, and a flame retardant system. The thermoplastic component can include a copolyester thermoplastic elastomer or a thermoplastic polyamide. The flame retardant system can include (i) melamine polyphosphate and aluminum diethyl phosphinate or (ii) a melamine cyanurate component, alone or with aluminum trihydrate. The resulting compositions exhibit good flame retardance and are able to meet the requirements of EN 50620 and IEC 62893 EVM-1, making them suitable for use in electrical vehicle charging applications. Other advantages are possible and contemplated and may be realized based on the following disclosure.

[0026] The terminology as set forth herein is for description of the various aspects only and should not be construed as limiting the disclosure as a whole. All references to singular characteristics or limitations of the present disclosure shall include the corresponding plural characteristic or limitation, and vice versa, unless otherwise specified or clearly implied to the contrary by the context in which the reference is made. Unless specified otherwise, “a,” “an,” “the,” and “at least one” are used interchangeably. Furthermore, as used in the description and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are inclusive of their plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0027] Unless otherwise expressly defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art.

[0028] Unless otherwise expressly stated, it not intended that any method disclosed herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order, nor that any article set forth herein be construed as requiring specific orders or orientations to its individual components.

[0029] To the extent that the term “includes” or “including” is used in the description or the claims, it is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as that term is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “or” is employed (e.g., A or B) it is intended to mean “A or B or both.” When the applicants intendto indicate “only A or B but not both” then the term “only A or B but not both” will be employed. Thus, use of the term “or” herein is the inclusive, and not the exclusive use.

[0030] Any composition described in the present disclosure can comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of the essential elements of the disclosure as described herein, as well as any additional or optional element described herein, or which is otherwise useful in rotational molding applications.

[0031] All percentages, parts, and ratios as used herein are by weight of the total blend on a “dry” basis, i.e., without solvents, unless otherwise specified.

[0032] All ranges and parameters, including but not limited to percentages, parts, and ratios, disclosed herein are understood to encompass any and all sub-ranges assumed and subsumed therein, and every number between the endpoints. For example, a stated range of “1 to 10” should be considered to include any and all sub-ranges beginning with a minimum value of 1 or more and ending with a maximum value of 10 or less (e.g., 1 to 6.1, or 2.3 to 9.4), and to each integer (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10) contained within the range. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and / or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiments includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by the use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

[0033] The term “wt.%,” as described herein, refers to the weight fraction of the individual component based on a total weight of the thermoplastic layer composition, unless otherwise noted.

[0034] Additionally, as used herein, the term “exemplary” is intended to mean serving as an illustration or example of something, and is not intended to indicate a preference.

[0035] In various aspects provided herein, a polymer composition is disclosed that includes a thermoplastic component, an aromatic polycarbodiimide, and a flame retardant system. In any of the aspects described herein, the thermoplastic component includes a copolyester thermoplastic elastomer or a thermoplastic polyamide. The composition may exhibit a tensile strength at break of greater than or equal to 20 MPa when measured in accordance with IEC 60811-401. Cables including a jacketmade from the composition may meet the requirements for electric vehicle charging cables. Other advantages may be realized, depending on the particular aspects, which will now be described in greater detail. Thermoplastic Component

[0036] The thermoplastic component can provide the elastomeric properties of thermoset polymers while also exhibiting improved processability. In any of the aspects provided herein, the thermoplastic component can be a copolyester (COPE) thermoplastic elastomer, a thermoplastic polyamide, or combinations thereof. In any aspect described herein, the thermoplastic polyamide may be, for example, a polyether block amide (PEBA).

[0037] Any COPE thermoplastic elastomer can be employed in aspects of the disclosure. In any of the aspects, the thermoplastic component may include a copolyester-ether (COPE-E). The use of COPE-E in the polymer composition can provide a high flexural modulus, a high stress at break, and good tear strength of the resulting composition while maintaining a moderate melting point that enables the material to be processed according to conventional methods. Other COPE thermoplastic elastomers can be selected depending on the particular properties of the resulting cable to be achieved.

[0038] Suitable commercially available COPE thermoplastic elastomers include, by way of example and not limitation, products marketed under the tradenames HYTREL®, including HYTREL® 3078 and HYTREL® 4056 (available from DuPont), SKYPELTM, including SKYPELTMG, L, and P type formulations (available from SK Chemicals), SIPOLPRENE® (available from Sipol), and KEYFLEX® (available from LG Chemicals).

[0039] When included in the polymer composition, the COPE thermoplastic elastomer may be present in an amount of from about 50 wt.% to about 75 wt.%, based on a total weight of the polymer composition. For example, the COPE thermoplastic elastomer can be included in an amount of from about 50 wt.% to about 75 wt.%, from about 55 wt.% to about 75 wt.%, from about 60 wt.% to about 75 wt.%, from about 65 wt.% to about 75 wt.%, from about 70 wt.% to about 75 wt.%, from about 50 wt.% to about 70 wt.%, from about 55 wt.% to about 70 wt.%, from about 60 wt.% to about 70 wt.%, from about 65 wt.% to about 70 wt.%, from about 50 wt.% to about 65 wt.%, from about 55 wt.% toabout 65 wt.%, from about 60 wt.% to about 65 wt.%, from about 50 wt.% to about 60 wt.%, or from about 55 wt.% to about 60 wt.%, including any and all ranges and subranges included therein.

[0040] As described above, the thermoplastic component can, in some aspects, include a thermoplastic polyamide. The thermoplastic polyamide may be, by way of example and not limitation, a polyether block amide. In general, the polyether block amide is a block copolymer containing a hard segment of polyamide and a soft segment of polyether. Non-limiting examples of commercially available polyether block amide include materials sold under the trade names PEBAX®, including PEBAX® 5533 (available from Arkema) and VESTAMID® (available from Evonik).

[0041] When included in the polymer composition, the thermoplastic polyamide may be present in an amount of from about 50 wt.% to about 75 wt.%, based on a total weight of the polymer composition. For example, the thermoplastic polyamide can be included in an amount of from about 50 wt.% to about 75 wt.%, from about 55 wt.% to about 75 wt.%, from about 60 wt.% to about 75 wt.%, from about 65 wt.% to about 75 wt.%, from about 70 wt.% to about 75 wt.%, from about 50 wt.% to about 70 wt.%, from about 55 wt.% to about 70 wt.%, from about 60 wt.% to about 70 wt.%, from about 65 wt.% to about 70 wt.%, from about 50 wt.% to about 65 wt.%, from about 55 wt.% to about 65 wt.%, from about 60 wt.% to about 65 wt.%, from about 50 wt.% to about 60 wt.%, or from about 55 wt.% to about 60 wt.%, including any and all ranges and subranges included therein. Aromatic Polycarbodiimide

[0042] The polymer composition may further include an aromatic polycarbodiimide in any of the aspects provided herein. As will be described in the examples, the aromatic polycarbodiimide can provide an increased tensile strength at break as compared to an otherwise identical polymer composition not including the aromatic polycarbodiimide.

[0043] In any of the aspects herein, the aromatic polycarbodiimide may be of the following formula (I):in which R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, and R6are independently selected from the group consisting of C1-C20- alkyl, C3-C20-cylcoalkyl, C6-C15-aryl and C7-C15-aralkyl, R7is C1-C18-alkylene, C5-C18-cycloalkylene, alkyl-substituted arylene and / or C7-C18-aralkylene, and n is an integer between 1 and 50.

[0044] Non-limiting examples of commercially available aromatic polycarbodiimides include those sold under the trade names STABAXOL® P and RHENOGRAN® PCD-50 (both available from Lanxess).

[0045] In various aspects provided herein, the amount of aromatic polycarbodiimide may depend on the number of acid end groups and the humidity content of the polymers included in the polymer composition. The aromatic polycarbodiimide can be included in an amount of from about 0.5 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, based on a total weight of the polymer composition. For example, the aromatic polycarbodiimide can be included in an amount of from about 0.5 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 1.0 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 1.5 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 2.0 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 2.5 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 5.0 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 7.5 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 7.5 wt.%, from about 1.0 wt.% to about 7.5 wt.%, from about 1.5 wt.% to about 7.5 wt.%, from about 2.0 wt.% to about 7.5 wt.%, from about 2.5 wt.% to about 7.5 wt.%, from about 5.0 wt.% to about 7.5 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 5.0 wt.%, from about 1.0 wt.% to about 5.0 wt.%, from about 1.5 wt.% to about 5.0 wt.%, from about 2.0 wt.% to about 5.0 wt.%, from about 2.5 wt.% to about 5.0 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 2.5 wt.%, from about 1.0 wt.% to about 2.5 wt.%, from about 1.5 wt.% to about 2.5 wt.%, or from about 2.0 wt.% to about 2.5 wt.%, including any and all ranges and subranges included therein.Flame Retardant System

[0046] The polymer composition further includes a flame retardant system. The flame retardant system provides flame-resistant properties to the polymer composition and the articles made therefrom (e.g., cables). In aspects, the polymer composition achieves the UL 62 VW-1 flame test, the FT-2 flame test, the FV-1 flame test, and the IEC 60332-1 flame test. Additionally, in various aspects, the flame retardant system does not include a halogen (e.g., is halogen-free). As used herein, the phrases “do not include a halogen” and “halogen-free” mean that there is no intention to include any halogen moieties in any of the ingredients.

[0047] In accordance with various aspects, the flame retardant system may include a combination of organo-phosphinates and melamine polyphosphate as flame retardants. Organic phosphates can optionally be added to modify the hardness and viscosity of the polymer composition.

[0048] The organo-phosphinate, in any of the aspects herein, can be based on aluminum diethyl-phosphinate. Commercially available examples of organo-phosphinates that are suitable for use include those sold under the trade name EXOLIT® OP, including EXOLIT® OP 1230 and 1311 (available from Clariant GmbH).

[0049] The organo-phosphinate, when included in the polymer composition, may be present in an amount of from greater than 0 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, based on the total weight of the polymer composition. For example, the organo-phosphinate may be included in the polymer composition in an amount of from greater than 0 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 5 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 7.5 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 10 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 12.5 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 15 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 18 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 20 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 25 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 28 wt.%, from about 5 wt.% to about 28 wt.%, from about 7.5 wt.% to about 28 wt.%, from about 10 wt.% to about 28 wt.%, from about 12.5 wt.% to about 28 wt.%, from about 15 wt.% to about 28 wt.%, from about 18 wt.% to about 28 wt.%, from about 20 wt.% to about 28 wt.%, from about 25 wt.% to about 28 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 5 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 7.5 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 10 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 12.5 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 15 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 18 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 20 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 22 wt.%, from about 5 wt.%to about 22 wt.%, from about 7.5 wt.% to about 22 wt.%, from about 10 wt.% to about 22 wt.%, from about 12.5 wt.% to about 22 wt.%, from about 15 wt.% to about 22 wt.%, from about 18 wt.% to about 22 wt.%, from about 20 wt.% to about 22 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 5 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 7.5 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 10 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 12.5 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 15 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, or from about 18 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, including any and all ranges and subranges included therein. However, it is contemplated that, in some aspects, the polymer composition does not include the organo- phosphinate.

[0050] In any of the aspects that include the organo-phosphinate, the flame retardant system may further include a melamine polyphosphate. In aspects, the melamine polyphosphate may decompose endothermically above 350 °C, acting as a heat sink to cool the polymer composition. Moreover, the released phosphoric acid may further react with the thermoplastic component to form a char and inhibit the release of free radical gasses into the oxygen phase. The nitrogen released from the degradation of the melamine may also intumesce the char to further protect the thermoplastic component. Commercially available examples of melamine polyphosphate that are suitable for use include those sold under the trade name MELAPUR®, including MELAPUR® 200 (available from BASF), AFLAMMIT®, including AFLAMMIT® PMN 200 (available from Thor), and BUDIT®, including BUDIT® 341 (available from Budenheim).

[0051] The melamine polyphosphate, when included in the polymer composition, may be present in an amount of from greater than 0 wt.% to about 12 wt.%, based on the total weight of the polymer composition. For example, the melamine polyphosphate may be included in the polymer composition in an amount of from greater than 0 wt.% to about 12 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 12 wt.%, from about 3 wt.% to about 12 wt.%, from about 6 wt.% to about 12 wt.%, from about 8 wt.% to about 12 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 11 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 11 wt.%, from about 3 wt.% to about 11 wt.%, from about 6 wt.% to about 11 wt.%, from about 8 wt.% to about 11 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 3 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 6 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 8 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 9 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 9 wt.%, from about 3 wt.% to about 9 wt.%, from about 6 wt.% to about 9 wt.%, from about 8 wt.% to about 9 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 8 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 8 wt.%, from about 3 wt.% to about8 wt.%, or from about 6 wt.% to about 8 wt.%, including any and all ranges and subranges included therein. However, it is contemplated that, in some aspects, the polymer composition does not include the melamine polyphosphate.

[0052] In aspects provided herein, the flame retardant system includes melamine polyphosphate and aluminum diethyl phosphinate in a weight ratio of melamine polyphosphate to aluminum diethyl phosphinate in a range of 1:5 to 1:2. For example, the flame retardant system may include melamine polyphosphate and aluminum diethyl phosphinate in a weight ratio of melamine polyphosphate to aluminum diethyl phosphinate in a range of 1:5 to 1:2, 1:4 to 1:2, 1:3 to 1:2, 1:5 to 1:3, 1:4 to 1:3, or 1:5 to 1:4. In any of the aspects disclosed herein, the inclusion of melamine polyphosphate and aluminum diethyl phosphinate can enable good fire performance while not impacting smoke pH or conductivity. More particularly, the use of aluminum diethyl phosphinate can enable the amount of melamine polyphosphate to be reduced while maintaining adequate flame retardance as compared to a flame retardant system including melamine polyphosphate alone.

[0053] The flame retardant system of any of the aspects provided herein can include a melamine cyanurate component. As a flame retardant, melamine cyanurate may interfere all three of the main supports for combustion (e.g., heat, fuel, and oxygen), whereas most other flame retardants act against only one of the three. In aspects, the melamine cyanurate may have a pH of from about 4 to about 8, from about 4 to about 7.5, from about 4 to about 7, from about 4 to about 6.5, from about 4 to about 6, from about 4.5 to about 8, from about 4.5 to about 7.5, from about 4.5 to about 7, from about 4.5 to about 6.5, from about 4.5 to about 6, from about 5 to about 8, from about 5 to about 7.5, from about 5 to about 7, from about 5 to about 6.5, or from about 5 to about 6, including any and all ranges and subranges included therein.

[0054] Commercially available examples of melamine cyanurates that are suitable for use include those sold under the trade name AFLAMMIT®, including AFLAMMIT® PMN 525 (available from Thor), MELAPUR®, including MELAPUR® MC (available from BASF), MELAGARD®, including MELAGARD® MC (available from Italmatch Chemicals), and BUDIT®, including BUDIT® 315 (available from Budenheim).

[0055] The melamine cyanurate, when included in the polymer composition, may be present in an amount of from greater than 0 wt.% to about 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the polymercomposition. In the aspects in which the polymer composition will be used for cable applications, the amount of melamine cyanurate should be limited to prevent the conductivity of the polymer composition from increasing. For example, the melamine cyanurate may be included in the polymer composition in an amount of from greater than 0 wt.% to about 35 wt.%, from about 5 wt.% to about 35 wt.%, from about 7.5 wt.% to about 35 wt.%, from about 10 wt.% to about 35 wt.%, from about 12.5 wt.% to about 35 wt.%, from about 15 wt.% to about 35 wt.%, from about 18 wt.% to about 35 wt.%, from about 20 wt.% to about 35 wt.%, from about 25 wt.% to about 35 wt.%, from about 30 wt.% to about 35 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 5 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 7.5 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 10 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 12.5 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 15 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 18 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 20 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 25 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 28 wt.%, from about 5 wt.% to about 28 wt.%, from about 7.5 wt.% to about 28 wt.%, from about 10 wt.% to about 28 wt.%, from about 12.5 wt.% to about 28 wt.%, from about 15 wt.% to about 28 wt.%, from about 18 wt.% to about 28 wt.%, from about 20 wt.% to about 28 wt.%, from about 25 wt.% to about 28 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 5 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 7.5 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 10 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 12.5 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 15 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 18 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 20 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 22 wt.%, from about 5 wt.% to about 22 wt.%, from about 7.5 wt.% to about 22 wt.%, from about 10 wt.% to about 22 wt.%, from about 12.5 wt.% to about 22 wt.%, from about 15 wt.% to about 22 wt.%, from about 18 wt.% to about 22 wt.%, from about 20 wt.% to about 22 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 5 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 7.5 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 10 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 12.5 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 15 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, or from about 18 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, including any and all ranges and subranges included therein. However, it is contemplated that, in some aspects, the polymer composition does not include the melamine cyanurate.

[0056] In aspects in which the flame retardant system includes melamine cyanurate, the melamine cyanurate may be included alone or with aluminum trihydrate or magnesium dihydroxide. Under heat, aluminum trihydrate and magnesium dihydroxide decompose into a metal oxide (e.g., aluminum dioxide) and water, absorbing heat, releasing vapor, and building solid residues that can form a barrier against oxygen and heat.

[0057] Commercially available examples of aluminum trihydrate that are suitable for use include those sold under the trade names APYRAL® 40CD (available from Nabaltec), MARTINAL® OL104 LEO (available from Huber Engineered Materials), and ALOLTTM60DLS (available from Inotal). Commercially available examples of magnesium dihydroxide that are suitable for use include those sold under the trade names MAGNIFIN® H5, MAGNIFIN® H7, and MAGNIFIN® H10 (all available from Huber Engineered Materials).

[0058] The aluminum trihydrate or magnesium dihydroxide, when included in the polymer composition, may be present in an amount of from greater than 0 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, based on the total weight of the polymer composition. For example, the aluminum trihydrate or magnesium dihydroxide may be included in the polymer composition in an amount of from greater than 0 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 5 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 7.5 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 10 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 12.5 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 15 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 18 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 18 wt.%, from about 5 wt.% to about 18 wt.%, from about 7.5 wt.% to about 18 wt.%, from about 10 wt.% to about 18 wt.%, from about 12.5 wt.% to about 18 wt.%, from about 15 wt.% to about 18 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 5 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 7.5 wt.% to about 158 wt.%, from about 10 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 12.5 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 12.5 wt.%, from about 5 wt.% to about 12.5 wt.%, from about 7.5 wt.% to about 12.5 wt.%, from about 10 wt.% to about 12.5 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 5 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 7.5 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 7.5 wt.%, or from about 5 wt.% to about 7.5 wt.%, including any and all ranges and subranges included therein. However, it is contemplated that, in some aspects, the polymer composition does not include the aluminum trihydrate or magnesium dihydroxide.

[0059] The flame retardant system of any of the aspects provided herein can include an organically modified montmorillonite (OMMT) component. As a flame retardant, OMMT may form a dense barrier carbon layer on the surface, which reduces the combustion heat on unburned sections and may further improve the drip resistance of the composition. In various aspects, the flame retardant may include OMMT and melamine cyanurate.

[0060] Commercially available examples of OMMT that are suitable for use include those sold under the trade name DELLITE® (available from Laviosa Chimica Mineraria) and CLOISITE® (available from BYK).

[0061] The OMMT, when included in the polymer composition, may be present in an amount of from greater than 0 wt.% to about 12 wt.%, based on the total weight of the polymer composition. For example, the OMMT may be included in the polymer composition in an amount of from greater than 0 wt.% to about 12 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 12 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 12 wt.%, from about 1.5 wt.% to about 12 wt.%, from about 2 wt.% to about 12 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 1.5 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 2 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 8 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 8 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 8 wt.%, from about 1.5 wt.% to about 8 wt.%, from about 2 wt.% to about 8 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 6 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 6 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 6 wt.%, from about 1.5 wt.% to about 6 wt.%, from about 2 wt.% to about 6 wt.%, from greater than 0 wt.% to about 4 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 4 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 4 wt.%, or from about 1.5 wt.% to about 4 wt.%, including any and all ranges and subranges included therein. However, it is contemplated that, in some aspects, the polymer composition does not include the OMMT. Other Additives

[0062] In any of the aspects described herein, in addition to the components described hereinabove, one or more additives can be incorporated into the composition. Additives can include, by way of example and not limitation, stabilizers, anti-oxidants, coupling agents, chain extenders, UV packages, processing aids, pigments and / or dyes, and any other additive known and used in the art. Those skilled in the art of thermoplastics compounding, without undue experimentation, can select suitable additives from available references, for example, E. W. Flick, “Plastics Additives Database,” Plastics Design Library (Elsevier 2004).

[0063] In aspects of the present disclosure, the composition may include an anti-oxidant in the form of a primary phenolic antioxidant. The composition may additionally or alternatively include a UV package comprising an oligomeric hindered amine light stabilizer (HALS) and titanium dioxide.

[0064] The composition may optionally include a coupling agent. Suitable coupling agents include, by way of example and not limitation, acid-modified α-olefin copolymers and linear triblock copolymers based on styrene and ethylene / butylene. In some aspects, the coupling agent comprises maleic anhydride modified styrene-ethylene-butadiene-styrene (SEBS-MAH). In aspects of the disclosure, an acid-modified α-olefin copolymer may be included as a coupling agent where the composition also includes a thermoplastic copolyester ether, and SEBS-MAH may be included as a coupling agent where the composition also includes a polyether block amide.

[0065] Optionally, in aspects of the disclosure, the composition may further include a chain extender. In some aspects, the chain extender may be a multifunctional epoxy chain extender, although other chain extenders are contemplated and possible.

[0066] In any of the aspects disclosed herein, one or more additives can be included in the composition to selectively modify the mechanical properties of the composition, including, for example, the tensile strength, elongation at break, and flexibility of the composition. The additives may each be included in an amount of from about 0 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 0 wt.% to about 8 wt.%, or from about 0 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the composition. Properties and Articles

[0067] As described hereinabove, in various aspects, the composition can be prepared in batch or continuous processes. For example, in a batch process, each of the component is added to an internal mixer (e.g., a Brabender mixer). The temperature of the mixer is set to allow the thermoplastic component to melt and to allow dispersion of the ingredients. The various components are mixed for a time sufficient to allow a good dispersion while avoiding potential degradation of the components. Following blending, the composition may be removed from the mixer and rolled (such as by using a roll mill) to obtain a sheet that is cut and pelletized for extrusion or molding applications.

[0068] In a continuous process, a Buss Cokneader (B70) may be used to mix the ingredients at a temperature that allows the thermoplastic component to melt and allow dispersion of the ingredients. In some aspects, an underwater gala cutting system may be used to obtain pellets, which are then direct and collected for extrusion or molding applications.

[0069] In various aspects, an installed cable including the resultant composition as a jacket, has a rated operating temperature of from about -40 °C to about 105 °C, as determined according to the UL 2556 (2007) standard. For example, the resultant composition may have a rated operating temperature of from about -40 °C to 90 °C, as determined according to the UL 2556 (2007) standard.

[0070] In any of the aspects herein, the resultant composition may exhibit a tensile strength at break of greater than or equal to 20 MPa, when measured in accordance with IEC 60811-401. For example, the resultant composition may exhibit a tensile strength at break of greater than or equal to 20 MPa, greater than or equal to 22 MPa, greater than or equal to 25 MPa, greater than or equal to 30 MPa, greater than or equal to 35 MPa, or greater than or equal to 40 MPa.

[0071] In aspects, the resultant composition may further exhibit a tear strength of greater than 25 kN / m, when measured in accordance with EN 50396, 10.2. For example, the resultant composition may exhibit a tear resistance of greater than 25 kN / m, greater than 30 kN / m, greater than 40 kN / m, greater than 50 kN / m, greater than 60 kN / m, greater than 62 kN / m, greater than 65 kN / m, greater than 70 kN / m, greater than 75 kN / m, or even greater than 80 kN / m.

[0072] The resultant composition, in various aspects, exhibits an elongation at break of at least 300%, when measured according to IEC 60811-501. For example, the resultant composition may exhibit an elongation at break of at least 300%, at least 325%, at least 350%, at least 375%, at least 400%, at least 425%, at least 450%, at least 475%, at least 500%, at least 525%, at least 550%, at least 575%, at least 600%, at least 625%, at least 650%, or at least 675%.

[0073] As a result of these and other properties, the resultant composition may be particularly well suited for incorporation in a cable, such as an electric vehicle (EV) charging cable. An EV charging cable comprises two or more conductors and an outer jacket at least partially surrounding the two or more conductors. In various aspects, the outer jacket comprises the composition described herein. In some aspects, the EV charging cable may further comprise a first connector device having a first electric contact arrangement coupled to a first end of the electric cable and a second connector device having a second electric contact arrangement coupled to a second end of the electric cable.

[0074] In aspects, the EV charging cable meets or exceeds the EVM-1 specification defined in EN 50620 or IEC 62893. In any of the aspects described herein, the EV charging cable passes the alternate bending test (EN50396) with greater than or equal to 200,000 cycles.

[0075] In aspects of the disclosure, the EV charging cable also passes the flame tests on cable prototypes as described by IEC 60332 / 1, VW1, FT1, and FV1 (UL 1581).

[0076] The general inventive concepts have been described above both generally and with regard to various specific aspects. Although the general inventive concepts have been set forth in what are believed to be exemplary illustrative aspects, a wide variety of alternatives will be apparent to those of skill in the art from reading this disclosure. The general inventive concepts are not otherwise limited, except for those instances when presented in specific claims. EXAMPLES

[0077] The following examples are included for the purposes of illustration, and do not limit the scope of the general inventive concepts described herein.

[0078] In the following examples, the materials used are provided in Table 1.

[0079] Table 1: Material Function Supplier IRGANOX® 1010 primary phenolic antioxidant BASF sPEBAX® 5533 SA 01 Polyether block amide Arkema

[0080] Two formulations (Formulas A and B) were prepared using COPE as the thermoplastic component and using a flame retardant system including aluminum diethyl-phosphinate and melamine polyphosphate. The formulations are provided in Table 2 below, with all values being in weight percentage based on a total weight of the formulation. The formulations were prepared by blending the ingredients in a Buss Cokneader (B70) at a temperature that allowed the thermoplastic component to melt and allow dispersion of the ingredients. Table 2: Formula A Formula B

[0081] Formulas A and B were used as jackets on prototype cables including three 1.5 mm2insulated conductors, and various tests were performed according to UL 2263, EN 50620, and IEC 62893. The results, test methods, and UL 2263 standard are provided in Table 3 below. The results, test methods, and EN 50620 and IEC62893 standard are provided in Table 4 below. Table 3: Test Standard UL 2263 Formula A Formula B Mechanical Properties Tensile Strength UL 2556) )Table 4: Test Standard EN 50620 IEC 62893 Formula A Formula B) ) %) )

[0082] As shown in Table 3, when characterized according to UL 2263, Formula A complied with all requirements, while Formula B failed the variation tensile strength after thermal aging 168 hours (7 days) at 136 °C. Formula A also complied with all requirements of EN 50620 and IEC 62893 (Table 4) and Formula B fulfilled the requirements up to 90 °C operating temperature. Both formulas also passed the UL flame tests (Table 3).

[0083] Additional work was done to determine the importance of various additives to the formulations, as well as to test alternative flame retardant systems. Accordingly, Formulas C-G were prepared according to the formulations provided in Table 5 below. Each of Formulas C-G included a flame retardant system including a melamine cyanurate and OMMT. The formulas were prepared as described above. Table 5: Formula C Formula D Formula E Formula F Formula G IRGANOX® 1010 04 04 04 04 04

[0084] Formulas C-G were used as jackets on prototype cables including three 1.5 mm2conductors, and various tests were performed according to EN 50620 and IEC 62893. The results are provided in Table 6 below. The test methods and EN 50620 and IEC62893 standards are provided in Table 4 above.Table 6: la

[0085] As shown in Table 6, removing the coupling agent (here, the acid modified α-olefin copolymer) increased the tensile strength and the cold elongation at break at -40 °C (comparing Formula D and Formula C). However, removing the aromatic polycarbodiimide decreased the tensile strength from 23.1 MPa (Formula C) to 19.9 MPa (Formula E). As a result, Formula E does not meet the specification. The removal of both the aromatic polycarbodiimide and the chain extender (Formula G) also resulted in a decrease in the tensile strength of the composition to 19.6 MPa. Although the tensile strength of Formula G does not meet the specification, the tear resistance of Formula G was also reduced, but remained in specification. Interestingly, the tear resistance of Formula G was decreased, whereas both Formula E (removal of the aromatic polycarbodiimide alone) and Formula F (removal of the chain extender alone) exhibited increased tear resistance as compared to Formula C.

[0086] Although various other tests were conducted using Formulas C-G, it was determined that the flame retardant system did not provide sufficient flame retardant properties, and impacted the smoke conductivity. Accordingly, additional work was done to determine whether the additiveexhibited the same impact on formulas with a different flame retardant system. Formulas H-K were prepared according to the formulations provided in Table 7 below. Each of Formulas H-K were based on Formula A. Formula A is reproduced in Table 7 for convenience. The formulas were prepared as described above. Table 7: Formula A Formula H Formula I Formula J Formula K

[0087] Formulas H-K were used as jackets on prototype cables including three 1.5 mm2conductors, and various tests were performed according to EN 50620 and IEC 62893. The results, along with the results for Formula A reported above, are provided in Table 8 below. The test methods and EN 50620 and IEC62893 standards are provided in Table 4 above. Table 8: Formula Formula Formula Formula Formula A H I J K

[0088] As shown in Table 8, removing the coupling agent increases the tensile strength and cold elongation at break at -40 °C (comparing Formula H and Formula A). Additionally, removing the aromatic polycarbodiimide decreased the tensile strength from 23.3 MPa (Formula A) to 16.7 MPa (Formula I). As a result, Formula I does not meet the specification. The removal of both the aromatic polycarbodiimide and the chain extender (Formula K) also resulted in a decrease in the tensile strength of the composition to 15.6 MPa. As compared to Formulas C-G, the flame retardant system in Formulas A, B, and H-K enabled good flame retardant properties without affecting smoke pH and conductivity.

[0089] In an effort to demonstrate the suitability of a polyether block amide as the thermoplastic component in the formulation, Formulas L and M were prepared according to the formulations provided in Table 9 below. The formulas were prepared as described above. Table 9: Formula L Formula M

[0090] Formulas L and M were used as jackets on prototype cables including three 1.5 mm2insulated conductors, and various tests were performed according to EN 50620 and IEC 62893. The results are provided in Table 10 below. The test methods and EN 50620 and IEC62893 standards are provided in Table 4 above. Table 10: Formula Formula L M

[0091] As shown in Table 10, removing the coupling agent increases the tensile strength. However, the compositions did not meet the specification for conductivity, which could be a result of the flame retardant system employed, particularly in view of the results provided in Table 6 above. Nevertheless, the use of the polyether block amide as the thermoplastic component appeared to meet other specifications, including mechanical properties.

[0092] Every document cited herein is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety unless otherwise specified. The citation of any document is not to be construed as an admission that it is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed herein. To the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

[0093] It will be apparent that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the disclosure defined in the appended claims. More specifically, although some aspects of the present disclosure are identified herein as preferred or particularly advantageous, it is contemplated that the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to these aspects.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A composition for a cable comprising: a thermoplastic component; an aromatic polycarbodiimide; and a flame retardant system, the flame retardant system selected from one of the following: (i) melamine polyphosphate and aluminum diethyl phosphinate; and (ii) a melamine cyanurate component, and, optionally aluminum trihydrate.

2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the thermoplastic component comprises a polyether block amide.

3. The composition of claim 1, wherein the thermoplastic component comprises a copolyester thermoplastic elastomer.

4. The composition of any of claims 1-3, further comprising an antioxidant.

5. The composition of claim 4, wherein the antioxidant comprises a primary phenolic antioxidant.

6. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a UV package.

7. The composition of claim 6, wherein the UV package includes TiO2 and a hindered amine light stabilizer.

8. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flame retardant system is melamine polyphosphate and aluminum diethyl phosphinate.

9. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a chain extender.

10. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a coupling agent.

11. The composition of claim 10, wherein the coupling agent comprises an acid modified α- olefin copolymer or linear triblock copolymer based on styrene and ethylene / butylene.

12. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the thermoplastic component is present in an amount of from 50 wt.% to 75 wt.%.

13. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a processing aid.

14. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition has an operating temperature of - 40°C to 105 °C as determined according to the UL 2556 standard.

15. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition has an operating temperature of - 40°C to 90 °C as determined according to the UL 2556 standard.

16. A composition comprising: a copolyester thermoplastic elastomer; an aromatic polycarbodiimide; and a flame retardant system selected from one of the following: (i) melamine polyphosphate and aluminum diethyl phosphinate; and (ii) melamine cyanurate and optionally aluminum trihydrate; wherein the composition has a tensile strength at break of greater than or equal to 20 MPa when measured in accordance with IEC 60811-401.

17. The composition of claim 16, wherein the copolyester thermoplastic elastomer has a tear strength of greater than 60 kN / m when measured in accordance with EN 50396, 10.

2.

18. The composition of claim 16 or claim 17, wherein the aromatic polycarbodiimide is present in the composition in an amount of from about 0.5 wt.% to about 10 wt.%.

19. The composition of any one of claims 16-18, wherein the aromatic polycarbodiimide is present in the composition in an amount of from about 0.5 wt.% to about 2.5 wt.%.

20. The composition of any one of claims 16-19, wherein the copolyester thermoplastic elastomer is present in an amount of from 50 wt.% to 75 wt.%.

21. The composition of any one of claims 16-20, wherein the weight ratio of melamine polyphosphate to aluminum diethyl phosphinate is in the range of 1:5 to 1:2.

22. The composition of any one of claims 16-21, further comprising an antioxidant.

23. The composition of claim 22, wherein the antioxidant comprises a primary phenolic antioxidant.

24. The composition of any one of claims 16-23, further comprising a UV package.

25. The composition of claim 24, wherein the UV package includes TiO2 and a hindered amine light stabilizer.

26. The composition of any one of claims 16-25, further comprising a chain extender.

27. The composition of any one of claims 16-26, further comprising a coupling agent.

28. The composition of claim 27, wherein the coupling agent comprises an acid modified α- olefin copolymer or linear triblock copolymer based on styrene and ethylene / butylene.

29. The composition of any one of claims 16-28, further comprising a processing aid.

30. A composition comprising: a thermoplastic polyamide; an aromatic polycarbodiimide; and a flame retardant system selected from one of the following: (i) melamine polyphosphate and aluminum diethyl phosphinate; and (ii) melamine cyanurate and optionally aluminum trihydrate; wherein the composition has a tensile strength at break of greater than or equal to 20 MPa when measured in accordance with IEC 60811-501.

31. The composition of claim 30, wherein the thermoplastic polyamide comprises a polyether block amide.

32. The composition of claim 30 or claim 31, wherein the aromatic polycarbodiimide is present in the composition in an amount of from about 0.5 wt.% to about 10 wt.%.

33. The composition of any one of claims 30-32, wherein the aromatic polycarbodiimide is present in the composition in an amount of from about 0.5 wt.% to about 2.5 wt.%.

34. The composition of any one of claims 30-33, wherein the thermoplastic polyamide is present in the composition in an amount of from about 60 wt.% to about 75 wt.%.

35. The composition of any one of claims 30-34, wherein the weight ratio of melamine polyphosphate to aluminum diethyl phosphinate is in the range of 1:5 to 1:

2.

36. The composition of any one of claims 30-35, further comprising an antioxidant.

37. The composition of claim 36, wherein the antioxidant comprises a primary phenolic antioxidant.

38. The composition of any one of claims 30-37, further comprising a UV package.

39. The composition of claim 38, wherein the UV package includes TiO2and a hindered amine light stabilizer.

40. The composition of any one of claims 30-39, further comprising a chain extender.

41. The composition of any one of claims 30-40, further comprising a coupling agent.

42. The composition of claim 41, wherein the coupling agent comprises an acid modified α- olefin copolymer or linear triblock copolymer based on styrene and ethylene / butylene.

43. The composition of any one of claims 30-42, further comprising a processing aid.

44. A composition for a cable comprising: from about 60 wt.% to about 75 wt.% of a thermoplastic component based upon the total weight of the composition for a cable, wherein the thermoplastic component is selected from the group consisting of a polyether block amide and a copolyester thermoplastic elastomer; an aromatic polycarbodiimide and a flame retardant comprising at least one of the following: from greater than 0 wt.% to about 12 wt.% of a melamine polyphosphate based upon the total weight of the composition for a cable; and from greater than 0 wt.% to about 28 wt.% of an aluminum diethyl phosphinate based upon the total weight of the composition for a cable;from greater than 0 wt.% to about 35 wt.% of a melamine cyanurate based upon the total weight of the composition for a cable; and from greater than 0 wt.% to about 20 wt.% of an aluminum trihydrate based upon the total weight of the composition for a cable.

45. The composition according to claim 44, further comprising from about 0.1 wt.% to about 1 wt.% of an antioxidant based upon the total weight of the composition.

46. The composition according to claim 44 or claim 45, further comprising from about 0.05 wt.% to about 4 wt.% of a UV package based upon the total weight of the composition.

47. The composition according to any one of claims 44-46, further comprising from about 0.05 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.% of a chain extender based upon the total weight of the composition.

48. The composition according to any one of claims 44-47, where the composition has an operating temperature of – 40 °C to 105 °C as determined according to UL 2556 standard.

49. The composition according to any one of claims 44-48, where the composition has an operating temperature of – 40 °C to 90 °C as determined according to UL 2556 standard.

50. The composition according to any one of claims 44-49, where the composition has a tensile strength of at least 20 MPa when measured according to IEC 60811-501.

51. The composition according to any one of claims 44-50, where the composition has an elongation at break of at least 300% when measured according to IEC 60811-501.

52. The composition of any of the preceding claims, where the composition passes a flame test as described by IEC 60332 / 1.

53. An electric vehicle charging cable comprising: two or more conductors; and an outer jacket at least partially surrounding the two or more conductors, wherein the outer jacket comprises the composition for a cable of any of the preceding claims.

54. The electric vehicle charging cable of claim 53, further comprising a first connector device having a first electric contact arrangement coupled to a first end of the electric cable and a second connector device having a second electric contact arrangement coupled to a second end of the electric cable.

55. The electric vehicle charging cable of claim 53 or claim 54, wherein the electric vehicle charging cable meets or exceeds EVM-1 specification defined in EN 50620 or IEC 62893.

56. The electric vehicle charging cable of any one of claims 53-55, wherein the electric vehicle charging cable passes the alternate bending test (EN50396) with greater than or equal to 200,000 cycles.

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