Thermoplastic copolymers with a high sulfur content and process for their preparation

Abstract

Thermoplastic copolymer with a high sulphur content comprising sulphur in a quantity higher than or equal to 40% by weight, preferably ranging from 45% by weight to 90% by weight, with respect to the total weight of said thermoplastic copolymer, and at least one monomer having general formula (I) wherein: R1 and R2, equal to or different from each other, represent a hydrogen atom; or they are selected from C1-C20, preferably C1-C15, linear or branched alkyl groups, C2-C20, preferably C2-Ci5, linear or branched alkenyl groups, C2-C20, preferably C2-C15, linear or branched alkylidene groups; or R1 and R2, may optionally be bound to one another so as to form, together with the other atoms to which they are bound, a cycloalkene containing from 4 to 6 carbon atoms, saturated, unsaturated, or aromatic, optionally substituted with C1-C20, preferably C1-C15, linear or branched alkyl groups, said cycle optionally containing heteroatoms such as, for example, oxygen, sulphur, nitrogen, silicon, phosphorus, selenium; said monomer having the general formula (I) being present in a quantity lower than or equal to 60% by weight, preferably ranging from 10% by weight to 55% by weight, with respect to the total weight of said thermoplastic copolymer. Said thermoplastic copolymer with a high sulphur content exhibits a high glass transition temperature (Tg) [i.e. glass transition temperature (Tg) higher than or equal to 80° C.] and good mechanical properties and can be advantageously used, as such or in admixture with other (co)polymers (for example, styrene, divinylbenzene), in a great many applications such as, for example, packaging, electronics, household appliances, computer cases, CD cases, kitchens, laboratories, office and medical items, in buildings and in construction.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.