Semi-Aromatic Copolyamide Synthesis with Controlled Polymolecularity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current semi-aromatic copolyamides, such as those of formula 11/10.T, face limitations in thermomechanical resistance and impact resistance due to high polymolecularity indices, leading to poor crystallinity and fragility, which are not adequately addressed by existing synthesis methods.

Innovation Solution

The synthesis of copolyamides with a controlled polymolecularity index less than or equal to 3.5, achieved by incorporating hypophosphorous acid or its salts during polycondensation, which reduces branch content and improves mechanical properties and thermoplasticity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If copolyamides with high polymolecularity index are synthesized, then thermomechanical strength is improved, but crystallinity and impact resistance deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethermomechanical strengthVSAvoidimpact resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The invention changes the polymolecularity index parameter from high (5-6) to controlled low (≤3.5) to resolve the contradiction. By controlling the polycondensation process to achieve lower polymolecularity, the patent simultaneously improves impact resistance while maintaining adequate thermomechanical strength, eliminating the need to trade one property for the other

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Strength

If copolyamides with high polymolecularity index are synthesized, then thermomechanical strength is improved, but crystallization kinetics deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethermomechanical strengthVSAvoidcrystallization kinetics
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The invention changes the polymolecularity index parameter to ≤3.5, which directly improves crystallization kinetics. The controlled molecular weight distribution enables faster and more efficient crystal formation, resolving the contradiction between thermomechanical strength and crystallization speed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Strength

If copolyamides with high polymolecularity index are synthesized, then thermomechanical strength is improved, but elongation at break deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethermomechanical strengthVSAvoidelongation at break
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The invention changes the polymolecularity index to ≤3.5, which restores elongation at break properties. The controlled molecular weight distribution prevents excessive fragility while maintaining thermomechanical strength, resolving the contradiction between strength and ductility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Strength

If copolyamides with high polymolecularity index are synthesized, then thermomechanical strength is improved, but processing ease deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethermomechanical strengthVSAvoidprocessing ease
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The invention changes the polymolecularity index to ≤3.5 and controls branch content, which improves processing ease. The reduced molecular weight complexity and lower viscosity enable better mold filling and processing, while maintaining adequate thermomechanical strength

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The approach results in copolyamides with enhanced thermomechanical strength, improved crystallization kinetics, and increased elongation at break, while maintaining ease of transformation and flexibility, effectively addressing the limitations of previous materials.

Implementation Method 1

the synthesis of copolyamides with a controlled polymolecularity index less than or equal to 3.5, achieved by incorporating hypophosphorous acid or its salts during polycondensation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPolycondensation:

Implementation Method 2

a polymolecularity index, denoted Ip less than or equal to 3.5, measured by gel permeation chromatography

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGel permeation chromatography: Chromatography

Data Source

PatentEP2310439B2Semi-aromatic copolyamide and method for the preparation thereof
Publication Date: 2021.03.03 ARKEMA FRANCE SA
  • EP2310439B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention also relates to the process for preparing said copolyamide, a composition comprising this polyamide and also the use of this polyamide and of such a composition.