Rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymers using sulfur sources

Rheology-modified ethylene/alpha-olefin/nonconjugated polyene interpolymers with sulfur sources achieve high LCB and molecular weight, addressing the need for improved elasticity and extrusion properties in applications like hoses and roofing membranes.

WO2026010761A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-01-08DOW GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES LLC
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/US2025/034910
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-07-01
Filing Date
2025-06-24
Publication Date
2026-01-08

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

There is a need for ethylene/alpha-olefin/polyene interpolymers with high levels of long chain branching (LCB) and high molecular weight, without significant crosslinking or gel formation, suitable for applications like hoses, foamed profiles, and roofing membranes, and produced without extensive oil extension.

Method used

A rheology-modified ethylene/alpha-olefin/nonconjugated polyene interpolymer is formed by incorporating a sulfur source, optionally with activators, to enhance LCB and shear thinning properties, while minimizing gel content and crosslinking.

Benefits of technology

The modified interpolymer exhibits increased elasticity, reduced cold flow, higher green strength, faster extrusion, and improved foamability, making it suitable for calendaring and extrusion applications.

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Abstract

A composition comprising a rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer" that comprises the following properties: i) a MLRA / ML (at 125°C) value ≥ 8.0 s, and ii) gel content ≤ 10.0 wt%, based on the weight of the "rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer;" and wherein the "rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer" is formed from a first composition comprising the following components: a) an ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer and b) at least one sulfur source.
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Description

RHEOLOGY MODIFIED ETHYLENE / ALPHA-OLEFIN / NONCONJUGATED POLYENE INTERPOLYMERS USING SULFUR SOURCES BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION There is a need for ethylene / alpha-olefin / polyene interpolymers with high levels of long chain branching (LCB), and without significant crosslinking, as indicated by high MLRA / ML values and very low gel values, respectively. There is a further need for such interpolymers with high molecular weight as indicated by Mooney Viscosity (for example, ML (1+4, 125°C) ≥ 60). Such interpolymers should be suitable in applications, such as, for example, the formation of hoses, foamed, micro-dense and dense profiles, roofing membranes, wire and cable products, and other applications, for which conventional linear interpolymers are not well suited. Also, such interpolymers should be produced using processes that do not require an extensive oil extension of the interpolymer. U.S. Patent 3,817,952 discloses a process for producing a vulcanizable branched elastomeric polymer by mixing an EPDM copolymer with sulfur, a sulfur-releasing compound, or a peroxide, and subsequently heating the resultant mixture (see abstract). The copolymers are disclosed as having less than about 30% gel, a Wallace plasticity of about 30 to 100; and an inherent viscosity of at least about 2.0 at less than 30% gel (see abstract). This reference disclosed a gram-atom sulfur content from about 0.00125 to 0.00780 gram-atoms of sulfur per 100 grams copolymer, and prefers higher sulfur levels from about 0.00250 to 0.00625 gram-atoms of sulfur per 100 grams copolymer (see, for example, column 3, lines 1- 16). International Publication WO2020 / 263681 discloses a process that exposing a neat terpolymer to an electron beam radiation, at a dosage from 0.2 MRad to 1.3 MRad, to form a branched ethylene / propylene / non-conjugated polyene terpolymer (b-terpolymer) having a Mooney viscosity ML (1 +4) at 125°C from 25 MU to 135 MU. The neat ethylene / propylene / non-conjugated polyene terpolymer (n-terpolymer) has a Mooney viscosity (ML (1 +4) at l25°C) less than 100 Mooney units(MU). See abstract and claim 1. International Publication WO2022 / 115410 discloses a process of providing an ethylene / propylene / non-conjugated polyene terpolymer (EPDM) having at least 3.5 wt% non- conjugated polyene, and reacting the EPDM with a metal-Lewis acid, and forming a rheology-modified EPDM. The rheology-modified EPDM has (i) a z average molecular weight (Mz) from greater than 500,000 g / mole to 10,000,000 g / mole, (ii) a Mz / Mw from 3 to 10, (iii) a g value from 0.4 to 1.0, (iv) a z value from 1.0 to 3.5, (v) a Mooney viscosity from50 to 150, and (vi) a tan delta value from 0.1 to less than 1.0. See abstract. U.S. Publication 2014 / 0051809 discloses highly branched compositions including: (i) from about 96 wt % to about 99.9 wt % of a metallocene catalyzed ethylene propylene diene derived units; and (ii) from about 0.1 wt% to about 4 wt% of multifunctional monomer derived units, wherein the highly branched composition has: (a) a Mooney viscosity ML (1+4) at 125°C of about 30 to 100 MU, (b) a Mooney relaxation area MLRA of about 100 to about 1000, (c) a St. index, g’(vis) of less than about 0.9, (d) a phase angle, δ, of less than about 55 degrees at a complex modulus of 10 kPa, measured at 190°C, and (e) a degree of shear thinning greater than about 0.95, measured at 190°C. See abstract. Additional polymers and / or compositions are disclosed in the following references: WO2020 / 011008 (machine translation), US 3388144, US 2023 / 0106539, US 2022 / 0275121 and US 2007 / 0284787. However, as discussed above, there remains a need for ethylene / alpha-olefin / polyene interpolymers with high levels of long chain branching (LCB), and without significant crosslinking, as indicated by high MLRA / ML values and very low gel values, respectively. There is a further need for such interpolymers with high molecular weight as indicated by Mooney Viscosity. These needs have been met as discussed below. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A composition comprising a “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” that comprises the following properties: i) a MLRA / ML (at 125°C) value ≥ 8.0 s, and ii) a gel content ≤ 10.0 wt%, based on the weight of the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer;” and wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” is formed from a first composition comprising the following components: a) an ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer and b) at least one sulfur source. BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 depicts the relaxation torque curve for a “rheology modified ethylene / alpha- olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer (Example R4).” DETAILED DRESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION It has been discovered that an ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyeneinterpolymer can be rheology modified, using one or more sulfur sources, to form a modified interpolymer having an overall increase in rheological properties (such as low-shear viscosity and shear thinning), relative to the unmodified interpolymer, and having minimal gel formation or crosslinking. This rheology modification allows for the formation of long chain branching (LCB) within the interpolymer, which results in an interpolymer having a significantly increased elasticity and increased shear thinning behavior, relative to the unmodified interpolymer. Additional benefits of a high “LCB content” interpolymer (versus a more linear interpolymer) are reduced cold flow, higher green strength, higher collapse resistance during extrusion of hollow parts, better foamability, faster extrusion rates, faster mixing, lower energy consumption in internal mixers, higher filler loading, and reduced melt fracture. These rheological properties are of significant value in calendaring and extrusion applications, such as, for example, the formation of hoses, foamed, micro-dense and dense profiles, roofing membranes, wire and cable products, and other applications. It has been discovered that a post-reactor chemical modification approach can be used to incorporate high levels of LCB into the interpolymer, without forming a significant amount of crosslinking. It was discovered that using small amounts of a one or more sulfur sources, optionally in combination with one or more activators, caused the formation of LCB in EPDM, without significant gel formation or crosslinking. EPDM, thus made, had exceptional elasticity, high viscosity and shear thinning behavior. As discussed above, a composition is provided comprising a “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” that comprises the following properties: i) a MLRA / ML (at 125°C) value ≥ 8.0 s, and ii) a gel content ≤ 10.0 wt%, based on the weight of the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer;” and wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” is formed from a first composition comprising the following components: a) an ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer and b) at least one sulfur source. The composition may comprise a combination of two or more embodiments, as described herein. The first composition may comprise a combination of two or more embodiments, as described herein. The “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” may comprise a combination of two or more embodiments, as described herein. Each component a and b may independently comprise a combination of two or more embodiments, as described herein. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or moreembodiments, each described herein, the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / - nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a Mooney Viscosity (ML 1+4, 125°C) ≥ 60, or ≥ 65, or ≥ 70, or ≥ 75, or ≥ 80, or ≥ 85, or ≥ 90, or ≥ 95. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the rheology modified interpolymer is a “rheology modified ethylene / alpha- olefin / nonconjugated diene interpolymer,” and further a “rheology modified ethylene / alpha- olefin / nonconjugated diene terpolymer,” further a rheology modified EPDM. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a MLRA / ML value ≥ 8.2, or ≥ 8.4, or ≥ 8.6, or ≥ 8.8, or ≥ 9.0, or ≥ 9.2, or ≥ 9.5, or ≥ 9.7, or ≥ 10.0 s. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a MLRA / ML value ≤ 25.0, or ≤ 22.0, or ≤ 21.0 or ≤ 20.0, or ≤ 19.5, or ≤ 19.0, or ≤ 18.7, or ≤ 18.5, or ≤ 18.2, or ≤ 18.0, or ≤ 17.7, or ≤ 17.5, or ≤ 17.2 s. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a gel content ≤ 9.5, or ≤ 9.0, or ≤ 8.5, or ≤ 8.0, or ≤ 7.5, or ≤ 7.0, or ≤ 6.6, or ≤ 6.0, or ≤ 5.5, or ≤ 5.0, or ≤ 4.5, or ≤ 4.0, or ≤ 3.5, or ≤ 3.0 wt%, based on the weight of the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer.” In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a gel content ≤ 2.8, or ≤ 2.5, or ≤ 2.2, or ≤ 2.0, or ≤ 1.5, or ≤ 1.0, or ≤ 0.9 wt%, based on the weight of the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer.” In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a gel content ≥ 0, or ≥ 0.05, or ≥ 0.1 wt%, based on the weight of the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer.” In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a density from 0.850 g / cm3to 0.890 g / cm3as measured by ASTM D792. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ratio of the “Gel content (wt%) of the rheology modified ethylene / alpha- olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” to the “Gel content (wt%) of component a, as thermally treated” is ≥ 0.2, or ≥ 0.4, or ≥ 0.6, or ≥ 0.8, or ≥ 1.0, or ≥ 1.1, or ≥ 1.2, or ≥ 1.3and / or ≤ 22, or ≤ 20, or ≤ 18, or ≤ 15, or ≤ 12, or ≤ 10, or ≤ 8.0, or ≤ 6.0, or ≤ 4.0, or ≤ 3.0, or ≤ 2.8, or ≤ 2.5, or ≤ 2.2, or ≤ 2.0, or ≤ 1.9, or ≤ 1.8. Here, component a is thermally treated under the same conditions used to form the rheology modified interpolymer. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, component b is sulfur. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the active sulfur content of component b is present in an amount ≤ 0.040, or ≤ 0.039, or ≤ 0.038, or ≤ 0.037, or ≤ 0.036, or ≤ 0.035, or ≤ 0.034, or ≤ 0.033, or ≤ 0.032, or ≤ 0.031,or ≤ 0.030 and / or ≥ 0.005, or ≥ 0.006, or ≥ 0.007, or ≥ 0.008, or ≥ 0.009, or ≥ 0.010 per phr of component a. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the first composition further comprises at least one activator, as component c. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, component c is selected from ZnO (Zinc oxide), Zinc Stearate, Zinc Octoate, Zinc Laurate, Stearic acid, or any combination thereof; and further selected from ZnO (Zinc oxide), Zinc Stearate, Stearic acid or any combination thereof. Also provided is a process to form the composition of one or more embodiments as described herein, where said process comprising thermally treating the first composition. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the first composition is thermally treated in a batch mixer. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the first composition is thermally treated in an extruder configuration (for example a twin screw extruder). In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the first composition is thermally treated in static mixer in conjunction with a pumping device (for example a gear pump). In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the first composition is thermally treated at a temperature ≥ 150°C, or ≥ 160°C, or ≥ 170°C, or ≥ 175°C, or ≥ 180°C, or ≥ 185°C, or ≥ 190°C, and / or at a temperature ≤ 230°C, or ≤ 225°C, or ≤ 220°C, or ≤ 215°C, or ≤ 210°C, or ≤ 205°C, or ≤ 200°C. Also provided is a composition formed from the process of one or more embodiments as described herein. Also provided is an article comprising at least one component formed from a composition of one or more embodiments as described herein. In one embodiment, or acombination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the article is a foam, or a film, and further a foam. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the article is a wire or cable, a footwear component, an automotive part, a profile (for example, a dense, micro-dense and / or foamed profile), a tire, a tube / hose, or a roofing membrane. Component a The ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymers, as described herein, comprises, in polymerized form, ethylene, an alpha-olefin, and a nonconjugated polyene. The alpha-olefin may be either an aliphatic or an aromatic compound. Alpha-olefins include, but are not limited to, C3-C20 alpha-olefins, further C3-C10 alpha-olefins, further C3-C8 alpha-olefins. In one embodiment, the interpolymer is an ethylene / propylene / nonconjugated diene interpolymer, further an EPDM. Suitable examples of nonconjugated polyenes include the C4-C40 nonconjugated dienes. Nonconjugated dienes include, but are not limited to, 5- ethylidene-2-norbornene (ENB), 5-vinyl-2-norbornene (VNB), dicyclopentadiene, 1,4- hexadiene, or 7-methyl-l,6-octadiene, and further ENB, VNB, dicyclopentadiene or 1,4- hexadiene, and further ENB or VNB, and further ENB. DEFINITIONS Unless stated to the contrary, implicit from the context, or customary in the art, all parts and percentages are based on weight, and all test methods are current as of the filing date of this disclosure. The term "composition," as used herein, includes a mixture of materials, which comprise the composition, as well as reaction products and decomposition products formed from the materials of the composition. Any reaction product or decomposition product is typically present in trace or residual amounts. The term "polymer," as used herein, refers to a polymeric compound prepared by polymerizing monomers, whether of the same or a different type. The generic term polymer includes the term homopolymer (employed to refer to polymers prepared from only one type of monomer, with the understanding that trace amounts of impurities can be incorporated into the polymer structure), and the term interpolymer as defined hereinafter. Trace amounts of impurities, such as catalyst residues, can be incorporated into and / or within the polymer. Typically, a polymer is stabilized with very low amounts (“ppm” amounts) of one or more stabilizers.The term "interpolymer," as used herein, refers to a polymer prepared by the polymerization of at least two different types of monomers. The term interpolymer thus includes the term copolymer (employed to refer to polymers prepared from two different types of monomers) and polymers prepared from more than two different types of monomers. The term “olefin-based polymer,” as used herein, refers to a polymer that comprises, in polymerized form, 50 wt% or a majority weight percent of an olefin, such as, for example, ethylene or propylene (based on the weight of the polymer), and optionally may comprise one or more comonomers. The term "ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer," as used herein, refers to an interpolymer that comprises, in polymerized form, ethylene, an alpha-olefin, and a nonconjugated polyene. In one embodiment, the "ethylene / alpha-olefin / non-conjugated polyene interpolymer," comprises, in polymerized form, 50 wt% or a majority weight percent of ethylene (based on the weight of the interpolymer). The term "ethylene / alpha- olefin / nonconjugated diene interpolymer," as used herein, refers to an interpolymer that comprises, in polymerized form, ethylene, an alpha-olefin, and a nonconjugated diene. In one embodiment, the "ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated diene interpolymer," comprises, in polymerized form, 50 wt% or a majority weight percent of ethylene (based on the weight of the interpolymer). Note, the terms ”ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene terpolymer” and “ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated diene terpolymer” are similarly defined; however, for each, the terpolymer comprises, in polymerized form, ethylene, the alpha-olefin and the polyene (or diene) as the only three monomer types. The phrase “a majority weight percent,” as used herein, in reference to a polymer (or interpolymer, or terpolymer or copolymer), refers to the amount of monomer present in the greatest amount in the polymer. The term “sulfur source.” as used herein, refers to sulfur or a compound containing at least one sulfur atom, and which source can react with an ethylene / alpha-olefin / non- conjugated polyene interpolymer to increase the MLRA / ML value of the interpolymer, relative to the unreacted interpolymer. The term “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer,” as used herein, refers to an ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer that has been reacted with one or more sulfur sources to increase the MLRA / ML value of the interpolymer, relative to the unreactive interpolymer. The term “activator,” as used herein, refers to a compound that is used to induce, enhance and / or accelerate a chemical reaction. Examples of activators include, but are notlimited to, ZnO (Zinc oxide), Zinc Stearate, Zinc Octoate, Zinc Laurate and Stearic acid. Other metal oxides and metal carboxylates may be used. The terms “thermally treating,” “thermally treated,” “thermal treatment,” and similar terms, as used herein, in reference to a first composition as discussed herein, refer to increasing the temperature of the composition by the application of heat. As an example, heat may be applied by electrical means (for example, a heating coil) and / or by radiation and / or by hot oil and / or by mechanical shearing. Note, the temperature at which the thermal treatment takes place, refers to the temperature of the “heat-applying” device. The term “extruder configuration,” as used herein, refers to one extruder, or the arrangement and number of two or more extruders used in an extrusion process. Typically, two or more extruders are arranged in a series orientation. The term “batch mixer,” as used herein, refers to a mixer, into which, the ingredients (or components) for one batch are placed, mixed, and discharged, before another batch is introduced; as opposed to continuous mixer. The term “static mixer,” as used herein, refers to an immobile unit that includes one or more stationary elements, such as, for example, baffles, blades, or elements arranged in a specific pattern, within a pipe or tube. These elements cause a fluid mass to divide and recombine, resulting in increased levels of distribution and mixing in a continuous flow, without the need for any moving parts or an external power source. The term “side arm extruder,” as used herein, refers to an extruder, for example, a single screw extruder, that is use to melt, and pump, for example, the sulfur source(s), typically in a masterbatch form, into a melt stream comprising the unmodified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer (plus other optional components), and typically the masterbatch is added to the melt stream at a location before one or more static mixing elements. The term “melt stream,” as used herein, refers to a composition comprising a polymer, and where the composition is in the form of a flowing melt. The term "heteroatom," as used herein, refers to an atom other than hydrogen or carbon (for example, O, S, N, Si or P). The term "heteroatom group" refers to a heteroatom or a chemical group containing one or more heteroatoms. The terms "hydrocarbon," "hydrocarbyl," and similar terms, as used herein, refer to a respective compound or chemical group, etc., containing only carbon and hydrogen atoms. The terms "heterohydrocarbon," "heterohydrocarbyl," and similar terms, as used herein, refer to a respective hydrocarbon, or hydrocarbyl group, etc., in which at least onecarbon atom is substituted with a heteroatom group (for example, O, S, N, Si or P). The monovalent heterohydrocarbyl group may be bonded to the remaining compound of interest via a carbon atom or via a heteroatom. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and their derivatives, are not intended to exclude the presence of any additional component, step or procedure, regardless of whether the same is specifically disclosed. In order to avoid any doubt, all compositions claimed through use of the term "comprising" may include, for example, any additional additive, adjuvant, or compound, whether polymeric or otherwise, unless stated to the contrary. In contrast, the term "consisting essentially of" excludes from the scope of any succeeding recitation any other component, step or procedure, excepting those that are not essential to operability. The term "consisting of" excludes any component, step or procedure, not specifically delineated or listed. Listing of Some Compositions and Processes A] A composition comprising a “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” that comprises the following properties: i) a MLRA / ML (at 125°C) value ≥ 8.0 s, and ii) a gel content ≤ 10.0 wt%, based on the weight of the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer;” and wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” is formed from a first composition comprising the following components: a) an ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer and b) at least one sulfur source. B] The composition of A] above, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha- olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a Mooney Viscosity (ML 1+4, 125°C) ≥ 60, or ≥ 65, or ≥ 70, or ≥ 75, or ≥ 80, or ≥ 85, or ≥ 90, or ≥ 95. C] The composition of A] or B] above, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha- olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a Mooney Viscosity (ML 1+4, 125°C) ≤ 200, or ≤ 190, or ≤ 180, or ≤ 170, or ≤ 160, or ≤ 155, or ≤ 150, or ≤ 145, or ≤ 140, or ≤ 135. D] The composition of any one of A]-C] (A] through C]) above, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a Mooney Viscosity (ML 1+4, 125°C) ≤ 130, or ≤ 125, or ≤ 120, or ≤ 115, or ≤ 110. E] The composition of any one of A]-D] above, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” comprises two or more sulfur atoms per 1000 carbon atoms, further 10 or more sulfur atoms per 1000 carbon atoms, further50 or more sulfur atoms per 1000 carbon atoms, further 500 or more sulfur atoms per 1000 carbon atoms. F] The composition of any one of A]-E] above, wherein the alpha-olefin of the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” is a C3-C20 alpha- olefin, further a C3-C10alpha-olefin, and further propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene or 1-octene, further propylene, 1-butene or 1-octene, further propylene or 1-butene, further propylene. G] The composition of any one of A]-F] above, wherein the rheology modified interpolymer is a “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated diene interpolymer,” and further a “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated diene terpolymer,” further a rheology modified EPDM (ethylene / propylene / nonconjugated diene terpolymer). H The composition of any one of A]-G] above, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a MLRA / ML value (at 125oC) ≥ 8.2, or ≥ 8.4, or ≥ 8.6, or ≥ 8.8, or ≥ 9.0, or ≥ 9.2, or ≥ 9.5, or ≥ 9.7, or ≥ 10.0 s. I] The composition of any one of A]-H] above, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a MLRA / ML value (at 125oC) ≤ 25.0, or ≤ 22.0, or ≤ 21.0, or ≤ 20.0, or ≤ 19.5, or ≤ 19.0, or ≤ 18.7, or ≤ 18.5, or ≤ 18.2, or ≤ 18.0, or ≤ 17.7, or ≤ 17.5, or ≤ 17.2 s. J] The composition of any one of A]-I] above, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a gel content ≤ 9.5, or ≤ 9.0, or ≤ 8.5, or ≤ 8.0, or ≤ 7.5, or ≤ 7.0, or ≤ 6.6, or ≤ 6.0, or ≤ 5.5, or ≤ 5.0, or ≤ 4.5, or ≤ 4.0, or ≤ 3.5, or ≤ 3.0 wt%, based on the weight of the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha- olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer.” K] The composition of any one of A]-J] above, wherein the rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer has a gel content ≤ 2.8, or ≤ 2.5, or ≤ 2.2, or ≤ 2.0, or ≤ 1.5, or ≤ 1.0, or ≤ 0.9 wt%, based on the weight of the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer.” L] The composition of any one of A]-K] above, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a gel content ≥ 0, or ≥ 0.05, or ≥ 0.1 wt%, based on the weight of the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha- olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer.” M] The composition of any one of A]-L] above, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a complex viscosity ƞ at 0.1 rad / s (125°C) ≥ 400, or ≥ 450, or ≥ 500, or ≥ 550, or ≥ 580, or ≥ 600 kPa·s.N] The composition of any one of A]-M] above, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a complex viscosity ƞ at 0.1 rad / s (125°C) ≤ 1500, or ≤ 1400, or ≤ 1200, or ≤ 1100, or ≤ 1050, or ≤ 1000, or ≤ 950, or ≤ 900 kPa·s. O] The composition of any one of A]-N] above, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a complex viscosity ƞ at 100 rad / s (125°C) ≥ 4.0, or ≥ 4.5, or ≥ 5.0, or ≥ 5.5 kPa·s. P] The composition of any one of A]-O] above, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a complex viscosity ƞ at 100 rad / s (125°C) ≤ 10, or ≤ 9.5, or ≤ 9.0, or ≤ 8.5, or ≤ 8.0, or ≤ 7.5 kPa·s. Q] The composition of any one of A]-P] above, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a Rheology Ratio (ƞ0.1 / ƞ100,125°C) ≥ 55, or ≥ 60, or ≥ 65, or ≥ 70, or ≥ 75. R] The composition of any one of A]-Q] above, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a Rheology Ratio (ƞ0.1 / ƞ100, 125°C) ≤ 200, or ≤ 180, or ≤ 150, or ≤ 145, or ≤ 140, or ≤ 135. S] The composition of any one of A]-R] above, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a MLRA (125°C) ≤ 500, or ≤ 550, or ≤ 600, or ≤ 650, or ≥ 700, or ≥ 720, or ≥ 750, or ≥ 800 and / or ≤ 3500, or ≤ 3200, or ≤ 3000, or ≤ 2800, or ≤ 2500, or ≤ 2200, or ≤ 2000, or ≤ 1950, or ≤ 1900, or ≤ 1850 MU·s. T] The composition of any one of A]-S] above, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a weight-average molecular weight / number-average molecular weight ratio (Mw / Mn) ≥ 2.3, or ≥ 2.4, or ≥ 2.5, or ≥ 2.6 and / or ≤ 4.0, or ≤ 3.8, or ≤ 3.6, or ≤ 3.4. U] The composition of any one of A]-T] above, wherein the composition comprises a second “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” that is different from the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” in one or more properties selected from ML (1+4 at 125°C); MLRA / ML (1+4 at 125°C); Complex Viscosity, at 0.1 rad / s, 125°C; Complex Viscosity, at 100 rad / s, 125°C; Rheology Ratio, ƞ0.1 / ƞ100, 125°C; Gel content (wt%); or any combination thereof. V] The composition of any one of A]-U] above, wherein the ratio of the “Mooney Viscosity (ML 1+4, 125°C) of the rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” to the “Mooney Viscosity (ML 1+4, 125°C) of component a” is ≥1.02, or ≥ 1.05, or ≥ 1.10, or ≥ 1.15, or ≥ 1.18, or ≥ 1.20, or ≥ 1.22 and / or ≤ 2.00, or ≤ 1.80, or ≤ 1.70, or ≤ 1.65, or ≤ 1.60, or ≤ 1.55. W] The composition of any one of A]-V] above, wherein the ratio of the “Gel content (wt%) of the rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” to the “Gel content (wt%) of component a, as thermally treated” is ≥ 0.2, or ≥ 0.4, or ≥ 0.6, or ≥ 0.8, or ≥ 1.0, or ≥ 1.1, or ≥ 1.2, or ≥ 1.3 and / or ≤ 22, or ≤ 20, or ≤ 18, or ≤ 15, or ≤ 12, or ≤ 10, or ≤ 8.0, or ≤ 6.0, or ≤ 4.0, or ≤ 3.0, or ≤ 2.8, or ≤ 2.5, or ≤ 2.2, or ≤ 2.0, or ≤ 1.9, or ≤ 1.8. Here, component a is thermally treated under the same conditions used to form the rheology modified interpolymer. X] The composition of any one of A]-W] above, wherein the ratio of the “rheology ratio (ƞ0.1 / ƞ100, 125°C) of the rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” to the “rheology ratio (ƞ0.1 / ƞ100, 125°C) of component a” is ≥ 1.20, or ≥ 1.40, or ≥ 1.60, or ≥ 1.80, or ≥ 2.00 and / or ≤ 5.00, or ≤ 4.80, or ≤ 4.50, or ≤ 4.20, or ≤ 4.00, or ≤ 3.80, or ≤ 3.50, or ≤ 3.20. Y] The composition of any one of A]-X] above, wherein the ratio of the “MLRA / ML (125°C) of the rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” to the “MLRA / ML (125°C) of component a” is ≥ 1.80, or ≥ 2.00, or ≥ 2.20, or ≥ 2.50, or ≥ 2.70 and / or ≤ 7.00, or ≤ 6.80, or ≤ 6.60, or ≤ 6.40, or ≤ 6.20, or ≤ 6.00. Z] The composition of any one of A]-Y] above, wherein the ratio of the “complex viscosity (ƞ0.1, 125°C) of the rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” to the “complex viscosity (ƞ0.1, 125°C) of component a” is ≥ 1.40, or ≥ 1.60, or ≥ 1.80, or ≥ 2.00, or ≥ 2.20 and / or ≤ 5.00, or ≤ 4.50, or ≤ 4.00, or ≤ 3.50, or ≤ 3.00. A2] The composition of any one of A]-Z] above, wherein the ratio of the “complex viscosity (ƞ100, 125°C) of the rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” to the “complex viscosity (ƞ100, 125°C) of component a” is ≥ 0.80, or ≥ 0.82, or ≥ 0.84, or ≥ 0.86, or ≥ 0.88, or ≥ 0.90, or ≥ 0.92, or ≥ 0.94 and / or ≤ 1.40, or ≤ 1.30, or ≤ 1.20, or ≤ 1.10, or ≤ 1.05, or ≤ 1.00. B2] The composition of any one of A]-A2] above, wherein the ratio of the “MLRA (125°C) of the rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” to the “MLRA (125°C) of component a” is ≥ 2.00, or ≥ 2.20, or ≥ 2.50, or ≥ 2.80, or ≥ 3.00, or ≥ 3.20, or ≥ 3.50, or ≥ 3.80, or ≥ 4.00 and / or ≤ 14.0, or ≤ 12.0, or ≤ 10.0, or ≤ 9.50, or ≤ 9.00, or ≤ 8.50, or ≤ 8.00, or ≤ 7.50, or ≤ 7.00, or ≤ 6.50, or ≤ 6.00. C2] The composition of any one of A]-B2] above, wherein the composition further comprises at least an additive.D2] The composition of C2] above, wherein the at least an additive is selected from fillers, pigments, UV stabilizers, anti-oxidants, processing aids, or combinations thereof, and further from UV stabilizers, anti-oxidants or combinations thereof. E2] The composition of C2] or D2] above, wherein the at least an additive is present in an amount ≥ 0.01 wt%, or ≥ 0.05 wt%, or ≥ 0.10 wt%, or ≥ 0.20 wt%, or ≥ 0.50 wt% and / or ≤ 20 wt%, or ≤ 10 wt%, or ≤ 5.0 wt%, or ≤ 2.0 wt%, or ≤ 1.0 wt%, based on the weight of the composition. F2] The composition of any one of A]-E2] above, wherein “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a density ≥ 0.850, or ≥ 0.852, or ≥ 0.854, or ≥ 0.856, or ≥ 0.858, or ≥ 0.860, or ≥ 0.862, or ≥ 0.864, or ≥ 0.866, or ≥ 0.868 g / cc and / or ≤ 0.890, or ≤ 0.885, or ≤ 0.880, or ≤ 0.875 g / cc (1 cc = 1 cm3). Density is determined according to ASTM D792. G2] The composition of any one of A]-F2] above, wherein the polyene of the of the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” is selected from 5-ethylidene-2-norbornene (ENB), 5-vinyl-2-norbornene (VNB), dicyclopentadiene, 1,4-hexadiene, or 7-methyl-l,6-octadiene, and further ENB, VNB, dicyclopentadiene or 1,4- hexadiene, and further ENB or VNB, and further ENB. H2] The composition of any one of A]-G2] above, wherein the first composition is thermally treated. A3] A process to form the composition of any one of A]-H2] above said process comprising thermally treating the first composition. B3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] above, or the process of A3] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a Mooney Viscosity (ML 1+4, 125°C) ≥ 40, or ≥ 45, or ≥ 50, or ≥ 55, or ≥ 58 and / or ≤ 100, or ≤ 98, or ≤ 95, or ≤ 92, or ≤ 90, or ≤ 88. C3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3] above, or the process of A3] or B3] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has an ethylene content ≥ 40, or ≥ 42, or ≥ 44, or ≥ 46, or ≥ 48, or ≥ 50, or ≥ 52, or ≥ 54 and / or ≤ 80, or ≤ 78, or ≤ 76, or ≤ 74, or ≤ 70 wt%, based on the weight of the interpolymer. D3] The composition of any one of A]-H2], B3] or C3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-C3] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a polyene content ≥ 0.5, or ≥ 1.0, or ≥ 1.5, or ≥ 2.0, or ≥ 2.5, or ≥ 3.0, or ≥ 3.5, or ≥ 3.8, or ≥ 4.0, or ≥ 4.2, or ≥ 4.4, or ≥ 4.6, or ≥ 4.8 and / or ≤ 10, or ≤ 9.5, or ≤ 9.0, or ≤ 8.8, or ≤ 8.6 wt%, based on the weight ofthe interpolymer. E3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-D3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-D3] above, wherein the alpha-olefin of the interpolymer of component a is a C3-C20alpha-olefin, further a C3-C10 alpha-olefin, and further propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene or 1- octene, further propylene, 1-butene or 1-octene, further propylene or 1-butene, further propylene. F3] The composition of any one of A]-E2] or B3]-E3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-E3] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a is an ethylene / alpha-olefin / non- conjugated diene interpolymer, and further an ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated diene terpolymer, further an EPDM. G3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-F3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-F3] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a MLRA / ML value ≥ 2.0, or ≥ 2.2, or ≥ 2.4, or ≥ 2.6, or ≥ 2.8, or ≥ 3.0 s and / or ≤ 7.5, or ≤ 7.0, or ≤ 6.8, or ≤ 6.5 or ≤ 6.2, or ≤ 6.0, or ≤ 5.8, or ≤ 5.5, or ≤ 5.2, or ≤ 5.0 s. H3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-G3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-G3] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a complex viscosity ƞ at 0.1 rad / s (125°C) ≥ 200, or ≥ 220, or ≥ 240, or ≥ 260, or ≥ 280 kPa·s and / or ≤ 500, or ≤ 480, or ≤ 450, or ≤ 420, or ≤ 400, or ≤ 380, or ≤ 350 kPa·s. I3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-H3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-H3] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a complex viscosity ƞ at 100 rad / s (125°C) ≥ 5.0, or ≥ 5.2, or ≥ 5.4, or ≥ 5.6, or ≥ 5.8, or ≥ 6.0 kPa·s and / or ≤ 9.0, or ≤ 8.5, or ≤ 8.0, or ≤ 7.8, or ≤ 7.5, or ≤ 7.2 kPa·s. J3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-I3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-I3] above, wherein the interpolymer of component a has a Rheology Ratio (ƞ0.1 / ƞ100,125°C) ≥ 34, or ≥ 36, or ≥ 38, or ≥ 40, or ≥ 42 and / or ≤ 75, or ≤ 70, or ≤ 68, or ≤ 65, or ≤ 62, or ≤ 60, or ≤ 58, or ≤ 55, or ≤ 52, or ≤ 50, or ≤ 48. K3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-J3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-J3] above, wherein component a has a density ≥ 0.850, or ≥ 0.852, or ≥ 0.854, or ≥ 0.856, or ≥ 0.858, or ≥ 0.860, or ≥ 0.862, or ≥ 0.864, or ≥ 0.866, or ≥ 0.868 g / cc and / or or ≤ 0.900, or ≤ 0.895, or ≤ 0.890, or ≤ 0.885, or ≤ 0.880, or ≤ 0.875 g / cc (1 cc = 1 cm3). L3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-K3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-K3] above, wherein component a has a “weight-average molecular weight / number- average molecular weight” ratio (Mw / Mn) ≥ 2.0, or ≥ 2.1, or ≥ 2.2, or ≥ 2.3 and / or ≤ 3.5, or≤ 3.4, or ≤ 3.2, or ≤ 3.0, or ≤ 2.8. M3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-L3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-L3] above, wherein the first composition comprises, as component b, two or more sulfur sources. N3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-M3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-M3] above, wherein the first composition comprises, as component b, two sulfur sources. O3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-L3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-L3] above, wherein the first composition comprises, as component b, one sulfur source. P3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-O3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-O3] above, wherein component b is selected from sulfur, sulfur donor compounds, multifunctional thiols, polythiols, acrylate thiols, mercaptosilanes, mercaptosiloxanes or mercaptopolysiloxanes; and further, in the case of polythiols the mercapto groups are randomly distributed and / or are terminal groups. Note, a sulfur donor compound is a molecule containing one or more active sulfur atoms. Without being bound to any theory, it is possible that an active sulfur atom can be released as a radical from the sulfur donor compound, and / or the sulfur donor compound is capable of decomposing to generate a sulfur radical. These sulfur radicals are capable of inducing branching on component a (containing unsaturation) by addition and / or H abstraction mechanisms leading to chain coupling / branching. It is noted, that other types of radical formation and also reaction pathways leading to chain coupling / branching (for example, ionic) may be possible with the sulfur donor compound. Q3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-O3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-O3] above, wherein component b is R-Sx-R’ or R(SH)x, where x ≥ 1; and where R is selected from a hydrocarbyl or a heterohydrocarbyl; and where R’ is selected from a hydrocarbyl or a heterohydrocarbyl; and further R is a hydrocarbyl, and R’ is a hydrocarbyl. R3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-O3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-O3] above, wherein component b is selected from TMTD (Tetramethyl-thiuram disulfide), DTDM (Dithiodimorpholine), MBTS (2,2’-Dithiobis(benzothiazole), Dibutyl xanthogen disulfide, Dibutyl xanthogen polysulfide, Dipentamethylene Thiuram Tetrasulfide or Hexasulfide, alkylphenol disulfides, dithiodicaprolactam, Bis(triethoxysilyl- propyl) tetrasulfide (for example, SCA 98), Bis(triethoxysilyl-propyl) disulfide, 1-octane thiol, 1,4- butanedithiol, Trimethylolpropane-tris(3-mercaptopropionate), Pentaerythritol terakis(3-mercapto-propionate), or any combination thereof.S3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-R3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-R3] above, wherein component b is sulfur. T3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-S3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-S3] above, wherein the active sulfur content of component b is present in an amount ≤ 0.050, or ≤ 0.045, or ≤ 0.040, or ≤ 0.039, or ≤ 0.038, or ≤ 0.037, or ≤ 0.036, or ≤ 0.035, or ≤ 0.034, or ≤ 0.033, or ≤ 0.032, or ≤ 0.031,or ≤ 0.030 and / or ≥ 0.005, or ≥ 0.006, or ≥ 0.007, or ≥ 0.008, or ≥ 0.009, or ≥ 0.010 per phr of component a. U3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-T3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-T3] above, wherein the first composition comprises ≤ 20.0 x 10-4, or ≤ 18.0 x 10-4, or 16.0 x 10-4or ≤ 14.0 x 10-4, or ≤ 12.0 x 10-4, or ≤ 11.0 x 10-4, or 10.0 x 10-4or ≤ 9.0 x 10-4and / or ≥ 1.0 x 10-4, or ≥ 2.0 x 10-4, or ≥ 3.0 x 10-4g-atom S per 100 g of the interpolymer of component a. Note, g-atom S = mass of active S (in grams) / Atomic Mass of S. V3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-U3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-U3] above, wherein component b is present in an amount ≥ 0.001 wt%, or ≥ 0.002 wt%, or ≥ 0.005 wt% and / or ≤ 0.040 wt%, or ≤ 0.038 wt%, or ≤ 0.036 wt%, or ≤ 0.034 wt%, or ≤ 0.032 wt%, or ≤ 0.030 wt% or ≤ 0.028 wt%, or ≤ 0.026 wt%, based on the weight of the first composition. W3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-V3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-V3] above, wherein component a is present in an amount ≥ 95.0 wt%, or ≥ 96.0 wt%, or ≥ 97.0 wt%, or ≥ 98.0 wt% and / or < 100 wt%, or ≤ 99.5 wt%, or ≤ 99.0 wt%, based on the weight of the first composition. X3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-W3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-W3] above, wherein the sum of component a and component b is present in an amount ≥ 97.00 wt%, or ≥ 97.50 wt%, or ≥ 98.00 wt% and / or ≤ 100 wt%, or ≤ 99.90 wt%, or ≤ 99.80 wt%, or ≤ 99.50 wt%, based on the weight of the first composition. Y3] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-X3] above, or the process of any one of A3]-X3] above, wherein the first composition further comprises at least one activator, as component c. Z3] The composition of Y3] above, or the process of Y3] above, wherein component c is selected from ZnO (Zinc oxide), Zinc Stearate, Zinc Octoate, Zinc Laurate, Stearic acid, or any combination thereof; and further selected from ZnO (Zinc oxide), Zinc Stearate, Stearic acid or any combination thereof. A4] The composition of Y3] or Z3] above, or the process of Y3] or Z3] above, wherein component c is present in an amount ≥ 0.1 wt%, or ≥ 0.2 wt%, or ≥ 0.3 wt%, or ≥ 0.4 wt%,or ≥ 0.5 wt% and / or ≤ 1.0 wt%, or ≤ 0.9 wt%, or ≤ 0.8 wt%, based on the weight of the first composition. B4] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-A4] above, or the process of any one of A3]-A4] above, wherein the first composition further comprises a polymer, different from component a in one or more features, such as comonomer type, comonomer content, ML (1+4) @ 125°C; MLRA / ML; Complex Viscosity, at 0.1 rad / s, 125°C; Complex Viscosity, at 100 rad / s, 125°C; Rheology Ratio, ƞ0.1 / ƞ100, 125°C; or any combination thereof. C4] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-B4] above, or the process of any one of A3]-B4] above, wherein the first composition comprises ≤ 10 ppm, or ≤ 5.0 ppm, or ≤ 2.0 ppm, or ≤ 1.0 ppm, or ≤ 0.5 ppm, or ≤ 0.2 ppm, or ≤ 0.1 ppm of a silane coupling agent, based on the weight of the first composition; and further the first composition does not comprise a silane coupling agent. D4] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-C4] above, or the process of any one of A3]-C4] above, wherein the first composition comprises ≤ 10 ppm, or ≤ 5.0 ppm, or ≤ 2.0 ppm, or ≤ 1.0 ppm, or ≤ 0.5 ppm, or ≤ 0.2 ppm, or ≤ 0.1 ppm of a Lewis acid, based on the weight of the first composition; and further the first composition does not comprise a Lewis acid. Examples of Lewis acids include, but are not limited to, AlCl3, TiCl4, EtAlCl2, MgCl2, Ti(OiPr)4-AlCl3, Ti(OiPr)4-EtAlCl2-MgCl2, and MgCl2-EtAlCl2. E4] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-D4] above, or the process of any one of A3]-D4] above, wherein the first composition comprises ≤ 10 ppm, or ≤ 5.0 ppm, or ≤ 2.0 ppm, or ≤ 1.0 ppm, or ≤ 0.5 ppm, or ≤ 0.2 ppm, or ≤ 0.1 ppm of a peroxide, based on the weight of the first composition; and further the first composition does not comprise a peroxide. F4] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-E4] above, or the process of any one of A3]-E4] above, wherein the first composition is not subject to E-beam radiation. G4] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-F4] above, or the process of any one of A3]-F4] above, wherein the first composition is thermally treated in a batch mixer. H4] The composition of any one of A]-E2] or B3]-F4] above, or the process of any one of A3]-F4] above, wherein the first composition is thermally treated in an extruder configuration (for example a twin screw extruder). I4] The composition of any one of A]-E2] or B3]-F4] above, or the process of any one of A3]-F4] above, wherein the first composition is thermally treated in a static mixer, used in conjunction with a pumping device. J4] The composition of any one of A]-E2] or B3]-F4] above, or the process of any one ofA3]-F4] above, wherein the first composition is thermally treated an batch mixer or an extruder configuration, and where the first composition is formed by adding a second composition comprising component b, using a side-arm extruder, to a melt stream comprising component a in the batch mixer or the extruder configuration; and further the second composition is added at a location before one or more static mixing elements. K4] The composition of any one of A]-E2] or B3]-J4] above, or the process of any one of A3]-J4] above, wherein the first composition is thermally treated at a temperature ≥ 150°C, or ≥ 160°C, or ≥ 170°C, or ≥ 175°C, or ≥ 180°C, or ≥ 185°C, or ≥ 190°C, and / or at a temperature ≤ 230°C, or ≤ 225°C, or ≤ 220°C, or ≤ 215°C, or ≤ 210°C, or ≤ 205°C, or ≤ 200°C. L4] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-I4] above, or the process of any one of A3]-I4] above, wherein component c is selected from metal oxides (for example, ZnO or MgO) or metal carboxylates. M4] The composition of any one of A]-H2] or B3]-L4] above, or the process of any one of A3]-L4] above, wherein component c is selected from zinc based compounds (compounds containing one or more Zn atoms). A5] A composition formed the process of any one of A3]-M4] above. B5] An article comprising at least one component formed from the composition of any one of A]-H2], B3]-M4] or A5] above. C5] The article of B5] above, wherein the article is a foam, or a film, and further a foam. D5] The article of B5] above, wherein the article is a wire or cable, a footwear component, an automotive part, a profile (for example, a dense, micro-dense and / or foamed profile), a tire, a tube / hose, or a roofing membrane; and further a footwear component, an automotive part, a profile (for example, a dense, micro-dense and / or foamed profile), a tire, a tube / hose, or a roofing membrane. TEST METHODS Mooney Viscosity and Mooney Relaxation Area (MLRA) (Neat Interpolymer and Rheology modified Interpolymer) Mooney viscosity was measured using ASTM D1646, with a one minute preheat time and a “four minute” rotor operation time, followed by a two minute relaxation time. The instrument was an Alpha Technologies Mooney Viscometer 2000. The conditions used forthe neat interpolymer samples and for the for the rheology modified interpolymer samples were (ML 1+4 @ 125°C). About a 7-14 gram sample size was used. The Mooney Relaxation Area (MLRA) data was obtained from the Mooney viscosity measurement, where the test sample was relaxed after the rotor was stopped. At the end of the Mooney viscosity test, the rotation of the disk was stopped within 0.1 seconds. Collection of relaxation data typically began one second after the rotor was stopped, and continues for at least two minutes after the rotor was stopped. The MLRA value reported is the integrated area under the Mooney torque relaxation time curve from 1 second to 120 seconds (MLRA (1 + 4 + 2)). The MLRA value indicates the degree of elasticity of a polymer, and can be regarded as a stored energy term. Higher MRLA values indicate that, after the removal of an applied strain, the test sample stores more energy and requires more time to relax (that is, to dissipate the stored energy). Polymers with more elasticity (for example, those with a more long chain branched (LCB) structure, typically exhibit higher MLRA values compared to less elastic polymers (for example, those having a less long chain branched structure)). The MLRA is reported in Mooney Unit - seconds (MU·s). The term “MLRA / ML ratio," as used herein, is the “Mooney Relaxation Area - to - the Mooney viscosity” ratio, and this notation is an abbreviated form for “MLRA / ML(1 + 4) @ 125°C.” The MLRA / ML ratio indicates the degree of melt elasticity of a polymer and is directly proportional to the degree of melt elasticity. The MLRA / ML ratio is reported in seconds (s). As an example, the results for rheology modified interpolymer R4 (see Table 2B below) are shown below, and the resulting relaxation torque curve (viscosity versus test time) is shown in Figure 1. Test Type Viscosity; Test Temp 125.0 C; Test Time 4.00 min; Preheat 1.00 min; Rotor Size Large; Relaxation Time 2.00 min; Init Point 191.76 MU; ML 130.98 MU; MH 134.72 MU; Final Viscosity 104.6 MU; ML(1+2) 124.18 MU; ML(1+4) 104.57 MU (noted as “105” in Table 2B); ML(1+6) 10.34 MU; ML(1+8) MU; ML(1+10) MU; Decay Slope -0.3630 MU; Intercept 56.8 MU; RCoeff -0.9992; MRIAREA 995.45; TX80 15.10 s; Instrument Name MV3; Area 1794.36 MU·s. Thus, the MLRA / ML = (1794.36 MU·s / 104.57 MU) = 17.2 s. Rubber Process Analyzer (RPA) (Neat EPDM and Rheology modified EPDM) Dynamic viscoelastic properties were measured as per ASTM D6204 with a rotorless oscillating shear rheometer (i.e., rubber process analyzer (RPA)). An RPA frequency sweepwas performed at 125°C, using a 7% strain for the neat and rheology modified interpolymer samples, using an Alpha Technologies RPA 2000. The test sample was cut out with a Cutter 2000R. The sample size was between 5 and 7 grams. The test sample was considered to be of proper size (116 to 160% of the test cavity volume) when a small bead of the interpolymer was extruded uniformly around the periphery of the dies as they were closed. The sample was placed between two pieces of MYLAR film. A frequency sweep was performed as discussed above. The angular frequency range was from 0.1 rad / s to 100 rad / s. The stress response was analyzed in terms of amplitude and phase, from which, the storage shear modulus (G’), loss shear modulus (G”), complex viscosity (η*), tan delta (that is a phase angle δ), and complex shear modulus G* were calculated. Modulus values were reported in kilopascal (kPa), phase angle was reported in degrees, and viscosity was reported in kPa·s. The properties recorded were complex viscosity (η*) at 0.1 rad / s and 100 rad / s and rheology ratio. The “rheology ratio” (or “RR”), was calculated as the ratio of the complex viscosity at 0.1 rad / s, and 125°C, to the complex viscosity at 100 rad / s, and 125°C; RR equals ƞ0.1 / ƞ100, at 125°C. Gel Content The gel content (insoluble fraction) produced by crosslinking, during the rheology modification, was determined by extracting the rheology modified interpolymer with xylene (certified ACS grade, CAS: 1330-20-7), which was purchased from Fisher Scientific. See ASTM D2765-16, Standard Test Methods for Determination of Gel Content and Swell Ratio of Crosslinked Ethylene Plastics, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA, 2016, www.astm.org. The xylene extraction sample holder was prepared by cutting a piece of 120-mesh stainless steel mesh measuring approximately 80 mm by 40 mm (3 in. by 1.5 in.). The mesh was folded in half to form a square measuring approximately 40 mm (1.5 in.) for each side. The two sides of this square were closed to form an open mesh pouch by folding the mesh at the edges and stapling the folds. The open sample holder was weighed to four decimal places (W1). For each rheology modified interpolymer, 0.3 grams of the interpolymer (cut into approximately 3 mm3pieces) was placed into a prepared open mesh pouch. The open mesh pouch and interpolymer, contained therein, were weighed to four decimal places (W2). The open side of the mesh pouch was then folded over and stapled shut, to create a closed mesh envelope, which was weighed to four decimal places (W3).The closed mesh envelope containing the rheology modified interpolymer, was suspended in 4 liters of refluxing xylene, containing 40 grams of an antioxidant (2,2’- methylene-6-tertiary butyl phenol) and boiling chips, The refluxing continued for 12 hours. At the end of 12 hours, the closed mesh pouch was removed from the xylene, and immediately dried in a vacuum oven at 150°C, with a nitrogen flow of approximately 5 PSI, for 12 hours. At the end of 12 hours, the dried closed envelope was weighed to four decimal places (W4), for a determination of the gel content of the rheology modified interpolymer. Each rheology modified interpolymer was run in duplicate, and the average result was reported as weight percent of gel content (Gel content (wt%)). The gel content of each rheology modified interpolymer was calculated as follows: Extract (wt%) = (W3-W4) / (W2-W1) x 100%], where W1 = weight of the mesh pouch, sealed on three sides (2 sides stapled), one side open; W2 = weight of the mesh pouch and the interpolymer (before extraction), and where the mesh was sealed on three sides, with one side open; W3 = weight of the mesh pouch and the interpolymer (before extraction), and where the mesh was sealed on all sides to create a closed pouch; W4 = weight of the closed mesh and interpolymer after extraction and drying. Gel content (wt%) = 100 - Extract (wt%). Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) The chromatographic system consists of a PolymerChar GPC-IR (Valencia, Spain) high temperature GPC chromatograph, equipped with an internal IR5 infra-red detector (IR5). The autosampler oven compartment is set at 160º Celsius, and the column compart- ment is set at 150º Celsius. The columns are four AGILENT “Mixed A” 30 cm, 20-micron linear mixed-bed columns. The chromatographic solvent is 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene, which contained 200 ppm of butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). The solvent source is nitrogen sparged. The injection volume is 200 microliters, and the flow rate is 1.0 milliliters / minute. Calibration of the GPC column set is performed with 21 narrow molecular weight distribution polystyrene standards, with molecular weights ranging from 580 to 8,400,000, and which are arranged in 6 “cocktail” mixtures, with at least a decade of separation between individual molecular weights. The standards are purchased from Agilent Technologies. The polystyrene standards are prepared at 0.025 grams in 50 milliliters of solvent, for molecular weights equal to, or greater than, 1,000,000, and at 0.05 grams in 50 milliliters of solvent, for molecular weights less than 1,000,000. The polystyrene standards are pre-dissolved at 80° Celsius, with gentle agitation, for 30 minutes then cooled, and the room temperature solutionis transferred cooled into the autosampler dissolution oven (equilibrated at 160°C) for 30 minutes. The polystyrene standard peak molecular weights are converted to polyethylene molecular weights using Equation 1 (as described in Williams and Ward, J. Polym. Sci., Polym. Let., 6, 621 (1968)): ^= ^ × ^^^^^^^^^^^^^ ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ (EQ 1),where M is the to 1.0. A fifth order polynomial is used topoints. The total plate count of the GPC column set is performed with decane which was introduced into a blank sample via a micropump controlled with the PolymerChar GPC-IR system. The plate count for the chromatographic system should be greater than 18,000 for the four Agilent “Mixed A” 30 cm, 20-micro linear mixed-bed columns. Samples are prepared in a semi-automatic manner with the PolymerChar “Instrument Control” Software, wherein the samples are weight-targeted at 2 mg / ml, and the solvent (contained 200 ppm BHT) was added to a pre nitrogen-sparged, septa-capped vial, via the PolymerChar high temperature autosampler. The samples are dissolved for 3 hours at 160º Celsius under “low speed” shaking. The calculations of Mn(GPC), Mw(GPC), and Mz(GPC) are based on GPC results using the internal IR5 detector (measurement channel) of the PolymerChar GPC-IR chromatograph according to Equations 2-4, the PolymerChar GPCOne™ software, the baseline-subtracted IR chromatogram at each equally-spaced data collection point (i), and the polyethylene equivalent molecular weight obtained from the narrow standard calibration curve for the point (i) from Equation 1. ^^(^^^) = ∑^ ^^^^(E ^^^^Q 2), 3),4).In order to monitor the deviations over time, a flowrate marker (decane) was introduced into each sample, via a micropump controlled with the PolymerChar GPC-IR system. This flowrate marker (FM) is used to linearly correct the pump flowrate (Flowrate(nominal)) for each sample, by RV alignment of the respective decane peak withinthe sample (RV(FM Sample)), to that of the decane peak within the narrow standards calibration (RV(FM Calibrated)). Any changes in the time of the decane marker peak are then assumed to be related to a linear-shift in flowrate (Flowrate(effective)) for the entire run. After calibrating the system, based on a flow marker peak, the effective flowrate (with respect to the narrow standards calibration) is calculated from Equation 5. Processing of the flow marker peak was done via the PolymerChar GPCOne™ software. Acceptable flowrate correction is such that the effective flowrate should be within + / -0.5% of the nominal flowrate. Flowrate(effective) = Flowrate(nominal) * (RV(FM Calibrated) / RV(FM Sample)) (EQ 5). EXPERIMENTAL Commercial Polymers and Reagents Commercial polymers and reagents are listed below in Tables 1A and 1B, respectively. Table 1A: Commercial EPDM Polymers Mooney (1+4') @ 125°C, Ethylene ENB Content, MU (ASTM D1646) Content, wt%* wt%* (ASTM Density (g / cc) Source Mooney of neat resin (ASTM D3900) D6047) NORDEL IP 4785HM 85 68 0.880 Hydrocarbon 4.9 (ASTM D792) Dow** Rubber NORDEL IP 4760P 60 67.5 0.880 Hydrocarbon 5.0 (ASTM D792) Dow Rubber *Each wt% based on weight of the EPDM. **The Dow Chemical Company Note, ENGAGE 8180 Polyolefin Elastomer (from Dow) was used as a masterbatch carrier – see Table 3A. Table 1B: Reagents Abbreviation / Chemical Description TMTD (Tetramethylthiuram TMTD-75 disulfide) polymeric dispersion containing 75 wt% TMTD, based on the weight of the dispersion. TMTD MW = 240.43 g / mol; available from Akrochem Sulfur Rubbermakers sulfur; available from Akrochem RHENOGRAN CBS-80 (accelerator) RHENOGRAN CBS-80 Polymeric dispersion containing 80 wt% N-cyclohexyl-2- benzothiazyl sulfenamide (CBS); CBS MW = 264.4 g / mol; available from Lanxess Zinc oxide ZnO available from Akrochem Zinc Stearate ZnSt available from Struktol Stearic acid Stearic acid available from Akrochem M-Sil mercapto functional silicone copolymer (CAS# 102783-03-9), 3.2-4.0 wt% mercaptan, viscosity 70-160 cSt; See US 3,388,144 and US Pub.2023 / 0106539 for methods of making mercapto functionalized siloxanes; each incorporated herein by reference.Preparation of Rheology Modified Interpolymers Rheology modified interpolymer were prepared from the noted first compositions as seen in Tables 2A and 3A below. Batch Mixer Modification – (40 grams)- Table 2A First compositions each containing the EPDM (40 g) were modified on a RS5000 Batch Mixer from Rheometers Services Inc.. The small bowl, with roller blade rotors, suitable for mixing batches up to 45 g, was used. After initial fluxing of the base polymer (EPDM) for a minute (200oC, 5 rpm), the remaining ingredients in the formulation were loaded in the mixer, as discussed below, at a low speed (for about 2 minutes, 5 rpm). Following incorporation of all other ingredients, a rotor speed of 50 rpm and a bowl temperature of 200°C were used, unless noted otherwise. The mixing was continued for an additional six minutes. After mixing, the batch was collected on a glass reinforced TEFLON sheet, and pressed into a flat ‘patty’ (approximate 0.25” thickness) on a compression molder (Carver Hydraulic Press, Duration of compression 3-5 minutes, Pressure approx.20,000 psi, Temperature 20-25oC). The flat ‘patty’ was cooled to ambient temperature. Depending on the individual ingredient, different methods of addition to the batch mixer were used. All pellets and pastilles were directly added. Ingredients in powder form were weighed on a film formed from the base resin (EPDM), and then rolled by hand (used nitrile gloves) to form a “burrito-shaped” encapsulant. The EPDM film had a thickness of approx.1-2 mm, and was prepared by compression molding 20-30 grams of the EPDM at 100-120°C, at a pressure of approx.20,000 psi, for 3 minutes. A portion of the film (about 3- 4 g) was used as the film for the encapsulant. The rolled encapsulant was then added to the mixer. The amount of EPDM in Table 2A includes the amount of the EPDM used to form the film for the encapsulant. Twin Screw Extruder Modification (5 lbs) – Table 3A Preparation of the Masterbatch (MB) A sulfur-activator masterbatch in pellet form was made, using ENGAGE 8180 Polyolefin Elastomer as the carrier resin, to enable the ease of feeding of other components. The masterbatch composition contained ENGAGE 8180 Polyolefin Elastomer (100 wt. parts), Sulfur (3 weight parts), and Zinc Stearate (57 wt. parts). The ENGAGE 8180 Polyolefin Elastomer was loaded in a batch mixer and fluxed, after which, the sulfur and zinc stearate were added. Mixing was performed at 40 rpm, until the temperature reached 100°C.The batch was then pelletized using a single screw extruder. Preparation of the Rheology Modified Interpolymers The first compositions, as shown in Table 3A, were extruded using a “26 mm,” co- rotating twin screw extruder (ZSK-26 from Coperion Corp.). The extruder was configured with 15 barrels (60 L / D). The maximum screw speed was 1200 rpm, and the maximum motor output was 40 HP. The extruder was equipped with a “loss-in-weight feeder.” All components were added simultaneously to the extruder via the extruder feed throat. Barrel 1 was water cooled (temp. less than 70°C), and Barrels 2-15 were maintained at 210°C. A two-hole die was used to produce strands, which were pulled through a water bath and subsequently cut into pellets using a strand cutter. A run rate of 4.5 lbs / hr and a screw speed of 150 rpm were used. Results The Mooney Viscosity and the rheological properties of each rheology modified interpolymer, prepared in the Batch mixer, are shown in Table 2B. The gel contents of some of the rheology modified interpolymers are also shown in Table 2B. The control, first composition A was not thermally treated, but tested as is. Control, first compositions B and E were each thermally treated in the batch mixer as discussed above. Tables 2C and 2D provide the ratios of some properties of the rheology modified interpolymers, relative to the noted control interpolymers. For the first composition Inv.6, containing the TMTD, it is believed that the ZnO may help to release sulfur from the TMTD, and then complex strongly with the released sulfur. Thus, more sulfur is needed to significantly modified the interpolymer. See Table 2A. Example R6 had a MLRA / ML value of 16.0 s and a gel content of 2.9 wt%. As seen in Table 2B, for examples R1 and R2, a very small amount of sulfur, 100-300 ppm, based on the amount of the EPDM (before rheology modification), achieved rheology modification of the EPDM (NORDEL 4785). This is seen in the increase in the following properties: shear rate viscosity at 0.1 rad / s, Mooney viscosity, shear thinning behavior (rheology ratio) and the MLRA / ML ratio, relative to the control example (see A). Examples R1 and R2 also has very low gel levels of 0.9 wt% and 0.7 wt%, respectively, indicating that these modified interpolymers had a minimal amount of, if any, crosslinking. At 500 ppm sulfur (see example R2’), the MLRA / ML ratio (18.6 s) was higher (among other properties), and the modified EPDM had gel content of 8.6 wt%. Also, as seen for examples R4 and R5, the use of an activator (zinc stearate), inconjunction with a low amount of sulfur (300 ppm and 200 ppm) produced rheology modified interpolymers with high MLRA / ML values (17.2 s and 8.5 s) and low gel levels (4.0 wt% and 1.1 wt%). It is noted that example RG, formed using 1000 ppm sulfur, had a gel content of 33.1 wt%, indicating a significant degree of crosslinking within the modified interpolymer. Example R7, formed from a mercapto functional silicone copolymer, had a MLRA / ML value of 8.8 s and a low gel content of 0.3 wt%. The Mooney Viscosity and the rheological properties of each rheology modified interpolymer, prepared in the twin screw extruder, are shown in Table 3A. The gel contents of some of the rheology modified interpolymers are also shown in Table 3A. The control, first compositions J and K were each thermally treated in the twin screw extruder as discussed above. Tables 3B and 3C provide the ratios of some properties of the rheology modified interpolymers, relative to the noted control interpolymers. As seen in Table 3A, for example R11, 320 ppm sulfur, based on the amount of the EPDM (before rheology modification), achieved rheology modification of the EPDM (NORDEL 4785). R11 had a high MLRA / ML value (10.4 s) and low gel content (3.3 wt%). Example R12, prepared with 320 ppm sulfur, had a high MLRA / ML value (12.2 s) and a gel content (9.2 wt%). See also R9 prepared with 380 ppm sulfur, based on the amount of the EPDM (NORDEL 4760), and with a MLRA / ML value of 13.0 s and low gel content of 0.4 wt%.Table 2A: First Compositions – Batch Mixer (wt. parts) CompComp Comp trol Control E-beam In Comp Con v Inv Inv Control Inv First Comp. A B TT** C E No TT* *** 1 2 2’ TT** 3 NORDEL 4785 (wt%)A 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 mp. a (99. 100 Co 99) (99.97) (99.95) (99.38) Sulfur (wt%)A0.01 0.03 0.05 0.02 [ppm]B(0.01) (0.03) (0.05) (0.02)

[0100]

[0300]

[0500]

[0200] ZnO (wt%)A0.50.5 (0.50) Stearic Acid0.10.1 (wt%)A (0.10) Zinc Stearate (wt%)ATMTD disp. [amt of TMTD] 2 active S atoms M-Sil [amt. of SH] Sum wt 100 100 100 100.01 100.03 100.05 100.60 100.62 g-atom S per 100 3.1 9.4 15.6 6.2 g Comp. a x 10-4 x 10-4 x 10-4 x 10-4 *No TT = No Thermal Treatment. **TT = Thermally Treated . ***Comp. C was treated with an E-beam (0.7 MRad). A) The wt% based on the weight of the first composition. B) The ppm based on the weight of the Comp. a (EPDM). C) The ppm based on the weight of the Comp. a (EPDM). Atomic mass of Sulfur = 32.065. MW of TMTD = 240.43 g / mol; The wt% of two active sulfur atoms permolecule TMTD = {[2(32.065)] / 240.43} x 100 = 26.67 wt%. For M-Sil, the molar of amount of S = molar amount of SH. Molar amount of SH = [(g M-Sil) x 0.032 (or 0.040)] x 1 mol / 33.073]; For M-Sil, the amt. S (g) = [(Molar amount of SH) x 32.065 g / mol]. Note, the molecular weight of SH = 33.073 g / mol. Note, g-atom S = mass of active S (in grams) / Atomic Mass of S. Table 2A Continued Comp Comp Inv Inv Comp Comp Inv Inv First Comp. F G 4 5 H I 6 7 NORDEL 4785 )A Comp. a 100 100 100 100 100 (wt% 100 (99.37) (99.58) 100 100 (98.81) (99.80) Sulfur (wt%)A 0.1 0.03 0.02 [ppm]B0.1 (0.10) (0.03) (0.02)

[1000]

[0300]

[0200] ZnO (wt%)A 0.5 2.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 (0.49) Stearic Acid (wt%)A 0.1 0.5 0.1 0.1 0.1 (0.10) Zinc Stearate (wt%)A0.6 0.4 (0.60) (0.40) TMTD disp. [amt. of TMTD]1.00.1 0.6 2 active S atoms [0.75] [0.075] [0.45] M-Sil 0.2 [amt. of SH] [0.0064 – 0.0080] Sum wt 100.70 103.10 100.63 100.42 101.60 100.70 101.20 100.20 g-atom S per 100 g 31.2 31.2 3.1 6.2 62 6.2 37 1.9 x 10-4 – Comp. a x 10-4 x 10-4 x 10-4 x 10-4 x 10-4 x 10-4 x 10-4 2.4 x 10-4 See above footnotes.Table 2B: Properties of Rheology Modified Interpolymers (Batch Mixer) CompComp Comp E- Inv Inv I Comp Control Control nv Inv beam Control First Comp. A B C 1 2 2’ E 3 Rheol. Mod. RA = A RB RC R1 R2 R2’ RE R3 ML (1+4) @ 125°C 86 81 120 131 107 171 66 101 MLRA / ML, s 3.1 5.5 14.9 11.5 10.0 18.6 7.8 12.2 MLRA, MU·s 267 446 1788 1507 1070 3181 515 1232 Complex Viscosity, @ 0.1 rad / s, 125°C, kPa·s 304 421 721 891 721 1347 413 700 Complex Viscosity, @ 100 rad / s, 125°C, kPa·s 7.0 6.4 7.2 6.7 6.9 7.0 5.3 6.4 Rheology Ratio, ƞ0.1 / ƞ100, 125°C 43.5 66.1 100.1 133.0 104.9 192.4 77.3 109.4 Gel content, wt% NM* 0.5 0.5 0.9 0.7 8.6 NM NM *Not Measured. For RE, the gel content value should be similar to the value for RB. For R3, the gel content value should be similar to the values for R4 and R5. For RF, the gel content value should be similar to the value for RG. Table 2B Continued Comp Comp Inv Inv Comp Comp Inv Inv First Comp. F G 4 5 H I 6 7 Rheol. Mod. RF RG R4 R5 RH RI R6 R7 ML (1+4) @ 125°C 175 181 105 110 180 65 103 96 MLRA / ML, s 37.0 34.3 17.2 8.5 31.2 4.7 16.0 8.8 MLRA, MU·s 2135 6208 1794 935 5616 306 1648 845 Complex Viscosity, @ 0.1 rad / s, 125°C, kPa·s 1467 1669 843 758 1313 291 676 533 Complex Viscosity, @ 100 rad / s, 125°C, kPa·s 6.5 6.2 5.9 6.8 6.2 5.9 5.9 6.8 Rheology Ratio, ƞ0.1 / ƞ100, 125°C 224.3 267.9 141.9 111.5 211.9 49.6 114.0 78.4 Gel content, wt% NM 33.1 4.0 1.1 25.2 NM 2.9 0.3 See above footnotes. Table 2C: Ratio of Properties of Rheology Modified Interpolymers Relative to Properties of Control RA Ratio* R1 R2 R2’ R3 RF RG ML (1+4) @ 125°C 86 ML(R_) / ML(RA) 1.52 1.24 1.99 1.17 2.03 2.10 MLRA / ML, s 3.1 [MLRA / ML R_] / [MLRA / ML RA] 3.71 3.23 6.00 3.94 11.9 11.1 MLRA, MU·s 267 [MLRA of R_] / [MLRA of RA] 5.64 4.01 11.9 4.61 8.00 23.3 Complex Viscosity, [Complex Visc. (0.1 ra @ 0.1 rad / s, 125°C 304 d / s) R_] / [Complex Visc. (0.1 rad / s) RA] 2.93 2.37 4.43 2.30 4.83 5.49 Complex Viscosity, [Complex Visc. (100 rad / s) @ 100 rad / s, 125°C 7.0 R_] / [Complex Visc. (100 rad / s) RA] 0.96 0.99 1.00 0.91 0.93 0.89 Rheology Ratio, ƞ 43.5 [ƞ0.1 / ƞ100(R_)] / [ƞ0.1 / ƞ100(RA)] 3.06 2.41 4.42 2.51 5.16 6.16 0.1 / ƞ100, 125°C RB Gel content, wt% 0.5 [Gel (R_)] / [Gel (RB)] 1.8 1.4 17.2 - - 66.2 *Each ratio relative to RA, except the ratio for the “Gel Content,” which is relative to RB.Table 2D: Ratio of Properties of Rheology Modified Interpolymers Relative to Properties of Control RA Ratio* R4 R5 RH RI R6 R7 ML (1+4) @ 125°C 86 ML(R_) / ML(RA) 1.22 1.28 2.09 0.76 1.20 1.12 MLRA / ML, s 3.1 [MLRA / ML of R_] / [MLRA / ML of RA] 5.55 2.74 10.1 1.52 5.16 2.84 MLRA, MU·s 267 [MLRA R_] / [MLRA RA] 6.76 3.50 21.0 1.15 6.17 3.16 Complex [Complex Visc. (0.1 rad / s) Viscosity, @ 0.1 304 R_] / [Complex Visc. (0.1 2.77 2.49 4.32 0.96 2.22 1.75 rad / s, 125°C rad / s) RA] Complex [Complex Visc. (100 rad / s) Viscosity, @ 7.0 R_] / [Complex Visc. (100 0.84 0.97 0.89 0.84 0.84 0.97 100 rad / s, 125°C rad / s) RA] Rheology Ratio, ƞ / ƞ , 125°C 43.5 [ƞ0.1 / ƞ100 (R_)] / [ƞ0.1 / ƞ100 (RA) 3.26 2.56 4.87 1.14 2.62 1.80 0.1 100 ] RB Gel content, wt% 0.5 [Gel (R_)] / [Gel (RB)] 8.0 2.2 50.4 - 5.8 0.6 *Each ratio relative to RA, except the ratio for the “Gel Content,” which is relative to RB. Table 3A: First Compositions (wt. parts) and Rheology Modified Interpolymers (Twin Screw) CompControl Inv Inv Comp Control Inv Inv. First Composition J (TT*) 8 9 K (TT*) 11 12 NORDEL 4785 (wt%) Comp. a100 100 100 (100) (98.3) (98.21) NORDEL 4760 (wt%) Comp. a 100 100 100 (100) (98.3) (98.3) Sulfur-Activator Masterbatch**1.72.041.71.7 (wt%)*** (1.7) (2.0) (1.7) (1.67) Sulfur from Masterbatch 0.032 0.038 0.032 0.032 (wt%)*** (0.031) (0.037) (0.031) (0.031) [ppm]****

[0320]

[0380]

[0320]

[0320] RHENOGRAN CBS-80 0.12Total weight parts 100 101.7 102.04 100 101.7 101.82 g-atom S per 100 g Comp. a 10.0 x 11.9 x 10.0 x 10.0 x 10-410-410-410-4Rheology Modified Interpolymer RJ R8 R9 RK R11 R12 ML(1+4), 125°C, MU 59 76 86 84 105 109 MLRA / ML, s 2.9 9.6 13.0 3.3 10.4 12.2 MLRA, MU·s 171 730 1118 277 1092 1330 ƞ*, @ 0.1 rad / s, 125°C, kPa·s 257 465 530 358 639 641 ƞ*, @ 100 rad / s, 125°C, kPa·s 6.0 6.1 6.0 7.4 7.3 7.1 Rheology Ratio, ƞ0.1 / ƞ100, 125°C 42.8 76.4 88.2 48.2 87.4 90.3 Gel Content, wt% NM NM 0.4 NM 3.3 9.2 *TT = Thermally Treated. NM = Not Measured. **Sulfur-Activator Masterbatch: ENGAGE 8180 (100 wt. parts), Sulfur (3 wt. parts), Zinc Stearate (57 wt. parts) - made using a batch mixer and pelletized. *** Each wt% based on the weight of the first composition. ****The ppm based on the weight of the Comp. a (EPDM). Atomic mass of Sulfur = 32.065. Note, g-atom S = mass of active S (in grams) / Atomic Mass of S. For R8, the gel content should be a little less than the value for R9. For RJ and RK, the gel content for each should be similar to RB (see Table 2B).Table 3B: Ratio of Properties of Rheology Modified Interpolymers Relative to Properties of Control NORDEL 4760 Ratio** R8 R9 No TT* ML (1+4) @ 125°C 59.5 ML(R_) / ML(NORDEL 4760) 1.28 1.45 MLRA / ML, s 3.5 [MLRA / ML of R_] / [MLRA / ML of NORDEL 4760] 2.74 3.71 MLRA, MU·s 210 MLRA of R_] / [MLRA of NORDEL 4760] 3.48 5.32 Rheology Ratio, ƞ0.1 / ƞ100, 125°C 45.0 [ƞ0.1 / ƞ100 (R_)] / [ƞ0.1 / ƞ100 (NORDEL 4760)] 1.70 1.96 **Each ratio relative to NORDEL 4760 (see Table 2 (CS4) of US2022 / 0275121). Table 3C: Ratio of Properties of Rheology Modified Interpolymers Relative to Properties of Control RA Ratio* R11 R12 ML (1+4) @ 125°C 86 ML(R_) / ML(RA) 1.22 1.27 MLRA / ML, s 3.1 [MLRA / ML of R_] / [MLRA / ML of RA] 3.35 3.94 MLRA, MU·s 267 MLRA of R_] / [MLRA of RA] 4.09 4.98 Complex Viscosity, @ 0.1 [Complex Visc. (0.1 rad / s) R rad / s, 125°C, kPa·s 304 _] / [Complex Visc. (0.1 rad / s) RA] 2.10 2.11 Complex Viscosity, @ 100 [Comp ad / s, 125°C, kPa·s 7 lex Visc. (100 rad / s) R_] / [Complex r .0 Visc. (100 rad / s) RA] 1.04 1.01 Rheology Ratio, ƞ0.1 / ƞ100, [ƞ0.1 / ƞ100 (R_)] / [ƞ0 / ƞ (RA)] 125°C 43.5 .1 100 2.01 2.08 RB 0.5 [Gel content (R_)] / [Gel content (RB)] 6.6 18.4 *Each ratio relative to RA, except the ratio for the “Gel Content,” which is relative to RB. Additional Study First compositions 13 and 14, as shown in Table 4, were modified in a batch mixer as described above (used rolled encapsulant). Chemical structures of each sulfur source is shown below in Scheme A.As seen in Table 4, both compositions resulted in rheology modified interpolymers with high MLRA / ML values (12.0 s and 19.4 s) and low gel levels (0.3 wt% and 5.5 wt%).Table 4: First Compositions (wt. parts) and Rheology Modified Interpolymers (Batch Mixer) Inv Inv First Composition 13 14 NORDEL 4785 (4.9 wt%ENB EPDM) - Component a 100 100 AKROCHEM TMTD OT (2 active sulfurs per molecule) 0.09 SCA 98 (TESPT) (4 active sulfurs per molecule) 0.10 Total weight parts 100.09 100.10 gram-atoms of sulfur per 100 Component a 7.49E-04 7.52E-04 Rheology Modified Interpolymer ML (1+4) @ 125C, MU 91 126 MLRA / ML, s 12.0 19.4 MLRA, MU.s 1088 2450 Complex Viscosity, @ 0.1 rad / s, 125C, kPa·s 596 716 Complex Viscosity, @ 100 rad / s, 125C, kPa·s 6.4 5.8 Rheology Ratio, ƞ0.1 / ƞ100, 125C 94 124 Gel content, wt% 0.3 5.5 Note, TMTD Grade: Source Akrochem, Grade TMTD OT, CAS 137-26-8, Mol Wt 240.43 g / mol, S Active S 26.67 wt%, pure powder form. Note, SCA 98: Source Struktol, Bis(3-Triethoxysilylpropyl)tetrasulfide, CAS # 211519-85-6, Mol Wt 532g / mol, Active S 24.11 wt%, liquid form.Atomic mass of Sulfur = 32.065. MW of TMTD = 240.43 g / mol; The wt% of two active sulfur atoms per molecule TMTD = {[2(32.065)] / 240.43} x 100 = 26.67 wt%. MW of SCA 98 = 532 g / mol; The wt% of four active sulfur atoms per molecule SCA 98 = {[4(32.065)] / 532} x 100 = 24.11 wt%. Note, g-atom S = mass of active S (in grams) / Atomic Mass of S.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. A composition comprising a “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” that comprises the following properties: i) a MLRA / ML (at 125°C) value ≥ 8.0 s, and ii) a gel content ≤ 10.0 wt%, based on the weight of the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer;” and wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” is formed from a first composition comprising the following components: a) an ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer and b) at least one sulfur source.

2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha- olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a Mooney Viscosity (ML 1+4, 125°C) ≥ 60.

3. The composition of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the rheology modified interpolymer is a rheology modified EPDM.

4. The composition of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a MLRA / ML value from 8.2 s to 25.0 s.

5. The composition of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a gel content ≤ 5.0 wt%, based on the weight of the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer.” 6. The composition of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” has a gel content from 0 to 5.0 wt%, based on the weight of the “rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer.” 7. The composition of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the ratio of the “Gel content (wt%) of the rheology modified ethylene / alpha-olefin / nonconjugated polyene interpolymer” to the “Gel content (wt%) of component a, as thermally treated” is from 0.2 to 22. Here, component a is thermally treated under the same conditions used to form the rheology modified interpolymer.

8. The composition of any one of claims 1-7 above, wherein component b is selected from sulfur, sulfur donor compounds, multifunctional thiols, polythiols, acrylate thiols, mercaptosilanes, mercaptosiloxanes or mercaptopolysiloxanes.

9. The composition of claim 8, wherein component b is sulfur.

10. The composition of any one of claims 1-9, wherein the sulfur content of component bis present in an amount ≤ 0.040 per phr of component a.

11. The composition of any one of claims 1-10, wherein the first composition further comprises at least one activator, as component c.

12. The composition of claim 11, wherein component c is selected from ZnO (Zinc oxide), Zinc Stearate, Zinc Octoate, Zinc Laurate, Stearic acid, or any combination thereof.

13. A process to form the composition of any one of claims 1-12, said process comprising thermally treating the first composition.

14. The process of claim 13, wherein the first composition is thermally treated in a batch mixer.

15. The process of claim 13, wherein the first composition is thermally treated in an extruder configuration.

16. The process of claim 13, wherein the first composition is thermally treated in a static mixer used in conjunction with a pumping device.

17. A composition formed from the process of any one of claims 13-16.

18. An article comprising at least one component formed from the composition of any one of claims 1-12 or 17.

19. The article of claim 18, wherein the article is a foam, or a film.

20. The article of claim 18, wherein the article is a wire or cable, a footwear component, an automotive part, a profile (for example, a dense, micro-dense and / or foamed profile), a tire, a tube / hose, or a roofing membrane.

Citation Information

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