Microlayer structures and methods
AssigneeDow Global Technologies LLC
InventorsHongyu Chen, Ronald Wevers, David G. McLeod
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Improved microlayer structures and methods typically employing at least 4 stacked layers of polymers (e.g., including alternating layers of components A and B), such as that obtained by coextrusion. The layers each have a thickness of less than about 50 microns. One optional approach involves forming an intermediate form that includes at least one elongated member made from the plurality of layers, from which a shaped composite article may be made.
Claims21
An elongated member, comprising:
- at least 9 stacked and coextruded layers that each are continuous in profile and include at least 5 component A microlayers, and a component B microlayer interposed between each pair of adjacent component A microlayers, the component A microlayers and the component B microlayers have peak melting temperatures that differ by at least 5° C., wherein the component A microlayers include a first polymeric material selected from a polyolefin, a polyamide, a polyester, a (meth)acrylate, a polycarbonate, a polyvinylchloride, a (meth)acrylonitrile, a polyurethane, a polysulfone or any combination thereof;
- the component B microlayers each include a second polymeric material selected from a polyolefin, a polyamide, a polyester, a (meth)acrylate, a polycarbonate, a polyvinylchloride, a (meth)acrylonitrile, a polyurethane, a polysulfone or any combination thereof;
- wherein adjoining component A and compoundent B microlayers differs in molecular orientation, the elongated member is a fiber, a rod, a cord, a yarn, a tape, a filament, a strap, a film, a geophysical textile, a raffia, a woven fabric, an artificial grass, or a carpet, and
- the elongated member is prepared by drawing at a temperature above the melting point of one of components A and B and below the melting point of the other component.
2-61. (canceled)
The method of claim 78, wherein the step of drawing results in a draw ratio of greater than about 5;
- the first polymeric material includes a polyolefin;
- the second polymeric material includes a polyolefin;
- the method includes coextruding a film using a microlayer melt splitter or a hemispherical microlayer coextrusion feedblock;
- wherein the step of drawing includes biaxially drawing the lamellar polymeric body.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.