Phosphite polymer processing aid and process of preparing a thermoplastic polymer composition

Abstract

A process for preparing a thermoplastic polymer composition is disclosed. The process comprises extruding a thermoplastic polymer in a melt extrusion process in the presence of a polymer processing aid comprising a phosphite, such as an aliphatic phosphite, and a polyalkylene glycol polymer to form the thermoplastic polymer composition.

Description

PHOSPHITE POLYMER PROCESSING AID AND PROCESS OF PREPARING A THERMOPLASTIC POLYMER COMPOSITIONCross-Reference to Related Application

[0001] The present application is based on and claims priority to United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 650526, filed on May 22, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.Background of the Disclosure

[0002] Thermoplastic polymer compositions can be utilized in a variety of applications due to their beneficial properties and ability to be tailored by selecting the appropriate thermoplastic polymer and additive packages. For instance, the thermoplastic polymer is blended with additives as part of a finishing process. One such additive is a polymer processing aid which assists in manipulation of the polymer, typically in pellet form, in downstream manufacturing processes, such as extrusion. These polymer processing aids may assist in minimizing melt fracture, which is a mechanically-induced melt flow instability (e.g., typically occurring at the exit of an extrusion die and in conditions of high shear rate) in the polymer. In certain instances, such melt fracture may form due to the inability of a surface of the polymer to keep up with the body of the polymer during melt processing, such as extrusion. The melt fracture may manifest as a rough polymer surface which may persist as the thermoplastic polymer crystallizes. Such melt fracture may adversely affect the properties of a resulting article, distort clarity, and reduce gauge uniformity. The most common polymer processing aids include fluoropolymers. However, in addition to high costs of these materials, they are also being recognized for possible negative environmental impacts.

[0003] As such, a need continues to exist for a polymer processing aid and a process of preparing a thermoplastic polymer composition.Summary of the Disclosure

[0004] In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a process for preparing a thermoplastic polymer composition is disclosed. The process comprises extruding a thermoplastic polymer in a melt extrusion processin the presence of a polymer processing aid comprising an aliphatic phosphite and a polyalkylene glycol polymer to form the thermoplastic polymer composition.

[0005] In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a process for preparing a thermoplastic polymer composition is disclosed. The process comprises extruding a thermoplastic polymer in a melt extrusion process in the presence of a polymer processing aid comprising a phosphite, a hydrolyzed derivative of the phosphite, and a polyalkylene glycol polymer to form the thermoplastic polymer composition.

[0006] Other features and aspects of the present disclosure are set forth in greater detail below.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] Figures 1 A and 1 B illustrate the capillary rheometer test results of certain samples of Example 1 .

[0008] Figures 2A and 2B illustrate the capillary rheometer test results of certain samples of Example 1 .

[0009] Figure 3 includes photographs of polymer strands of Example 2 for visual evaluation of the time to clear.

[0010] Figure 4 provides a graph of pressure versus time of the samples of Example 4.Detailed Description

[0011] It is to be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the present discussion is a description of exemplary embodiments only and is not intended as limiting the broader aspects of the present disclosure.

[0012] Generally speaking, the present disclosure is directed to a method of preparing a thermoplastic polymer composition. For instance, the method includes extruding a thermoplastic polymer in a melt extrusion process in the presence of a polymer processing aid comprising a phosphite and a polyalkylene glycol polymer. In particular, the phosphite may be an aliphatic phosphite. In certain embodiments, the method may include extruding a thermoplastic polymer in a melt extrusion process in the presence of a polymer processing aid comprising a phosphite, a hydrolyzed derivative of the phosphite, and a polyalkylene glycolpolymer to form a thermoplastic polymer composition. The present inventors have discovered that certain additives work well as a polymer processing aid during melt extrusion of the thermoplastic polymer, particularly to minimize and / or eliminate defects, such as melt fracture, in the resulting thermoplastic polymer composition.

[0013] In certain embodiments, the use of a polymer processing aid as disclosed herein during melt extrusion of the thermoplastic polymer into a thermoplastic polymer composition may increase the shear rate at which the melt extrusion process may be operated without melt defects, such as melt fracture, in the thermoplastic polymer composition. For instance, such increase may be by at least 10%, such as at least 15%, such as at least 20%, such as at least 25%, such as at least 30%, such as at least 50%, such as at least 75%, such as at least 100%, such as at least 125%, such as at least 150%, such as at least 200%, such as at least 250%, such as at least 300%, such as at least 350%, such as at least 400%, such as at least 450%, such as at least 500% compared to the shear rate at which defects, such as melt fracture, may occur in the thermoplastic polymer composition in the absence of the polymer processing aid as disclosed herein.

[0014] In addition to benefits related to minimizing melt defects, such as melt fracture, the use of the polymer processing aid as disclosed herein may also have other benefits. For instance, it may assist with the prevention of sticking of the thermoplastic polymer composition as it is being processed through the extruder, particularly through an extruder die. Also, the use of the polymer processing aid as disclosed may also increase the production output, such as of the extruded thermoplastic polymer and / or resulting article made from the extruded thermoplastic polymer.A. Thermoplastic Polymer

[0015] As indicated above, the process utilizes a thermoplastic polymer. The type of thermoplastic polymer is also not necessarily limited by the present disclosure. For instance, the thermoplastic polymer may be a polyamide, a polyarylate, a polyester (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polylactic acid, etc ), a polyimide (e.g., polyimide, polyamide-imide, polyetherimide), a polyoxymethylene, a polyacetal, a polyphenylene oxide, a polyaryletherketone (e.g., polyetheretherketone, polyetherketone), a polysulphone (e.g., polyether sulfone), a polyphenylene sulphide, a polyolefin (e.g., polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene copolymer, propylene copolymer, etc.), a polystyrene, apolyvinyl chloride, a polycarbonate, a polyacrylate (e.g., a polymethacrylate, an acrylate copolymer, a methacrylate copolymer, etc.), etc. as well as combinations thereof.

[0016] In one particular embodiment, the polymer may be a polyolefin or an olefin polymer. The olefin polymer may be a homopolymer, a copolymer, or a mixture thereof. In one embodiment, the olefin polymer may be an olefin homopolymer. In another embodiment, the olefin polymer may be an olefin copolymer.

[0017] The olefin polymer may be an ethylene polymer, a propylene polymer, or a mixture thereof. In one embodiment, the olefin polymer may be an ethylene polymer. For instance, the ethylene polymer may be an ethylene homopolymer in one embodiment. Further, the ethylene polymer may be an ethylene copolymer in one embodiment. In addition, in one embodiment, the olefin polymer may be a propylene polymer. For instance, the propylene polymer may be a propylene homopolymer in one embodiment. Further, the propylene polymer may be a propylene copolymer in one embodiment.

[0018] As indicated, the olefin polymer may be an olefin homopolymer. In this regard, the olefin homopolymer may be of a C2-C10 alpha-olefin, such as ethylene, propylene, 1 -butene, 1 -hexene, 1 -octene, etc. Accordingly, the olefin homopolymer may be polyethylene, polypropylene, or a mixture thereof. In one embodiment, the olefin polymer, such as the olefin homopolymer, may be polyethylene. In another embodiment, the olefin polymer, such as the olefin homopolymer, may be polypropylene.

[0019] As indicated, the olefin polymer may be an olefin copolymer. For instance, the olefin copolymer may be an ethylene copolymer, a propylene copolymer, or a mixture thereof. For an ethylene copolymer, the copolymer may be formed from ethylene and one or more C3-C10 alpha-olefins, such as propylene, 1 -butene, 1 -hexene, 1 -octene, etc. For a propylene copolymer, the copolymer may be formed from propylene and one or more of C2, C4-C10 alpha-olefins, such as ethylene, 1 -butene, 1 -hexene, 1 -octene, etc. Regarding the copolymers, the ethylene or propylene may constitute majority of the monomer units of the respective copolymer while the remaining comonomers may constitute a minority, either individually or collectively, of the monomer units of the respective copolymer.

[0020] Regarding the ethylene copolymer, the ethylene copolymer may be an ethylene / propylene copolymer in one embodiment. In one embodiment, the ethylene copolymer may be formed from ethylene and one or more of 1 -butene, 1- hexene, and 1 -octene. In a further embodiment, the ethylene copolymer may be formed from ethylene and two or more of 1 -butene, 1 -hexene, and 1 -octene. In an even further embodiment, the ethylene copolymer may be formed from ethylene and all three of 1 -butene, 1 -hexene, and 1 -octene.

[0021] Regarding the propylene copolymer, the propylene copolymer may be a propylene / ethylene copolymer in one embodiment. In one embodiment, the propylene copolymer may be formed from propylene and one or more of 1 -butene, 1 -hexene, and 1 -octene. In a further embodiment, the propylene copolymer may be formed from propylene and two or more of 1 -butene, 1 -hexene, and 1 -octene. In an even further embodiment, the propylene copolymer may be formed from propylene and all three of 1 -butene, 1 -hexene, and 1 -octene.

[0022] The copolymers may be synthesized using means generally known in the art. For instance, they may be synthesized using various catalyst chemistries depending on the desired properties of the polymer. As examples, they may be metallocene-catalyzed, Ziegler Natta catalyzed, etc.

[0023] As indicated herein, the olefin polymer may be an ethylene polymer. In this regard, the ethylene polymer may be a linear low-density polyethylene, a low-density polyethylene, a high-density polyethylene, or a mixture thereof. In one embodiment, the ethylene polymer may be a linear low-density polyethylene. In another embodiment, the ethylene polymer may be a low-density polyethylene. In a further embodiment, the ethylene polymer may be a high-density polyethylene.

[0024] The thermoplastic polymer, such as the olefin polymer, may have a particular melt flow rate. For instance, the melt flow rate may range from 0.1 g / 10 min to 50 g / 10 min (190° C., 2.16 k loading). In this regard, the melt flow rate may be 0.1 g / 10 min or more, such as 0.2 g / 10 min or more, such as 0.4 g / 10 min or more, such as 0.6 g / 10 min or more, such as 0.8 g / 10 min or more, such as 1 g / 10 min or more, such as 1 .2 g / 10 min or more, such as 1 .4 g / 10 min or more, such as 1 .6 g / 10 min or more, such as 1 .8 g / 10 min or more, such as 2 g / 10 min or more, such as 2.2 g / 10 min or more, such as 2.4 g / 10 min or more, such as 2.6 g / 10 min or more, such as 2.8 g / 10 min or more, such as 3 g / 10 min or more, such as 3.2 g / 10 min or more, such as 3.4 g / 10 min or more, such as 3.6 g / 10 min or more,such as 3.8 g / 10 min or more, such as 4 g / 10 min or more, such as 4.5 g / 10 min or more, such as 5 g / 10 min or more, such as 6 g / 10 min or more, such as 7 g / 10 min or more, such as 8 g / 10 min or more, such as 9 g / 10 min or more, such as 10 g / 10 min or more. The melt flow rate may be 50 g / 10 min or less, such as 45 g / 10 min or less, such as 40 g / 10 min or less, such as 35 g / 10 min or less, such as 30 g / 10 min or less, such as 25 g / 10 min or less, such as 20 g / 10 min or less, such as 18 g / 10 min or less, such as 16 g / 10 min or less, such as 14 g / 10 min or less, such as 12 g / 10 min or less, such as 10 g / 10 min or less, such as 9 g / 10 min or less, such as 8 g / 10 min or less, such as 7 g / 10 min or less, such as 6 g / 10 min or less, such as 5 g / 10 min or less, such as 4.5 g / 10 min or less, such as 4 g / 10 min or less, such as 3.5 g / 10 min or less, such as 3 g / 10 min or less, such as 2.5 g / 10 min or less, such as 2 g / 10 min or less, such as 1 .5 g / 10 min or less, such as 1 g / 10 min or less.

[0025] The thermoplastic polymer, such as the olefin polymer, may have a particular molecular weight. For instance, the weight average molecular weight, Mw, may be at least about 10,000 g / mol, such as at least about 20,000 g / mol, such as at least about 30,000 g / mol, such as at least about 50,000 g / mol, such as at least about 75,000 g / mol, such as at least about 100,000 g / mol, such as at least about 125,000 g / mol, such as at least about 150,000 g / mol, such as at least about 200,000 g / mol. The weight average molecular weight, Mw, may be about 1 ,500,000 g / mol or less, such as about 1 ,300,000 g / mol or less, such as about 1 ,000,000 g / mol or less, such as about 900,000 g / mol or less, such as about 800,000 g / mol or less, such as about 700,000 g / mol or less, such as about 600,000 g / mol or less, such as about 500,000 g / mol or less, such as about 400,000 g / mol or less, such as about 300,000 g / mol or less, such as about 250,000 g / mol or less, such as about 225,000 g / mol or less, such as about 200,000 g / mol or less, such as about 175,000 g / mol or less, such as about 150,000 g / mol or less, such as about 125,000 g / mol or less, such as about 100,000 g / mol or less, such as about 80,000 g / mol or less, such as about 60,000 g / mol or less, such as about 50,000 g / mol or less. The weight average molecular weight may be determined using means generally known in the art, such as gel permeation chromatography.

[0026] The thermoplastic polymer, such as the olefin polymer, may have a particular number average molecular weight. For instance, the number averagemolecular weight, Mn, may be at least about 10,000 g / mol, such as at least about 20,000 g / mol, such as at least about 30,000 g / mol, such as at least about 50,000 g / mol, such as at least about 75,000 g / mol, such as at least about 100,000 g / mol, such as at least about 125,000 g / mol, such as at least about 150,000 g / mol, such as at least about 200,000 g / mol. The number average molecular weight, Mn, may be about 1 ,500,000 g / mol or less, such as about 1 ,300,000 g / mol or less, such as about 1 ,000,000 g / mol or less, such as about 900,000 g / mol or less, such as about 800,000 g / mol or less, such as about 700,000 g / mol or less, such as about600,000 g / mol or less, such as about 500,000 g / mol or less, such as about400,000 g / mol or less, such as about 300,000 g / mol or less, such as about250,000 g / mol or less, such as about 225,000 g / mol or less, such as about200,000 g / mol or less, such as about 175,000 g / mol or less, such as about150,000 g / mol or less, such as about 125,000 g / mol or less, such as about100,000 g / mol or less, such as about 80,000 g / mol or less, such as about 60,000 g / mol or less, such as about 50,000 g / mol or less. The number average molecular weight may be determined using means generally known in the art, such as gel permeation chromatography.

[0027] The thermoplastic polymer, such as the olefin polymer, may include any combination of thermoplastic polymers, such as the olefin polymers. For instance, the thermoplastic polymer may include two or more thermoplastic polymers, such as two or more olefin polymers, in one embodiment. In another embodiment, the thermoplastic polymer may only include one thermoplastic polymer, such as one olefin polymer.

[0028] The thermoplastic polymer, such as the olefin polymer, may be present in the thermoplastic polymer composition in a particular amount. For instance, the thermoplastic polymer, such as the olefin polymer, may be present in the thermoplastic polymer composition in an amount of about 60 wt.% or more, such as about 65 wt.% or more, such as about 70 wt.% or more, such as about 75 wt.% or more, such as about 80 wt.% or more, such as about 85 wt.% or more, such as about 90 wt.% or more, such as about 95 wt.% or more, such as about 96 wt.% or more, such as about 97 wt.% or more, such as about 98 wt.% or more, such as about 99 wt.% or more, such as about 99.5 wt.% or more, such as about 99.8 wt.% or more based on the weight of the thermoplastic polymer composition. The thermoplastic polymer, such as the olefin polymer, may be present in thethermoplastic polymer composition in an amount of less than 100 wt.%, such as about 99.9 wt.% or less, such as about 99.8 wt.% or less, such as about 99.7 wt.% or less, such as about 99.5 wt.% or less, such as about 99 wt.% or less, such as about 98 wt.% or less, such as about 97 wt.% or less, such as about 96 wt.% or less, such as about 95 wt.% or less, such as about 90 wt.% or less, such as about 85 wt.% or less, such as about 80 wt.% or less, such as about 75 wt.% or less, such as about 70 wt.% or less based on the weight of the thermoplastic polymer composition.

[0029] The thermoplastic polymer, such as the olefin polymer, may be present in the thermoplastic polymer composition in an amount of about 60 wt.% or more, such as about 65 wt.% or more, such as about 70 wt.% or more, such as about 75 wt.% or more, such as about 80 wt.% or more, such as about 85 wt.% or more, such as about 90 wt.% or more, such as about 95 wt.% or more, such as about 96 wt.% or more, such as about 97 wt.% or more, such as about 98 wt.% or more, such as about 99 wt.% or more, such as about 99.5 wt.% or more, such as about 99.8 wt.% or more based on the weight of the thermoplastic polymer, such as the olefin polymer, and the polymer processing aid as disclosed herein. The thermoplastic polymer, such as the olefin polymer, may be present in the thermoplastic polymer composition in an amount of less than 100 wt.%, such as about 99.9 wt.% or less, such as about 99.8 wt.% or less, such as about 99.7 wt.% or less, such as about 99.5 wt.% or less, such as about 99 wt.% or less, such as about 98 wt.% or less, such as about 97 wt.% or less, such as about 96 wt.% or less, such as about 95 wt.% or less, such as about 90 wt.% or less, such as about 85 wt.% or less, such as about 80 wt.% or less, such as about 75 wt.% or less, such as about 70 wt.% or less based on the weight of the thermoplastic polymer, such as the olefin polymer, and the polymer processing aid as disclosed herein. In one embodiment, such aforementioned weight percentages may be based on the thermoplastic polymer, such as the olefin polymer, and all polymer processing aids.B. Polymer Processing Aid

[0030] As indicated herein, the process utilizes a polymer processing aid. For instance, a thermoplastic polymer is extruded in the presence of a polymer processing aid comprising a phosphite, such as an aliphatic phosphite. In certain embodiments, the polymer processing aid may also comprise a hydrolyzedderivative of the phosphite. In this regard, the polymer processing aid may comprise a phosphite in one embodiment. In a further embodiment, the polymer processing aid may comprise a mixture of a phosphite and a hydrolyzed derivative of the phosphite.

[0031] In particular, the present inventors have discovered that certain phosphites work well as a polymer processing aid during melt extrusion of a thermoplastic polymer particularly when utilizing with a polyalkylene glycol polymer. In this regard, the polymer processing aids as disclosed herein may aid in the extrusion of the thermoplastic polymer. In addition to those polymer processing aids, other polymer processing aids may also be utilized.

[0032] As indicated, the present inventors have discovered that the polymer processing aid as disclosed herein, alone or in conjunction with other polymer processing aids, such as a polyalkylene glycol polymer processing aid, work well during melt extrusion of a thermoplastic polymer to minimize and / or eliminate defects.

[0033] In particular, such benefits may be realized without a fluoroelastomer, a fluoropolymer, and / or a perfluorinated alkane compound or derivative thereof. In one embodiment, such process as disclosed herein may be conducted substantially free of a fluoroelastomer, a fluoropolymer, and / or a perfluorinated alkane compound or derivative thereof. In one embodiment, such process may be conducted substantially free of at least two of a fluoroelastomer, a fluoropolymer, and / or a perfluorinated alkane compound or derivative thereof. In a further embodiment, such process may be conducted substantially free of all three of a fluoroelastomer, a fluoropolymer, and a perfluorinated alkane compound or derivative thereof. Accordingly, the resulting thermoplastic polymer composition may also be substantially free with respect to the respective component.

[0034] By “substantially free” it is meant that such component(s) will be present in amounts below that which can improve the melt defect performance of a thermoplastic polymer composition during a melt extrusion process. In certain embodiments, such component(s), individually or in combination, may be present in an amount of 0.2 wt.% or less, such as 0.18 wt.% or less, such as 0.15 wt.% or less, such as 0.13 wt.% or less, such as 0.1 wt.% or less, such as 0.08 wt.% or less, such as 0.06 wt.% or less, such as 0.05 wt.% or less, such as 0.04 wt.% or less, such as 0.03 wt.% or less, such as 0.02 wt.% or less, such as 0.01 wt.% orless, such as 0.005 wt.% or less, such as 0.001 wt.% or less, such as 0.0005 wt.% or less, such as 0.0001 wt.% or less, such as 0.00005 wt.% or less, such as 0.00001 wt.% or less based on the weight of the thermoplastic polymer. In one embodiment, such aforementioned weight percentages may be based on the weight of the thermoplastic polymer composition. With such concentration, in one embodiment, such component(s) may be present in a trace amounts of an impurity well below the amount that would be intentionally included a thermoplastic polymer composition. i. Phosphite Polymer Processing Aid

[0035] The phosphite polymer processing aid includes, but is not limited to, an aliphatic phosphite, an aromatic phosphite, or a mixture thereof. In one embodiment, the phosphite may comprise an aliphatic phosphite. For instance, the aliphatic phosphite may not include any unsaturated carbon bonds. In another embodiment, the phosphite may comprise an aromatic phosphite. For instance, the aromatic phosphite may include at least one unsaturated carbon bond. In a further embodiment, the phosphite may comprise a mixture of an aliphatic phosphite and an aromatic phosphite.

[0036] In certain embodiments, an aliphatic phosphite may be desired over an aromatic phosphite. For instance, the aliphatic phosphite may be relatively flexible for incorporation into the thermoplastic polymer and corresponding composition. In addition, the aliphatic phosphite may be more compatible thereby resulting in a higher solubility in the thermoplastic polymer and corresponding composition compared to the aromatic phosphite. Accordingly, the HSP Distance (or Ra) between the molecule and the thermoplastic polymer as determined using the Hansen Solubility Parameters may be lower when utilizing an aliphatic phosphite compared to an aromatic phosphite. For instance, Ramay be 10 or less, such as 9 or less, such as 8 or less, such as 7.5 or less, such as 7 or less, such as 6.5 or less, such as 6 or less, such as 5.5 or less. Further, from an appearance perspective, use of an aliphatic phosphite may provide a resulting thermoplastic polymer composition with minimal or no bloom due to the compatibility and solubility.

[0037] In general, the polymer processing aids (or phosphite polymer processing aids) include, but are not limited to, distearylpentaerythritol diphosphite (WESTON™ 618 / 618F or WESTON™ 619 / 619F - CAS 3806-34-6); trilaurylphosphite (WESTON™ TLP - CAS 3076-63-9); triisodecyl phosphite (WESTON™ TDP - CAS 25448-25-3); tris(dipropyleneglycol) phosphite (WESTON™ 430 - CAS 36788-39-3); tetraphenyl dipropyleneglycol diphosphite (Doverphos® LGP-11 - CAS 80584-85-6); liquid polymeric phosphite (Doverphos® LGP-12); phosphorous acid, mixed 2,4-bis(1 ,1-dimethylpropyl)phenyl and 4-(1 ,1- dimethylpropyl)phenyl triesters (WESTON™ 705 / 705T - CAS 939402-02-5); triphenyl phosphite (WESTON™ TPP - CAS 101-02-0); tris(4-n- nonylphenyl)phosphite (WESTON™ TNPP - CAS 26523-78-4); poly(dipropylene glycol) phenyl phosphite (WESTON™ DHOP - CAS 80584-86-7); diphenyl isodecyl phosphite, C22H31O3P (WESTON™ DPDP - CAS 26544-23-0); phenyl diisodecyl phosphite (WESTON™ PDDP - CAS 25550-98-5) or a mixture thereof. In certain embodiments, the aids may include a hydrolyzed derivative of any of the phosphites. In this regard, the polymer processing aid may include any of the aforementioned phosphites and / or a hydrolyzed derivative thereof. For the sake of clarity, reference to “phosphite polymer processing aid” herein may refer to the phosphite, the hydrolyzed derivative thereof, or mixture thereof unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0038] The aliphatic phosphites may comprise, but are not limited to, distearylpentaerythritol diphosphite (WESTON™ 618 / 618F or WESTON™ 619 / 619F - CAS 3806-34-6); trilauryl phosphite (WESTON™ TLP - CAS 3076-63- 9); triisodecyl phosphite (WESTON™ TDP - CAS 25448-25-3); tris(dipropyleneglycol) phosphite (WESTON™ 430 - CAS 36788-39-3); tetraphenyl dipropyleneglycol diphosphite (Doverphos® LGP-11 - CAS 80584-85-6); liquid polymeric phosphite (Doverphos® LGP-12); or a mixture thereof. In one embodiment, it may include a hydrolyzed derivative of any of the aforementioned.

[0039] In one embodiment, the phosphite polymer processing aid comprises distearylpentaerythritol diphosphite and / or a hydrolyzed derivative thereof. For instance, the polymer processing aid comprises distearylpentaerythritol diphosphite in one embodiment. In another embodiment, the polymer processing aid comprises a hydrolyzed derivative of distearylpentaerythritol diphosphite. In a further embodiment, the polymer processing aid comprises a mixture of distearylpentaerythritol diphosphite and a hydrolyzed derivative thereof.

[0040] The aromatic phosphite may comprise, but is not limited to, phosphorous acid, mixed 2,4-bis(1 , 1 -dimethylpropyl)phenyl and 4-(1 ,1-dimethylpropyl)phenyl triesters (WESTON™ 705 / 705T - CAS 939402-02-5); triphenyl phosphite (WESTON™ TPP - CAS 101-02-0); tris(4-n- nonylphenyl)phosphite (WESTON™ TNPP - CAS 26523-78-4); poly(dipropylene glycol) phenyl phosphite (WESTON™ DHOP - CAS 80584-86-7); diphenyl isodecyl phosphite, C22H31O3P (WESTON™ DPDP - CAS 26544-23-0); phenyl diisodecyl phosphite (WESTON™ PDDP - CAS 25550-98-5); or a mixture thereof. In one embodiment, it may include a hydrolyzed derivative of any of the aforementioned.

[0041] In one embodiment, the phosphite polymer processing aid comprises phosphorous acid, mixed 2,4-bis(1 ,1-dimethylpropyl)phenyl and 4-(1 ,1- dimethylpropyl)phenyl triesters (WESTON™ 705 / 705T - CAS 939402-02-5) and / or a hydrolyzed derivative thereof. For instance, the polymer processing aid comprises phosphorous acid, mixed 2,4-bis(1 ,1-dimethylpropyl)phenyl and 4-(1 , 1 - dimethylpropyl)phenyl triesters in one embodiment. In another embodiment, the polymer processing aid comprises one or more hydrolyzed derivatives of phosphorous acid, mixed 2,4-bis(1 ,1-dimethylpropyl)phenyl and 4-(1 , 1- dimethylpropyl)phenyl triesters. In a further embodiment, the polymer processing aid comprises a mixture of phosphorous acid, mixed 2,4-bis(1 , 1 - dimethylpropyl)phenyl and 4-(1 ,1-dimethylpropyl)phenyl triesters and one or more hydrolyzed derivatives thereof.

[0042] In this regard, the phosphite polymer processing aid may include, but is not limited to, tris-4-tert-buty I phenyl phosphite, tris 2, 4-di-tert-butyl phenyl phosphite, bis(4-tert-butylphenyl)-2,4-di-tert-butylphenyl phosphite, bis(2,4-di-tert- butylphenyl)-4-tert-butylphenyl phosphite, tris 4-tert-pentyl phenyl phosphite, tris 2,4-di-tert-pentyl phenyl phosphite, bis(4-tert-pentylphenyl)-2,4-di-tert-pentylphenyl phosphite, bis(2,4-di-tert-pentylphenyl)-4-tert-pentylphenyl phosphite, the like, hydrolyzed derivatives thereof, as well as mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the polymer processing aid may include any of the aforementioned phosphites and / or a hydrolyzed derivative thereof.

[0043] In this regard, in one embodiment, the phosphite polymer processing aid may have the following structure (I):wherein,R4, Rs, and Re are each independently hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, or aryl provided that at least one of R4, Rs, and Re is not hydrogen; and m, n, and 0 are each independently from 1 to 3.In addition or alternatively, the phosphite polymer processing aid may be a hydrolyzed derivative of the aforementioned structure.

[0044] As indicated above, R4, Rs, and Re are each independently hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, or aryl provided that at least one of R4, Rs, and Re is not hydrogen. In this regard, at least one, such as at least two of R4, Rs, and Re may be hydrogen provided that at least one of R4, Rs, and Re is not hydrogen. Accordingly, in one embodiment, at least one of R4, Rs, and Re may be an alkyl. In another embodiment, at least one of R4, Rs, and Re may be an alkenyl. In a further embodiment, at least one of R4, Rs, and Re may be an alkynyl. In another further embodiment, at least one of R4, Rs, and Re may be an aryl.

[0045] In particular, R4, Rs, and Re may each independently be a C1-C20 alkyl, a C2-C20 alkenyl, a C2-C20 alkynyl, or a C3-C12 aryl. In this regard, in one embodiment, at least one of R4, Rs, and Re may be a C1-C20 alkyl. In another embodiment, at least one of R4, Rs, and Re may be a C2-C20 alkenyl. In a further embodiment, at least one of R4, Rs, and Re may be a C2-C20 alkynyl. In another further embodiment, at least one of R4, Rs, and Re may be a C3-C12 aryl.

[0046] As indicated above, in one embodiment, at least one of, such as at least two of, such as all three of R4, Rs, and Re may include an alkyl. In particular, it may include a C1-C20 alkyl. In this regard, the alkyl may be a C1-C20 alkyl, such as a C1-C16 alkyl, such as a C1-C12 alkyl, such as a C1-C10 alkyl, such as a C2-C8 alkyl, such as a C3-C6 alkyl, such as a C4-C6 alkyl. For instance, the alkyl mayhave 1 or more, such as 2 or more, such as 3 or more, such as 4 or more, such as 5 or more, such as 6 or more, such as 8 or more, such as 10 or more carbon atoms. The alkyl may have 20 or less, such as 18 or less, such as 16 or less carbon atoms, such as 14 or less, such as 12 or less, such as 10 or less, such as 8 or less, such as 6 or less carbon atoms. In addition, the alkyl may be a straight chain or a branched chain. In one embodiment, the alkyl is a straight chain. In another embodiment, the alkyl is a branched chain.

[0047] In one particular embodiment, at least one of R4, Rs, and Re may be tert-butyl or tert-pentyl. For instance, at least one of, such as at least two of, such as at least three of R4, Rs, and Re may be tert-butyl. In another embodiment, at least one of, such as at least two of, such as at least three of R4, Rs, and Re may be tert-pentyl.

[0048] In one particular embodiment, at least one of R4, Rs, and Re may be nonyl. For instance, at least one of, such as at least two of, such as at least three of R4, Rs, and Re may be nonyl. In another embodiment, at least one of, such as at least two of, such as at least three of 4, Rs, and Re may be nonyl.

[0049] However, in one embodiment, the phosphite polymer processing aid may include a very low amount of certain alkyls. For example, such alkyls may be C8-C10, in particular C9 alkyls. In this regard, in one embodiment, the alkyl may comprise less than 1 ,000 ppm, such as less than 500 ppm, such as less than 100 ppm, such as less than 50 ppm, such as less than 25 ppm, such as less than 10 ppm, such as less than 5 ppm, such as less than 1 ppm, such as 0 ppm of such alkyl.

[0050] As indicated above, in one embodiment, at least one of, such as at least two of, such as all three of R4, Rs, and Re may include an alkenyl. In particular, it may include a C2-C20 alkenyl. In this regard, the alkenyl may be a C2- C20 alkenyl, such as a C2-C16 alkenyl, such as a C2-C12 alkenyl, such as a C2-C10 alkenyl, such as a C2-C8 alkenyl, such as a C3-C6 alkenyl, such as a C4-C6 alkenyl. For instance, the alkenyl may have 2 or more, such as 3 or more, such as 4 or more, such as 5 or more, such as 6 or more, such as 8 or more, such as 10 or more, such as 12 or more, such as 14 or more, such as 16 or more carbon atoms. The alkenyl may have 20 or less, such as 18 or less, such as 16 or less carbon atoms, such as 14 or less, such as 12 or less, such as 10 or less, such as 8 or less, such as 6 or less carbon atoms. In addition, the alkenyl may be a straightchain or a branched chain. In one embodiment, the alkenyl is a straight chain. In another embodiment, the alkenyl is a branched chain.

[0051] As indicated above, in one embodiment, at least one of, such as at least two of, such as all three of F , Rs, and Re may include an alkynyl. In particular, it may include a C2-C20 alkynyl. In this regard, the alkynyl may be a C2- C20 alkynyl, such as a C2-C16 alkynyl, such as a C2-C12 alkynyl, such as a C2-C10 alkynyl, such as a C2-C8 alkynyl, such as a C3-C6 alkynyl, such as a C4-C6 alkynyl. For instance, the alkynyl may have 2 or more, such as 3 or more, such as 4 or more, such as 5 or more, such as 6 or more, such as 8 or more, such as 10 or more, such as 12 or more, such as 14 or more, such as 16 or more carbon atoms. The alkynyl may have 20 or less, such as 18 or less, such as 16 or less carbon atoms, such as 14 or less, such as 12 or less, such as 10 or less, such as 8 or less, such as 6 or less carbon atoms. In addition, the alkynyl may be a straight chain or a branched chain. In one embodiment, the alkynyl is a straight chain. In another embodiment, the alkynyl is a branched chain.

[0052] As indicated above, in one embodiment, at least one of, such as at least two of, such as all three of R4, Rs, and Re may include an aryl. In particular, it may include a C3-C12 aryl. In this regard, the aryl may be a C3-C12 aryl, such as a C4-C12 aryl, such as a C6-C12 aryl, such as a Ce-Cio aryl, such as a Ce-Cs aryl. For instance, the aryl may have 3 or more, such as 4 or more, such as 5 or more, such as 6 or more carbon atoms. The aryl may have 12 or less, such as 10 or less, such as 8 or less, such as 7 or less, such as 6 or less, such as 5 or less carbon atoms. In addition, in one embodiment, the aryl may be polycyclic. The polycyclic aryl may include fused, bridged, and spiro ring systems.

[0053] In one embodiment, R4, Rs, and Re may all be the same. It should be understood that the substituent is the same substituent group and having the same length. For example, in one embodiment, R4, Rs, and Re may all be alkyl, such as a Cs alkyl. In another embodiment, however, R4, Rs, and Re may be different. For instance, in one embodiment, all three R4, Rs, and Re may be different. For instance, while they may have the same chemical formula, they may be isomers having a different structure or configuration. In another embodiment, at least two of R4, Rs, and Re may be the same while the other is different. By different, it should be understood that the substituent is a different substituent group. For example, one of the groups may be an alkyl while another may be an alkenyl.Alternatively, as another example, at least two of the groups may be an alkyl wherein each alkyl has a different chain length.

[0054] As indicated above, m, n, and o are each independently from 1 to 3. For instance, m may be from 1 to 3. In this regard, in one embodiment, m may be 1. In another embodiment, m may be 2. In a further embodiment, m may be 3. Similarly, n may be from 1 to 3. In this regard, in one embodiment, n may be 1. In another embodiment, n may be 2. In a further embodiment, n may be 3. Further, o may be from 1 to 3. In this regard, in one embodiment, o may be 1 . In another embodiment, o may be 2. In a further embodiment, o may be 3.

[0055] Furthermore, in one embodiment, R4, R5, and Re may each independently be at the para position. For instance, when m, n, and 0 are each independently 1 , R4, Rs, and Re may each independently be at the para position. In another embodiment, R4, Rs, and Re may each independently be at the ortho position. For instance, in one embodiment, when m, n, and 0 are each independently 1 , R4, Rs, and Re may each independently be at the ortho position. In another embodiment, when m, n, and 0 are each independently 2, R4, Rs, and Re may each independently be at the para position and the ortho position.

[0056] In this regard, in one embodiment, m, n, and 0 may each be the same. For instance, in one embodiment, m, n, and 0 may be 1. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the phosphite polymer processing aid may have the following structure (II) wherein m, n, and o are each 1 :In addition or alternatively, the phosphite polymer processing aid may be a hydrolyzed derivative of the aforementioned structure.

[0057] In another embodiment, m, n, and 0 may be 2. In this regard, R4, Rs, and Re may each independently be at the ortho and para positions. The phosphitepolymer processing aid may have the following structure (III) wherein m, n, and o are each 2:In addition or alternatively, the phosphite polymer processing aid may be a hydrolyzed derivative of the aforementioned structure.

[0058] In a further embodiment, m, n, and o may be 3. In this regard, R4, Rs, and Re may each independently be at the two ortho and para positions.

[0059] In addition, it should be understood that in one embodiment, all three of m, n, and o may be different. For instance, at least one of m, n, and 0 may be 1 , while another of m, n, and 0 may be 2, while another of m, n, and 0 may be 3.

[0060] In a further embodiment, at least two of m, n, and 0 may be the same while the other is different. For instance, at least two of m, n, and 0 may be 1 while the third may be 2 or 3, such as 2 in one embodiment or 3 in another embodiment. In this regard, the phosphite polymer processing aid may have the following structure (IV) wherein n and 0 are 1 and m is 2:In addition or alternatively, the phosphite polymer processing aid may be a hydrolyzed derivative of the aforementioned structure.

[0061] Alternatively, at least two of m, n, and o may be 2 while the third may be 1 or 3, such as 1 in one embodiment or 3 in another embodiment. In this regard, the phosphite polymer processing aid may have the following structure (V) wherein m and n are 2 and o is 1 :In addition or alternatively, the phosphite polymer processing aid may be a hydrolyzed derivative of the aforementioned structure.

[0062] In a further embodiment, at least two of m, n, and o may be 3 while the third may be 1 or 2, such as 1 in one embodiment or 2 in another embodiment.

[0063] In addition, it should be understood that any of the aforementioned phosphite polymer processing aids of structures (II), (III), (IV), or (V) may be utilized individually or in combination, whether in their original form and / or as a hydrolyzed derivative thereof. For instance, at least one, such as at least two, such as at least three, such as at least all four of the aforementioned phosphite polymer processing aids of structures (II), (III), (IV), or (V) may be utilized. , whether in their original form and / or as a hydrolyzed derivative thereof

[0064] Also, it should be understood that the thermoplastic polymer composition may include a mixture of phosphite polymer processing aids. For instance, the thermoplastic polymer composition may include at least one, such as at least two, such as at least three, such as at least four phosphite polymer processing aids. As an example, each of the phosphite polymer processing aids may have a different number of substituent groups and / or different substituent groups as defined above. Further, as indicated herein, such phosphite polymer processing aids may be utilized in their original form and / or as a hydrolyzed derivative thereof.

[0065] Furthermore, when a mixture of phosphite polymer processing aids is utilized, they may be utilized within certain amounts. For instance, the weight ratio of the tris(monoalkylaryl)phosphites to the combination of bis(monoalkylaryl)dialkylaryl phosphites, bis(dialkylaryl)monoalkylaryl phosphites, and tris(dialkylaryl)phosphites may be within a certain range. Furthermore, the weight ratio of bis(monoalkylaryl)dialkylaryl phosphites to the combination of tris(monoalkylaryl)phosphites, bis(dialkylaryl)monoalkylaryl phosphites, and tris(dialkylaryl)phosphites may be within a certain range. In addition, the weight ratio of bis(dialkylaryl)monoalkylaryl phosphites to the combination of tris(monoalkylaryl)phosphites, bis(monoalkylaryl)dialkylaryl phosphites, and tris(dialkylary l)phosphites may be within a certain range. Further, such weight ratio may also apply to any hydrolyzed derivatives of such phosphites. For instance, such weight ratio may apply to the combined amount of the phosphite and any hydrolyzed derivatives of such phosphite present.

[0066] Such weight ratios may be about 0.01 or more, such as about 0.033 or more, such as about 0.05 or more, such as about 0.1 or more, such as about 0.15 or more, such as about 0.2 or more, such as about 0.3 or more, such as about 0.33 or more, such as about 0.4 or more, such as about 0.5 or more, such as about 0.6 or more, such as about 0.66 or more. The weight ratios may be about 10 or less, such as about 8 or less, such as about 6 or less, such as about 4 or less, such as about 3 or less, such as about 2 or less, such as about 1 .7 or less, such as about 1 .5 or less, such as about 1 .2 or less, such as about 1 .1 or less, such as about 1 or less, such as about 0.9 or less, such as about 0.75 or less, such as about 0.66 or less, such as about 0.6 or less, such as about 0.55 or less, such as about 0.4 or less, such as about 0.2 or less, such as about 0.15 or less, such as about 0.11 or less, such as about 0.1 or less, such as about 0.05 or less, such as about 0.02 or less.

[0067] Also, the weight ratio of the tris(dialkylaryl)phosphites to the combination of bis(monoalkylaryl)dialkylaryl phosphites, bis(dialkylaryl)monoalkylaryl phosphites and tris(monoalkylaryl)phosphites may also be within a certain range. Further, such weight ratio may also apply to any hydrolyzed derivatives of such phosphites. For instance, such weight ratio may apply to the combined amount of the phosphite and any hydrolyzed derivatives of such phosphite present.

[0068] The weight ratio may be about 0.0001 or more, such as about 0.0002 or more, such as about 0.001 or more, such as about 0.01 or more, such as about 0.1 or more, such as about 0.2 or more, such as about 0.5 or more. The weight ratio may be about 5 or less, such as about 3 or less, such as about 2.5 or less, such as about 1 .5 or less, such as about 1 or less, such as about 0.5 or less, such as about 0.1 or less, such as about 0.05 or less, such as about 0.02 or less, such as about 0.01 or less, such as about 0.005 or less.

[0069] The phosphite polymer processing aid may have a certain molecular weight. For instance, the molecular weight may be 400 g / mol or more, such as 450 g / mol or more, such as 500 g / mol or more, such as 550 g / mol or more, such as 600 g / mol or more, such as 650 g / mol or more. The molecular weight may be 1 ,000 g / mol or less, such as 900 g / mol or less, such as 800 g / mol or less, such as 750 g / mol or less, such as 700 g / mol or less, such as 650 g / mol or less, such as 600 g / mol or less.

[0070] The phosphite polymer processing aid may also have a certain phosphorus content. For instance, the phosphorus content may be 0.5 wt.% or more, such as 1 wt.% or more, such as 2 wt.% or more, such as 3 wt.% or more, such as 4 wt.% or more, such as 4.5 wt.% or more, such as 4.8 wt.% or more, such as 5 wt.% or more. The phosphorus content may be 10 wt.% or less, such as 8 wt.% or less, such as 6 wt.% or less, such as 5.5 wt.% or less, such as 5.3 wt.% or less.

[0071] The phosphite polymer processing aid may also have a certain kinematic viscosity. For instance, the kinematic viscosity may be 11 ,000 mm2 / s or less, such as 8,000 mm2 / s or less, such as 7,500 mm2 / s or less, such as 6,500 mm2 / s or less, such as 5,500 mm2 / s or less, such as 5,000 mm2 / s or less, such as 3,000 mm2 / s or less when measured at 30°C. The kinematic viscosity may be 1 mm2 / s or more, such as 50 mm2 / s or more, such as 100 mm2 / s or more, such as 500 mm2 / s or more, such as 1 ,000 mm2 / s or more, such as 2,000 mm2 / s or more, such as 3,000 mm2 / s or more, such as 4,000 mm2 / s or more when measured at 30°C. The viscosity may be determined using a glass capillary viscometer according to ASTM D445-19.

[0072] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the phosphite polymer processing aid may be a liquid at ambient conditions (i.e., at atmospheric pressure and a temperature of 25°C). By providing such phosphite polymer processing aid as aliquid, it may be easily combined with the thermoplastic polymer, such as an olefin polymer, and other components to form the thermoplastic polymer composition.

[0073] In other embodiments, the phosphite polymer processing aid may be a solid at ambient conditions (i.e. , at atmospheric pressure and a temperature of 25°C). However, upon processing during the extrusion process, the phosphite polymer processing aid may become a liquid. For instance, it may melt upon the conditions in the extruder, which may assist in dispersion of the phosphite polymer processing aid within the thermoplastic polymer and / or corresponding composition.

[0074] Also, in one embodiment, the phosphite polymer processing aid may have a relatively low melting temperature. For instance, the melting temperature may be 150°C or less, such as 140°C or less, such as 130°C or less, such as 120°C or less, such as 110°C or less, such as 100°C or less, such as 90°C or less, such as 80°C or less, such as 70°C or less, such as 60°C or less, such as 50°C or less, such as 40°C or less. The melting temperature may be 25°C or more, such as 30°C or more, such as 35°C or more, such as 40°C or more, such as 45°C or more. In one embodiment, the aliphatic phosphite may particularly have the aforementioned melting temperature. The melting temperature may be determined utilizing means generally known in the art, such as differential scanning calorimetry.

[0075] As indicated herein, the phosphite polymer processing aid may include a hydrolyzed derivative. In this regard, it may include a hydrolyzed derivative of any phosphite, particularly those mentioned herein. During process, at least some of the phosphite may undergo hydrolysis yielding the derivative which may also be utilized as a polymer processing aid. Generally, the hydrolysis of the phosphite may be undesirable as it may negatively impact a resulting composition. However, while the phosphite may become hydrolyzed, such hydrolysis may have the added benefit of functioning as a polymer processing aid.

[0076] In general, the hydrolyzed derivative of the phosphite may be a phosphite product of the reaction between the phosphite and water. In one particular embodiment wherein the phosphite is a phosphite ester, the hydrolyzed derivative of the phosphite may be the phosphite product of the reaction between the phosphite ester and water. In general, for such reactions, a substituent group, such as an R group as mentioned above, may be cleaved and replaced with ahydrogen. In particular, an -OR group as mentioned above, may then become an - OH group upon hydrolysis and the reaction with water.

[0077] As indicated above, the phosphite may be a phosphite ester. The phosphite ester may have the general formula of structure (VI):whereinRi, R2, and R3 are each independently an alkyl or an aryl.

[0078] In one embodiment, at least one of R1, R2, and R3 may be alkyl. In another embodiment, at least two of R1, R2, and R3 may be alkyl. In a further embodiment, all three of R1, R2, and R3 may be alkyl. In one embodiment, the alkyl may be an unsubstituted alkyl. In another embodiment, the alkyl may be a substituted alkyl. For instance, the alkyl may be an arylkyl (i.e. , an alkyl substituted with an aryl group).

[0079] For instance, the alkyl may be a C1-C10 alkyl. In this regard, the alkyl may be a C1-C10 alkyl, such as a Ci-Cs alkyl, such as a C1-C6 alkyl, such as a Ci- 04 alkyl, such as a C1-C3 alkyl, such as a C1-C2 alkyl, such as a Ci alkyl. For instance, the alkyl may have 1 or more, such as 2 or more, such as 3 or more, such as 4 or more, such as 5 or more carbon atoms. The alkyl may have 10 or less, such as 8 or less, such as 6 or less, such as 5 or less, such as 4 or less, such as 3 or less, such as 2 or less carbon atoms. In this regard, the alkyl may be heptyl, hexyl, pentyl (e.g., n-pentyl, sec-pentyl, iso-pentyl, tert-pentyl, neo-pentyl), butyl (e.g., n-butyl, sec-butyl, iso-butyl, tert-butyl), propyl (e.g., n-propyl, isopropyl), ethyl, methyl, etc. In one particular embodiment, the alkyl may be methyl. In addition, the alkyl may be a straight chain, a branched chain, or cyclic. In one embodiment, the alkyl is a straight chain. In another embodiment, the alkyl is a branched chain. In a further embodiment, the alkyl is cyclic (or cycloalkyl).

[0080] Regarding the substituted alkyl, it may be an arylkyl (i.e., an alkyl substituted with an aryl group) in one embodiment. The aryl may be a C3-C12 aryl. In this regard, the aryl may be a C3-C12 aryl, such as a C4-C12 aryl, such as a Ce- C12 aryl, such as a Ce-Cw aryl, such as a Ce-Cs aryl, such as a Ce aryl. For instance, the aryl may have 3 or more, such as 4 or more, such as 5 or more, such as 6 or more carbon atoms. The aryl may have 12 or less, such as 10 or less, such as 8 or less, such as 7 or less, such as 6 or less, such as 5 or less carbon atoms. In one particular embodiment, the aryl may be a phenyl. In addition, in one embodiment, the aryl may be polycyclic. The polycyclic aryl may include fused, bridged, and spiro ring systems.

[0081] In one embodiment, at least one of R1 , 2, and R3 may be aryl. In another embodiment, at least two of R1, R2, and R3 may be aryl. In a further embodiment, all three of R1 , R2, and R3 may be aryl. In one embodiment, the aryl may be an unsubstituted aryl. In another embodiment, the aryl may be a substituted aryl. For instance, the aryl may be an alkaryl (i.e., an aryl substituted with one or more alkyl groups).

[0082] For instance, the aryl may be a C3-C12 aryl. In this regard, the aryl may be a C3-C12 aryl, such as a C4-C12 aryl, such as a C6-C12 aryl, such as a Ce- Cw aryl, such as a Ce-Cs aryl, such as a Ce aryl. For instance, the aryl may have 3 or more, such as 4 or more, such as 5 or more, such as 6 or more carbon atoms. The aryl may have 12 or less, such as 10 or less, such as 8 or less, such as 7 or less, such as 6 or less, such as 5 or less carbon atoms. In one particular embodiment, the aryl may be a phenyl. In addition, in one embodiment, the aryl may be polycyclic. The polycyclic aryl may include fused, bridged, and spiro ring systems.

[0083] Regarding the substituted aryl, it may be an alkaryl (i.e., an aryl substituted with one or more alkyl groups). The alkyl may be a Ci-Cw alkyl. In this regard, the alkyl may be a Ci-Cw alkyl, such as a Ci-Cs alkyl, such as a Ci-Ce alkyl, such as a C2-C6 alkyl, such as a C4-C6 alkyl, such as a Cs alkyl. For instance, the alkyl may have 1 or more, such as 2 or more, such as 3 or more, such as 4 or more, such as 5 or more carbon atoms. The alkyl may have 10 or less, such as 8 or less, such as 6 or less, such as 5 or less, such as 4 or less, such as 3 or less, such as 2 or less carbon atoms. In this regard, the alkyl may be heptyl, hexyl, pentyl (e.g., n-pentyl, sec-pentyl, iso-pentyl, tert-pentyl, neo-pentyl),butyl (e.g., n-butyl, sec-butyl, iso-butyl, tert-butyl), propyl (e.g., n-propyl, isopropyl), ethyl, methyl, etc. In one particular embodiment, the alkyl may be pentyl (e.g., tert-amyl or tert-pentyl). In addition, the alkyl may be a straight chain, a branched chain, or cyclic. In one embodiment, the alkyl is a straight chain. In another embodiment, the alkyl is a branched chain. In a further embodiment, the alkyl is cyclic (or cycloalkyl).

[0084] In this regard, in one embodiment, the phosphite ester may be a trialkyl phosphite. In another embodiment, the phosphite ester may be a triaryl phosphite. In a further embodiment, the phosphite ester may be a dialkyl monoaryl phosphite. In an even further embodiment, the phosphite ester may be a diaryl monoalkyl phosphite.

[0085] In particular, when Ri , R2, and R3 are aryl (e.g., alkaryl), the phosphite ester may have the following structure (VII):whereinR4, Rs, Re, R7, Rs, R9, R10, R11, R12, R13, R14, R15, R16, R17, and R are independently hydrogen or an alkyl.

[0086] In this regard, in one embodiment, the substituent groups of the aforementioned structure may all be hydrogen. However, as indicated above, the substituent groups may independently be an alkyl. The alkyl may correspond to those mentioned herein. For instance, the alkyl may be a C1-C10 alkyl. In this regard, the alkyl may be a C1-C10 alkyl, such as a Ci-Cs alkyl, such as a Ci-Cealkyl, such as a C2-C6 alkyl, such as a C4-C6 alkyl, such as a Cs alkyl. For instance, the alkyl may have 1 or more, such as 2 or more, such as 3 or more, such as 4 or more, such as 5 or more carbon atoms. The alkyl may have 10 or less, such as 8 or less, such as 6 or less, such as 5 or less, such as 4 or less, such as 3 or less, such as 2 or less carbon atoms. In this regard, the alkyl may be heptyl, hexyl, pentyl (e.g., n-pentyl, sec-pentyl, iso-pentyl, tert-pentyl, neo-pentyl), butyl (e.g., n-butyl, sec-butyl, iso-butyl, tert-butyl), propyl (e.g., n-propyl, isopropyl), ethyl, methyl, etc. In one particular embodiment, the alkyl may be pentyl (e.g., tert-amyl or tert-pentyl). In addition, the alkyl may be a straight chain, a branched chain, or cyclic. In one embodiment, the alkyl is a straight chain. In another embodiment, the alkyl is a branched chain. In a further embodiment, the alkyl is cyclic (or cycloalkyl).

[0087] Furthermore, a respective aryl group may have at least one alkyl substitution. In this regard, at least one, such as at least two, such as all three of the aryl groups may have at least one alkyl substitution. Accordingly, in one embodiment, at least one of R4, Rs, Re, R7, and Rs may be an alkyl. In one embodiment, at least one of R9, R10, R11, R12, and R13 may be an alkyl. In one embodiment, at least one of R14, R15, R16, R17, and R18 may be an alkyl. In this regard, at least one of R4, Rs, Re, R7, and Rs, at least one of R9, R10, R11 , R12, and R13, and at least one of R14, R15, Rie, R17, and R may be an alkyl as defined above. In addition, in one embodiment, such alkyl substitution may be at the para position. Any remaining substituent groups may independently be hydrogen.

[0088] Furthermore, a respective aryl group may have at least two alkyl substitutions. Accordingly, in one embodiment, at least two of R4, Rs, Re, R7, and Rs may be an alkyl. In one embodiment, at least two of R9, R10, R11, R12, and R13 may be an alkyl. In one embodiment, at least two of R14, R15, Rie, R17, and Rie may be an alkyl. In this regard, at least two of R4, Rs, Re, R7, and Rs, at least two of R9, R10, R11, R12, and R13, and at least two of R14, R15, Rie, R17, and R may be an alkyl as defined above. In addition, in one embodiment, such alkyl substitutions may be at the para position and the ortho position. Any remaining substituent groups may independently be hydrogen.

[0089] While the aforementioned structures are utilized to depict the phosphite ester, in view of such structures, it should be understood that multiplephosphite esters may be utilized. For instance, multiple phosphite esters in accordance with the aforementioned structures and definitions may be utilized.

[0090] Upon hydrolysis, examples of such a hydrolyzed derivative may include the structures (VIII) and / or (IX) as follows:whereinRi and R2 are as defined above.

[0091] In particular, the hydrolyzed derivative may have at least one of the structures (X) and / or (XI) as follows wherein R1 and R2 are each aryl:whereinR4, Rs, Re, R7, Rs, R9, R10, R11, R12, and R13 are as defined above.

[0092] Similarly, if the phosphite polymer processing aid is distearylpentaerythritol diphosphite, the hydrolyzed thereof may have at least one of the structures (XII) or (XIII):(XIII).

[0093] While the aforementioned structures are utilized to depict certain versions of the hydrolyzed derivative, it should be understood that other types of hydrolyzed derivatives may also be present within the composition. Regardless, such hydrolyzed derivative is formed from the reaction of the phosphite and water. In addition, the composition may include a mixture of hydrolyzed derivatives.

[0094] The phosphite polymer processing aid may be present in a particular amount. For instance, the polymer processing aid comprising the phosphite may be utilized in an amount of 0.01 wt.% or more, such as 0.02 wt.% or more, such as 0.03 wt.% or more, such as 0.04 wt.% or more, such as 0.05 wt.% or more, such as 0.06 wt.% or more, such as 0.08 wt.% or more, such as 0.1 wt.% or more, such as 0.12 wt.% or more, such as 0.15 wt.% or more, such as 0.18 wt.% or more, such as 0.2 wt.% or more, such as 0.25 wt.% or more, such as 0.3 wt.% or more, such as 0.35 wt.% or more, such as 0.4 wt.% or more, such as 0.45 wt.% or more, such as 0.5 wt.% or more based on the weight of the thermoplastic polymer. The polymer processing aid comprising the phosphite may be utilized in an amount of 1 wt.% or less, such as 0.9 wt.% or less, such as 0.8 wt.% or less, such as 0.7 wt.% or less, such as 0.6 wt.% or less, such as 0.5 wt.% or less, such as 0.45 wt.% or less, such as 0.4 wt.% or less, such as 0.35 wt.% or less, such as 0.3 wt.% or less, such as 0.25 wt.% or less, such as 0.2 wt.% or less, such as 0.18 wt.% or less, such as 0.15 wt.% or less, such as 0.12 wt.% or less, such as 0.10 wt.% or less, such as 0.08 wt.% or less based on the weight of the thermoplastic polymer. In certain embodiments, the aforementioned weight percentages may apply to the polymer processing aid comprising the phosphite, the hydrolyzed thereof, or mixture thereof. In one embodiment, such aforementioned weight percentages may be based on the weight of the thermoplastic polymer composition. Further, in one embodiment, such aforementioned weight percentages may be based on the phosphite. In another embodiment, such aforementioned weight percentages maybe based on the hydrolyzed phosphite thereof. In a further embodiment, such aforementioned weight percentages may be based on a mixture of the phosphite and a hydrolyzed derivative thereof.

[0095] Based on the weight of the polymer processing aid, the phosphite may be present in a particular amount. For instance, the phosphite may be utilized in an amount of 5 wt.% or more, such as 10 wt.% or more, such as 15 wt.% or more, such as 20 wt.% or more, such as 25 wt.% or more, such as 30 wt.% or more, such as 35 wt.% or more, such as 40 wt.% or more, such as 45 wt.% or more, such as 50 wt.% or more, such as 55 wt.% or more, such as 60 wt.% or more, such as 65 wt.% or more, such as 70 wt.% or more, such as 75 wt.% or more, such as 80 wt.% or more, such as 85 wt.% or more based on the weight of the polymer processing aid, such as a mixture of the phosphite and the polyalkylene glycol polymer. The phosphite may be utilized in an amount of 95 wt.% or less, such as 90 wt.% or less, such as 85 wt.% or less, such as 80 wt.% or less, such as 75 wt.% or less, such as 70 wt.% or less, such as 65 wt.% or less, such as 60 wt.% or less, such as 55 wt.% or less, such as 50 wt.% or less, such as 45 wt.% or less, such as 40 wt.% or less, such as 35 wt.% or less, such as 30 wt.% or less, such as 25 wt.% or less, such as 20 wt.% or less, such as 15 wt.% or less, such as 10 wt.% or less based on the weight of the polymer processing aid, such as a mixture of the phosphite and the polyalkylene glycol polymer.

[0096] In one embodiment, the phosphite polymer processing aid may be provided to the process as a masterbatch. For instance, the masterbatch may contain the thermoplastic polymer, such as one defined herein, and the phosphite polymer processing aid. The polymer processing aid comprising the phosphite, the hydrolyzed thereof, or mixture thereof may be present in the masterbatch in an amount of 0.5 wt.% or more, such as 0.8 wt.% or more, such as 1 wt.% or more, such as 1 .5 wt.% or more, such as 2 wt.% or more, such as 3 wt.% or more, such as 4 wt.% or more, such as 5 wt.% or more, such as 8 wt.% or more, such as 10 wt.% or more, such as 13 wt.% or more, such as 15 wt.% or more, such as 18 wt.% or more, such as 20 wt.% or more based on the weight of the masterbatch. The polymer processing aid comprising the phosphite, the hydrolyzed thereof, or mixture thereof may be present in the masterbatch in an amount of 40 wt.% or less, such as 35 wt.% or less, such as 30 wt.% or less, such as 25 wt.% or less, such as 20 wt.% or less, such as 18 wt.% or less, such as 15 wt.% or less, such as13 wt.% or less, such as 10 wt.% or less, such as 8 wt.% or less, such as 6 wt.% or less, such as 5 wt.% or less, such as 4 wt.% or less, such as 3 wt.% or less based on the weight of the masterbatch. Further, in one embodiment, such aforementioned weight percentages may be based on the phosphite. In another embodiment, such aforementioned weight percentages may be based on the hydrolyzed thereof. In a further embodiment, such aforementioned weight percentages may be based on a mixture of the phosphite and a hydrolyzed derivative thereof. ii. Polyalkylene Glycol Polymer Processing Aid

[0097] As indicated herein, the process utilizes a polymer processing aid. In particular, a thermoplastic polymer is extruded in the presence of a polymer processing aid comprising a phosphite, such as an aliphatic phosphite. However, in certain embodiments, a polyalkylene glycol polymer processing aid may also be utilized in conjunction with the phosphite. In this regard, the extrusion may be conducted in the presence of a polymer processing aid comprising a mixture of a phosphite, such as an aliphatic phosphite, and a polyalkylene glycol.

[0098] In general, the polyalkylene glycol may be represented by the following formula:RlO(R2O)g-R3 wherein Ri and R3 independently represent hydrogen, alkyl, or acyl; R2 represents an alkylene; and q is an integer of 1 or more.

[0099] As indicated above, R1 and R3 independently represent hydrogen, alkyl, or acyl. In one embodiment, R1 and R3 may independently represent hydrogen. In one embodiment, R1 is hydrogen. In one embodiment, R3 is hydrogen. In another embodiment, R1 and R3 may independently represent alkyl. In one embodiment, R1 is alkyl. In one embodiment, R3 is alkyl. In another embodiment, R1 and R3 may independently represent acyl. In one embodiment, R1 is acyl. In one embodiment, R3 is acyl. In this regard, in one embodiment, R1 and R3 may be the same. In another embodiment, R1 and R3 may be different.

[0100] As indicated above, in one embodiment, at least one of R1 and R3 may be alkyl. In particular, it may include a C1-C30 alkyl. In this regard, the alkyl may be a C1-C30 alkyl, such as a C1-C26 alkyl, such as a C1-C24 alkyl, such as a C1- C20 alkyl, such as a C1-C16 alkyl, such as a C1-C12 alkyl, such as a C1-C10 alkyl,such as a Ci-Os alkyl, such as a Ci-Ce alkyl, such as a C1-C4 alkyl, such as a C1- C3 alkyl, such as a C1-C2 alkyl. For instance, the alkyl may have 1 or more, such as 2 or more, such as 3 or more, such as 4 or more, such as 5 or more, such as 6 or more, such as 8 or more, such as 10 or more carbon atoms. The alkyl may have 30 or less, such as 26 or less, such as 22 or less, such as 20 or less, such as 18 or less, such as 16 or less carbon atoms, such as 14 or less, such as 12 or less, such as 10 or less, such as 8 or less, such as 6 or less, such as 4 or less, such as 3 or less, such as 2 or less carbon atoms. In addition, the alkyl may be a straight chain or a branched chain. In one embodiment, the alkyl is a straight chain. In another embodiment, the alkyl is a branched chain.

[0101] As indicated above, in one embodiment, at least one of R1 and R3 may be acyl. In this regard, the acyl may have 1 or more, such as 2 or more, such as 3 or more, such as 4 or more, such as 5 or more, such as 6 or more, such as 8 or more, such as 10 or more carbon atoms. The acyl may have 30 or less, such as 26 or less, such as 22 or less, such as 20 or less, such as 18 or less, such as 16 or less carbon atoms, such as 14 or less, such as 12 or less, such as 10 or less, such as 8 or less, such as 6 or less, such as 4 or less, such as 3 or less, such as 2 or less carbon atoms.

[0102] As indicated above, R2 represents an alkylene. The alkylene may include 1 or more, such as 2 or more, such as 3 or more, such as 4 or more, such as 5 or more, such as 6 or more, such as 7 or more, such as 8 or more carbon atoms. The alkylene may include 12 or less, such as 11 or less, such as 10 or less, such as 9 or less, 8 or less, such as 7 or less, such as 6 or less, such as 5 or less, such as 4 or less, such as 3 or less, such as 2 or less carbon atoms. For instance, the alkylene may include, but is not limited to, methylene, ethylene, propylene, butylene, etc. In one embodiment, the alkylene may be methylene. In another embodiment, the alkylene may be ethylene. In a further embodiment, the alkylene may be propylene.

[0103] As indicated above, q is an integer of 1 or more. Accordingly, q may be 1 or more, such as 2 or more, such as 3 or more, such as 5 or more, such as 10 or more, such as 15 or more, such as 20 or more, such as 25 or more, such as 30 or more, such as 40 or more, such as 50 or more, such as 60 or more, such as 80 or more, such as 100 or more, such as 120 or more, such as 150 or more, such as 180 or more, such as 200 or more, such as 250 or more. In addition, q may be1000 or less, such as 900 or less, such as 800 or less, such as 700 or less, such as 600 or less, such as 500 or less, such as 400 or less, such as 300 or less, such as 250 or less, such as 200 or less, such as 180 or less, such as 160 or less, such as 140 or less, such as 120 or less, such as 100 or less, such as 90 or less, such as 80 or less, such as 70 or less, such as 60 or less, such as 50 or less, such as40 or less, such as 30 or less, such as 20 or less, such as 15 or less.

[0104] The polyalkylene glycol may be a polyethylene glycol, a polypropylene glycol, a polytetramethylene glycol, or a mixture thereof. In one embodiment, the polyalkylene glycol may be a polyethylene glycol. In another embodiment, the polyalkylene glycol may be a polypropylene glycol. In a further embodiment, the polyalkylene glycol may be a polytetramethylene glycol.

[0105] The polyalkylene glycol may also be a copolymer. For instance, it may include a block copolymer. The block polymer may be a polyethylene-glycol- polypropylene-glycol block polymer.

[0106] Other examples of polyalkylene glycol polymer processing aids include, but are not limited to, polyethylene glycol oleyl ether, polyethylene glycol cetyl ether, polyethylene glycol stearyl ether, polyethylene glycol lauryl ether, polyethylene glycol tridecylether, polyethylene glycol nonylphenyl ether, polyethylene glycol octylphenyl ether, polyethylene glycol monolaurate, polyethylene glycol monostearate, polyethylene glycol monooleate, as well as mixtures thereof.

[0107] The polyalkylene glycol may have a weight average molecular weight of about 200 g / mol or more, such as 300 g / mol or more, such as 400 g / mol or more, such as 500 g / mol or more, such as 750 g / mol or more, such as 1 ,000 g / mol or more, such as 1 ,500 g / mol or more, such as 2,000 g / mol or more, such as 2,500 g / mol or more, such as 3,000 g / mol or more, such as 3,500 g / mol or more, such as 4,000 g / mol or more, such as 5,000 g / mol or more, such as 6,000 g / mol or more, such as 7,000 g / mol or more, such as 7,500 g / mol or more, such as 8,000 g / mol or more, such as 9,000 g / mol or more, such as 10,000 g / mol or more, such as 12,000 g / mol or more, such as 15,000 g / mol or more, such as 20,000 g / mol or more, such as 30,000 g / mol or more, such as 50,000 g / mol or more, such as 75,000 g / mol or more, such as 100,000 g / mol or more, such as 125,000 g / mol or more, such as 150,000 g / mol or more, such as 200,000 g / mol or more. The weight average molecular weight may be 500,000 g / mol or less, such as 450,000 g / mol or less,such as 400,000 g / mol or less, such as 350,000 g / mol or less, such as 300,000 g / mol or less, such as 250,000 g / mol or less, such as 200,000 g / mol or less, such as 150,000 g / mol or less, such as 130,000 g / mol or less, such as 100,000 g / mol or less, such as 80,000 g / mol or less, such as 60,000 g / mol or less, such as 50,000 g / mol or less, such as 40,000 g / mol or less, such as 35,000 g / mol or less, such as 30,000 g / mol or less, such as 25,000 g / mol or less, such as 20,000 g / mol or less, such as 18,000 g / mol or less, such as 15,000 g / mol or less, such as 13,000 g / mol or less, such as 10,000 g / mol or less, such as 9,000 g / mol or less, such as 8,500 g / mol or less, such as 8,000 g / mol or less, such as 7,000 g / mol or less, such as 6,000 g / mol or less, such as 5,000 g / mol or less, such as 4,500 g / mol or less, such as 4,000 g / mol or less. The weight average molecular weight may be determined using means generally known in the art, such as gel permeation chromatography.

[0108] It should be understood that any of the aforementioned polyalkylene glycols may be used individually or in combination. Furthermore, two of the same types of polyalkylene glycols may be utilized each having a different weight average molecular weight (e.g., two polyethylene glycols each having a different weight average molecular weight).

[0109] The polyalkylene glycol polymer processing aid may be present in a particular amount. For instance, the polyalkylene glycol processing aid may be utilized in an amount of 0.01 wt.% or more, such as 0.02 wt.% or more, such as 0.03 wt.% or more, such as 0.04 wt.% or more, such as 0.05 wt.% or more, such as 0.06 wt.% or more, such as 0.08 wt.% or more, such as 0.1 wt.% or more, such as 0.12 wt.% or more, such as 0.15 wt.% or more, such as 0.18 wt.% or more, such as 0.2 wt.% or more, such as 0.25 wt.% or more, such as 0.3 wt.% or more, such as 0.35 wt.% or more, such as 0.4 wt.% or more, such as 0.45 wt.% or more, such as 0.5 wt.% or more based on the weight of the thermoplastic polymer. The polyalkylene glycol polymer processing aid may be utilized in an amount of 1 wt.% or less, such as 0.9 wt.% or less, such as 0.8 wt.% or less, such as 0.7 wt.% or less, such as 0.6 wt.% or less, such as 0.5 wt.% or less, such as 0.45 wt.% or less, such as 0.4 wt.% or less, such as 0.35 wt.% or less, such as 0.3 wt.% or less, such as 0.25 wt.% or less, such as 0.2 wt.% or less, such as 0.18 wt.% or less, such as 0.15 wt.% or less, such as 0.12 wt.% or less, such as 0.10 wt.% or less, such as 0.08 wt.% or less based on the weight of the thermoplastic polymer. In oneembodiment, such aforementioned weight percentages may be based on the weight of the thermoplastic polymer composition.

[0110] Based on the weight of the polymer processing aid, the polyalkylene glycol polymer may be present in a particular amount. For instance, the polyalkylene glycol may be utilized in an amount of 5 wt.% or more, such as 10 wt.% or more, such as 15 wt.% or more, such as 20 wt.% or more, such as 25 wt.% or more, such as 30 wt.% or more, such as 35 wt.% or more, such as 40 wt.% or more, such as 45 wt.% or more, such as 50 wt.% or more, such as 55 wt.% or more, such as 60 wt.% or more, such as 65 wt.% or more, such as 70 wt.% or more, such as 75 wt.% or more, such as 80 wt.% or more, such as 85 wt.% or more based on the weight of the polymer processing aid, such as a mixture of the phosphite and the polyalkylene glycol polymer. The polyalkylene glycol polymer may be utilized in an amount of 95 wt.% or less, such as 90 wt.% or less, such as 85 wt.% or less, such as 80 wt.% or less, such as 75 wt.% or less, such as 70 wt.% or less, such as 65 wt.% or less, such as 60 wt.% or less, such as 55 wt.% or less, such as 50 wt.% or less, such as 45 wt.% or less, such as 40 wt.% or less, such as 35 wt.% or less, such as 30 wt.% or less, such as 25 wt.% or less, such as 20 wt.% or less, such as 15 wt.% or less, such as 10 wt.% or less based on the weight of the polymer processing aid, such as a mixture of the phosphite and the polyalkylene glycol polymer.

[0111] In one embodiment, the polyalkylene glycol polymer processing aid may be provided to the process as a masterbatch. For instance, the masterbatch may contain the thermoplastic polymer, such as one defined herein, and the polyalkylene glycol polymer processing aid. The polyalkylene glycol polymer processing aid may be present in the masterbatch in an amount of 0.5 wt.% or more, such as 0.8 wt.% or more, such as 1 wt.% or more, such as 1 .5 wt.% or more, such as 2 wt.% or more, such as 3 wt.% or more, such as 4 wt.% or more, such as 5 wt.% or more, such as 8 wt.% or more, such as 10 wt.% or more, such as 13 wt.% or more, such as 15 wt.% or more, such as 18 wt.% or more, such as 20 wt.% or more based on the weight of the masterbatch. The polyalkylene glycol polymer processing aid may be present in the masterbatch in an amount of 40 wt.% or less, such as 35 wt.% or less, such as 30 wt.% or less, such as 25 wt.% or less, such as 20 wt.% or less, such as 18 wt.% or less, such as 15 wt.% or less, such as 13 wt.% or less, such as 10 wt.% or less, such as 8 wt.% or less, such as6 wt.% or less, such as 5 wt.% or less, such as 4 wt.% or less, such as 3 wt.% or less based on the weight of the masterbatch.C. Non-Polvmer Processing Aid Additives

[0112] In addition to the thermoplastic polymer and the polymer processing aids as mentioned herein, the process may also utilize non-polymer processing aid additives. For instance, the extruding of the thermoplastic polymer in a melt extrusion process may also be conducted in the presence of a non-polymer processing aid additive as defined herein. Such additives may be optional in one embodiment.

[0113] These additives may include, but are not limited to, a dispersant, a detergent, an antiwear agent, an antioxidant, a light stabilizer, an ultraviolet absorber, a lubricant, an acid scavenger, a clarifying agent, a nucleating agent, a friction modifier, a corrosion inhibitor, a metal deactivator, a colorant, a flame retardant, an anti-static agent, an anti-block agent, a plasticizer, a slip agent, a filler, a Lewis base, etc. as well as mixtures thereof. When utilized, they may be present in the thermoplastic polymer composition in an amount of about 0.01 wt.% or more, such as about 0.05 wt.% or more, such as about 0.1 wt.% or more, such as about 0.2 wt.% or more, such as about 0.3 wt.% or more, such as about 0.5 wt.% or more, such as about 0.8 wt.% or more, such as about 1 wt.% or more, such as about 1 .5 wt.% or more, such as about 2 wt.% or more, such as about 2.5 wt.% or more, such as about 3 wt.% or more, such as about 3.5 wt.% or more, such as about 4 wt.% or more, such as about 4.5 wt.% or more, such as about 5 wt.% or more, such as about 6 wt.% or more, such as about 7 wt.% or more, such as about 8 wt.% or more, such as about 9 wt.% or more, such as about 10 wt.% or more, such as about 12 wt.% or more, such as about 15 wt.% or more, such as about 18 wt.% or more, such as about 20 wt.% or more based on the weight of the thermoplastic polymer composition. They may be utilized in an amount of about 40 wt.% or less, such as about 38 wt.% or less, such as about 35 wt.% or less, such as about 33 wt.% or less, such as about 30 wt.% or less, such as about 27 wt.% or less, such as about 25 wt.% or less, such as about 23 wt.% or less, such as about 20 wt.% or less, such as about 17 wt.% or less, such as about 15 wt.% or less, such as about 13 wt.% or less, such as about 10 wt.% or less, such as about 8 wt.% or less, such as about 6 wt.% or less, such as about 5 wt.% or less, such as about 4.5 wt.% or less, such as about 4 wt.% or less, such as about 3.5 wt.% orless, such as about 3 wt.% or less, such as about 2.5 wt.% or less, such as about 2 wt.% or less, such as about 1.5 wt.% or less, such as about 1 wt.% or less, such as about 0.8 wt.% or less, such as about 0.6 wt.% or less, such as about 0.5 wt.% or less, such as about 0.4 wt.% or less, such as about 0.3 wt.% or less, such as about 0.1 wt.% or less based on the weight of the thermoplastic polymer composition. In one embodiment, such aforementioned weight ratios may be based on the weight of the thermoplastic polymer, such as an olefin polymer. In another embodiment, such aforementioned weight ratios may be based on the weight of the thermoplastic polymer, such as an olefin polymer, and the phosphite polymer processing aid. In a further embodiment, such aforementioned weight ratios may be based on the weight of the thermoplastic polymer, such as an olefin polymer, and all polymer processing aids, such as a mixture of the phosphite and the polyalkylene glycol polymer. In one particular embodiment, a respective additive may be present in the thermoplastic polymer composition in an amount of 0 wt.%.

[0114] Such aforementioned weight percentages may apply to any single additive as mentioned herein in one embodiment. In another embodiment, such aforementioned weight percentages may apply to the combination of additives as mentioned herein.

[0115] In one embodiment, the thermoplastic polymer composition may comprise a Lewis base. Such Lewis bases are generally known in the art. For instance, such Lewis bases may generally be referred to as electron donors. In this regard, they may include compounds including OH F H2O, ROH, NH3, SO42; H-, CO, and the like. In one embodiment, the Lewis base may include a compound including an OH’.

[0116] In one embodiment, the additive, such as the Lewis base, may comprise an alkanolamine. As generally understood in the art, alkanolamines contain both a hydroxyl group and an amino group on an alkane backbone. The alkanolamine may include, but is not limited to, a methanolamine, an ethanolamine, a propanolamine, or a mixture thereof. In one embodiment, the alkanolamine may be an ethanolamine, a propanolamine, or a mixture thereof. In a further embodiment, the alkanolamine may include a propanolamine.

[0117] Furthermore, the alkanolamine may be a monoalkanolamine, a dialkanolamine, a trialkanolamine, or a mixture thereof. In one embodiment, thealkanolamine may be a dialkanolamine, a trialkanolamine, or a mixture thereof. In a further embodiment, the alkanolamine may be a trialkanolamine. Examples of these alkanolamines may specifically include monoethanolamine, diethanolamine, triethanolamine, monoisopropanolamine, diisopropanolamine, triisopropanolamine, or a mixture thereof. In one particular embodiment, the alkanolamine may include triisopropanolamine. Other alkanolamines may include, but are not limited to, octyl-bis(2-ethanol)amine, nonyl-bis(2-ethanol)amine, decyl-bis(2-ethanolamine, undecyl-bis(2-ethanol)amine, dodecyl-bis(2-ethanol)amine, tridecyl-bis(2- ethanol)amine, tetradecyl-bis(2-ethanol)amine, pentadecyl-bis(2-ethanol)amine, hexadecyl-bis(2-ethanol)amine, heptadecyl-bis(2-ethanol)amine, octadecyl-bis(2- ethanol)amine, octyl-bis(2-propanol)amine, nonyl-bis(2-propanol)amine, decyl- bis(2-propanol)amine, undecyl-bis(2-propanol)amine, dodecyl-bis(2- propanol)amine, tridecyl-bis(2-propanol)amine, tetradecyl-bis(2-propanol)amine, pentadecyl-bis(2-propanol)amine, hexadecyl-bis(2-propanol)amine, heptadecyl- bis(2-propanol)amine, octadecyl-bis(2-propanol)amine, and mixtures thereof.

[0118] The thermoplastic polymer composition may comprise an antioxidant. For instance, the antioxidant may comprise one or more of a phenolic antioxidant, a sulfur-containing antioxidant, an aminic antioxidant, a phosphite antioxidant, or a mixture thereof.

[0119] In one embodiment, the antioxidant may comprise a phenolic antioxidant. Such phenolic antioxidant may be a fully hindered phenolic antioxidant, a partially hindered phenolic antioxidant, a low-hindered phenolic antioxidant, a non-hindered phenolic antioxidant, or a mixture thereof. Such terms “fully hindered,” “partially hindered,” “low-hindered,” and “non-hindered” are generally understood by one skilled in the art.

[0120] In this context, by “fully hindered” it is preferably meant that the phenolic antioxidant comprises substituent hydrocarbyl groups on both positions ortho to the phenolic -OH group, each of those substituent groups being branched at the Ci and / or C2 position, preferably at the Ci position, with respect to the aromatic ring.

[0121] The fully hindered phenolic antioxidant, if present, may comprise tetrakismethylene(3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxyhydrocinnamate) methane (ANOX™ 20 - CAS 6683-19-8); 2,2'thiodiethylene bis[3(3,5-di-t-butyl hydroxyphenyl)propionate] (ANOX™ 70 - CAS 41484-35-9); octadecyl 3-(3',5'-di-t-butyl-4'-hydroxyphenyl)propionate (ANOX™ PP18 / AO 1076 - CAS 2082-79-3); 1 ,3,5-tris(3,5-di-t-butyl-4- hydroxybenzyl) isocyanurate (ANOX™ IC14 - CAS 27676-62-6); 1 ,3,5-trimethyl- 2,4,6-tris(3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxybenzyl)benzene (ANOX™ 330 - CAS 1709-70-2); N,N'-hexamethylenebis[3-(3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propionamide] (LOWINOX™ HD98 - CAS 23128-74-7); 1 ,2-bis(3,5-di-t-butyl-4- hydroxyhydrocinnamoyl)hydrazine (LOWINOX™ MD24 - CAS 32687-78-8); 2,2'- ethylidenebis[4,6-di-t-butylphenol] (ANOX™ 29 - CAS 35958-30-6); butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT - CAS 128-37-0); etc. and / or compatible mixtures of two or more thereof.

[0122] In this context, by “partially hindered” it is preferably meant that the phenolic antioxidant comprises at least one substituent hydrocarbyl group ortho to the phenolic -OH group, only one of the or each substituent group being branched at the Ci and / or C2 position, preferably at the Ci position, with respect to the aromatic ring.

[0123] The partially hindered phenolic antioxidant, if present, may comprise 1 ,3,5-tris(4-tert-butyl-3-hydroxy-2,6-dimethylbenzyl)-1 ,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-(1 H, 3H, 5H)-trione (LOWINOX™ 1790 - CAS 40601-76-1); triethyleneglycol-bis-[3-(3-t- butyl-4-hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)propionate] (LOWINOX™ GP45 - CAS 36443-68- 2); the butylated reaction product of p-cresol and dicyclopentadiene (LOWINOX™ CPL - CAS 68610-51-5); 2,2'-methylenebis(6-t-butyl methylphenol) (LOWINOX™ 22M46 - CAS 119-47-1); ethylene bis[3,3-bis[3-(1 , 1 -dimethylethyl)-4- hydroxyphenyl]butanoate] (CAS 32509-66-3); etc. and / or compatible mixtures of two or more thereof.

[0124] In this context, by “low hindered” it is preferably meant that the phenolic antioxidant comprises at least one substituent hydrocarbyl group ortho to the phenolic -OH group, none of those substituent groups being branched at the Ci or C2 position, preferably at the Ci position, with respect to the aromatic ring.

[0125] In this context, by “non-hindered” it is preferably meant that the phenolic antioxidant comprises no substituent hydrocarbyl groups ortho to the phenolic -OH group.

[0126] The thermoplastic polymer composition may include a sulfur- containing antioxidant. The sulfur-containing antioxidant may comprise one or more thioether groups. Without intending to be limited, the sulfur-containing antioxidant may have a sulfur group with the formula -CH2-(S)x-CH2-, whereinx=1 or 2. In one embodiment, one or both of the -CH2- groups is directly bonded to an aromatic group. In another embodiment, neither of the -CH2- groups is directly bonded to an aromatic group. Particularly, in one embodiment, the sulfur- containing antioxidant may have the formula V-CH2-(S)x-CH2-W, wherein x=1 or 2 and wherein V and W respectively may be the same or different and may be or contain an aliphatic group.

[0127] The sulfur-containing antioxidant may include, but is not limited to, 2,4-bis-(n-octylthio)-6-(4-hydroxy-3,5-di-tert-butylanilino)-1 ,3,5-triazine (CAS 991 - 84-4); 4,6-bis(octylthiomethyl)-o-cresol (LOWINOX™ 520 - CAS 110553-27-0); 2,2'thiodiethylene bis[3(3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate] (ANOXTM70 - CAS 41484-35-9); dilauryl thiodipropionate (NAUGARD™ DLTDP - CAS 123-28- 4); distearyl thiodipropionate (NAUGARD™ DSTSP - CAS 693-36-7); ditridecylthiodipropionate (NAUGARD™ DTDTDP - CAS 10595-72-9); pentaerythritol tetrakis (p-laurylthiopropionate) (NAUGARD™ 412S - CAS 29598- 76-3); 2,4-bis(dodecylthiomethyl)-6-methylphenol (IRGANOX™ 1726 - CAS 110675-26-8, available from BASF); distearyl-disulfide (CAS 2500-88-1 ); 4,4'- thiobis(2-tert-butyl-5-methylphenol) (LOWINOX™ TBM-6 - CAS 96-69-5); 2,2'- thiobis(6-t-butyl-4-methylphenol) (LOWINOX™ TBP-6 - CAS 90-66-4); etc. and / or compatible mixtures of two or more thereof.

[0128] The sulphur containing antioxidant may be an inorganic antioxidant in the sense that it may comprise a metal. In this regard, the sulphur containing antioxidant may comprise one or more of a metal thiosulphate, a metal bisulphite, a metal metabisulphite, a metal hydrosulphite, etc. and / or compatible mixtures of two or more thereof. The metal thiosulphate may be selected from compounds with the formula: M2S2O3. The metal bisulphite may be selected from compounds with the formula: MHSO3. The metal metabisulphite may be selected from compounds with the formula: M2S2O5. The metal hydrosulphite may be selected from compounds with the formula: M2S2O4. The aforementioned “M” may refer to a metal. Depending on the particular antioxidant, the metal may be an alkali metal and / or an alkaline earth metal. The alkali metal may be lithium (Li), sodium (Na), or potassium (K). The alkaline earth metal may be calcium (Ca) or magnesium (Mg).

[0129] The thermoplastic polymer composition may include an aminic antioxidant. The aminic antioxidant may include, but is not limited to, acetonediphenylamine (AMINOX™ - CAS 68412-48-6); reaction products of diphenylamine and acetone (BLE™ - CAS 112-39-4); N,N'-diphenyl-p- phenylenediamine (FLEXAMINE™ - CAS 74-31-7); benzeneamine, bis[4-(2- phenyl-2-propyl)phenyl]amine (NAUGARD™ 445 - CAS 10081-67-1); poly(1 ,2- dihydro-2,2,4-trimethylquinoline) (NAUGARD™ Q - CAS 26780-96-1); dioctyldiphenylamine (OCTAMINE™ - CAS 101-67-7); 1 ,4-benzenediamine, N,N'- mixed phenyl and tolyl derivatives (NOVAZONE™ AS - CAS 68953-84-4); N,N',N"-tris[4-[(1 ,4-dimethylpentyl)amino]phenyl]-1 ,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-triamine (DURAZONE™ 37 - CAS 121246-28-4); N-isopropyl-N'-phenyl-1 ,4- phenylenediamine (FLEXZONE™ 3C - CAS 101-72-4); N-phenyl-, reaction products with 2,4,4-trimethylpentene (NAUGARD™ PS30 - CAS 68411-46-1); N,N-bis-(1 ,4-dimethylpentyl)-p-phenylenediamine (FLEXZONE™ 4L - CAS 3081- 14-9); diphenylamine (CAS 122-39-4); (1 ,3-dimethylbutyl)-N'-phenyl-p- phenylenediamine (CAS 793-24-8); etc. and / or compatible mixtures of two or more thereof.

[0130] The thermoplastic polymer composition may include a phosphite antioxidant. For instance, the phosphite antioxidant may include an organic phosphite antioxidant, an inorganic phosphite antioxidant, or a mixture thereof. In one embodiment, the phosphite antioxidant comprises an organic phosphite antioxidant. In another embodiment, the phosphite antioxidant comprises an inorganic phosphite antioxidant. In a further embodiment, the phosphite antioxidant comprises a mixture of an organic phosphite antioxidant and an inorganic phosphite antioxidant.

[0131] The organic phosphite antioxidant may include, but is not limited to, bis(2,4,di-t-butylphenyl)pentaerythritol diphosphite (ULTRANOX™ 626 - CAS 26741-53-7); 2,4,6-tri-tert-butylphenyl-2-butyl-2-ethyl-1 ,3-propanediol phosphite (ULTRANOX™ 641 - CAS 161717-32-4); tris(2,4-di-t-butylphenyl)phosphite (ALKANOX™ 240 - CAS 31570-04-4); tetrakis (2,4-di-t-butylphenyl)4,4'- biphenylene diphosphonite (ALKANOX™ 24-44 - CAS 38613-77-3); tris(4-n- nonylphenyl)phosphite (WESTON™ TNPP - CAS 26523-78-4); bis(2,4- dicumylphenyl) pentaerythritol diphosphite (DOVERPHOS™ 9228 - CAS 154862- 43-8, available from Dover Chemical Corporation); tris(dipropyleneglycol) phosphite, C18H3909P (WESTON™ 430 - CAS 36788-39-3); poly(dipropylene glycol) phenyl phosphite (WESTON™ DHOP - CAS 80584-86-7); diphenylisodecyl phosphite, C22H31O3P (WESTON™ DPDP - CAS 26544-23-0); phenyl diisodecyl phosphite (WESTON™ PDDP - CAS 25550-98-5); heptakis (dipropyleneglycol) triphosphite (WESTON™ PTP - CAS 13474-96-9); bis(2,6-di- tert-butyl-4-methylphenyl)pentaerythritol diphosphite (PEP 36 - CAS 80693-00-1); tris(2-t-butylphenyl)phosphite (CAS 31502-36-0); trisphenyl phosphite; and / or compatible mixtures of two or more thereof.

[0132] The inorganic phosphite antioxidant may comprise one or more of a metal phosphite, a metal hypophosphite, etc. and / or compatible mixtures of two or more thereof. The metal hypophosphite may be selected from compounds with the formula: MPO2H2. The aforementioned “M” may refer to a metal. Depending on the particular antioxidant, the metal may be an alkali metal and / or an alkaline earth metal. The alkali metal may be lithium (Li), sodium (Na), or potassium (K). The alkaline earth metal may be calcium (Ca) or magnesium (Mg). As one example, the inorganic phosphite antioxidant may be a metal hypophosphite. The metal hypophosphite may be sodium hypophosphite.

[0133] The metal hypophosphite may be in an anhydrous form in one embodiment. Alternatively, the metal hypophosphite may be in hydrated form, such as a monohydrate metal hypophosphite.

[0134] The thermoplastic polymer composition may include a UV stabilizer. The UV stabilizer may include a hindered amine light stabilizer and / or a UV absorber. The UV stabilizer may include, but is not limited to, butanedioic acid, 1 ,4-dimethyl ester, polymer with 4-hydroxy-2, 2, 6, 6-tetramethyl-1 -piperidineethanol (LOWILITE™ 62 - CAS 65447-77-0); bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl) sebacate (LOWILITE™ 77 - CAS 52829-07-9); poly[[6-[(1 ,1 ,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)amino]- 1 ,3,5-triazine-2,4-diyl][2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidiyl)imino]-1 ,6- hexanediyl[(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidiyl)imino]]) (LOWILITE™ 94 - CAS 70624-18-9); 1 ,5,8,12-tetrakis[4,6-bis(N-butyl-N-1 ,2,2,6,6-pentamethyl piperidylamino)-1 ,3,5-triazin-2-yl]-1 ,5,8,12-tetraazadodecane (LOWILITE™ 19 - CAS 106990-43-6); bis(1 ,2,2,6, 6-pentamethyl-4-piperidyl) sebacate (LOWILITE™ 92 - CAS 41556-26-7); salicylic acid derivatives such as phenyl salicylate, p-t-butyl salicylate, etc.; benzophenone system such as 2,4-dihydroxy benzophenone, 2- hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, etc.; benzotriazole system such as 2-(2'- hydroxy-3’,5'-di-t-butylphenyl)benzotriazole, 2-(2'-hydroxy-3'-t-butyl-5'- methylphenyl)-5-chlorobenzotriazole, etc.; hindered amine system such asbis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl) sebacate, dimethyl succinate-1-(2- hydroxyethyl)-4-hydroxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethyl piperidine condensation product; 2- hydroxybenzophenones, e.g. 2,4-dihydroxybenzophenone, 2-hydroxy-4- methoxybenzophenone, 2-hydroxy-4-octoxybenzophenone, and 5,5-methylene bis(2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone); 2-(2'-hydroxyphenyl)benzotriazoles, e.g. 2-(2'-hydroxy-5'-methylphenyl)benzotriazole, 2-(2'-hydroxy-5'-t- octylphenyl)benzotriazole, 2-(2'-hydroxy-3',5'-di-t-butylphenyl)benzotriazole, 2-(2'- hydroxy-3',5'-di-t-butylphenyl)-5-chlorobenzotriazole, 2-(2'-hydroxy-3'-t-butyl-5'- methylphenyl)-5-chlorobenzotriazole, 2-(2'-hydroxy-3',5'- dicumylphenyl)benzotriazole, and 2,2'-methylene bis(4-t-octyl-6- benzotriazolyl)phenol; benzoates, e.g. phenylsalicylate, resorcinol monobenzoate, 2,4-di-t-butylphenyl-3',5'-di-t-butyl-4'-hydroxybenzoate, and hexadecyl-3, 5-di-t- butyl-4-hydroxybenzoate; substituted oxanilides, e.g. 2-ethyl-2'-ethoxyoxanilide and 2-ethoxy-4'-dodecyloxanilide; cyanoacrylates, e.g. ethyl-a-cyano-p,p- diphenylacrylate and methyl-2-cyano-3-methyl-3-(p-methoxyphenyl)acrylate, etc. and / or compatible mixtures of two or more thereof

[0135] Additional examples of hindered amine light stabilizers include2.2.6.6-tetramethyl-4-piperidylstearate, 1 ,2,2,6,6-pentamethyl-4-piperidylstearate,2.2.6.6-tetramethyl-4-piperidylbenzoate, bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4- piperidylsebacate, bis( 1 ,2,2,6,6-pentamethyl-4-piperidyl)sebacate, tetrakis(2, 2,6,6- tetramethyl-4-piperidyl)-1 ,2,3,4-butane tetracarboxylate, tetrakis(1 , 2, 2,6,6- pentamethyl-4-piperidyl)-1 ,2,3,4-butane tetracarboxylate, bis( 1 , 2, 2,6,6- pentamethyl-4-piperidyl)-di(tridecyl)-1 ,2,3,4-butane tetracarboxylate, bis( 1 , 2, 2,6,6- pentamethyl-4-piperidyl)-2-butyl-2-(3',5'-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxybenzyl)malonate, 1-(2- hydroxyethyl)-2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinol / diethyl succinate polycondensate,1 .6-bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidylamino) hexane / dibromoethane polycondensate, 1 ,6-bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidylamino)hexane / 2,4-dichloro- 6-t-octyl amino-s-triazine polycondensate, 1 ,6-bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4- piperidylamino)hexane / 2,4-dichloro-6-morphol ino-s-triazine polycondensate, etc. and / or compatible mixtures of two or more thereof. These mixtures may include any of the aforementioned LIV stabilizers including those UV absorbers and hindered amine lights stabilizers mentioned above.

[0136] The thermoplastic polymer composition may include an acid scavenger. The acid scavenger may include one or more of a metal oxide, a metalhydroxide, a metal carbonate, a metal carboxylate, and / or a metal salt. In one embodiment, the acid scavenger may comprise a metal carboxylate. The metal carboxylate may include a metal stearate and / or a metal lactate. In one embodiment, the metal carboxylate comprises a metal stearate. The metal stearate may include, but is not limited to, calcium stearate, zinc stearate, aluminum stearate, magnesium stearate, lithium stearate, sodium stearate, cadmium stearate, barium stearate and / or a mixture of two or more thereof. The metal lactate may include, but is not limited to, sodium lactate, magnesium lactate, calcium lactate, zinc lactate and / or a mixture of two or more thereof. In one embodiment, the acid scavenger may include a metal oxide. The metal oxide may include, but is not limited to, zinc oxide, magnesium oxide, titanium dioxide, etc. or a mixture thereof. In one embodiment, the acid scavenger may include a metal carbonate. The metal carbonate may include, but is not limited to, calcium carbonate, hydrotalcite, a hydrotalcite-like compound, or a mixture thereof.

[0137] The thermoplastic polymer composition may include a clarifying agent and / or a nucleating agent. In one embodiment, the stabilizer composition may include a clarifying agent. In another embodiment, the stabilizer composition may include a nucleating agent. In a further embodiment, the stabilizer composition may include a clarifying agent and a nucleating agent. These agents may include a metal benzoate and / or a sorbitol derivative. The metal benzoate, if present, may comprise sodium benzoate, magnesium benzoate, calcium benzoate, zinc benzoate and / or a mixture of two or more thereof. These agents may include bis(3,4-dimethylbenzylidene) sorbitol (CAS 135861-56-2); bis(4- propylbenzylidene) sorbitol (CAS 882073-43-0); 2,4,8, 10-tetra(tert-butyl)-6- hydroxy-12H-dibenzo[d,g][1 ,3,2]dioxaphosphocin 6-oxide, sodium salt (CAS 85209-91-2); and / or compatible mixtures of two or more thereof.

[0138] The thermoplastic polymer composition may include a colorant. The colorant may include, but is not limited to, pigments, single pigment dispersions, dyes, talc filled resins, nano composites, coated micas, powdered aluminum and other metals, optical brighteners, fluorescents, phosphorescents, etc. as well as mixtures thereof.

[0139] In one embodiment, the colorant may include a pigment. The pigment may be an organic pigment, an inorganic pigment, or a mixture thereof. The organic pigment may include, but is not limited to, azo and disazo pigmentssuch as azo and disazo lake, hansas, benzimidazolones, diarylides, pyrazolones, yellows and reds; polycyclic pigments such as phthalocyanines, quinacridones, perylenes, perinones, dioxazines, anthraquinones, isoindolins, thioindigo, diaryl or quinophthalone pigment, aniline black, or mixtures thereof. The inorganic pigment may include, but is not limited to, titanium oxide, titanium yellow, iron oxide, ultramarine blue, cobalt blue, chromic oxide green, lead yellow, cadmium yellow and cadmium red, carbon black pigments, and mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the colorant may include carbon black. The organic and inorganic pigments can be used singly or in combination. These pigments may be in any form of a dry powder, pigment dispersions, or combinations thereof.

[0140] The thermoplastic polymer composition may include a flame retardant. Such flame retardant is not limited by the present disclosure. The flame retardant may include, but is not limited to, phosphoric acid systems such as allyl diallyl phosphate, cresyl diphenyl phosphate, octyl diphenyl phosphate, triallyl phosphate, tributyl phosphate, triphenyl phosphate, tris(P-chloroethyl)phosphate, tris(dichloropropyl)phosphate, tris(2,3-dibrompropyl)phosphate, tris(bromo- chloropropyl)phosphate, etc., chlorine systems such as chlorinated paraffin, chlorinated polyphenyl, perchloropentacyclodecane, etc., bromine systems such as tetrabromoethane, tetrabromobutane, hexaborombenzene, decabromodiphenyloxide, polydibrornophenyloxide, bis(tribromophenoxy)ethane, ethylene bisbromonorbornane dicarboxylmide, ethylene bistetrabromophthalimide, etc. reaction type such as chlorendic acid anhydride, tetrabromo phthalic anhydride, tetrabromo bisphenol A, dietoxy-bis-(2-hydroxyethyl)-aminomethyl phosphate, dibormcresyl glycidyl ether, etc. as well as mixtures thereof.

[0141] The thermoplastic polymer composition may include a slip agent. The slip agent may include, but is not limited to, an amide. The amide may be a secondary fatty acid amide. The slip agent may include, but is not limited to, oleamide, erucamide, stearamide, behenamide, as well as mixtures thereof.

[0142] The thermoplastic polymer composition may include a filler. The filler may include, but is not limited to, glass filler (e.g., glass fibers, glass flakes, glass beads, etc.), talc, kaolin, mica, clay, nano-clay, silica, or mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the filler comprises a glass filler, such as glass fiber.D. Method

[0143] As indicated herein, the polymer processing aids are utilized during extrusion of the thermoplastic polymer. In this regard, such extrusion may be conducted using means generally known in the art. For instance, one or more components may be premixed using any mixing device generally known in the art. In the device, the one or more components may be added together and mixed or added individually at any point during the mixing process.

[0144] The thermoplastic polymer composition may be formed by melt extruding in a chamber the thermoplastic polymer and the polymer processing aid, such as a mixture of the phosphite and the polyalkylene glycol polymer. The process may also include any optional non-polymer processing aid additives. The respective components, such as the polymer processing aid, may be provided in a batch process. Alternatively, it may be provided on a continuous basis during at least a portion of the extrusion process. In addition, the extrusion process itself may be continuous and the conditions of the extrusion may be sufficient to melt blend the polymer processing aid with the thermoplastic polymer.

[0145] In one embodiment, the polymer processing aid, such as a mixture of the phosphite and the polyalkylene glycol polymer, may be introduced with the thermoplastic polymer, such as the olefin polymer, at ambient conditions and then provided to the chamber. In this regard, in one embodiment, the thermoplastic polymer and the polymer processing aid may be combined to prepare a first composition that is provided to the chamber in order the thermoplastic composition. Such mixing or blending may be dry blend mixing. In one embodiment, such mixing or blending may be at a temperature above the melting point or the softening point of the thermoplastic polymer. In another embodiment, while the components may be provided at the same time, they may not be preblended. In a further embodiment, the thermoplastic polymer, such as the olefin polymer, may be provided to the chamber and thereafter the polymer processing aid may be introduced to the chamber, either as a mixture or individually. For instance, at least a portion of the polymer processing aid, or all the polymer processing aid, may be provided to the thermoplastic polymer, such as the olefin polymer, after the polymer has been heated and in an at least partially molten state.

[0146] The chamber may be any extruder vessel that is suitable for blending the selected components under temperature and shearing force conditionsnecessary to form a thermoplastic polymer composition. In this respect, the chamber may be a co-rotating, counter-rotating, or twin-screw extruder. According to one embodiment, the chamber is a single or multi-screw extruder. The term “multi-screw extruder” means an extruder having two or more screws. The screws of the extruder may have a plurality of lobes. It will readily be understood that other screw designs may be selected in accordance with the methods of embodiments of the present disclosure. Furthermore, extrusion techniques are well known to those skilled in the art and may include, but are not limited to, cast film extrusion, blown film extrusion, extrusion blow molding, injection molding, pipe extrusion, wire extrusion, cable extrusion, fiber extrusion, etc.

[0147] After discharging from the apparatus, the thermoplastic polymer composition may be milled, chopped, pelletized, or processed by any other desirable technique. In addition, as the thermoplastic composition is discharged from the apparatus, it may be subjected to a shaped die for forming an article. These may include, but are not limited to, pipes, films, etc.

[0148] The thermoplastic polymer composition as disclosed herein may be utilized in a variety of applications and such applications are not limited by the present disclosure. For instance, the article may include a beverage container (e.g., bottle), a packaging film (e.g., blown film), a container, etc. The composition may also be utilized to form filaments, films, or sheets that may be utilized for a variety of applications.

[0149] In one embodiment, the application may be a food grade application. In this regard, the thermoplastic polymer composition may be utilized for a container or packaging related to food or beverages.Example 1

[0150] This example demonstrates the use of particular phosphite polymer processing aids (distearylpentaerythritol diphosphite; phosphorous acid, mixed 2,4- bis(1 , 1 -dimethylpropyl)phenyl and 4-(1 , 1 -dimethylpropyl)phenyl triesters (w / triisoproanolamine)) in the melt extrusion of LLDPE. In certain examples, polyethylene glycol polymer processing aids were also provided in conjunction with the phosphite polymer processing aids. In all examples, a phenolic antioxidant (octadecyl 3-(3',5'-di-t-butyl-4'-hydroxyphenyl) propionate) and an organicphosphite antioxidant (tris(2,4-di-t-butylphenyl)phosphite) were also extruded with the LLDPE and the phosphite polymer processing aid.

[0151] Each sample was subjected to a capillary rheometer test. The capillary rheometer test conditions were as follows: Figures 1 A and 1 B - die L / D of 10 / 1 , constant shear rate of 350 s-1, and temperature of 190°C; Figures 2A and 2B - die L / D of 30 / 1 , constant shear rate of 350 s-1, and temperature of 190°C. The results are illustrated in Figures 1A (phosphite polymer processing aids), 1 B (phosphite polymer processing aids with polyethylene glycol polymer processing aids), 2A (phosphite polymer processing aids), and 2B (phosphite polymer processing aids with polyethylene glycol polymer processing aids).Example 2

[0152] This example demonstrates the use of particular polymer processing aids (distearylpentaerythritol diphosphite (“DSPD”) and polyethylene glycol (e.g., PEG 8000, PEG 3350)) in the melt extrusion of LLDPE compared to a fluoropolymer. In particular, the weight percentages of the respective components were varied to determine the effect on melt fracture (“MF”) of the extruded LLDPEusing the time to clear (“TTC”) as the criteria. Further, using neat LLDPE, a baseline melt fracture was established at 10 RPM.

[0153] In general, the % melt fracture is determined by measuring the total width of the sharkskin of a film divided by the total width times 100%. Generally, sharkskin refers to a surface defect that appears and characterized by a rough / matte surface that may have a wavy or ridge-like pattern. For the sake of clarity, if multiple sharkskin strips are realized, the total width of the sharkskin would be based on the sum of the width of each of the sharkskin strips. Further, the time to clear refers to the time at which 0% melt fracture is realized.

[0154] The polymer and processing aids were extruded in a 1” diameter single screw extruder using a 2.6mm orifice die and at a 190°C extrusion temperature. The LLDPE was also extruded with a phenolic antioxidant (0.05 wt.%), an aromatic phosphite antioxidant (0.1 wt.%), and zinc stearate (0.05 wt.%).

[0155] The additives were prepared in the following ratios using tumbler blending:

[0156] For each sample, every 10 minutes, an assessment of % melt fracture around the surface of a strand was recorded and a sample was collected for later examination. At the end of every experimental run, the extruder was purged with an antiblock purge compound, then further purged with neat LLDPE to establish melt fracture at 10 RPM.

[0157] The time to cure results are as follows:

[0158] In the above resu ts, an * indicates that the test was aborted.

[0159] The % melt fracture results are as follows:

[0160] At the cone usion, it was found that the 50 / 50 blend of PEG 8000 / DSPD had the least time to cure with a time of 55 minutes, even less than the control sample using the fluoropolymer at 90 minutes. In addition, the melt fracture results can be seen in Figure 3.Example 3

[0161] This example demonstrates the use of a 50 / 50 by weight blend of distearylpentaerythritol diphosphite (“DSPD”) and polyethylene glycol (PEG 8000) at various dosing levels in the melt extrusion of LLDPE compared to a fluoropolymer. In particular, the dosing levels of the respective components (such that the loading varied in the LLDPE) were varied to determine the effect on melt fracture (“MF”) of the extruded LLDPE using the time to clear (“TTC”) as the criteria. Further, using neat LLDPE, a baseline melt fracture was established at 10 RPM.

[0162] In general, the % melt fracture is determined by measuring the total width of the sharkskin of a film divided by the total width times 100%. Generally, sharkskin refers to a surface defect that appears and characterized by a rough / matte surface that may have a wavy or ridge-like pattern. For the sake of clarity, if multiple sharkskin strips are realized, the total width of the sharkskin would be based on the sum of the width of each of the sharkskin strips. Further, the time to clear refers to the time at which 0% melt fracture is realized.

[0163] The polymer and processing aids were extruded in a 1” diameter single screw extruder using a 2.6mm orifice die and at a 190°C extrusion temperature.

[0164] The additives were prepared in the following ratios using tumbler blending:

[0165] For each sample, every 10 minutes, an assessment of % melt fracture around the surface of a strand was recorded and a sample was collectedfor later examination. At the end of every experimental run, the extruder was purged with an antiblock purge compound, then further purged with neat LLDPE to establish melt fracture at 10 RPM.

[0166] The time to cure results are as follows:

[0167] The % melt fracture results are as follows:

[0168] The extruder pressure drop from the inlet and the outlet of the extruder over time is as follows:

[0169] At the conclusion, it was found that all blends had shorter TTC versus the fluoropolymer control with the with the highest loading (total 1500 ppm additives) performing the best at a TTC of 25 and 30 minutes respectively for runs 1 and 2 versus the fluoropolymer with a TTC of 90 minutes.

[0170] In addition to having a shorter time to clear, all blends exhibited a quicker and larger drop in pressure from the initial melt fracture state, from 22 - 38% depending on the blend. The highest levels of additive loading exhibited the largest pressure drop.Example 4

[0171] This example demonstrates the use of the LLDPE extruded utilizing particular polymer processing aids (distearylpentaerythritol diphosphite (“DSPD”) and polyethylene glycol (e.g., PEG 8000) for the preparation of blown films. In particular, film samples were collected for the blends of DSPD / PEG 8000 and compared against film samples prepared using a fluoropolymer.

[0172] The additives were prepared in the below ratios using tumbler blending. In addition, an aromatic phosphite antioxidant (900 ppm), a first hindered phenolic antioxidant (250 ppm), a second hindered phenolic antioxidant (220 ppm), and zinc oxide (600 ppm) were also extruded with the LLDPE and processing aids. Also, 2.5 wt.% of a natural silica masterbatch were provided. In particular, the masterbatch utilized for CE10 included 50 wt.% natural silica masterbatch while the masterbatch utilized in the other samples included a 20 wt.% natural silica masterbatch. Further, the polymer in the masterbatch was a polyethylene having a low density.

[0173] Further, certain samples included an antiblock additive.

[0174] The % melt fracture and time to clear results are as follows:

[0175] In general, the pressure drop and the output increase were positive for the blend compared to the fluoropolymer. In particular, the pressure drop is illustrated in Figure 4. In addition, analysis of the films showed the influence of additives on film properties, including application relevant properties like haze and printability.Example 5

[0176] This example demonstrates the use of the LLDPE extruded utilizing particular polymer processing aids (distearylpentaerythritol diphosphite (“DSPD”) and polyethylene glycol (e.g., PEG 8000) for the preparation of blown films. In particular, film samples were collected for the blends of DSPD / PEG 8000.

[0177] The additives were prepared in the below ratios using tumbler blending. In addition, an aromatic phosphite antioxidant (900 ppm), a first hindered phenolic antioxidant (250 ppm), a second hindered phenolic antioxidant (220 ppm), and zinc oxide (600 ppm) were also extruded with the LLDPE and processing aids. Also, 2.5 wt.% of a natural silica masterbatch were provided. Inparticular, the masterbatch was a 20 wt.% natural silica masterbatch wherein the polymer in the masterbatch was a polyethylene having a low density.

[0178] Samples 24 and 25 were provided as a masterbatch wherein 92 wt.% of the masterbatch included an LLDPE polymer. Further, the samples included an antiblock additive.

[0179] In general, the samples did not exhibit any melt fracture at 190°C or after lowering the temperature to 180°C. The % melt fracture and time to clear results are as follows:disclosure may be practiced by those of ordinary skill in the art, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. In addition, it should be understood that aspects of the various embodiments may be interchanged both in whole or in part. Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the foregoing description is by way of example only and is not intended to limit the disclosure so further described in such appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:1 . A process for preparing a thermoplastic polymer composition, the process comprising: extruding a thermoplastic polymer in a melt extrusion process in the presence of a polymer processing aid comprising an aliphatic phosphite and a polyalkylene glycol polymer to form the thermoplastic polymer composition.

2. The process of claim 1 , wherein the thermoplastic polymer composition is substantially free of a fluoroelastomer, a fluoropolymer, and a perfluorinated alkane compound or derivative thereof.

3. The process of claim 1 , wherein the aliphatic phosphite comprises distearylpentaerythritol diphosphite.

4. The process of claim 3, wherein the polymer processing aid further comprises a hydrolyzed derivative of distearylpentaerythritol diphosphite.

5. The process of claim 1 , wherein the polymer processing aid further comprises an aromatic phosphite.

6. The process of claim 1 , wherein the thermoplastic polymer composition comprises 0.01 wt.% or more to 0.5 wt.% or less of the polymer processing aid.

7. The process of claim 1 , wherein the polyalkylene glycol polymer comprises a polyethylene glycol.

8. The process of claim 1 , wherein the polyalkylene glycol polymer has a weight average molecular weight of from 2,500 g / mol or more to 15,000 g / mol or less.

9. The process of claim 1 , wherein the thermoplastic polymer composition comprises 0.01 wt.% or more to 0.5 wt.% or less of the polyalkylene glycol.

10. The process of claim 1, wherein the polymer processing aid comprises from 25 wt.% or more to 75 wt.% or less of the aliphatic phosphite and from 25 wt.% or more to 75 wt.% or less of the polyalkylene glycol polymer, wherein the weight percentage is based on the weight of the polymer processing aid.11 . The process of claim 1 , wherein the thermoplastic polymer comprises a polyolefin.

12. The process of claim 1 , wherein the thermoplastic polymer comprises an ethylene polymer, a propylene polymer, or a mixture thereof.

13. The process of claim 1 , wherein the thermoplastic polymer comprises an ethylene polymer.

14. The process of claim 1 , wherein the thermoplastic polymer comprises LLDPE, MDPE, VLDPE, HDPE, or a mixture thereof.

15. The process of claim 1 , wherein the thermoplastic polymer comprises LLDPE.

16. The process of claim 1 , wherein the extruding is conducted in the presence of an antioxidant.

17. The process of claim 16, wherein the antioxidant comprises a phenolic antioxidant, a phosphite antioxidant, or a mixture thereof.

18. The process of claim 17, wherein the antioxidant comprises a mixture of a phenolic antioxidant and a phosphite antioxidant.

19. The process of claim 1 , comprising: preparing a first composition comprising the thermoplastic polymer and the polymer processing aid comprising the phosphite and the polyalkylene glycol polymer, and extruding the first composition in the melt extrusion process to form the thermoplastic polymer composition.

20. A process for preparing a thermoplastic polymer composition, the process comprising: extruding a thermoplastic polymer in a melt extrusion process in the presence of a polymer processing aid comprising a phosphite, a hydrolyzed derivative thereof, and a polyalkylene glycol polymer to form the thermoplastic polymer composition.

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