Functionalized Elastomer Post-Polymerization Thiol Ring-Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for developing low rolling resistance tires through functionalized elastomers face challenges such as complex synthesis requirements and limited functional group options during polymerization, and post-polymerization methods can increase viscosity, necessitating a more effective approach for modifying elastomer properties.
Innovation Solution
The method involves post-polymerization functionalization of elastomers by epoxy ring-opening an epoxidized elastomer with a C1-C32 hydrocarbyl-substituted thiol to introduce epoxy, hydroxy, and vicinal thio functional groups, which are difficult to achieve through copolymerization, thereby modifying the interaction with fillers and reducing rolling resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If functionalization is achieved during polymerization using functional monomers, then the elastomer can be functionalized, but the synthesis becomes complex and the choice of functional groups is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The functionalization process is divided into two separate stages: polymerization of base monomers followed by post-polymerization functionalization. This segmentation allows the complex functionalization step to be decoupled from polymerization, enabling use of diverse functional monomers without complicating the polymerization process itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary polymerization to create the elastomer backbone first, then applies functionalization in a subsequent step. This preliminary action allows selection of functional groups that would be incompatible with polymerization conditions, as the polymerization is already complete before functional groups are introduced.
2Adaptability or versatility
If end-chain functionalization is used, then the elastomer can be functionalized, but the weight ratio of end groups to main chain is too low to significantly impact elastomer-filler interaction
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of relying on end-chain functionalization where functional groups are localized only at chain ends, the patent uses post-polymerization functionalization to distribute functional groups throughout the polymer chains. This creates local functional regions along the entire chain length, significantly increasing the effective concentration of functional groups available for filler interaction.
3Adaptability or versatility
If silane coupling agents are used for post-polymerization functionalization, then the elastomer can be functionalized, but the composition viscosity increases undesirably
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical parameters of the functionalization reaction by using alternative coupling agents and reaction conditions that do not cause significant viscosity increase. Specifically, the method employs controlled functionalization conditions and selects reagents that maintain lower viscosity compared to traditional silane coupling agents, thus avoiding the harmful viscosity effect while still achieving functional group introduction.
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
This approach allows for the creation of functionalized elastomers with improved properties, specifically reducing rolling resistance in tires, thereby enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing carbon dioxide emissions.
Implementation Method 1
epoxy ring-opening an epoxidized elastomer with a C 1 -C 32 hydrocarbyl-substituted thiol to provide a functionalized elastomer comprising an epoxy functional group, a hydroxy functional group, and a substituted or unsubstituted C 1 -C 32 hydrocarbyl-substituted thio functional group
Data Source
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Figure 3A
AI summary
A method of preparing functionalized elastomers, including epoxy ring-opening an epoxidized elastomer with a C1-C32 hydrocarbyl-substituted thiol to provide a functionalized elastomer comprising an epoxy functional group, a hydroxy functional group, and a C1-C32 hydrocarbyl-substituted thio functional group. The hydroxy functional group and the C1-C32 hydrocarbyl-substituted thio functional group are vicinal functional groups.