Electric component comprising an electrical conductor and at least one electric insulation barrier

Abstract

The invention relates to an electric component comprising: - at least one electrical conductor made of or comprising a metal or a metallic alloy; - at least one electric insulation barrier (L) made of or comprising a composition (C); wherein composition (C) comprises the following components: - between 15.0 wt% and 70.0 wt% of at least one polyamide (PA) - between 20.0 wt% and 75.0 wt% of glass fibers (GFs) dispersed in composition (C); - between 1.0 wt% and 30.0 wt% of at least one flame retardant (FR); and - these proportions in wt% being provided relative to the total weight of composition (C).

Description

SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCTElectric component comprising an electrical conductor and at least one electric insulation barrierThis application claims priority of US provisional application N°63 / 693,613 filed on 11 September 2024 and European patent application N°24220507.8 filed on 17 December 2024, the content of which being entirely incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. In case of any incoherency between this application and one of the priority applications that would affect the clarity of a term or expression, it should be made reference to this application only.[TECHNICAL FIELD]

[0001] The present invention to an electric component comprising an electrical conductor and at least one electric insulation barrier comprising a composition comprising a polyamide, at least one flame retardant and glass fibers (GFs) dispersed in the polyamide molding composition. It also relates to the use of the polyamide molding composition as an electric insulation barrier.[TECHNICAL PROBLEM]

[0002] With development of electric vehicles (EVs), there is a significant push towards the creation of batteries with larger capacities. Additionally, the trend is moving towards higher voltage batteries while simultaneously minimizing the number of components and reducing overall weight. This evolution results in a higher concentration of energy density, which consequently increases the risk of thermal runaway in batteries, particularly in lithium-ion cells. Thermal runaway is a critical safety concern that occurs when lithium-ion cells enter an uncontrollable self-heating state, potentially leading to fires, smoke, extremely high temperatures and the release of harmful substances.

[0003] GMW-18435 (Sept 2021) is a standard test developed to evaluate the behaviour of materials used in EV in harsh conditions (about this test, see also https: / / www.youtube.com / watch?v=Rwep-13urLs). This test assesses the performance of materials when exposed to extreme temperatures and stress, simulating the conditions that might lead to thermal runaway.

[0004] Given the increasing energy densities and the associated risks, there is a pressing need to develop advanced polymeric materials that can maintain excellent electrical insulation properties even under the severe conditions of temperature and stress experienced during thermal runaway. Such materials are crucial for enhancing the safety and reliability of high- capacity, high-voltage batteries in electric vehicles.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT

[0005] The invention described herein aims to address this technical problem by providing a novel polymeric material specifically designed to withstand the harsh conditions associated with thermal runaway. This material not only ensures robust electrical insulation but also contributes to the overall safety and performance of EV batteries.[BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION]

[0006] Flame resistant polymeric materials have been known for a long time but the materials developed do not aim at solving the problem of a dynamic thermal runaway.

[0007] https: / / www.youtube.com / watch?v=Rwep-13urLs illustrates the harsh conditions that could be encountered in a thermal runaway.

[0008] US 2022 / 262540 discloses a thermoplastic based sustainable insulation materials for electrical contact and non-contact applications.

[0009] CN 115785663 provides a halogen-free flame-retardant nylon material for battery pack shells comprising 40-67 parts of a polyamide 6 or 66, 20-30 parts of GF, 5-10 parts of modified melamine polyphosphate, 4-10 parts of aluminum diethyl hypophosphite, 0.1 -0.5 parts of a chain extender, 3-8 parts of toughening agent and 1-2 parts of other additives. The toughening agent is a polymer with maleic anhydride.

[0010] US 2014 / 0363654 A1 (EMS-Patent AG) discloses a polyamide molding composition consisting of at least one polyamide, glass fibers, where the arithmetic average of the length of these glass fibers in the polyamide molding composition is from 100 to 220 pm, at least one phosphinic salt and / or at least one diphosphinic salt, and optionally at least one additive, exhibiting V0 rating at 3.2 mm according to UL-94 (Underwriters Laboratories-94: Tests for flammability of plastic materials for parts in devices and appliances').

[0011] US 2012 / 029124 discloses a polymer composition comprising: at least one semiaromatic polyamide having a melting point of at least 270° C; at least one organophosphorous compound selected from the group consisting of a phosphinic salt, a diphosphinic salt and condensation products thereof; and at least 0.01 wt%, based on the total weight of the composition, of calcium oxide. US 2012 / 029124 does not disclose any time of failure nor any size of the GFs in the polyamide composition.

[0012] US 2023 / 183454 discloses an electrical or electronic article comprising a semicrystalline polyamide and glass fibers. US 2023 / 183454 does not disclose any time of failure nor any size of the GFs in the polyamide composition.

[0013] US 2023 / 183452 discloses a composition comprising a semi-crystalline polyamide and glass fibers. US 2023 / 183452 does not disclose any time of failure nor any size of the GFs in the polyamide composition.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT

[0014] EP 4191757 A1 discloses a thermal runaway protection film for a lithium ion battery, the film comprising at least one protection layer comprising at least one silicone and at least one silicate compound in an amount of at least 40 wt%, based on the total weight of the at least one protection layer. D6 does not disclose the composition of the invention.

[0015] US 2014 / 0275367 A1 (Cheil Industries Inc.) discloses adding polyphenylene sulfide to a reinforced polyamide composition, which exhibit satisfactory flame-retardant performances while reducing the amount of the flame retardant required.

[0016] US 10,435,540 B2 (SABIC) discloses another approach using pellets having a particular structure consisting of a core and a sheath, wherein a core contains glass fibers and an impregnating agent, and a sheath surrounding said core contains polypropylene and a mixture of an organic phosphate compound, an organic phosphoric acid compound and zinc oxide as flame retardants.

[0017] WO 2024 / 022878 discloses a battery pack and a battery enclosure. The polyamide molding composition of the invention is not disclosed.

[0018] US 2024 / 0059867 A1 discloses a device including a flame retardant comprising a polymer matrix of crosslinked an aliphatic polyketone.

[0019] US 2023 / 0058396 discloses a thermal barrier article comprising a core layer containing a plurality of fibers or a flame retardant foam, and a supplementary layer disposed on or integrated within the core layer, wherein the thermal barrier article is operatively adapted to survive or withstand at least one cycle of the Torch and Grit Test. See also US 2023 / 395281 .

[0020] US 2022 / 262539 discloses a multilayer material for use as a thermal insulation barrier in a rechargeable electrical energy storage system.

[0021] WO 2024 / 003632 discloses an inorganic thermal barrier coatings and articles containing the coatings that can be used as impact resistant thermal barriers in high temperature applications.

[0022] Standard GMW-18435 serves as an abusive flame test that helps verify the thermal insulation performance of barrier materials utilized in EV battery packs. Description of GMW- 18435 is available at https: / / www.youtube.com / watch?v=Rwep-13urLs.[SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION]

[0023] The invention is as disclosed below and in the appended claims.

[0024] More precisions and details about the claimed subject-matters and about the invention are now provided below.

[0025] The various aspects, advantages, and features of the invention will be more readily understood and appreciated by reference to the detailed description and examples.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT[DEFINITIONS]

[0026] wt%: % by weight; mol%: % by mole.

[0027] When numerical ranges are indicated herein, the end-points of the ranges (even of open-ended ranges such as those comprising "at least", "up to" or "at most" or in ranges comprising “between” ) are included. The expression "at least" therefore corresponds to the mathematical symbol > in the context of the present invention. The expression "at most" therefore corresponds to the mathematical symbol < in the context of the present invention. For clarity then, the ranges comprising the expression “between X and ”are thus equivalent to “from X to Y”.

[0028] An aliphatic polyamide is a polyamide wherein at least 50.0 mol%, preferably at least 90.0 mol%, preferably at least 95.0 mol%, preferably at least 99.0 mol%, of the recurring units are of formula -C(=O)-Alk-NH- (I) and / or -C(=O)-Alk-C(=O)-NH-Alk’-NH- (II) where Aik and Aik’ are selected in the group of linear and branched C4-C18 alkylene groups. Examples of aliphatic polyamide are PA66 (with recurring units of formula (II) with Aik = -(CH2)4- and Aik’ = -(CH2)e-) and PA11 (with recurring units of formula (I) with Aik = -(CH2)IO-).

[0029] A polyphthalamide (PPA) is a polyamide in which the residues of terephthalic acid or isophthalic acid or a combination of the two comprise at least 50.0 mol% of the dicarboxylic acid part of the repeating structural units in the polymer chain. This definition is in line with ASTM D883-11.

[0030] The proportion of recurring units in a polymer are given in mol% and relative to the total proportion of recurring units in the polymer.

[0031] The polyamides are sometimes defined by reference to the contents of the dicarboxylic acid component and the diamine component that are used for the preparation of a polyamide. The proportion of a dicarboxylic acid in the dicarboxylic acid component is expressed in mol% and relative to the total number of moles of dicarboxylic acid(s) in the dicarboxylic acid component. The proportion of a diamine in the diamine component is expressed in mol% and relative to the total number of moles of diamine(s) in the diamine component. Those proportions can be translated into and correspond to the proportions of monomers present in the polyamide in polymerized form after polycondensation.

[0032] In the present application, unless otherwise indicated, any specific embodiment or technical feature relating to one of the subject-matters of the invention is applicable to and interchangeable with another embodiment or technical feature relating also to said subject matter and disclosed elsewhere in the application. Likewise, in the present application, unless otherwise indicated, any specific embodiment or technical feature relating to one of the subjectmatters of the invention e.g. electric component) is applicable to or interchangeable withSSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT another embodiment or technical feature relating to another subject-matter of the invention (e.g. use) and disclosed elsewhere in the application.[DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION]

[0033] As a first aspect, the invention relates to an electric component comprising:- at least one electrical conductor made of or comprising a metal or a metallic alloy;- at least one electric insulation barrier (L) made of or comprising a composition (C) as disclosed herein.

[0034] Electric insulation barrier (L) is made of or comprises composition (C) as disclosed herein.

[0035] The electric component is notably disclosed in any one of claims 1-64.

[0036] The function of the electric insulation barrier (L) is to maintain excellent electrical insulation properties even under severe conditions of temperature and stress, notably experienced during thermal runaway. Barrier (L) is also mechanically robust enough to provide for further mechanical protection of the electrical conductor. These properties of barrier (L) are due to the combination of the components of composition (C) that is disclosed herein and to a specific distribution of the GFs present in composition (C).

[0037] The electric conductor is typically in the form of a wire or a plate or a bar.

[0038] According to an embodiment of the present invention, barrier (L) is disposed over a surface of electric conductor. According to another embodiment, barrier (L) is disposed around the electric conductor.

[0039] According to an embodiment of the present invention, barrier (L) is in the form of a plaque.

[0040] According to an embodiment of the present invention, barrier (L) is in the form of an enclosure or housing or casing.

[0041] A metallic alloy is an alloy consisting essentially or consisting of (i) two or more metals (e.g. brass is an alloy of copper and zinc) or (ii) at least one metal and at least one non-metal (e.g. steel is an alloy of iron and carbon, sometimes with other metals included).

[0042] The metal is preferably selected in the group consisting of copper, titanium, niobium, tantalum, zirconium, aluminium and iron. The metal is more preferably selected in the group consisting of copper, aluminium and iron. The metal can be any one of the metals cited herein.

[0043] The metallic alloy is preferably selected in the group consisting of steel and brass. The metallic alloy is preferably steel.

[0044] The length of the electrical conductor is typically between 5.0 mm and 30.0 m. This length may more particularly be between 5.0 mm and 15.0 m or between 5.0 mm and 10.0 m or between 5.0 mm and 100.0 cm.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT

[0045] As a second aspect, the invention relates to the use of composition (C) as disclosed herein as an electric insulation barrier (L) or for the preparation of an electric insulation barrier (L) of an electric component as defined herein. The use of the second aspect is notably disclosed in any one of claims 66-74.

[0046] The electric component is notably selected in the group consisting of busbars, venting systems, connectors, pyrofuses, end plates, separators, circuit breakers, electromagnetic switches, ground faults and arc fault breakers, actuators, terminal switches and sensors.

[0047] A busbar designates an article that conducts electricity and designed to make a common connection between several circuits in a system.

[0048] Barrier (L) is typically an injection or compression molded part.

[0049] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a buffer is positioned between a surface of the electric conductor and the barrier (L), the buffer being notably air or an electric insulation material (e.g. polyurethane).

[0050] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the electric insulation barrier (L) passes the test type 4 disclosed in GMW-18435 (Sept 2021).

[0051] About composition (C)

[0052] Composition (C) comprises, consists essentially of or consists of the following components: between 15.0 wt% and 70.0 wt% of at least one polyamide (PA) selected in the group consisting of aliphatic polyamides, polyphthalamides (PPA) and combinations thereof, the polyamide (PA) preferably exhibiting:■ a melting temperature (Tm) of at least 250.0°C and a heat of fusion (Hm) of at least 30.0 J / g; and / or■ a glass transition temperature (Tg) of at least 60.0°C;■ Tm, Hmand Tgbeing measured by Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) according to ASTM D3418, notably using a heating and cooling rate of 20°C / min; between 20.0 wt% and 75.0 wt% of glass fibers (GFs) dispersed in composition (C); between 1.0 wt% and 30.0 wt% of at least one flame retardant (FR); and optionally at least one additive (Add) other than the flame retardant (FR), notably selected from the group consisting of impact modifiers, tougheners, plasticizers, colorants, pigments, antistatic agents, dyes, lubricants, thermal stabilizers, light stabilizers, antioxidants, nucleating agents, polymer processing aids, anti-blocking agents, slip agents, antifogging agents, chemical blowing agents, nucleating agents and any combination thereof;SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT these proportions in wt% being provided relative to the total weight of composition (C).

[0053] According to an enbodiment of the present invention, composition (C) consists essentially of or consists of said components.

[0054] According to a preferred enbodiment of the present invention, composition (C) consists of said components.

[0055] According to an enbodiment of the present invention, composition (C) consists essentially of or consists of the components disclosed in claim 65.

[0056] According to a preferred enbodiment of the present invention, composition (C) consists of the components disclosed in claim 65.

[0057] The glass fibers (GFs) are present in composition (C) as being dispersed and blended with the other components of composition (C). All components of composition (C) (e.g. polyamide(s) (PA), GFs, FR(s) and additive(s) (Add) (if any)) are typically blended. Such blending is typically performed through step a) and step b) disclosed herein.

[0058] The proportions of the components of composition (C) are now given below, these proportions being expressed in wt% and relative to the total weight of composition (C). The sum of proportions of the components of composition (C) is equal to 100 wt%.

[0059] The proportion of the GFs dispersed in composition (C) is between 20.0 and 75.0 wt%. According to an embodiment of the present invention, this proportion is:- between 20.0 and 60.0 wt%; or- between 30.0 and 60.0 wt%; or- between 30.0 and 55.0 wt%; or- between 30.0 and 50.0 wt%.

[0060] The proportion of the FR(s) in the composition (C) is between 1.0 and 30.0 wt%. According to an embodiment of the present invention, this proportion is between 5.0 and 20.0 wt% or between 8.0 and 20.0 wt% or between 10.0 and 20.0 wt%.

[0061] The proportion of the polyamide(s) (PA) in composition (C) is between 15.0 wt% and 70.0 wt%. According to an embodiment of the present invention, this proportion is:- between 20.0 wt% and 65.0 wt%; or- between 30.0 wt% and 65.0 wt%; or- between 35.0 wt% and 65.0 wt%; or- between 35.0 wt% and 60.0 wt%; or- preferably between 35.0 wt% and 55.0 wt%.

[0062] The proportion of additive(s) (Add) in composition (C) is typically between 0 and 15.0 wt% or between 0 and 10.0 wt%.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT

[0063] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the proportions of the components of composition (C) are preferably the following: between 20.0 wt% and 65.0 wt% of at least one polyamide (PA) as defined herein: between 20.0 wt% and 60.0 wt% of glass fibers (GFs) as defined herein; between 1 .0 wt% and 30.0 wt%, preferably between 5.0 wt% and 20.0 wt%, more preferably between 8.0 wt% and 20.0 wt%, of at least one flame retardant (FR) as defined herein; and optionally at least one additive (Add) other than the flame retardant (FR), notably selected from the group consisting of impact modifiers, tougheners, plasticizers, colorants, pigments, antistatic agents, dyes, lubricants, thermal stabilizers, light stabilizers, antioxidants, nucleating agents, polymer processing aids, anti-blocking agents, slip agents, antifogging agents, chemical blowing agents, nucleating agents and any combination thereof.

[0064] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proportions of the components of composition (C) are more preferably the following: between 35.0 wt% and 55.0 wt% of at least one polyamide (PA) as defined herein: between 30.0 wt% and 50.0 wt% of glass fibers (GFs); between 1.0 wt% and 30.0 wt%, preferably between 5.0 and 20.0 wt%, more preferably between 8.0 and 20.0 wt%, of at least one flame retardant (FR) as defined herein; and optionally at least one additive (Add) other than the flame retardant (FR), notably selected from the group consisting of impact modifiers, tougheners, plasticizers, colorants, pigments, antistatic agents, dyes, lubricants, thermal stabilizers, light stabilizers, antioxidants, nucleating agents, polymer processing aids, anti-blocking agents, slip agents, antifogging agents, chemical blowing agents, nucleating agents and any combination thereof.

[0065] Composition (C) may comprise one or more polyamide (PA).

[0066] According to an embodiment of the present invention, composition (C) comprises only one polyamide (PA) as defined herein.

[0067] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the polymeric component of composition (C) consists of the one or more polyamides (PA).

[0068] Distribution of the GFs dispersed in composition (C)

[0069] The GF(s) are dispersed in composition (C) and have different lengths. Composition (C) is also characterized by a specific distribution of the size of these GFs. This distribution corresponds to the distribution of the lengths of the GFs as dispersed in composition (C). TheSSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT distribution is generally obtained by observing with a microscope a statistically significant number n (e.g. at least 5000) of glass fibers separated from composition (C).

[0070] The observation and the determination of the distributions may be performed automatically, as is disclosed for instance in WO 2008 / 033789.

[0071] The following abbrevations are used: (S1), (S1-D1) and (S1-D2) relate to number- weighted distributions; (S2), (S2-D1) and (S2-D2) relate to volume-weighted distributions.

[0072] Each distribution disclosed herein is characterized by an average length (Lavor Lp).

[0074] Precisions and details are now provided for the number-weighted distribution. The number-weighted distribution provides the numbers of GFs having a specified length L. In a number-weighted distribution, each GF is given equal weighting irrespective of its length.

[0075] From this number-weighted distribution, it is possible to calculate the arithmetic average length of the GFs. Lavis the arithmetic average length according to the following formula:where:- Li is the length of the ithfiber;- n is the number of fibers measured.Moreover, from this number-weighted distribution, it is observed that composition (C) is characterized by a significant proportion of GFs having a certain length L.

[0076] Typically, from this number-weighted distribution, it appears that at least 90.0% of the GFs have a length lower than or equal to 9000 pm, preferably lower than or equal to 2500 pm

[0077] 1) Set of parameters (S1): composition (C) can be characterized by set of parameters (S1) obtained from the number-weighted distribution:

[0078] More details and embodiments are now provided for set of parameters (S1).

[0079] Distribution (S1) is characterized by an arithmetic average length (Lav) between 300 and 3000 pm.

[0080] (Lav) is typically between 300 pm and 2000 pm, preferably between 300 pm and 1700 pm, preferably between 350 pm and 1500 pm.

[0081] The proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 400 pm is preferably at least 50.0% and / or the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 500 pm is preferably at least 45.0%.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT

[0082] The proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 400 pm is typically between 25.0% and 100%.

[0083] The proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 500 pm is typically between 20.0% and 100.0%.

[0084] According to an embodiment, (iia) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is between 0 and 75.0% and / or (iib) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 2500 pm is between 0 and 60.0%.

[0085] 1-1) Set of parameters (S1-D1): composition (C) can be characterized by set of parameters (S1-D1) obtained from the number-weighted distribution:

[0086] More details and embodiments are now provided for set of parameters (S1-D1).

[0087] The proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 400 pm is typically between 45.0% and 90.0%, more preferably between 45.0% and 80.0%, more preferably between 50.0 and 80.0%.

[0088] The proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 500 pm is typically between 30.0% and 80.0%, more preferably between 30.0% and 70.0%, more preferably between 35.0 and 65.0%.

[0089] The proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is preferably at most 5.0%.

[0090] 1-2) Set of parameters (S1-D2): composition (C) can be characterized by set of parameters (S1-D2) obtained from the number-weighted distribution:

[0091] More details and embodiments are now provided for set of parameters (S1-D2).

[0092] (Lav) is between 800 pm and 3000 pm, preferably between 800 pm and 2000 pm, preferably between 900 pm and 1500 pm.

[0093] According to an embodiment, (iia) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is at least 45.0% and / or (iib) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 2500 pm of at least 35.0%.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT

[0094] According to an embodiment, (iia) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is at least 50.0%, preferably at least 55.0%, preferably at least 60.0%.

[0095] According to an embodiment, (iib) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 2500 pm is at least 40.0%.

[0096] According to an embodiment, (iia) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is at most 70.0% and / or (iib) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 2500 pm of at most 50.0%.

[0097] Composition (C) typically exhibits (iic) a proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 400 pm of at least 80.0% and / or (iid) a proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 500 pm of at least 75.0%.

[0098] According to an embodiment, (iic) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 400 pm is at least 85.0% and / or (iid) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 500 pm is at least 80.0%.

[0099] According to an embodiment, (iic) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 400 pm is at least 90.0% and / or (iid) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 500 pm is at least 85.0%.

[0100] All details and embodiments disclosed for (S1) apply to (S1-D1) or (S1-D2).

[0102] Precisions and details are now provided for the volume-weighted distribution. The volume-weighted distribution provides the volume (or weight) of the GFs having a specified length L. Here, the contribution of each GF in the distribution relates to its volume. The volume of the ithfiber is taken as: V = ( r2) x Lj where r is the radius of the GFs. The radius of the GFs used for the preparation of composition (C) is taken as being the same for all the GFs. Whereas in a number-weighted distribution, the % are expressed in number, in a volume- weighted distribution, the % are expressed in volume.

[0103] To be noted: the diameter is known and corresponds to the diameter of the GFs used as starting material used for the preparation of composition (C).

[0104] From the volume-weighted distribution, it is possible to calculate the following average length Lpof the GFs with the following equation:where:- ni is the number of glass fibers of length Li;- n is the number of glass fibers measured.

[0105] Moreover, from this volume-weighted distribution, it is observed that composition (C) is characterized by a significant proportion of GFs having a certain length L.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT

[0106] Composition (C) can be characterized by set of parameters (S2) obtained from the volume-weighted distribution:

[0107] More details and embodiments are now provided for set of parameters (S2).

[0108] Distribution (S2) is characterized by an average (Lp) which is between 400 pm and 4000 pm, preferably between 400 pm and 3000 pm.

[0109] The proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 400 pm is preferably at least 60.0% and / or the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 500 pm is preferably at least 55.0%.

[0110] The proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 400 pm is typically between 50.0% and 100%.

[0111] The proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 500 pm is typically between 40.0% and 100.0%.

[0112] According to an embodiment, (iia) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is between 0 and 95.0% and / or (iib) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 2500 pm is between 0 and 85.0%.

[0113] 2-1) Set of parameters (S2-D1): composition (C) can be characterized by set of parameters (S2-D1) obtained from the volume-weighted distribution:

[0114] More details and embodiments are now provided for set of parameters (S2-D1 ).

[0115] The proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 400 pm is typically between 50.0% and 100.0%, more preferably between 60.0% and 95.0%, more preferably between 65.0% and 90.0%.

[0116] The proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 500 pm is typically between 45.0% and 100.0%, more preferably between 55.0% and 95.0%, more preferably between 60.0% and 90.0%.

[0117] The proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is preferably at most 7.0%.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT

[0118] 2-2) Set of parameters (S2-D2): composition (C) can be characterized by set of parameters (S2-D2) obtained from the volume-weighted distribution:

[0119] More details and embodiments are now provided for set of parameters (S2-D2).

[0120] (Lp) is preferably between 2000 pm and 3500 pm, preferably between 2000 pm and 3000 pm, preferably between 2000 pm and 2700 pm.

[0121] According to an embodiment, (iia) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is at least 60.0%.

[0122] According to an embodiment, (iib) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 2500 pm is at least 50.0%.

[0123] According to an embodiment, (iia) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm of at least 80.0% and / or (iib) a proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 2500 pm of at least 65.0%.

[0124] According to an embodiment, (iia) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is at least 85.0% and / or (iib) a proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 2500 pm is at least 70.0%.

[0125] According to an embodiment, (iia) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is at most 95.0% and / or (iib) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 2500 pm of at most 85.0%.

[0126] According to an embodiment, (iic) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 400 pm is at least 97.0% and / or (iid) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 500 pm of at most 96.0%.

[0127] All details and embodiments disclosed for (S2) apply to (S2-D1) or (S2-D2).

[0128] According to an embodiment of the present invention, composition (C) is characterized by (S1) and (S2). All details and embodiments disclosed for (S1) or (S2) apply to this embodiment.

[0129] According to an embodiment of the present invention, composition (C) is characterized by (S1-D1) and (S2-D1). All details and embodiments disclosed for (S1-D1) or (S2-D1) apply to this embodiment.

[0130] According to an embodiment of the present invention, composition (C) is characterized by (S1-D2) and (S2-D2). All details and embodiments disclosed for (S1-D2) or (S2-D2) apply to this embodiment.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT

[0131] Both the number-weighed and the volume-weighted distributions are obtained after the separation of the dispersed GFs from composition (C). This separation may be performed according to an ash method (a) or a chemical method (b), more specifically according to any one of the methods specified herein.

[0132] Ash method (a)

[0133] The separation of the GFs may be performed by any one of the ash methods disclosed herein.

[0134] The separation of the GFs may be performed by the ash method (a) which comprises the following steps:(a1 ) heating a sample of the composition (C) in a furnace; and(a2) recovering the glass fibers (GFs).

[0135] The temperature at which step (a1) is performed should preferably allow the decomposition of polymeric component without degrading the glass fibers (GFs). It is preferable that the decomposition takes place smoothly without degradation of the GFs.

[0136] The temperature at which step (a1) is performed is generally at least 500°C.

[0137] The duration of step (a1) should be long enough to allow the decomposition of the polymeric component. The step (a1) is generally implemented until the weight of the burnt sample no longer evolves.

[0138] A muffle furnace can be used for the ash method (a).

[0139] Method (a) is preferably according to one of the two following conditions disclosed below:

[0140] The separation of the GFs is preferably performed by the ash method (a) disclosed in ISO 22314:2006(E). It may be noted that the ash method disclosed in ISO 22314:2006(E) may be adapted with a variation of the temperature at which the sample is heated.

[0141] Any one of the ash methods disclosed herein (Ze. method (a) or method (a) under the specific conditions disclosed herein), notably the ash method disclosed in the Experimental Section, may be used in the context of the present invention.

[0142] Chemical method (b)SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT

[0143] The separation of the GFs may be performed by any one of the chemical methods disclosed herein.

[0144] The separation may also be performed by the chemical method (b) which comprises the following steps:(b1 ) heating a dispersion of the sample in a solution of sulfuric acid; and(b2) recovering the glass fibers.

[0145] Step (b1) is performed until composition (C) dissolves in an acidic solution. A concentrated solution (e.g. at least 98.0 wt%) is preferably used. The temperature at which step (b1 ) is performed is at least 200°C.00146] Method (b) may more particularly be the following one:

[0147] Any one of the chemical methods disclosed above (i.e. method (b) or method (b) under the specific conditions disclosed) may be used in the context of the present invention.

[0148] With the glass fibers (GFs) isolated by either an ash method (a) or a chemical method (b), the glass fibers can be dispersed into a plastic petri dish using low pressure compressed air to facilitate dispersion. The glass fibers are then imaged on an optical microscope with inverted lighting, while adjusting the image magnification depending on the length of glass fibers. The glass fibers are then observed, the lengths are measured with the microscope and the fiber length distribution is reported in a histogram.

[0149] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the glass fibers (GF) have a diameter d of 5.0 pm or more, preferably 6.0 pm or more. In some particular embodiments, the glass fibers (GF) have a diameter d of from 5.0 pm to 20.0 pm. In other particular embodiments, the glass fibers (GF) have a diameter d of from 6.0 pm to 15.0 pm.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT

[0150] The morphology of the glass fibers is not particularly limited. The glass fibers can have a circular cross-section (‘round glass fiber’) or a non-circular cross-section. Examples of suitable flat glass fibers include, but are not limited to, glass fibers having oval, elliptical and rectangular cross sections. For the glass fibers not having a circular cross-section, the diameter d that is mentioned herein is the equivalent diameter which is the diameter of a circle having the same surface as the surface of the cross-section of the glass fibers having a non-circular cross-section.

[0151] Time of failure (tF)

[0152] As mentioned above, composition (C) and barrier layer (L) need to be resistant enough to the thermal stress triggered by a thermal runaway. The longer the time of resistance to the thermal stress, the better for containing the thermal runaway. The resistance to thermal stress was measured according to the two tests described below.

[0153] UL Solutions (https: / / www.ijl.com / ) is a recognized certification company that provides standards and regulations. UL Solutions have developed the “Torch-and-Grit’ TaG) test which is disclosed in UL2596 “ Test Method for Thermal and Mechanical Performance of Battery Enclosure Material’ and which corresponds to the dynamic stresses found in an actual automotive battery thermal runaway event.

[0154] According to an embodiment, barrier (L) is characterized by a time-to-failure (tr) of at least 90.0 s, tr being measured according to the Torch-and-Grit” (TaG) test disclosed in UL 2596, issue N°2 released on 8 September 2023. tr under these conditions is typically at most 190.0 s.

[0155] GMW-18435 is a test that can be referred to as "Abusive Flame Test Procedure of Thermal Barrier Materials" edition 09 / 01 / 2021. According to an embodiment, barrier (L) is characterized by a time-to-failure (tF Ts) of at least 100 s, preferably at least 120 s, tFT3 being the time until the back surface of the sample is damaged under GMW-18435 (type 1 ; with no carbon steel plate backing Electric component).

[0156] Mechanical properties

[0157] Barrier layer (L) can also exhibit optimized mechanical properties.

[0158] According to an embodiment, barrier layer (L) exhibits: an impact strength (notched Izod; room temperature; measured according to ISO 180; specimen size: type 1 A bar) of at least 28.0 kJ / m2, preferably at least 30.0 kJ / m2. This property is typically at most 50.0 kJ / m2or at most 45.0 kJ / m2; and / or a tensile strength at break (speed: 5 mm / min; measured according to ISO 527; specimen size: type 1 A bar) of at least 200 MPa. This property is typically at most 250 MPa.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT

[0159] Polyamide (PA)

[0160] The polyamide (PA) and the polyamide molding composition should preferably exhibit good thermal resistance even in normal conditions. Polyamide (PA) exhibits:■ a melting temperature (Tm) of at least 250.0°C and a heat of fusion (Hm) of at least 30.0 J / g; and / or■ a glass transition temperature (Tg) of at least 60.0°C.

[0161] Polyamide (PA) is selected in the group consisting of aliphatic polyamides, polyphthalamides (PPA) and combinations thereof.

[0162] Tm, Hm and Tg are measured by Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) according to ASTM D3418, notably using a heating and cooling rate of 20°C / min.

[0163] The polyamide (PA) preferably exhibits: a melting temperature (Tm) of at least 295.0°C, preferably at least 300.0°C, preferably at least 310.0°C; and a heat of fusion (Hm) of at least 35.0 J / g, preferably at least 40.0 J / g, preferably at least 50.0 J / g.

[0164] Tmis generally at most 340.0°C.

[0165] Hm is generally at most 80.0 J / g.

[0166] The polyamide (PA) preferably exhibits a glass transition temperature (Tg) of at least 60.0°C, preferably at least 90.0°C, preferably at least 100.0°C. Tgis preferably at least 120.0°C, preferably at least 130.0°C. Tgis generally no more than 170.0°C.

[0167] Polyphtalamide (PPA)

[0168] The polyamide (PA) is preferably a polyphthalamide (PPA). Details about some PPAs that can be used in the present invention are given below.

[0169] According to embodiment, the polyamide (PA) comprises at least 95.0 mol% of recurring units (RPA) resulting from the condensation of: a dicarboxylic acid component (A) comprising (i) at least one phthalic acid selected from the group consisting of isophthalic acid (I), terephthalic acid (T) and combination of I and T, and (ii) optionally at least one dicarboxylic acid (DI) of formula (I) HOOC-Ri- COOH, where R1 is selected from the group consisting of a C2-C18 linear or branched alkylene group, a C6-Cis cycloalkylene group and combination thereof; and a diamine component (B) comprising at least one diamine of formula (II) 2HN-R2-NH2, where R2 is selected from the group of a C4-C18 linear or branched alkylene group, a divalent radical derived from / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane selected from the group consisting of 1 ,3-BAC, 1 ,4-BAC and combination thereof.SS

[0170] 1 ,3-BAC is 1 ,3- / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane of formula:is 1 ,4-Z? / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane of formula:

[0171] The dicarboxylic acid component (A) more particularly consists essentially of or consists of: (i) at least one phthalic acid selected from the group consisting of isophthalic acid (I), terephthalic acid (T) and combination of I and T and (ii) optionally at least one dicarboxylic acid (DI) of formula (I) HOOC-Ri-COOH where R1 is selected from the group consisting of a C2-C18 linear or branch alkylene group, a Ce-Cis cycloalkylene group and combination thereof where the expression "consist essentially" means in the context of the dicarboxylic acid component (A) that the dicarboxylic acid component (A) consists of:(j) the phthalic acid(s) and the dicarboxylic acid(s) (DI) of formula (I); and(jj) up to 1.5 mol%, preferably up to 1.0 mol%, preferably up to 0.5 mol%, of at least one dicarboxylic acid not belonging to the dicarboxylic acids listed in (j).

[0172] The diamine component (B) more particularly consists essentially of or consists of at least one diamine of formula (II) 2HN-R2-NH2 where R2 is selected from the group of a C4-C18 alkylene, a divalent radical derived from Z? / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane (BAG) selected from the group consisting of 1 ,3-BAC, 1 ,4-BAC and combination thereof, where the expression "consist essentially" means in the context of the diamine component (B) that the diamine component (B) consists of:(j) the diamine(s) of formula (II) 2HN-R2-NH2 ; and(jj) up to 1.5 mol%, preferably up to 1.0 mol%, preferably up to 0.5 mol%, of at least one diamine not belonging to the diamines listed in (j).

[0173] R1 is more particularly selected from the group consisting of a C4-C8 alkylene group, a cycloalkylene group and combination thereof.

[0174] R2 is more particularly selected from the group consisting of a C4-C8 alkylene group, a divalent radical derived from / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane and combination thereof.

[0175] According an embodiment, the polyamide (PA) comprises at least 95.0 mol% of recurring units (RP) formed from the condensation of a dicarboxylic acid component (A) and a diamine component (B), where: the dicarboxylic acid component (A) consists essentially of or consists of:■ between 90.0 mol% and 100 mol% of terephthalic acid,SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT■ between 0 mol% and 10.0 mol% of a dicarboxylic acid (DI) selected from the group consisting of C6-Cis aliphatic dicarboxylic acid of formula HOOC-(CH2)n- COOH where n is an integer, isophthalic acid and combination thereof; and■ between 0 mol% and 10.0 mol% of 1 ,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid,■ where mol% is relative to the total number of moles of dicarboxylic acids in the dicarboxylic acid component (A) and where the expression "consist essentially" means in the context of the dicarboxylic acid component (A) that the dicarboxylic acid component (A) consists of:(j) terephthalic acid, the dicarboxylic acid(s) (DI), the 1 ,4- cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid, with the proportions indicated; and(jj) up to 1 .5 mol%, preferably up to 1 .0 mol%, preferably up to 0.5 mol%, of at least one dicarboxylic acid not belonging to the dicarboxylic acids listed in (j); the diamine component (B) consists essentially of or consists of:■ between 55.0 mol% and 75.0 mol% of one or more C4-Cs aliphatic diamines;■ between 25.0 mol% and 45.0 mol% of an aliphatic diamine selected from the group consisting of 1 ,9-nonanediamine, 1 ,10-decanediamine and combination thereof;■ between 0 mol% and 10.0 mol% of a / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane selected from the group consisting of 1 ,3-BAC, 1 ,4-BAC and combination thereof;■ where mol% is relative to the total number of moles of diamines in the diamine component (B) and where the expression "consist essentially" means in the context of the diamine component (B) that the diamine component (B) consists of:(j) the C4-C8 aliphatic diamine(s), the aliphatic diamine selected from the group consisting of 1 ,9-nonanediamine, 1 ,10-decanediamine and combination thereof, the / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane(s), with the proportions indicated; and(jj) up to 1 .5 mol%, preferably up to 1 .0 mol%, preferably up to 0.5 mol%, of at least one diamine not belonging to the diamines listed in (j); wherein the Z? / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane or the 1 ,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid or both exhibit a proportion of greater than 0.5 mol% in respectively in the dicarboxylic acid component (A) and in the diamine component (B). The polyamide according to this embodiment is referred to as polyamide (PA1). Examples of polyamide according to this definition can be found in WO 2021 / 03705.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT

[0176] According to an embodiment, polyamide (PA) comprises at least 95.0 mol% of recurring units (RP) formed from the polycondensation of a dicarboxylic acid component (A) and a diamine component (B), where: the dicarboxylic acid component (A) consist essentially of or consists of terephtalic acid, where the expression "consist essentially" means in the context of the dicarboxylic acid component (A) that the dicarboxylic acid component (A) consists of (j) terephthalic acid; and (jj) up to 1.5 mol%, preferably up to 1.0 mol%, preferably up to 0.5 mol%, of at least one dicarboxylic acid distinct from terephthalic acid; the diamine component (B) consist essentially of or consists of:■ between 55.0 mol% and 75.0 mol% of one or more C4-Cs aliphatic diamines;■ between 25.0 mol% and 45.0 mol% of an aliphatic diamine selected from the group consisting of 1 ,9-nonanediamine, 1 ,10-decanediamine and combination thereof;■ between 0.5 mol% and 10.0 mol% of a / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane selected from the group consisting of 1 ,3-BAC, 1 ,4-BAC and combination thereof;■ where mol% is relative to the total number of moles of diamines in the diamine component (B) and where the expression "consist essentially" means in the context of the diamine component (B) that the diamine component (B) consists of:(j) the C4-C8 aliphatic diamine(s), the aliphatic diamine selected from the group consisting of 1 ,9-nonanediamine, 1 ,10-decanediamine and combination thereof, the Z? / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane(s), with the proportions indicated; and(jj) up to 1 .5 mol%, preferably up to 1 .0 mol%, preferably up to 0.5 mol%, of at least one diamine not belonging to the diamines listed in (j).The polyamide according to this embodiment is referred to as polyamide (PA2). Examples of polyamide according to this definition can be found in WO 2021 / 03705.

[0177] According to an embodiment, polyamide (PA) comprises at least 95.0 mol% of recurring units (RPA) formed from the polycondensation of a dicarboxylic acid component (A) and a diamine component (B), where: the dicarboxylic acid component (A) consists essentially of or consists of:■ between 90.0 mol% and 99.0 mol% of terephthalic acid,■ between 1 .0 mol% and 10.0 mol% of 1 ,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid,■ where mol% is relative to the total number of moles of dicarboxylic acids in the dicarboxylic acid component (A) and where the expression "consist essentially"SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT means in the context of the dicarboxylic acid component (A) that the dicarboxylic acid component (A) consists of:(j) terephthalic acid and the 1 ,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid, with the proportions indicated; and(jj) up to 1 .5 mol%, preferably up to 1 .0 mol%, preferably up to 0.5 mol%, of at least one dicarboxylic acid not belonging to the dicarboxylic acids listed in (j); where the diamine component (B) consist essentially of or consists of:■ between 50.0 mol% and 90.0 mol% of one or more C4-Cs aliphatic diamines;■ between 10.0 mol% and 50.0 mol% of a Z? / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane selected from the group consisting of 1 ,3-BAC, 1 ,4-BAC and combination thereof;■ where mol% is relative to the total number of moles of diamines in the diamine component (A) and where "consist essentially" means that diamine component (A) consists of the C4-C8 aliphatic diamine(s), the / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane(s) with the indicated proportions and up to 1 .5 mol%, preferably up to 1.0 mol%, preferably up to 0.5 mol%, of an additional diamine other than the C4-Cs aliphatic diamine(s) and the Z? / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane.This polyamide is referred to as polyamide (PA3). Examples of polyamide according to this definition can be found in WO 2020 / 229210.

[0178] According to an embodiment, notably for polyamide PA1 , PA2 and PA3, the C4-C8 aliphatic diamine present in the diamine component (B) consists of 1 ,6-diaminohexane aka hexamethylenediamine).

[0179] In the context of the present invention, the dicarboxylic acid component (A) consists of the indicated dicarboxylic acids and the diamine component (B) consists of the indicated diamines.

[0180] In the context of the present invention, polyamide (PA) is more particularly selected from the group consisting of:- PA 66;- 9T;- 10T;- 6T / 6I / 66;- 6T / 66;- 6T / 6I;- 6T / 10T;6T / 10T / BACT, where BAC is 1 ,3-BAC and / or 1 ,4-BAC, preferably 1 ,3-BAC;- 6T / BACT / 66 / BAC6, where BAC is 1 ,3-BAC and / or 1 ,4-BAC, preferably 1 ,3-BAC;SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT6T / 10T / 6.CHDA / 10.CH DA where CH DA is 1 ,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid; and 6T / 9T / 6.CHDA / 9.CHDA where CH DA is 1 ,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid; a combination thereof.

[0181] All polyamides mentioned herein are prepared by polycondensation. This polymerization technique comprises a step in which a reaction mixture comprising all the monomers is heated at a temperature sufficient to induce the formation of amide bonds. The temperature at which the reaction mixture is heated is generally at least 200°C, even preferably at least 250°C. The conditions provided in the experimental section of EP 4021959 B1 can be followed or be used as guidelines for the preparation of polyamides.

[0182] Suitable polyamides for the preparation of the polyamide molding composition are commercially available under the trade name of AMODEL® from Solvay Specialty Polymers USA, LLC.

[0183] The polyamide (PA) disclosed herein, notably polyamide (PA1 ), (PA2), (PA3) or any one of the polyamides disclosed above, preferably exhibits the following properties:- a melting temperature (Tm) of at least 300°C;- a heat of fusion (Hm) of at least 30.0 J / g, preferably between 30.0 and 80.0 J / g;- a glass transition temperature (Tg) of at least 100°C.

[0184] Conditions provided in the Experimental Section are conveniently used for determining the thermal properties of polyamide (PA).

[0185] Flame retardant (FR)

[0186] The polyamide molding composition comprises also at least one FR.

[0187] The FR is preferably halogen-free.

[0188] The FR is preferably an organophosphorous compound. In another embodiment, the FR comprises an organophosphorous compound and a flame-retardant synergist. In the context of the present invention, the organophosphorous compound is notably any one of the organophosphorous compound disclosed herein.

[0189] In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the FR is or comprises at least one organophosphorous compound selected from the group consisting of phosphinic salts (phosphinate), diphosphinic salts (diphosphinate) and combination thereof.

[0190] In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the FR is or comprises at least one organophosphorous compound selected from the group consisting of phosphinic salts (phosphinate) of formula (a), diphosphinic salts (diphosphinate) of formula (b) and combination thereof:SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCTwherein R7and R8, identical or different, are preferably Ci-Ce alkyl, linear or branched, or aryl; R9is C1-C10 alkylene, linear or branched, Ce-C arylene, alkylarylene or arylalkylene; M is Mg, Ca, Al, Sb, Sn, Ge, Ti, Zn, Fe, Zr, Ce, Bi, Sr, Mn, Li, Na, K or a protonated nitrogen base; m is 1 to 4; n is 1 to 4; and x is 1 to 4.

[0191] m, n and x are typically such that the molecules of formula (a) or (b) are neutral.

[0192] In formulae (a) and (b), M is preferably Ca, Al or Zn; the protonated nitrogen bases are preferably protonated bases of ammonia, melamine, triethanolamine, in particular NH4+; R7and R8, identical or different, are preferably Ci-Ce alkyl, linear or branched and / or phenyl, particularly preferably methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, tert-butyl, n-pentyl and / or phenyl. R9is preferably methylene, ethylene, n-propylene, isopropylene, n-butylene, tert-butylene, n-pentylene, n-octylene, or n-dodecylene. In a particular embodiment, R9is phenylene or naphthylene.

[0193] According to an embodiment of the present invention,- M is Mg, Ca, Al or Zn;- m is 2 or 3; and- n is 1 or 3; and- x is 1 or 2.

[0194] The FR is more particularly an organo-phosphorous of formula (a).

[0195] Phosphinates are preferred as organophosphorous compound. Aluminum phosphinates, calcium phosphinates, and zinc phosphinates are particularly preferred. Among aluminum phosphinates, aluminium ethylmethylphosphinate and aluminium diethylphosphinate are preferred. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the FR is aluminium diethylphosphinate.

[0196] The following FRs may be used in the molding composition: a mixture of 80 wt% of aluminum salt of diethylphosphinic acid and 20 wt% of aluminium phosphate; aluminum salt of diethylphosphinic acid.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT

[0197] In an embodiment of the present invention, the FR comprises a (di)phosphinate salt and a nitrogen-containing synergist.

[0198] Synergistic combinations of the specified phosphinates with nitrogen-containing compounds which have more effective action than the phosphinates alone in various polymers are also in accordance with the invention.

[0199] The nitrogen-containing synergists preferably comprise benzoguanamine, Zr / s(hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate, allantoin, glycoluril, melamine, melamine cyanurate, dicyandiamide, guanidine, carbodiimides, etc.

[0200] The nitrogen-containing synergists preferably comprise condensation products of melamine. By way of example, condensation products of melamine are melem, melam, or melon.

[0201] The nitrogen-containing synergist may comprise reaction products of melamine with phosphoric acid or with condensed phosphoric acids. By way of example, these are dimelamine phosphate, dimelamine pyrophosphate, melamine phosphate, melamine pyrophosphate, melamine polyphosphate, melam polyphosphate, melon polyphosphate, and melem polyphosphate, and mixed polysalts.

[0202] The nitrogen-containing synergist may also be ammonium hydrogenophosphate, ammonium dihydrogenophosphate, or ammonium polyphosphate.

[0203] Other known flame-retardant synergists may also be optionally included in the polyamide molding composition in accordance with the invention. Examples of such synergists include metal oxides such as silica, iron oxide, titanium oxide, aluminum oxide, magnesium oxide, etc.; metal hydroxides and hydroxides oxides such as aluminum hydroxide, boehmite, magnesium hydroxide; metal salts such as zinc borate, zinc carbonate, magnesium carbonate, barium carbonate, barium metaborate.

[0204] Non-limitative examples of FRs include antimony trioxide, antimony pentoxide, antimony-metal compound, zinc borate, alumina trihydrate, magnesium hydroxide, and basalt fibers.

[0205] Any FR disclosed herein, alone or in combination with a synergist, may be used in the invention.

[0206] Glass fibers (GF)

[0207] The glass fibers (GF) dispersed in composition (C) stem from the use of roving as a starting material (see below).

[0208] The glass fibers disclosed herein may be modified by a sizing agent.

[0209] The glass of the glass fibers can consist of all sorts of glass, such as e.g. A-, C-, D-, E-, M-, S-, R-glass or any mixtures thereof. The glass of the glass fibers is preferably E-glass.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT

[0210] The glass of the glass fibers typically comprises silica (SiC>2) with a proportion of at least 50.0 wt% and at least two oxides selected in the group consisting of AI2O3, B2O3, CaO, MgO, ZnO, BaO, l_i2O, Na2O, K2O, TiC>2 and ZrC>2. The glass of the glass fibers may comprise silica (SiO2) with a proportion of at least 50.0 wt% and AI2O3, B2O3, CaO, MgO, Na2O and K2O. The glass of the glass fibers may for instance be the following: between 50 and 60 wt% SiO2, between 10 and 20 wt% AI2O3, between 18 and 25 wt% CaO+MgO, between 5 and 15 wt% B2O3 and less than 2.5 wt% Na2O+K2O.

[0211] Additive(s) (Add)

[0212] The polyamide molding composition of the present invention may comprise at least one additive (Add), which is different from the flame retardant (FR) and from the GFs.

[0213] The additive (Add) is typically selected from the group consisting of impact modifiers, tougheners, plasticizers, colorants, pigments, antistatic agents, dyes, lubricants (e.g. calcium stearate, magnesium stearate or sodium montanate), thermal stabilizers, light stabilizers, antioxidants, nucleating agents, polymer processing aids, anti-blocking agents, slip agents, antifogging agents, chemical blowing agents, nucleating agents and any combination thereof.

[0214] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the additive (Add) is selected from the group consisting of impact modifiers, tougheners, plasticizers, colorants, pigments, antistatic agents, dyes, lubricants, antioxidants and any combination thereof.

[0215] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the additive (Add) is selected from the group consisting of plasticizers, colorants, pigments, antistatic agents, dyes, lubricants, antioxidants and any combination thereof.

[0216] Optional additional fillers)

[0217] Composition (C) of the present invention may further comprise at least one additional filler which is different from the glass fibers (GFs), notably selected from the group consisting of mineral fillers (e.g. talc, mica, kaolin, calcium carbonate, calcium silicate, magnesium carbonate) and glass balls (e.g. hollow glass microspheres).

[0218] In one embodiment, the additional filler is selected from the group consisting of calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, graphite, carbon black, carbon fiber, carbon nanofiber, graphene, graphene oxide, fullerene, talc, wollastonite, mica, alumina, silica, titanium dioxide, kaolin, silicon carbide, zirconium tungstate and boron nitride.

[0219] The proportion of the additional fillers(s) is preferably at most 10.0 wt%, this proportion in wt% being provided relative to the total weight of composition (C).

[0220] Preparation of the electric insulation barrier (L)

[0221] Barrier (L) is obtained by the method comprising the following steps:SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT- step a): introducing into an extruder, pellets (p) prepared from the GFs in the form of a roving impregnated by a composition (c) comprising all the components of the polyamide molding composition except glass fibers;- step b): molding the composition obtained after step a).

[0222] Composition (c) used in step a) comprises all the components of composition (C) (that is polyamide(s) (PA), flame-retardant(s) (FR), the optional additive(s) (Add) (if present in the polyamide molding composition) and the optional additional filler(s) (if present in the polyamide molding composition)) except the glass fibers (GF).

[0223] The proportions of the components of composition (c) are adapted to reach the proportions of composition (C) by taking into account the proportion of GFs.

[0224] Step a)

[0225] In step a), the pellets (p) are introduced into an extruder, notably in a single or double screw extruder.

[0226] In the extruder used in step a), conditions to avoid or minimize the attrition of the GFs in pellets (p) make it possible to have a higher Lav and Lp, notably such as disclosed in (S1- D2) and (S2-D2). This can be accomplished with a screw that allows for a longer residence time in the feeding zone and for an extension of the transition zone. For instance, a screw of an extruder designed to accelerate the melting of the pellets in the feeding zone makes it possible to avoid or limit the attrition of the GFs present in pellets (p) occurring in the transition zone. A screw 2 designed in the following way can be used: 1) flight depth in the feeding zone to allow for longer residence time: about 6.8 mm; 2) extension of the transition zone: section ratio of 5:9.5:2.5 (feed:transition:meter); screw 2 makes it possible to minimize any abrupt compression which could potentially shatter pellets due to their viscoelastic properties.

[0227] Conditions used in the extruder to allow more attrition of the GFs present in pellets (p) make it possible to have a lower Lav and Lp, notably such as disclosed in (S1-D1) and (S2- D1). The default screw (screw 1) present in the injection molding machine SE180EV-A-SL as commercialized is then well suited: flight depth in the feeding zone: about 3.8 mm; 2) no transition zone due to the compression ratio of 1 :1.

[0228] Apart from the type of screw of the extruder, other processing conditions of the extruder make it possible to modify the distribution: the fiber breakage is increased at higher screw speed and lower feed rate.

[0229] Instead of using an extruder, step a) may also be performed with an internal mixer such as the Haake Rheomix 600P. In an internal mixer, it is known that fiber breakage kinetics increases with rotor speed and mixing time [see Inceoglu, F., et al. "Correlation between Processing Conditions and Fiber Breakage during Compounding of Glass Fiber-reinforced Polyamide", Polym. Comp. 2011 , 32, 1842-1850;SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCTD0l:http: / / dx.doi.org / 10.1002 / pc.750100103], so that the distribution can be modified through these two parameters.

[0230] Moreover, the higher the length of pellets (p), the higher Lavand Lpin composition (C). In the Experimental Section, pellets (p) prepared exhibit a length of 9 mm.

[0231] Step b)

[0232] The technique used in step b) for molding the composition obtained after step a) is typically selected in the group of extrusion molding, injection molding, blow molding, rotomolding, overmolding, compression molding and drawing extrusion molding. Step b) may be performed according to any one of the listed techniques. Extrusion molding and injection molding are convenient methods that allows the preparation of composition (C).

[0233] The technique used in step b) is conveniently injection molding or extrusion molding.

[0234] About pellets (p)

[0235] Pellets (p) are prepared from impregnating a roving comprising a plurality of filaments of GF with a composition (c) comprising all the components of the composition (C) except the glass fibers (GF).

[0236] The glass fibers used as starting material are in the form of roving and comprise endless glass fibers, i.e. continuous glass fibers. It is noted that the length of the glass fibers is reduced in the method of preparation of pellets (p) and in the method of preparation so disclosed.

[0237] The pellets (p) are typically prepared by a method which comprises the steps of:- putting into contact the composition (c) in the molten form onto a roving comprising a plurality of filaments of GF;- passing the composite so obtained through an impregnation die;- after the die, the composite is cooled down and cut into the pellets (p).

[0238] An example of glass fibers in the form of a roving that can be conveniently used for the preparation of composition (C) is the Tufrov® 4510 roving from Nippon Electric Glass (see https: / / www.neg.co.jp / en / assets / file / product / fiber / e-roving / e- rovi ng J ist / T ufRov„4510„LFT„roving„210907.pdf). These E-glass glass fibers generally exhibit a fiber diameter d between 12 and 17 pm and a roving tex above 1000 g / km. Tufrov® 4510 ensures excellent spreadability of the roving filaments in thermoplastic pultrusion allowing complete resin impregnation.

[0239] An example of impregnation die that can be used is disclosed in EP 0320653, US 2013 / 0145986 A1 or in US 5,277,566.

[0240] The viscosity of the molten composition (c) should be low enough to allow a good spreading and impregnation of the composition (c) around the fibers, notably for thoroughlySSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT"wetting” and impregnating the fibers. To this effect, the temperature of the molten composition (c) needs to be high enough to decrease its viscosity.

[0241] The temperature of the molten composition (c) is typically much higher than the Tg of the polyamide(s) (PA) and if a semi-crystalline PA is present, at least Tm+40°C, preferably at least Tm+50°C, where designates the melting temperature of said semi-crystalline polyamide (PA). In the case of a combination of polyamide(s) (PA), the melting temperature to be taken into account is the highest Tg and highest Tm. Tm is generally between 350°C and 400°C.

[0242] The speed of the roving during the impregnation is typically between 1.0 and 20.0 m / min, more particularly between 5.0 and 15.0 m / min.

[0243] The length of pellets (p) is typically between 4.0 and 15.0 mm, more preferably between 5.0 and 12.0 mm. The higher the length, the higher Lavand Lpin composition (C).

[0244] The method of preparation of pellets (p) comprises the following steps:- putting into contact a composition (c) in the molten form onto a strand made up of a plurality of filaments of GF;- passing the composite so obtained through an impregnation die;- after the die, the composite is cooled down and cut into pellets (p); wherein composition (c) comprises polyamide (PA1) or polyamide (PA2) or polyamide (PA3); at least one FR as disclosed herein; optionally at least one additive (Add) as disclosed herein; optionally an additional filler (different from GFs) as disclosed herein.

[0245] The proportions of the components of composition (c) are notably the following:- polyamide (PA1) or (PA2) or (PA3): between 50.0 and 80.0 wt%;- FR(s): between 20.0 and 50.0 wt%;- additive(s) (Add) and additional filler(s): between 0 and 20.0 wt%; these proportions being relative to the total weight of composition (c).

[0246] Polyamide (PA1) may more particularly be a polyamide selected in the group consisting of 6T / 10T / BACT; 6T / 10T / 6.CHDA / 10.CHDA; 6T / 9T / 6.CHDA / 9.CHDA and combination thereof.

[0247] Polyamide (PA1) may more particularly be 6T / 10T / BACT.

[0248] The Experimental Section provides conditions of preparation of pellets (p) that can be can be followed.[EXPERIMENTAL SECTION]

[0249] Raw Materials used for the preparation of composition (C)Polyamide (PA): Amodel® PPA Bios is a 6T / 10T / 1,3-BACT copolyamide, commercially available from Solvay Specialty Polymers USA, LLC. Tm is around 315°C, Tg is around 130°C and Hm is above 30 J / g;SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT- GF (I): TufRov™ 4510, E-glass fibers having fiber diameter of 12 pm, commercially available from Nippon Electric Glass;- GF (II): ChopVantage® HP3610, E-glass fibers having nominal chop length of 3.2 mm and nominal fiber diameter of 10 pm, commercially available from Nippon Electric Glass;- Amodel® AE-1133 HFFR is a 33% glass reinforced, halogen-free, flame-retardant polyphthalamide (PPA) compound commercialized by Syensqo;Flame retardant (FR): Exolit® OP1230 commercially available from Clariant GmbH.

[0250] Thermal properties of polyamide (PA): Tg, Tm and Hm are measured by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (“DSC”) according to ASTM D3418 using a heating and cooling rate of 20°C / min.

[0251] 1) Preparation of pellets: pellets used for the injection moulding were prepared according to conditions (A) or (B). Conditions (B) correspond to the common procedure of mixing glass fibers and a polymer composition whereas conditions (A) correspond to an impregnation method.

[0252] Conditions (A): the polyamide was first tumble blended for 30 minutes in a 50-gallon drum to create a premix of the resin with additives (ADK Pep-36 and ADK AO-80 as antioxidants, commercially available from Adeka) to produce premixes. The premixes were then metered to the feed throat of a 25 mm Berstorff co-rotating intermeshing twin-screw extruder having 8 barrel sections. The resin mix was metered at a rate of 78.00 Ib / hr using a gravimetric feeder. The FR was fed into barrel 7, using a gravimetric feeder, at a rate of 22.5 Ib / hr. Vacuum venting was provided at barrel section 8 achieving a vacuum level of 25 in Hg to remove moisture and any other volatile residues from the compounds. The extrudates of composition (c) were kept hot at 370°C before adding the same to GFs (I) (TufRov™ 4510 roving). The roving impregnated with composition (c) was first cooled and cut into pellets (p) of 9 mm length.

[0253] Conditions (B): the polyamide was first tumble blended for 30 minutes in a 50-gallon drum to create a premix of the resins with additives (ADK Pep-36 and ADK AO-80 as antioxidants, commercially available from Adeka) to produce premixes. The premixes were then metered to the feed throat of a 25 mm Berstorff co-rotating intermeshing twin-screw extruder having 8 barrel sections. The resin mix was metered at a rate of 13.00 Ib / hr using a gravimetric feeder. The GFs (II) were fed at barrel section 6, also using a gravimetric feeder at a rate of 8.25 Ib / hr. The FRs were fed into barrel 7, using a gravimetric feeder at a rate of 3.75 Ib / hr. The total compounding throughput was at a rate of 25 Ib / hr. The barrel section temperature was set during compounding to 216°C (barrel 2), 306°C (barrel 3), 340°C (barrels 3-4), and 300° C (barrels 5-9; adaptor; die). The temperature of the melt was monitored duringSSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT the compounding using a handheld temperature probe and was determined to be in the range of from 330°C to 350°C. Vacuum venting was provided at barrel 8 achieving a vacuum level of 25 in Hg to remove moisture and any other volatile residues from the compound. The extrudates were stranded from the die, cooled in a water bath and then cut into cylindrical pellets having approximately 3.0 mm in length and 2.7 mm in diameter.

[0254] 2) Conditions of injection moulding

[0255] Pellets were injection molded to obtain the plaques. The pellets were first dried at 82°C in a desiccated convection air oven for at least 8 hours (overnight) in preparation for the injection molding. Injection molding was then performed to produce articles for testing and performance measurement, by using an injection molding machine SE180EV-A-SL (this machine is commercially available from Sumitomo) equipped with a hopper dryer and a screw of diameter 50mm. The cycle time varied from 36.0 to 47.0 seconds and the fill peak pressure was adjusted between 7000 and 9000 psi.

[0256] Two types of screws were used in the extruder used for IM:- screw 1 : this is the default screw present with the injection molding machine SE180EV-A-SL as commercialized. Conditions of extrusion: flat temperature profile of 320 °C were used across barrel zones during the molding; mold temperature was kept at 155 °C;- screw 2: the design of the default screw was modified. The key idea behind this modification is to accelerate the melting of the pellets in the feeding zone to avoid glass fiber attrition occurring in the transition zone without sufficient melting in the feeding zone. Design of the screw 2: 1 ) increased flight depth in the feeding zone to allow for longer residence time: from 3.8 for screw 1 to 6.8 mm for screw 2; 2) extension of the transition zone. The default screw has no transition zone due to the compression ratio of 1 :1 , while the new screw 2 has a section ratio of 5:9.5:2.5 (feed:transition:meter) to minimize any abrupt compression which could potentially shatter pellets due to their viscoelastic properties. Conditions: flat temperature profile of 320 °C were used across barrel zones during the molding; mold temperature was kept at 155 °C. In other words, screw 2 makes it possible to have higher proportion of long glass fibers.

[0257] Measurement of length of glass fibers (GFs)

[0258] Ash method used: the method used is performed according to ISO 22314:2006(E). The polyamide molding composition was cut into pieces, e.g. 10mm X 10mm X 2mm size, and the pieces were stored in an oven at 525°C for 4.5 hours. After decomposition, the GFs were isolated and dispersed into a plastic petri dish. Duration may be increased if decomposition is not completed.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT

[0259] Image analysis: the isolated GFs were imaged using an optical microscope and the lengths of a statistically significant number of GFs were measured on the images.

[0260] The distribution was reported in the form of a histogram of fiber lengths. From the histogram, the values of the distribution are determined (e.g. Lav, Lp, proportions of the lengths of the GFs).

[0261] Compositions of the plaques: the plaques were prepared by injection moulding with pellets comprising all components (polyamide, GFs, FR).*Amodel Bios; ** polyphtalamide 6T / 6I / 66 with Tg 125°C and Tm 310°C nd: not determined

[0262] Test GMW-18435-Type-4: two copper (Cu) sheets, each measuring 2 inches x 6 inches with a thickness of ~0.7 mm, were used as conductors. Three injection-molded plaques, each measuring 3 inches x 6 inches and with the thickness t indicated in Table I, were arranged in a sandwich structure in the following order: plaque1 / Cu / plaque2 / Cu / plaque3. The plaques were identical in each experiment with the specific material composition detailed in Table 1 (E1 ,SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCTE2, or CE1 ). An electric potential of 1800 V DC was applied across the copper conductors. The torch test procedure and setup were conducted according to GMW-18435 Type 4 specifications.

[0263] Table ITotal thickness of the assembled structure used for the test: 3 x t + 0.7 mm + 0.7 mmFor instance, with t = 3 mm: total thickness = 10.4 mm (3 mm + 0.7 mm + 3 mm + 0.7 mm + 3 mm)

[0264] As can be seen, the composition according to the invention performs better under GMW-18435-type 4 test.

[0265] Test incline plane tracking ASTM D2303: the test was done on injection molded plaques with dimensions 6’x6”x4mm. We used time-to-track using a test voltage of 1 .5 kV. Rest of the conditions are as mentioned in the test standard.Table II

[0266] As can be seen, the composition according to the invention performs better under incline plane tracking test.

Claims

SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCTClaims1. Electric component comprising:- at least one electrical conductor made of or comprising a metal or a metallic alloy;- at least one electric insulation barrier (L) made of or comprising a composition (C); wherein composition (C) comprises, consists essentially of or consists of the following components: between 15.0 wt% and 70.0 wt% of at least one polyamide (PA) selected in the group consisting of aliphatic polyamides, polyphthalamides (PPA) and combinations thereof, the polyamide (PA) preferably exhibiting:■ a melting temperature (Tm) of at least 250.0°C and a heat of fusion (Hm) of at least 30.0 J / g; and / or■ a glass transition temperature (Tg) of at least 60.0°C;■ Tm, Hmand Tgbeing measured by Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) according to ASTM D3418, notably using a heating and cooling rate of 20°C / min; between 20.0 wt% and 75.0 wt% of glass fibers (GFs) dispersed in composition (C); between 1 .0 wt% and 30.0 wt% of at least one flame retardant (FR); and optionally at least one additive (Add) other than the flame retardant (FR), notably selected from the group consisting of impact modifiers, tougheners, plasticizers, colorants, pigments, antistatic agents, dyes, lubricants, thermal stabilizers, light stabilizers, antioxidants, nucleating agents, polymer processing aids, anti-blocking agents, slip agents, antifogging agents, chemical blowing agents, nucleating agents and any combination thereof; these proportions in wt% being provided relative to the total weight of composition (C); wherein the distribution of the lengths of the GFs in composition (C) is characterized by set of parameters (S1) or (S2) or by sets of parameters (S1) and (S2), (S1 ) and (S2) being obtained respectively from a number-weighted distribution and a volume-weighted distribution:SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCTwhere average length (Lp) is calculated with the following equation:where ni is the number of glass fibers of length Li and n is the number of glass fibers measured; the number-weighted and volume-weighted distributions being notably determined after separation of the GFs from composition (C) by a ash method (a), notably the ash method disclosed in ISO 22314:2006(E), or a chemical method (b).

2. Electric component according to claim 1 , wherein the metal is selected in the group consisting of copper, titanium, niobium, tantalum, zirconium, aluminium and iron, preferably selected in the group consisting of copper, aluminium and iron.

3. Electric component according to claim 1 , wherein the metallic alloy is selected in the group consisting of steel and brass.

4. Electric component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electric component is selected in the group consisting of busbars, venting systems, connectors, pyrofuses, end plates, separators, circuit breakers, electromagnetic switches, ground faults and arc fault breakers, actuators, terminal switches and sensors.

5. Electric component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the length of the electrical conductor is: between 5.0 mm and 30.0 m; or between 5.0 mm and 10.0 m; or between 5.0 mm and 100.0 cm.

6. Electric component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein barrier (L) is disposed over a surface of the electric conductor or is disposed around the electric conductor.

7. Electric component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electric conductor is in the form of a wire or a plate or a bar.

8. Electric component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the components of composition (C) are blended.

9. Electric component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the proportion of the polyamide(s) (PA) in composition (C) is:- between 20.0 wt% and 65.0 wt%; or- between 30.0 wt% and 65.0 wt%; or- between 35.0 wt% and 65.0 wt%; orSSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT- between 35.0 wt% and 60.0 wt%; or- preferably between 35.0 wt% and 55.0 wt%.

10. Electric component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the proportion of the GFs dispersed in composition (C) is:- between 20.0 and 60.0 wt%; or- between 30.0 and 60.0 wt%; or- between 30.0 and 55.0 wt%; or- between 30.0 and 50.0 wt%.

11. Electric component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the proportion of the FR(s) in composition (C) is: between 5.0 wt% and 20.0 wt%; or between 8.0 wt% and 20.0 wt%; or between 10.0 wt% and 20.0 wt%.

12. Electric component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the proportions of components of composition (C) are the following: between 20.0 wt% and 65.0 wt% of polyamide(s) (PA): between 20.0 wt% and 60.0 wt% of glass fibers (GFs); between 1.0 and 30.0 wt%, preferably between 5.0 wt% and 20.0 wt%, more preferably between 8.0 wt% and 20.0 wt%, of flame retardant(s) (FR).

13. Electric component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the proportions of components of composition (C) are the following: between 35.0 wt% and 55.0 wt% of polyamide(s) (PA): between 30.0 wt% and 50.0 wt% of glass fibers (GFs); between 1.0 and 30.0 wt%, preferably between 5.0 wt% and 20.0 wt%, more preferably between 8.0 wt% and 20.0 wt%, of flame retardant(s) (FR).

14. Electric component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the proportion of additive(s) (Add) in composition (C) is between 0 and 15.0 wt% or between 0 and 10.0 wt%.

15. Electric component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the polymeric component of composition (C) consists of the one or more polyamides (PA).

16. Electric component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the glass fibers (GF) have a diameter d from 5.0 pm to 20.0 pm.

17. Electric component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein polyamide (PA) exhibits:SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT a melting temperature (Tm) of at least 295.0°C, preferably at least 300.0°C, preferably at least 310.0°C; and / or a heat of fusion (Hm) of at least 35.0 J / g, preferably at least 40.0 J / g, preferably at least 50.0 J / g.

18. Electric component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein polyamide (PA) comprises at least 95.0 mol% of recurring units (RPA) resulting from the condensation of: a dicarboxylic acid component (A) comprising: (i) at least one phthalic acid selected from the group consisting of isophthalic acid (I), terephthalic acid (T) and combination of I and T, and (ii) optionally at least one dicarboxylic acid of formula (I) HOOC-Ri- COOH, where R1 is selected from the group consisting of a C2-C18 alkylene group, a Ce-Ci8 cycloalkylene group and combination thereof; and a diamine component (B) comprising at least one diamine of formula (II) H2N-R2-NH2, where R2 is selected from the group of a C4-C18 alkylene, a divalent radical derived from Z? / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane selected from the group consisting of 1 ,3-BAC, 1 ,4-BAC and combination thereof.

19. Electric component according to claim 18, wherein the dicarboxylic acid component (A) consists essentially of or consists of: (i) at least one phthalic acid selected from the group consisting of isophthalic acid (I), terephthalic acid (T) and combination of I and T and (ii) optionally at least one dicarboxylic acid (DI) of formula (I) where R1 is selected from the group consisting of a C2-C18 linear or branch alkylene group, a Ce-Cis cycloalkylene group and combination thereof where the expression "consist essentially" means in the context of the dicarboxylic acid component (A) that the dicarboxylic acid component (A) consists of:(j) the phthalic acid(s) and the dicarboxylic acid(s) (DI) of formula (I); and(jj) up to 1.5 mol%, preferably up to 1.0 mol%, preferably up to 0.5 mol%, of at least one dicarboxylic acid not belonging to the dicarboxylic acids listed in (j).

20. Electric component according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the diamine component (B) consists essentially of or consists of at least one diamine of formula (II) H2N-R2-NH2 where R2 is selected from the group of a C4-C18 alkylene, a divalent radical derived from Z? / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane (BAG) selected from the group consisting of 1 ,3-BAC, 1 ,4-BAC and combination thereof, where the expression "consist essentially" means in the context of the diamine component (B) that the diamine component (B) consists of:SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT(j) the diamine(s) of formula (II) H2N-R2-NH2; and(jj) up to 1.5 mol%, preferably up to 1.0 mol%, preferably up to 0.5 mol%, of at least one diamine not belonging to the diamines listed in (j).

21. Electric component according to any one of claims 18-20, wherein R1 is selected from the group consisting of a C4-C8 alkylene group, a cycloalkylene group and combination thereof.

22. Electric component according to any one of claims 18-21 , wherein R2 is selected from the group consisting of a C4-Cs alkylene group, a divalent radical derived from Z? / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane and combination thereof.

23. Electric component according to any one of preceding claims, wherein polyamide (PA) comprises at least 95.0 mol% of recurring units (RP) formed from the condensation of a dicarboxylic acid component (A) and a diamine component (B), where the dicarboxylic acid component (A) consists essentially of or consists of:■ between 90.0 mol% and 100 mol% of terephthalic acid,■ between 0 mol% and 10.0 mol% of a dicarboxylic acid (DI) selected from the group consisting of C6-Cis aliphatic dicarboxylic acid of formula HOOC-(CH2)n- COOH where n is an integer between 4 and 16, isophthalic acid and combination thereof; and■ between 0 mol% and 10.0 mol% of 1 ,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid,■ where mol% is relative to the total number of moles of dicarboxylic acids in the dicarboxylic acid component (A) and where the expression "consist essentially" means in the context of the dicarboxylic acid component (A) that the dicarboxylic acid component (A) consists of:(j) terephthalic acid, the dicarboxylic acid(s) (DI), the 1 ,4- cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid, with the proportions indicated; and (jj) up to 1 .5 mol%, preferably up to 1 .0 mol%, preferably up to 0.5 mol%, of at least one dicarboxylic acid not belonging to the dicarboxylic acids listed in (j); and where the diamine component (B) consists essentially of or consists of:■ between 55.0 mol% and 75.0 mol% of one or more C4-Cs aliphatic diamines;■ between 25.0 mol% and 45.0 mol% of an aliphatic diamine selected from the group consisting of 1 ,9-nonanediamine, 1 ,10-decanediamine and combination thereof;■ between 0 mol% and 10.0 mol% of a / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane selected from the group consisting of 1 ,3-BAC, 1 ,4-BAC and combination thereof;SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT■ where mol% is relative to the total number of moles of diamines in the diamine component (B) and where the expression "consist essentially" means in the context of the diamine component (B) that the diamine component (B) consists of:(j) the C4-C8 aliphatic diamine(s), the aliphatic diamine selected from the group consisting of 1 ,9-nonanediamine, 1 ,10-decanediamine and combination thereof, the / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane(s), with the proportions indicated; and(jj) up to 1 .5 mol%, preferably up to 1 .0 mol%, preferably up to 0.5 mol%, of at least one diamine not belonging to the diamines listed in (j); wherein the Z? / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane or the 1 ,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid or both exhibit a proportion of greater than 0.5 mol% respectively in the dicarboxylic acid component (A) and in the diamine component (B).

24. Electric component according to any one of preceding claims, wherein polyamide (PA) comprises at least 95.0 mol% of recurring units (RP) formed from the condensation of a dicarboxylic acid component (A) and a diamine component (B), where the dicarboxylic acid component (A) consist essentially of or consists of terephtalic acid, where the expression "consist essentially" means in the context of the dicarboxylic acid component (A) that the dicarboxylic acid component (A) consists of (j) terephthalic acid; and (jj) up to 1.5 mol%, preferably up to 1.0 mol%, preferably up to 0.5 mol%, of at least one dicarboxylic acid distinct from terephthalic acid; and where the diamine component (B) consists essentially of or consists of:■ between 55.0 mol% and 75.0 mol% of one or more C4-Cs aliphatic diamines;■ between 25.0 mol% and 45.0 mol% of an aliphatic diamine selected from the group consisting of 1 ,9-nonanediamine, 1 ,10-decanediamine and combination thereof;■ between 0.5 mol% and 10.0 mol% of a / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane selected from the group consisting of 1 ,3-BAC, 1 ,4-BAC and combination thereof;■ where mol% is relative to the total number of moles of diamines in the diamine component (B) and where the expression "consist essentially" means in the context of the diamine component (B) that the diamine component (B) consists of:(j) the C4-C8 aliphatic diamine(s), the aliphatic diamine selected from the group consisting of 1 ,9-nonanediamine, 1 ,10-decanediamine and combination thereof, the Z? / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane(s), with the proportions indicated; andSSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT(jj) up to 1 .5 mol%, preferably up to 1 .0 mol%, preferably up to 0.5 mol%, of at least one diamine not belonging to the diamines listed in (j).

25. Electric component according to any one of preceding claims, wherein polyamide (PA) comprises at least 95.0 mol% of recurring units (RP) formed from the condensation of a dicarboxylic acid component (A) and a diamine component (B), where the dicarboxylic acid component (A) consists essentially of or consists of:■ between 90.0 mol% and 99.0 mol% of terephthalic acid,■ between 1.0 mol% and 10.0 mol% of 1 ,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid,■ where mol% is relative to the total number of moles of dicarboxylic acids in the dicarboxylic acid component (A) and where the expression "consist essentially" means in the context of the dicarboxylic acid component (A) that the dicarboxylic acid component (A) consists of:(j) terephthalic acid and the 1 ,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid, with the proportions indicated; and(jj) up to 1 .5 mol%, preferably up to 1 .0 mol%, preferably up to 0.5 mol%, of at least one dicarboxylic acid not belonging to the dicarboxylic acids listed in (j); where the diamine component (B) consist essentially of or consists of:■ between 50.0 mol% and 90.0 mol% of one or more C4-C8 aliphatic diamines;■ between 10.0 mol% and 50.0 mol% of a / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane selected from the group consisting of 1 ,3-BAC, 1 ,4-BAC and combination thereof;■ where mol% is relative to the total number of moles of diamines in the diamine component (B) and where the expression "consist essentially" means in the context of the diamine component (B) that the diamine component (B) consists of:(j) the C4-C8 aliphatic diamine(s) and the Z? / s(aminomethyl) cyclohexane(s), with the proportions indicated; and(jj) up to 1 .5 mol%, preferably up to 1 .0 mol%, preferably up to 0.5 mol%, of at least one diamine not belonging to the diamines listed in (j).

26. Electric component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the C4-C8 aliphatic diamine present in the diamine component (B) consists of 1 ,6-diaminohexane.

27. Electric component according to any one of preceding claims, wherein the proportion of recurring units (RPA) is at least 99.0 mol% or the recurring units of polyamide (PA) consist of recurring units (RPA).

28. Electric component according to any one of preceding claims, wherein polyamide (PA) is selected from the group consisting of:SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT- PA 66;- 9T;- 10T;- 6T / 6I / 66;- 6T / 66;- 6T / 6I;- 6T / 10T;6T / 1 OT / BACT, where BAC is 1 ,3-BAC and / or 1 ,4-BAC, preferably 1 ,3-BAC;- 6T / BACT / 66 / BAC6, where BAC is 1 ,3-BAC and / or 1 ,4-BAC, preferably 1 ,3-BAC;- 6T / 10T / 6.CH DA / 10.CH DA; and6T / 9T / 6.CHDA / 9.CHDA where CH DA is 1 ,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid; a combination thereof.

29. Electric component according to any one of preceding claims, wherein the FR is or comprises at least one organophosphorous compound selected from the group consisting of phosphinic salts (phosphinate) of formula (a), diphosphinic salts (diphosphinate) of formula (b) and combination thereof:(b), wherein R7and R8, identical or different, are Ci-Ce alkyl, linear or branched, or aryl; R9is Ci- C10 alkylene, linear or branched, Ce-C arylene, alkylarylene or arylalkylene; M is Mg, Ca, Al, Sb, Sn, Ge, Ti, Zn, Fe, Zr, Ce, Bi, Sr, Mn, Li, Na, K or a protonated nitrogen base; m is 1 to 4; n is 1 to 4; and x is 1 to 4.

30. Electric component according to any one of preceding claims, wherein the FR is or comprises an aluminum phosphinate, notably aluminium ethylmethylphosphinate and / or aluminium diethylphosphinate or calcium phosphinate or zinc phosphinate.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT31. Electric component according to any one of preceding claims, wherein (Lav) is between 300 pm and 2000 pm, preferably between 300 pm and 1700 pm, preferably between 350 pm and 1500 pm.

32. Electric component according to any one of preceding claims, wherein the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 400 pm is preferably at least 50.0% and / or the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 500 pm is preferably at least 45.0%, this proportion being obtained from the number-weighted distribution.

33. Electric component according to any one of preceding claims, wherein the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 400 pm is between 25.0% and 100%, this proportion being obtained from the number-weighted distribution.

34. Electric component according to any one of preceding claims, wherein the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 500 pm is between 20.0% and 100.0%, this proportion being obtained from the number-weighted distribution.

35. Electric component according to any one of preceding claims, wherein (iia) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is between 0 and 75.0% and / or (iib) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 2500 pm is between 0 and 60.0%, this proportion being obtained from the number-weighted distribution.

36. Electric component according to any one of preceding claims, wherein from the number- weighted distribution, at least 90.0% of the GFs have a length lower than or equal to 9000 pm, preferably lower than or equal to 2500 pm.

37. Electric component according to any one of preceding claims, wherein (Lp) is between 400 pm and 3000 pm.

38. Electric component according to any one of preceding claims, wherein the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 400 pm is preferably at least 60.0% and / or the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 500 pm is preferably at least 55.0%, this proportion being obtained from the volume-weighted distribution.

39. Electric component according to any one of preceding claims, wherein (iia) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is between 0 and 95.0% and / or (iib) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 2500 pm is between 0 and 85.0%, this proportion being obtained from the volume-weighted distribution.

40. Electric component according to any one of preceding claims, wherein the distribution of the lengths of the GFs in composition (C) is characterized by set of parameters (S1- D1) or (S2-D1) or by sets of parameters (S1-D1) and (S2-D1), (S1-D1) and (S2-D1) being obtained respectively from the number-weighted distribution and the volume- weighted distribution:SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT41. Electric component according to claim 40, wherein the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 400 pm is between 45.0% and 80.0%, more preferably between 50.0 and 80.0%, this proportion being obtained from the number-weighted distribution.

42. Electric component according to claim 40 or 41 , wherein the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 500 pm is between 30.0% and 70.0%, more preferably between 35.0 and 65.0%, this proportion being obtained from the number-weighted distribution.

43. Electric component according to any one of claims 40-42, wherein the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is at most 5.0%, this proportion being obtained from the number-weighted distribution.

44. Electric component according to any one of claims 40-43, wherein the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 400 pm is between 60.0% and 95.0%, more preferably between 65.0% and 90.0%, this proportion being obtained from the volume- weighted distribution.

45. Electric component according to any one of claims 40-44, wherein the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 500 pm is between 55.0% and 95.0%, more preferably between 60.0% and 90.0%, this proportion being obtained from the volume- weighted distribution.

46. Electric component according to any one of claims 40-45, wherein the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is at most 7.0%, this proportion being obtained from the volume-weighted distribution.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT47. Electric component according to any one of claims 1-39, wherein the distribution of the lengths of the GFs in composition (C) is characterized by set of parameters (S1-D2) or (S2-D2) or by sets of parameters (S1-D2) and (S2-D2), (S1-D2) and (S2-D2) being obtained respectively from the number-weighted distribution and the volume-weighted distribution:

48. Electric component according to claim 47, wherein (Lav) is between 800 pm and 2000 pm, preferably between 900 pm and 1500 pm.

49. Electric component according to claim 47 or 48, wherein (iia) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is at least 45.0% and / or (iib) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 2500 pm of at least 35.0%, this proportion being obtained from the number-weighted distribution.

50. Electric component according to any one of claims 47-49, wherein (iia) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is at least 50.0%, preferably at least 55.0%, preferably at least 60.0%, this proportion being obtained from the number- weighted distribution.

51. Electric component according to any one of claims 47-50, wherein (iib) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 2500 pm is at least 40.0%, this proportion being obtained from the number-weighted distribution.

52. Electric component according to any one of claims 47-51 , wherein (iia) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is at most 70.0% and / or (iib) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 2500 pm of at most 50.0%, this proportion being obtained from the number-weighted distribution.

53. Electric component according to any one of claims 47-52, wherein (iic) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 400 pm of at least 80.0% and / or (iid) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 500 pm of at least 75.0%, this proportion being obtained from the number-weighted distribution.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT54. Electric component according to any one of claims 47-53, wherein (iic) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 400 pm is at least 85.0% and / or (iid) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 500 pm is at least 80.0%, this proportion being obtained from the number-weighted distribution.

55. Electric component according to any one of claims 47-54, wherein (iic) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 400 pm is at least 90.0% and / or (iid) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 500 pm is at least 85.0%, this proportion being obtained from the number-weighted distribution.

56. Electric component according to any one of claims 47-55, wherein (Lp) is between 2000 pm and 3500 pm, preferably between 2000 pm and 3000 pm, preferably between 2000 pm and 2700 pm.

57. Electric component according to any one of claims 47-56, wherein (iia) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is at least 60.0%, this proportion being obtained from the volume-weighted distribution.

58. Electric component according to any one of claims 47-57, wherein (iib) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 2500 pm is at least 50.0%, this proportion being obtained from the volume-weighted distribution.

59. Electric component according to any one of claims 47-58, (iia) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is at least 80.0% and / or (iib) a proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 2500 pm is at least 65.0%, this proportion being obtained from the volume-weighted distribution.

60. Electric component according to any one of claims 47-59, (iia) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is at least 85.0% and / or (iib) a proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 2500 pm is at least 70.0%, this proportion being obtained from the volume-weighted distribution.

61. Electric component according to any one of claims 47-60, wherein (iia) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 1500 pm is at most 95.0% and / or (iib) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 2500 pm of at most 85.0%, this proportion being obtained from the volume-weighted distribution.

62. Electric component according to any one of claims 47-61 , wherein (iic) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 400 pm is at least 97.0% and / or (iid) the proportion of the GFs having a length higher than 500 pm of at most 96.0%, this proportion being obtained from the volume-weighted distribution.

63. Electric component according to any one of preceding claims, wherein electric insulation barrier (L) obtained by the method comprising the following steps:SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT- step a): introducing into an extruder pellets (p) prepared from the GFs in the form of a roving impregnated by a composition (c) comprising all the components of composition (C) except the glass fibers;- step b): molding the composition obtained after step a), step (b) being notably selected in the group of extrusion molding, injection molding, blow molding, rotomolding, overmolding, compression molding and drawing extrusion molding.

64. Electric component according to any one of claims 18-27, wherein the dicarboxylic acid component (A) consists of the indicated dicarboxylic acids and the diamine component(B) consists of the indicated diamines.

65. Electric component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein composition(C) consists essentially of or consists of the following components: at least one polyamide (PA); glass fibers (GFs); at least one flame retardant (FR); optionally at least one additive (Add) other than the flame retardant (FR), notably selected from the group consisting of impact modifiers, tougheners, plasticizers, colorants, pigments, antistatic agents, dyes, lubricants, thermal stabilizers, light stabilizers, antioxidants, nucleating agents, polymer processing aids, anti-blocking agents, slip agents, antifogging agents, chemical blowing agents, nucleating agents and any combination thereof; optionally at least one additional filler which is different from the glass fibers (GFs), notably selected from the group consisting of mineral fillers (e.g. talc, mica, kaolin, calcium carbonate, calcium silicate, magnesium carbonate) and glass balls (e.g. hollow glass microspheres).

66. Use of a composition (C) as defined in any one of claims 1 -65: as an electric insulation barrier (L); for the preparation of an electric insulation barrier (L); of an electric component comprising at least one electrical conductor made of or comprising a metal or a metallic alloy.

67. Use according to claim 66, wherein the conductor is in the form of a wire or a plate or a bar.

68. Use according to claim 66 or 67, wherein the metal of the conductor is selected in the group consisting of copper, titanium, niobium, tantalum, zirconium, aluminium and iron.

69. Use according to any one of claims 66-67, wherein the metallic alloy of the conductor is preferably selected in the group consisting of steel and brass.SSPU 2024 / 033-WO-PCT70. Use according to any one of claims 66-69, wherein the length of the electrical conductor is: between 5.0 mm and 30.0 m; or between 5.0 mm and 10.0 m; or - between 5.0 mm and 100.0 cm.

71. Use according to any one of claims 66-70, wherein electric insulation barrier (L) is disposed over a surface of electric conductor or is disposed around the electric conductor.

72. Use according to any one of claims 66-71 , wherein the electric component is selected in the group consisting of busbars, venting systems, connectors, pyrofuses, end plates, separators, circuit breakers, electromagnetic switches, ground faults and arc fault breakers, actuators, terminal switches and sensors.

73. Use according to any one of claims 66-72, wherein electric insulation barrier (L) is in the form of a plaque or in the form of an enclosure or housing or casing.

74. Use according to any one of claims 66-73, wherein the electric insulation barrier (L) is made of composition (C).

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