Moisture-Cure Catalyst Composition for Faster Polyolefin Curing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing catalyst systems for moisture-curable polyolefin formulations are inefficient in achieving rapid and effective curing under ambient conditions, leading to suboptimal hot creep performance in cured polymer products.
Innovation Solution
A catalyst system comprising a combination of zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or titanium alkoxide, and a tin-organic ligand coordination complex, formulated to enhance moisture-based condensation curing, which includes a catalyst masterbatch and a (hydrolyzable silyl group)-functional polyolefin prepolymer, allowing for faster curing rates and improved hot creep resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If existing catalyst systems are used for moisture-curable polyolefin formulations, then the curing process can proceed under ambient conditions, but the curing rate is slow and hot creep performance is suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite catalyst system comprising zinc oxide, titanium(IV) compound, and organometallic compound in specific weight ratios (ZnO: 40-85 wt%, Ti(IV): 10-55 wt%, organometallic: 1-15 wt%). This composite catalyst composition synergistically enhances both the curing rate and the resulting hot creep resistance of the cured polymer product, resolving the contradiction between fast curing and high performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the weight percentage parameters of each catalyst component to achieve optimal performance. By adjusting the ratios of ZnO (40-85 wt%), Ti(IV) compound (10-55 wt%), and organometallic compound (1-15 wt%), the system achieves both rapid curing and superior hot creep resistance, transforming the suboptimal performance of existing catalysts into high-performance curing.
2Reliability
If existing catalyst systems are used, then the formulation can be simple, but the curing efficiency and mechanical properties are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite catalyst system combining three distinct components (zinc oxide, titanium(IV) compound, and organometallic compound) in optimized ratios. This composite approach delivers superior mechanical properties and hot creep resistance (150-200% improvement) while maintaining a manageable formulation complexity suitable for industrial application.
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 catalyst system enables faster curing rates and enhanced hot creep resistance in moisture-cured polyolefin products, making them suitable for applications requiring high mechanical properties, such as coatings and power cable insulation.
Implementation Method 1
The catalyst system enables moisture-based condensation curing of moisture-curable prepolymers
Implementation Method 2
The catalyst system enables moisture-based condensation curing of moisture-curable prepolymers
Implementation Method 3
A catalyst system comprising a combination of from 40 to 85 weight percent (wt %) of zinc oxide (ZnO), from 10 to 55 wt % of a titanium(IV) compound that is titanium dioxide (TiO2) or a titanium alkoxide, and from 1 to 15 wt % of a tin-organic ligand coordination complex (Sn Complex)
Data Source
AI summary
A catalyst system comprising a combination of a tin-based moisture-cure catalyst, a titanium(IV) compound that is titanium dioxide or a titanium alkoxide, and zinc oxide. A catalyst masterbatch comprising the catalyst system and a carrier resin. A moisture-curable prepolymer formulation comprising the catalyst masterbatch and a (hydrolyzable silyl group)-functional polyolefin prepolymer. Methods of making and using same. Cured polymer products made therefrom. Articles containing or made from same.