Methods for cross-linking thermoplastic polyurethane covers for golf balls
AssigneeAcushnet Company
InventorsMichael J. Sullivan, Mark L. Binette
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Golf balls having covers made of thermoplastic polyurethane compositions are provided. Multi-piece golf balls can be made. In one embodiment, the outer cover layer is formed from a composition comprising a thermoplastic polyurethane and epoxy compound. Mixtures of multi-functional amines and imines, and multi-functional isocyanates, and epoxy curing agents; and solvent, can be applied to the outer cover. The resulting coating may contain polyurethanes, polyureas, and hybrids, copolymers, and blends thereof. The cover composition and surface coatings can further include catalysts, ultraviolet (UV)-light stabilizers, and other additives. The coating methods have many benefits and the finished balls have good physical properties.
Claims20
A method for treating a cover for a golf ball, comprising the steps of:
- providing a golf ball sub-assembly comprising at least one core layer;
- forming an outer cover layer over the sub-assembly, wherein the outer cover layer is formed from a composition comprising a thermoplastic polyurethane and multi-functional hydroxyl compound;
- and
- applying a mixture comprising:
- i) at least one compound selected from the group consisting of multi-functional amines and imines, and multi-functional isocyanates;
- and ii) solvent, to the outer cover to form at least a partially cross-linked cover for the golf ball.
A method for forming a cover for a golf ball, comprising the steps of:
- providing a golf ball sub-assembly comprising at least one core layer;
- and
- forming an outer cover layer over the sub-assembly, wherein the outer cover layer is formed from a composition comprising:
- i) a thermoplastic polyurethane;
- ii) multi-functional hydroxyl compound;
- and iii) at least one compound selected from the group consisting of multi-functional amines and imines, and multi-functional isocyanates.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.