Polyphenylene Ether Cable Insulation UV Resistance

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Solution Overview

Problem

The challenge is to reduce the content of ultraviolet absorbing agents in poly(phenylene ether)-based insulation and jacketing materials while maintaining resistance to ultraviolet light, as high levels can cause color shifts due to migration issues.

Innovation Solution

A composition comprising 15 to 40 parts by weight of poly(phenylene ether), 20 to 50 parts by weight of a hydrogenated block copolymer of an alkenyl aromatic monomer and a conjugated diene, 5 to 30 parts by weight of a solid organophosphate flame retardant with a melting point of 60 to 150 °C, and 0.5 to 5 parts by weight of an ultraviolet absorbing agent, which enhances the efficacy of the ultraviolet absorbing agents, allowing for reduced usage and minimizing color shifts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If high levels of ultraviolet absorbing agents are used to improve UV resistance, then ultraviolet light resistance is improved, but color shift occurs due to migration of the agents to the surface

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveultraviolet light resistanceVSAvoidcolor shift
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the chemical parameters of the ultraviolet absorbing agents by selecting specific compounds with appropriate molecular weights and chemical structures (e.g., benzotriazole derivatives, benzophenone derivatives) that exhibit lower migration tendencies while maintaining UV absorption efficacy. This parameter optimization resolves the contradiction by finding the right balance between UV protection and color stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a composite formulation combining poly(phenylene ether) resin with specifically selected ultraviolet absorbing agents and flame retardants. This composite material approach allows the UV absorbing agents to be effectively embedded within the polymer matrix, reducing their mobility and migration to the surface while preserving their UV shielding function, thereby preventing color shift.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If high levels of ultraviolet absorbing agents are used to maintain UV resistance, then ultraviolet light resistance is preserved, but the content of ultraviolet absorbing agents increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveultraviolet light resistanceVSAvoidcontent of ultraviolet absorbing agents
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent optimizes the concentration parameters of ultraviolet absorbing agents by identifying the minimum effective dosage required for adequate UV protection. Through systematic parameter study, the patent determines that reduced levels of specifically selected UV absorbing agents (within the range of 0.01-5.0 parts by weight per 100 parts resin) can achieve the desired UV resistance without excessive additive content, thus resolving the contradiction between effectiveness and quantity.

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

This composition effectively reduces the need for high levels of ultraviolet absorbing agents, minimizing color shifts and maintaining excellent ultraviolet light resistance, thereby addressing the migration issues associated with their use.

Implementation Method 1

resistance to color change on exposure to ultraviolet light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectUltraviolet absorption: Absorption (EM radiation)

Implementation Method 2

an organophosphate ester having a melting point of 60 to 150 °C

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMelting: Melting

Data Source

PatentEP3565856B1Flexible, UV-resistant poly(phenylene ether) composition, and insulated conductor and jacketed cable comprising same
Publication Date: 2022.08.17 SHPP GLOBAL TECH BV
  • EP3565856B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3565856B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3565856B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

A composition contains specific amounts of a poly(phenylene ether), a hydrogenated block copolymer of an alkenyl aromatic monomer and a conjugated diene, a flame retardant that includes an organophosphate ester with a melting point of 60 to 150 º C, and an ultraviolet absorbing agent. The high-melting organophosphate ester permits reduction of the ultraviolet absorbing agent content, which in turn reduces color shift under storage conditions. The composition is useful as an insulating material and a jacketing material for wire and cable.