Bio-Based Liquid Crystalline Polymer for High-Flow Molding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current high flow liquid crystalline polymer compositions used in electrical components are not sustainable, as they are derived from crude oil, and there is a need for carbon-neutral alternatives that maintain high flow properties.
Innovation Solution
A polymer composition is developed using a bio-LCP matrix with monomers derived from bio-naphtha, which achieves low melt viscosity and high melting temperature, along with excellent mechanical and flame retardant properties, by carefully controlling the composition and processing conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If high flow LCP compositions are used to achieve fast filling and low molded-in stress, then productivity and dimensional stability are improved, but carbon emissions increase due to crude oil-based raw materials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the source parameter of raw materials from petroleum-based to bio-based (bio-naphtha derived), maintaining the chemical structure and flow properties while altering the environmental impact parameter to achieve carbon neutrality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the traditionally harmful petroleum extraction process into a beneficial bio-based process where plant oils are transformed into high-performance polymer feedstocks, turning environmental harm into environmental benefit while maintaining technical performance
2Object-generated harmful factors
If bio-based materials are used to reduce carbon emissions, then sustainability is improved, but melt viscosity and flow properties may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent carefully controls the molecular weight and chemical composition parameters of the bio-based monomers to match those of conventional petroleum-based LCPs, ensuring that melt viscosity and flow properties remain within the required range for high-performance molding
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite polymer system combining bio-based monomers with specific liquid crystalline polymer structures, leveraging the self-organizing properties of liquid crystals to achieve both sustainability and superior flow characteristics
Data Source
AI summary
A polymer composition that comprises a polymer matrix containing a first liquid crystalline polymer that includes one or more monomers derived from bio-naphtha is provided. The polymer composition exhibits a melt viscosity of about 60 Pa-s or less as determined in accordance with ISO 11443:2021 at a shear rate of 1,000 seconds−1 and temperature that is 15° C. higher than the melting temperature of the composition.