U.S. patent application number 13/778693 was filed with the patent office on 2014-08-28 for polymer resins with improved processability and melt fracture characteristics.
This patent application is currently assigned to Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LP. The applicant listed for this patent is CHEVRON PHILLIPS CHEMICAL COMPANY LP. Invention is credited to Yongwoo INN, Qing YANG.
Application Number | 20140242314 13/778693 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50288276 |
Filed Date | 2014-08-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140242314 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
INN; Yongwoo ; et
al. |
August 28, 2014 |
POLYMER RESINS WITH IMPROVED PROCESSABILITY AND MELT FRACTURE
CHARACTERISTICS
Abstract
A metallocene-catalyzed polymer comprising (i) a higher
molecular weight component and (ii) a lower molecular weight
component wherein the polymer has a polydispersity index of from
about 10 to about 26; a zero shear viscosity of from about
5.times.10.sup.5 Pas to about 2.times.10.sup.14 Pas and a
smooth-to-matte transition critical stress of from about 20 kPa to
about 85 kPa at a shear rate of from about 1.5 s.sup.-1 to about 17
s.sup.-1. A dual metallocene catalyzed polyethylene comprising (i)
a higher molecular weight component and (ii) a lower molecular
weight component wherein the polymer has a polydispersity index of
from about 10 to about 26; a zero shear viscosity of from about
5.times.10.sup.5 Pas to about 2.times.10.sup.14 Pas and a
smooth-to-matte transition stress of from about 20 kPa to about 85
kPa at a shear rate of from about 1.5 s.sup.-1 to about 17
s.sup.-1.
Inventors: |
INN; Yongwoo; (Bartlesville,
OK) ; YANG; Qing; (Bartlesville, OK) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
CHEVRON PHILLIPS CHEMICAL COMPANY LP |
The Woodlands |
TX |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Chevron Phillips Chemical Company
LP
The Woodlands
TX
|
Family ID: |
50288276 |
Appl. No.: |
13/778693 |
Filed: |
February 27, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
428/36.9 ;
525/55; 526/348.5 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C08F 2410/04 20130101;
C08F 210/16 20130101; Y10T 428/1352 20150115; C08F 4/65927
20130101; Y10T 428/139 20150115; B32B 1/08 20130101; C08F 4/65916
20130101; C08L 23/04 20130101; C08F 4/65912 20130101; C08F 4/65925
20130101; C08F 210/16 20130101; C08F 210/14 20130101; C08F 2500/01
20130101; C08F 2500/02 20130101; C08F 2500/04 20130101; C08F
2500/05 20130101; C08F 2500/09 20130101; C08F 2500/10 20130101;
C08F 2500/11 20130101; C08F 2500/12 20130101; C08F 2500/17
20130101; C08F 2500/26 20130101; C08F 10/00 20130101; C08F 4/65904
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
428/36.9 ;
526/348.5; 525/55 |
International
Class: |
C08F 210/16 20060101
C08F210/16; B32B 1/08 20060101 B32B001/08 |
Claims
1. A metallocene-catalyzed polymer comprising (i) a higher
molecular weight component and (ii) a lower molecular weight
component wherein the polymer has a polydispersity index of from
about 10 to about 26; a zero shear viscosity of from about
5.times.10.sup.5 Pas to about 2.times.10.sup.14 Pas and a
smooth-to-matte transition critical stress of from about 20 kPa to
about 85 kPa at a shear rate of from about 1.5 s.sup.-1 to about 17
s.sup.-1.
2. The polymer of claim 1 wherein the higher molecular weight
component is present in an amount of from about 3 wt. % to about 30
wt. %.
3. The polymer of claim 1 wherein the lower molecular weight
component is present in an amount of from about 70 wt. % to about
97 wt. %.
4. The polymer of claim 1 having a weight average molecular weight
of from about 260 kg/mol to about 350 kg/mol.
5. The polymer of claim 1 having a number average molecular weight
of from about 12 kg/mol to about 26 kg/mol.
6. The polymer of claim 1 having a z-average molecular weight of
from about 1500 kg/mol to about 2500 kg/mol.
7. The polymer of claim 1 having a short-chain branching content of
from about 0.5 SCB/1000 C. to about 3.5 SCB/1000 C. wherein from
about 50% to about 80% of the short chain branches are located in
the higher molecular weight component.
8. The polymer of claim 1 having a long-chain branching content of
from about 0.002 branches per 1000 carbon to about 0.2 branches per
1000 carbon.
9. The polymer of claim 1 having a high load melt index of from
about 5 to about 12.
10. The polymer of claim 1 having a CY-a parameter of from about
0.03 to about 0.4.
11. The polymer of claim 1 having a tau eta value of from about 7 s
to about 2.0.times.10.sup.5 s.
12. The polymer of claim 1 having a magnitude of slip-stick
fracture of from about 200 psi to about 1200 psi.
13. The polymer of claim 1 having an N.sub.--100 value of from
about 0.2 to about 0.5.
14. The polymer of claim 1 having a viscosity at 100 rad/s of from
2.times.10.sup.3 Pas to about 2.4.times.10.sup.3 Pas.
15. A composition comprising the polymer of claim 1 and a polymer
processing aid.
16. The composition of claim 15 wherein the polymer processing aid
comprises fluoroelastomers, polyethylene glycol, low molecular
weight waxes, or combinations thereof.
17. An article made from the polymer of claim 1.
18. An article made from the composition of claim 15.
19. A dual metallocene catalyzed polyethylene comprising (i) a
higher molecular weight component and (ii) a lower molecular weight
component wherein the polymer has a polydispersity index of from
about 10 to about 26; a zero shear viscosity of from about
5.times.10.sup.5 Pas to about 2.times.10.sup.14 Pas and a
smooth-to-matte transition stress of from about 20 kPa to about 85
kPa at a shear rate of from about 1.5 s.sup.-1 to about 17
s.sup.-1.
20. A composition comprising the dual metallocene catalyzed
polyethylene of claim 19 and a fluoroelastomer.
21. A pipe made from the composition of claim 20.
22. The polymer of claim 1 wherein the polymer is a copolymer of
ethylene and 1-hexene.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Not applicable.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
BACKGROUND
[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to polymer
compositions and methods of making and using same. More
specifically the present disclosure relates to polymer compositions
having improved processability and melt fracture
characteristics.
FIELD
[0004] Polyolefins are plastic materials useful for making a wide
variety of valued products due to their combination of features
such as stiffness, ductility, barrier properties, temperature
resistance, optical properties, availability, and low cost. In
particular, polyethylene (PE) is one of the largest volume polymers
consumed in the world. It is a versatile polymer that offers high
performance relative to other polymers and alternative materials
such as glass or metal.
[0005] There exists an ongoing need for improved polymer
compositions displaying desired processing characteristics.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0006] Disclosed herein is a metallocene-catalyzed polymer
comprising (i) a higher molecular weight component and (ii) a lower
molecular weight component wherein the polymer has a polydispersity
index of from about 10 to about 26; a zero shear viscosity of from
about 5.times.10.sup.5 Pas to about 2.times.10.sup.14 Pas and a
smooth-to-matte transition critical stress of from about 20 kPa to
about 85 kPa at a shear rate of from about 1.5 s.sup.-1 to about 17
s.sup.-1
[0007] Also disclosed herein is a dual metallocene-catalyzed
polyethylene comprising (i) a higher molecular weight component and
(ii) a lower molecular weight component wherein the polymer has a
polydispersity index of from about 10 to about 26; a zero shear
viscosity of from about 5.times.10.sup.5 Pas to about
2.times.10.sup.14 Pas and a smooth-to-matte transition stress of
from about 20 kPa to about 85 kPa at a shear rate of from about 1.5
s.sup.-1 to about 17 s.sup.-1.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 depicts structures of compounds used in the
preparation of the samples from example 1.
[0009] FIG. 2 is the molecular weight distribution profile of the
samples from example 1.
[0010] FIG. 3 is a plot of the viscosity as a function of frequency
for the samples from example 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0011] Disclosed herein are novel polymers and methods of making
and using same. Herein, the polymer refers both to a material
collected as the product of a polymerization reaction (e.g., a
reactor or virgin resin) and a polymeric composition comprising a
polymer and one or more additives. In an embodiment, a monomer
(e.g., ethylene) may be polymerized using the methodologies
disclosed herein to produce a polymer of the type disclosed
herein.
[0012] In an embodiment polymers of the type disclosed herein are
characterized as metallocene-catalyzed polymers having improved
processability and designated as POL-IPs. Additional features of
POL-IPs are disclosed herein.
[0013] In an embodiment, a POL-IP of the type described herein may
be prepared by any suitable methodology, for example by employing
one or more catalyst systems, in one or more reactors, in solution,
in slurry, or in the gas phase, and/or by varying the monomer
concentration in the polymerization reaction, and/or by changing
any/all of the materials or parameters involved in the production
of the POL-IPs, as will be described in more detail later
herein.
[0014] The POL-IP of the present disclosure can be produced using
various types of polymerization reactors. As used herein,
"polymerization reactor" includes any reactor capable of
polymerizing olefin monomers to produce homopolymers and/or
copolymers. Homopolymers and/or copolymers produced in the reactor
may be referred to as resin and/or polymers. The various types of
reactors include, but are not limited to those that may be referred
to as batch, slurry, gas-phase, solution, high pressure, tubular,
autoclave, or other reactor and/or reactors. Gas phase reactors may
comprise fluidized bed reactors or staged horizontal reactors.
Slurry reactors may comprise vertical and/or horizontal loops. High
pressure reactors may comprise autoclave and/or tubular reactors.
Reactor types may include batch and/or continuous processes.
Continuous processes may use intermittent and/or continuous product
discharge or transfer. Processes may also include partial or full
direct recycle of un-reacted monomer, un-reacted comonomer,
catalyst and/or co-catalysts, diluents, and/or other materials of
the polymerization process.
[0015] Polymerization reactor systems of the present disclosure may
comprise one type of reactor in a system or multiple reactors of
the same or different type, operated in any suitable configuration.
Production of polymers in multiple reactors may include several
stages in at least two separate polymerization reactors
interconnected by a transfer system making it possible to transfer
the polymers resulting from the first polymerization reactor into
the second reactor. Alternatively, polymerization in multiple
reactors may include the transfer, either manual or automatic, of
polymer from one reactor to subsequent reactor or reactors for
additional polymerization. Alternatively, multi-stage or multi-step
polymerization may take place in a single reactor, wherein the
conditions are changed such that a different polymerization
reaction takes place.
[0016] The desired polymerization conditions in one of the reactors
may be the same as or different from the operating conditions of
any other reactors involved in the overall process of producing the
polymer of the present disclosure. Multiple reactor systems may
include any combination including, but not limited to multiple loop
reactors, multiple gas phase reactors, a combination of loop and
gas phase reactors, multiple high pressure reactors or a
combination of high pressure with loop and/or gas reactors. The
multiple reactors may be operated in series or in parallel. In an
embodiment, any arrangement and/or any combination of reactors may
be employed to produce the polymer of the present disclosure.
[0017] According to one embodiment, the polymerization reactor
system may comprise at least one loop slurry reactor. Such reactors
may comprise vertical or horizontal loops. Monomer, diluent,
catalyst system, and optionally any comonomer may be continuously
fed to a loop slurry reactor, where polymerization occurs.
Generally, continuous processes may comprise the continuous
introduction of a monomer, a catalyst, and/or a diluent into a
polymerization reactor and the continuous removal from this reactor
of a suspension comprising polymer particles and the diluent.
Reactor effluent may be flashed to remove the liquids that comprise
the diluent from the solid polymer, monomer and/or comonomer.
Various technologies may be used for this separation step including
but not limited to, flashing that may include any combination of
heat addition and pressure reduction; separation by cyclonic action
in either a cyclone or hydrocyclone; separation by centrifugation;
or other appropriate method of separation.
[0018] Typical slurry polymerization processes (also known as
particle-form processes) are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,248,179,
4,501,885, 5,565,175, 5,575,979, 6,239,235, 6,262,191 and
6,833,415, for example; each of which are herein incorporated by
reference in their entirety.
[0019] Suitable diluents used in slurry polymerization include, but
are not limited to, the monomer being polymerized and hydrocarbons
that are liquids under reaction conditions. Examples of suitable
diluents include, but are not limited to, hydrocarbons such as
propane, cyclohexane, isobutane, n-butane, n-pentane, isopentane,
neopentane, and n-hexane. Some loop polymerization reactions can
occur under bulk conditions where no diluent is used. An example is
polymerization of propylene monomer as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
5,455,314, which is incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety.
[0020] According to yet another embodiment, the polymerization
reactor may comprise at least one gas phase reactor. Such systems
may employ a continuous recycle stream containing one or more
monomers continuously cycled through a fluidized bed in the
presence of the catalyst under polymerization conditions. A recycle
stream may be withdrawn from the fluidized bed and recycled back
into the reactor. Simultaneously, polymer product may be withdrawn
from the reactor and new or fresh monomer may be added to replace
the polymerized monomer. Such gas phase reactors may comprise a
process for multi-step gas-phase polymerization of olefins, in
which olefins are polymerized in the gaseous phase in at least two
independent gas-phase polymerization zones while feeding a
catalyst-containing polymer formed in a first polymerization zone
to a second polymerization zone. One type of gas phase reactor is
disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,588,790, 5,352,749, and 5,436,304,
each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety
herein.
[0021] According to still another embodiment, a high pressure
polymerization reactor may comprise a tubular reactor or an
autoclave reactor. Tubular reactors may have several zones where
fresh monomer, initiators, or catalysts are added. Monomer may be
entrained in an inert gaseous stream and introduced at one zone of
the reactor. Initiators, catalysts, and/or catalyst components may
be entrained in a gaseous stream and introduced at another zone of
the reactor. The gas streams may be intermixed for polymerization.
Heat and pressure may be employed appropriately to obtain optimal
polymerization reaction conditions.
[0022] According to yet another embodiment, the polymerization
reactor may comprise a solution polymerization reactor wherein the
monomer is contacted with the catalyst composition by suitable
stirring or other means. A carrier comprising an organic diluent or
excess monomer may be employed. If desired, the monomer may be
brought in the vapor phase into contact with the catalytic reaction
product, in the presence or absence of liquid material. The
polymerization zone is maintained at temperatures and pressures
that will result in the formation of a solution of the polymer in a
reaction medium. Agitation may be employed to obtain better
temperature control and to maintain uniform polymerization mixtures
throughout the polymerization zone. Adequate means are utilized for
dissipating the exothermic heat of polymerization.
[0023] Polymerization reactors suitable for the present disclosure
may further comprise any combination of at least one raw material
feed system, at least one feed system for catalyst or catalyst
components, and/or at least one polymer recovery system. Suitable
reactor systems for the present invention may further comprise
systems for feedstock purification, catalyst storage and
preparation, extrusion, reactor cooling, polymer recovery,
fractionation, recycle, storage, loadout, laboratory analysis, and
process control.
[0024] Conditions that are controlled for polymerization efficiency
and to provide polymer properties include, but are not limited to
temperature, pressure, type and quantity of catalyst or
co-catalyst, and the concentrations of various reactants.
Polymerization temperature can affect catalyst productivity,
polymer molecular weight and molecular weight distribution.
Suitable polymerization temperatures may be any temperature below
the de-polymerization temperature, according to the Gibbs Free
Energy Equation. Typically, this includes from about 60.degree. C.
to about 280.degree. C., for example, and/or from about 70.degree.
C. to about 110.degree. C., depending upon the type of
polymerization reactor and/or polymerization process.
[0025] Suitable pressures will also vary according to the reactor
and polymerization process. The pressure for liquid phase
polymerization in a loop reactor is typically less than 1000 psig.
Pressure for gas phase polymerization is usually at about 200-500
psig. High pressure polymerization in tubular or autoclave reactors
is generally run at about 20,000 to 75,000 psig. Polymerization
reactors can also be operated in a supercritical region occurring
at generally higher temperatures and pressures. Operation above the
critical point of a pressure/temperature diagram (supercritical
phase) may offer advantages.
[0026] The concentration of various reactants can be controlled to
produce polymers with certain physical and mechanical properties.
The proposed end-use product that will be formed by the polymer and
the method of forming that product may be varied to determine the
desired final product properties. Mechanical properties include,
but are not limited to tensile strength, flexural modulus, impact
resistance, creep, stress relaxation and hardness tests. Physical
properties include, but are not limited to density, molecular
weight, molecular weight distribution, melting temperature, glass
transition temperature, temperature melt of crystallization,
density, stereoregularity, crack growth, short chain branching,
long chain branching and rheological measurements.
[0027] The concentrations of monomer, co-monomer, hydrogen,
co-catalyst, modifiers, and electron donors are generally important
in producing specific polymer properties. Comonomer may be used to
control product density. Hydrogen may be used to control product
molecular weight. Co-catalysts may be used to alkylate, scavenge
poisons and/or control molecular weight. The concentration of
poisons may be minimized, as poisons may impact the reactions
and/or otherwise affect polymer product properties. Modifiers may
be used to control product properties and electron donors may
affect stereoregularity.
[0028] In an embodiment, a method of preparing a POL-IP comprises
contacting an olefin (e.g., ethylene) monomer with a catalyst
system under conditions suitable for the formation of a polymer of
the type described herein. In an embodiment, the catalyst system
comprises a transition-metal complex. The terms "catalyst
composition," "catalyst mixture," "catalyst system," and the like,
do not depend upon the actual product resulting from the contact or
reaction of the components of the mixtures, the nature of the
active catalytic site, or the fate of the co-catalyst, the
catalyst, any olefin monomer used to prepare a precontacted
mixture, or the activator-support, after combining these
components. Therefore, the terms "catalyst composition," "catalyst
mixture," "catalyst system," and the like, can include both
heterogeneous compositions and homogenous compositions.
[0029] In an embodiment, a catalyst system suitable for the
preparation of a POL-IP comprises at least one
metallocene-containing compound. Herein, the term "metallocene"
describes a compound comprising at least one .eta..sup.3 to
.eta..sup.5-cycloalkadienyl-type moiety, wherein 13 to
.eta..sup.5-cycloalkadienyl moieties include cyclopentadienyl
ligands, indenyl ligands, fluorenyl ligands, and the like,
including partially saturated or substituted derivatives or analogs
of any of these. Possible substituents on these ligands include
hydrogen, therefore the description "substituted derivatives
thereof" in this disclosure comprises partially saturated ligands
such as tetrahydroindenyl, tetrahydrofluorenyl, octahydrofluorenyl,
partially saturated indenyl, partially saturated fluorenyl,
substituted partially saturated indenyl, substituted partially
saturated fluorenyl, and the like.
[0030] In an embodiment, a catalyst system suitable for the
preparation of a POL-IP comprises at least two
metallocene-containing compounds. Nonlimiting examples of
metallocene-containing compounds suitable for use in this
disclosure are described in more detail in U.S. Pat. Nos.
4,939,217; 5,191,132; 5,210,352; 5,347,026; 5,399,636; 5,401,817;
5,420,320; 5,436,305; 5,451,649; 5,496,781; 5,498,581; 5,541,272;
5,554,795; 5,563,284; 5,565,592; 5,571,880; 5,594,078; 5,631,203;
5,631,335; 5,654,454; 5,668,230; 5,705,478; 5,705,579; 6,187,880;
6,509,427; 7,026,494, and U.S. Patent App. Nos. 20100190926 A1 and
20120059134, each of which is incorporated by reference herein in
its entirety. Other processes to prepare metallocene compounds
suitable for use in this disclosure have been reported in
references such as: Koppl, A. Alt, H. G. J. Mol. Catal. A. 2001,
165, 23; Kajigaeshi, S.; Kadowaki, T.; Nishida, A.; Fujisaki, S.
The Chemical Society of Japan, 1986, 59, 97; Alt, H. G.; Jung, M.;
Kehr, G. J. Organomet. Chem. 1998, 562, 153-181; and Alt, H. G.;
Jung, M. J. Organomet. Chem. 1998, 568, 87-112; each of which is
incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. The following
treatises also describe such methods: Wailes, P. C.; Coutts, R. S.
P.; Weigold, H. in Organometallic Chemistry of Titanium, Zirconium,
and Hafnium, Academic; New York, 1974.; Cardin, D. J.; Lappert, M.
F.; and Raston, C. L.; Chemistry of Organo-Zirconium and -Hafnium
Compounds; Halstead Press; New York, 1986. In an embodiment, the
POL-IP is prepared using a catalyst system comprising two
metallocene-containing compounds and may be characterized as a dual
metallocene polymer or a dual metallocene resin. In an embodiment
such dual-metallocene catalysts may be used to prepare bimodal or
bimodal-like resins of the type disclosed herein.
[0031] In an embodiment, the dual metallocene catalyst used for
preparation of the POL-IP comprises an unbridged metallocene,
designated MTE-A. In an embodiment, MTE-A is a compound that may be
characterized by one of general formulas 1 or 2:
##STR00001##
where each X is independently F, Cl, Br, I, methyl, benzyl, phenyl,
H, BH.sub.4, a hydrocarbyloxide group having up to 20 carbon atoms,
a hydrocarbylamino group having up to 20 carbon atoms, a
trihydrocarbylsilyl group having up to 20 carbon atoms, OBR'.sub.2
wherein R' may be an alkyl group having up to 12 carbon atoms or an
aryl group having up to 12 carbon atoms, and SO.sub.3R'', wherein
R'' may be an alkyl group having up to 12 carbon atoms or an aryl
group having up to 12 carbon atoms; Y is a CR.sub.2 or SiR.sub.2
group where R is hydrogen or a hydrocarbyl group; Cp.sup.A,
Cp.sup.B, Cp.sup.C, and Cp.sup.D are each independently a
substituted or unsubstituted cyclopentadienyl group, indenyl group,
or flourenyl group and where any substituent on Cp.sup.A, Cp.sup.B,
Cp.sup.C, and Cp.sup.D can be H, a hydrocarbyl group having up to
18 carbon atoms or a hydrocarbylsilyl group having up to 18 carbon
atoms. In an embodiment, MTE-A is a dinuclear compound wherein each
metal moiety has the same structural characteristic described
previously herein.
[0032] In an embodiment, the dual metallocene catalyst used for
preparation of the POL-IP further comprises a bridged metallocene
compound hereinafter designated MTE-B. In an embodiment, MTE-B can
be characterized by one of general formulas 3 or 4:
##STR00002##
where M is Ti, Zr or Hf; each X is independently F, Cl, Br, I,
methyl, phenyl, benzyl, H, BH.sub.4, a hydrocarbyloxide group
having up to 20 carbon atoms, a hydrocarbylamino group having up to
20 carbon atoms, a trihydrocarbylsilyl group having up to 20 carbon
atoms, OBR'.sub.2 wherein R' may be an alkyl group having up to 12
carbon atoms or an aryl group having up to 12 carbon atoms, or
SO.sub.3R'' wherein R'' may be an alkyl group having up to 12
carbon atoms or an aryl group having up to 12 carbon atoms; Y is a
CR.sub.2, SiR.sub.2, or R.sub.2CCR.sub.2 group which may be linear
or cyclic and where R is hydrogen or a hydrocarbyl group; Cp.sup.A,
Cp.sup.B, Cp.sup.C, and Cp.sup.D are each independently a
substituted or unsubstituted cyclopentadienyl group, indenyl group,
or flourenyl group and where any substituent on Cp.sup.A, Cp.sup.B,
Cp.sup.C, and Cp.sup.D can be H, a hydrocarbyl group having up to
18 carbon atoms or a hydrocarbylsilyl group having up to 18 carbon
atoms. E represents a bridging group which may comprise (i) a
cyclic or heterocyclic moiety having up to 18 carbon atoms, (ii) a
group represented by the general formula E.sup.AR.sup.3AR.sup.4A,
wherein E.sup.A is C, Si, Ge, or B, and R.sup.3A and R.sup.4A are
independently H or a hydrocarbyl group having up to 18 carbon
atoms, (iii) a group represented by the general formula
--CR.sup.3BR.sup.4BCR.sup.3CR.sup.4C--, wherein R.sup.3B, R.sup.4B,
R.sup.3C, and R.sup.4C are independently H or a hydrocarbyl group
having up to 10 carbon atoms, or (iv) a group represented by the
general formula SiR.sub.2--CR.sub.2 where X is Si or C and R is a
hydrogen or hydrocarbyl group; or
--SiR.sup.3DR.sup.4D--SiR.sup.3ER.sup.4E--, wherein R.sup.3D,
R.sup.4D, R.sup.3E, and R.sup.4E are independently H or a
hydrocarbyl group having up to 10 carbon atoms, and wherein at
least one of R.sup.3A, R.sup.3B, R.sup.4A, R.sup.4B, R.sup.3C,
R.sup.4C, R.sup.3D, R.sup.4D, R.sup.3E, R.sup.4E, or the
substituent on Cp, Cp.sub.1, or Cp.sub.2, is (1) a terminal alkenyl
group having up to 12 carbon atoms or (2) a dinuclear compound
wherein each metal moiety has the same structural characteristic as
MTE-B.
[0033] The POL-IP may comprise additives. Examples of additives
include, but are not limited to, antistatic agents, colorants,
stabilizers, nucleators, surface modifiers, pigments, slip agents,
antiblocks, tackifiers, polymer processing aids, and combinations
thereof. Such additives may be used singularly or in combination
and may be contacted with the polymer before, during, or after
preparation of the POL-IP as described herein. Such additives may
be added via any suitable technique, for example during an
extrusion or compounding step such as during pelletization or
subsequent processing into an end use article.
[0034] In an embodiment, the POL-IP comprises polyethylene. For
example the POL-IP may comprise a polyethylene homopolymer. It is
to be understood that an inconsequential amount of comonomer may be
present in the polymers disclosed herein and the polymer still be
considered a homopolymer. Herein an inconsequential amount of a
comonomer refers to an amount that does not substantively affect
the properties of the polymer disclosed herein. For example a
comonomer can be present in an amount of less than about 0.5 wt. %,
0.1 wt. %, or 0.01 wt. % based on the total weight of polymer.
[0035] In an alternative embodiment, the POL-IP comprises a
polyethylene copolymer. Examples of suitable comonomers include
without limitation unsaturated hydrocarbons having from 3 to 20
carbon atoms such as propylene, 1-butene, 1-pentene, 1-hexene,
3-methyl-1-butene, 4-methyl-1-pentene, 1-heptene, 1-octene,
1-nonene, 1-decene, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments the
POL-IP is copolymer of ethylene and 1-hexene. The applicability of
the aspects and features disclosed herein to linear olefin polymers
other than ethylene (e.g., propylene and 1-butylene) and olefin
copolymers are also contemplated.
[0036] A POL-IP of the type described herein may be a multimodal
resin. Herein, the "modality" of a polymer resin refers to the form
of its molecular weight distribution curve, i.e., the appearance of
the graph of the polymer weight fraction as a function of its
molecular weight, as may be displayed by, for example, gel
permeation chromatography (GPC). The polymer weight fraction refers
to the weight fraction of molecules of a given size. A polymer
having a molecular weight distribution curve showing a single peak
may be referred to as a unimodal polymer, a polymer having a curve
showing two distinct peaks may be referred to as bimodal or a
bimodal-like polymer, a polymer having a curve showing three
distinct peaks may be referred to as trimodal polymer, etc.
Polymers having molecular weight distribution curves showing more
than one peak may be collectively referred to as multimodal
polymers or resins. It is acknowledged that, in some instances, a
multimodal polymer may appear to have a single peak via, for
example, GPC analysis, when in fact the polymer itself is
multimodal. In such instances, overlap of peaks may obscure the
presence of other peaks and may imply unimodality, when in fact
multimodality is a more accurate representation of the nature of
the polymer or polymers.
[0037] In an embodiment, the POL-IP is characterized as a
bimodal-like resin. Such a bimodal-like resin may show two peaks in
a GPC profile, but is different from the conventional bimodal
resins. A GPC of a POL-IP of the type described herein may display
the following identifiable features (i) a peak attributable to a
higher molecular weight (HMW) component and (ii) a peak
attributable to a lower molecular weight (LMW) component where the
peak attributable to the HMW component and LMW component are not
base line separated.
[0038] In an embodiment, the LMW component is present in the POL-IP
in an amount ranging from about 70 weight percent (wt. %) to about
97 wt. %, alternatively from about 75 wt. % to about 95 wt. %, or
alternatively from about 80 wt. % to about 90 wt. %. In an
embodiment, the HMW component is present in the POL-IP in an amount
ranging from about 3 wt. % to about 30 wt. %, alternatively from
about 5 wt. % to about 25 wt. %, or alternatively from about 5 wt.
% to about 20 wt. %. The individual components of the polymer
composition can be obtained by deconvoluting a GPC of the polymer
(i.e. POL-IP) as described in U.S. Patent Publication No.
20070298508 which is incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety.
[0039] In an embodiment, the POL-IP has a weight average molecular
weight (M.sub.W) of from about 260 kg/mol to about 360 kg/mol,
alternatively from about 280 kg/mol to about 350 kg/mol, or
alternatively from about 290 kg/mol to about 340 kg/mol. In an
embodiment, the POL-IP has a number average molecular weight
(M.sub.n) of from about 12 kg/mol to about 26 kg/mol, alternatively
from about 13 kg/mol to about 25 kg/mol, or alternatively from
about 14 kg/mol to about 24 kg/mol. In an embodiment, the POL-IP
has a z-average molecular weight (M.sub.z) of from about 1500
kg/mol to about 2500 kg/mol, alternatively from about 1550 kg/mol
to about 2400 kg/mol, or alternatively from about 1600 kg/mol to
about 2350 kg/mol. The weight average molecular weight describes
the molecular weight distribution of a polymer composition and is
calculated according to equation 1:
M _ w = i N i M i 2 i N i M i ( 1 ) ##EQU00001##
where N.sub.i is the number of molecules of molecular weight
M.sub.i. The molecular weight averages may be expressed in kilogram
per mole (g/mol) or kiloDaltons and are determined by gel
permeation chromatography. The number average molecular weight is
the common average of the molecular weights of the individual
polymers calculated by measuring the molecular weight of n polymer
molecules, summing the weights, and dividing by n.
M _ n = i N i M i i N i ( 2 ) ##EQU00002##
The z-average molecular weight is a higher order molecular weight
average which is calculated according to equation (3)
M.sub.z=.SIGMA.n.sub.iM.sub.i.sup.3/.SIGMA.n.sub.iM.sub.i.sup.2(kg
mol.sup.-1) (3)
where n.sub.i is the amount of substance of species i and M.sub.i
is the molar mass of species.
[0040] The POL-IP may further be characterized by a molecular
weight distribution (MWD) for the entire polymer of from about 10
to about 26, alternatively from about 11 to about 25, or
alternatively from about 12 to about 24. The POL-IP may further be
characterized by a MWD for the HMW component of from about 1.3 to
about 2, alternatively from about 1.4 to about 1.9, or
alternatively from about 1.5 to about 1.9. The POL-IP may further
be characterized by a MWD for the LMW component of from about 4 to
about 9, alternatively from about 4.5 to about 9, or alternatively
from about 5 to about 8. The MWD refers to the ratio of the weight
average M.sub.w to M.sub.n, which is also referred to as the
polydispersity index (PDI) or more simply as polydispersity.
[0041] The POL-IP may further be characterized as having an
M.sub.zM.sub.w of from about 5 to about 9, alternatively from about
5.5 to about 8.5, or alternatively from about 5.7 to about 8.
[0042] The POL-IP may be characterized by the degree of branching
present in the individual components and/or in the composition as a
whole. Short chain branching (SCB) is known for its effects on
polymer properties such as stiffness, tensile properties, heat
resistance, hardness, permeation resistance, shrinkage, creep
resistance, transparency, stress crack resistance, flexibility,
impact strength, and the solid state properties of semi-crystalline
polymers such as polyethylene. In an embodiment, a polymer of the
type disclosed herein (i.e., POL-IP) is further characterized by a
reverse comonomer branching distribution or reverse short-chain
branching distribution (SCBD) resulting in SCB that occurs
primarily in the HMW component of the polymer. For example from
about 50 percent (%) to about 85% of the SCB may be located within
the HMW component of the POL-IP, alternatively from about 60% to
about 80% or alternatively from about 65% to about 80%. Herein, the
SCBD refers to the number of SCB per 1000 carbon atoms at each
molecular weight across the MWD profile of a polymer.
[0043] In an embodiment, a polymer of the type disclosed herein
(i.e. POL-IP) is characterized by a short-chain branching content
of from about 0.5 to about 3.5 short chain branches per 1000 total
carbon atoms, alternatively from about 0.5 to about 3,
alternatively from about 1 to about 3, or alternatively from about
1 to about 2.5.
[0044] Long chain branching (LCB) exerts its effects on polymer
rheology. A POL-IP may contain from about 0.002 to about 0.2 long
chain branches (LCB) per about 1,000 total carbon atoms,
alternatively from about 0.001 to about 0.1 LCB per about 1,000
total carbon atoms, or alternatively from about 0.003 to about 0.3
LCB per about 1,000 total carbon atoms; wherein the LCB content is
determined by Janzen-Colby Model found in J. Janzen and R. H.
Colby, J. of Molecular Structure, 485, 569 (1999).
[0045] The POL-IP may be characterized as having a density of from
about 0.945 g/cc to about 0.955 g/cc, alternatively from about
0.948 g/cc to about 0.955 g/cc, or alternatively from about 0.950
g/cc to about 0.955 g/cc as determined in accordance with ASTM D
1505.
[0046] The POL-IP may be characterized as having a high-load melt
index (HLMI) of from about 5 g/10 min. to about 12 g/10 min.,
alternatively from about 5 g/10 min. to about 10 g/10 min.,
alternatively from about 6 g/10 min. to about 10 g/10 min., or
alternatively from about 6 g/10 min. to about 9 g/10 min. The HLMI
refers to the amount of a polymer which can be forced through an
extrusion rheometer orifice of 0.0825 inch diameter when subjected
to a force of 21.6 kilograms in ten minutes at 190.degree. C., as
determined in accordance with ASTM D 1238.
[0047] In an embodiment, a POL-IP of the type described herein has
a zero shear viscosity (E.sub.o), in the range of from about
5.times.10.sup.5 Pa-s to about 2.times.10.sup.14 Pa-s,
alternatively from about 5.times.10.sup.5 Pa-s to about
1.5.times.10.sup.14 Pa-s, alternatively from about 6.times.10.sup.5
Pa-s to about 1.5.times.10.sup.14 Pa-s, or alternatively of from
about 6.times.10.sup.5 Pa-s to about 1.3.times.10.sup.14 Pa-s as
determined in accordance with Carreau-Yasuda (CY) model which is
represented by equation (4) when n=0.1818:
E = E o [ 1 + ( T .xi. .gamma. . ) a ] n - 1 a ( 4 )
##EQU00003##
[0048] where
[0049] E=viscosity (Pas)
[0050] {dot over (.gamma.)}=shear rate (1/s)
[0051] a=rheological breadth parameter
[0052] T.sub..xi.=relaxation time (s) [describes the location in
time of the transition region]
[0053] E.sub.o=zero shear viscosity (Pas) [defines the Newtonian
plateau]
[0054] n=power law constant [defines the final slope of the high
shear rate region].
[0055] To facilitate model fitting, the power law constant n is
held at a constant value. Details of the significance and
interpretation of the CY model and derived parameters may be found
in: C. A. Hieber and H. H. Chiang, Rheol. Acta, 28, 321 (1989); C.
A. Hieber and H. H. Chiang, Polym. Eng. Sci., 32, 931 (1992); and
R. B. Bird, R. C. Armstrong and O. Hasseger, Dynamics of Polymeric
Liquids, Volume 1, Fluid Mechanics, 2nd Edition, John Wiley &
Sons (1987), each of which is incorporated by reference herein in
its entirety.
[0056] The zero shear viscosity refers to the viscosity of the
polymeric composition at a zero shear rate and is indicative of the
materials molecular structure. Further, for polymer melts, the zero
shear viscosity is often a useful indicator of processing
attributes such as the melt strength of polymer melts in polymer
processes. For example, the higher the zero shear viscosity, the
better the melt strength.
[0057] In an embodiment, the POL-IP has an "a" value of from about
0.03 to about 0.4, alternatively from about 0.033 to about 0.39,
alternatively from about 0.033 to about 0.385, or alternatively
from about 0.035 to about 0.38 wherein the dynamic complex
viscosity versus frequency scan are fitted to the Carreau-Yasuda
equation with an n=0.1818 value.
[0058] In an embodiment, the POL-IP has an "tau eta" (T.sub..xi.)
value of from about 7 seconds (s) to about 2.times.10.sup.5 s,
alternatively from about 8 s to about 1.8.times.10.sup.5 s,
alternatively from about 8 s to about 1.5.times.10.sup.5 s, or
alternatively from about 9 s to about 1.times.10.sup.5 s wherein
the dynamic complex viscosity versus frequency scan are fitted to
the Carreau-Yasuda equation with an n=0.1818 value.
[0059] In an embodiment, a POL-IP prepared as described herein may
display reduced melt fracture during polymer melt formation and
processing when compared to a typical dual-metallocene catalyzed
polymer. The type, extent, and conditions under which the polymer
melt experiences melt fracture may vary depending on the polymer
microstructure. In an embodiment, a POL-IP of the type disclosed
herein displays a reduced tendency to melt fracture as determined
by measuring the shear stress as a function of shear rate using
capillary rheometry.
[0060] Capillary rheometry is a technique whereby a sample
undergoes extrusion through a die of defined dimensions and the
shear pressure drop across the die is recorded at set volumetric
flow rates. In an embodiment, a POL-IP is the subject of a
capillary extrusion experiment to characterize the melt fracture
behavior of the polymer. The capillary extrusion experiment may be
carried out using any suitable methodology. For example, the
capillary extrusion experiments may be carried out at 190.degree.
C., using a dual-bore capillary rheometer (Rosand RH-7, Malvern)
operated in constant speed mode. A capillary die with 1 mm diameter
and of 16 mm length and an orifice die with 1 mm diameter may be
used. The entrance angle for the dies can be 180.degree., and the
contraction ratio from the reservoir barrel to the die may be about
15. A step shear rate test can be performed for a given sample to
obtain the apparent wall shear rate ({dot over (.gamma.)}.sub.A)
and apparent wall shear stress (.sigma..sub.A) according to
equation 5:
.gamma. . A = 4 Q .pi. R 3 and .sigma. A = R 2 .DELTA. P L ( 5 )
##EQU00004##
where R is the capillary radius, .DELTA.P is the measured pressure
drop across the capillary, L is the capillary length, and Q is the
imposed flow rate. Bagley and Rabinowitsch corrections are applied
to obtain more realistic shear stress value at the wall
(.sigma..sub.W) and shear rate ({dot over (.gamma.)}.sub.W)
respectively according to equation 6:
.sigma. W = R 2 ( .DELTA. P - P o ) L and .gamma. . w = ( 3 + b 4 )
.gamma. . A ( 6 ) ##EQU00005##
where P.sub.o is measured pressure for the orifice die and b=d(log
{dot over (.gamma.)}.sub.A)/d(log .sigma..sub.W). Extrudates can be
collected at different shear rates and imaged using an optical
microscope to identify onset critical stresses and shear rates of
the melt fractures.
[0061] In an embodiment, POL-IPs display a smooth to matte
transition that occurs at a critical stress of from about 20 kPa to
about 85 kPa, alternatively from about 30 kPa to about 80 kPa or
alternatively from about 35 kPa to about 70 kPa. The critical
stress refers to the wall shear stresses that serves as the trigger
for the onset of a particular extrudate distortion or melt
fracture. The smooth to matte transition may also be referred to as
surface melt fracture (SMF) or the sharkskin melt fracture (SSMF).
The onset of the smooth to matte transition is a polymer
instability that originates at the exit of a die during extrusion
of melted polymer (i.e., melt) through the die. The smooth to matte
transition may be attributable to the acceleration (high stretching
rate) of the melt as it exits the die. Without wishing to be
limited by theory, it is hypothesized that melt leaving the die in
the neighborhood of the wall experiences a large, rapid, tensile
deformation as the velocity field adjusts from the no-slip boundary
condition to the free-surface condition. The large stresses on the
free surface cause periodic cracks that result into small amplitude
periodic distortions termed sharkskin, which is a visible surface
defect present in the product being produced from the die (e.g.,
pipe). The critical stress is related to the onset of the smooth to
matte transition. In an embodiment, a POL-IP may display a
smooth-to-matte transition that occurs at a critical shear rate of
from about 1.5 s.sup.-1 to about 17 s.sup.-1, alternatively from
about 1.2 s.sup.-1 to about 16.5 s.sup.-1, alternatively from about
1.8 s.sup.-1 to about 16.5 s.sup.-1, alternatively from about 1.4
s.sup.-1 to about 16 s.sup.-1, or alternatively from about 1.6
s.sup.-1 to about 18 s.sup.-1. Herein, the shear rate refers to the
extrusion speed that serves as the trigger for the onset of a
particular extrudate distortion or melt fracture.
[0062] In an embodiment, the POL-IPs display a magnitude of
slip-stick fracture (SSF) at from about 200 psi to about 1200 psi,
alternatively from about 217 psi to about 1100 psi, alternatively
from about 210 psi to about 1100 psi, or alternatively from about
220 psi to about 1000 psi. SSF is believed to occur when the shear
stress at the die wall exceeds the critical stress. When this
occurs, the melt jerks forward as a plug, relieving the pressure
behind it and allowing the oriented chain segments to recoil
somewhat. Once the pressure is relieved, the rate of movement of
the polymer slows and it re-establishes the non-slip boundary
condition. During SSF the pressure within the die fluctuates and
the polymer output is unsteady. The magnitude of SSF pressure
oscillation is recorded and correlated with the onset of melt
fractures.
[0063] A POL-IP may display improved processability as indicated by
the N.sub.--100 value which is the slope viscosity curve at 100
rad/s frequency. The N.sub.--100 is often a useful indicator of
output in polymer processes. For example, a POL-IP may have a
N.sub.--100 value of from about 0.2 to about 0.5, alternatively
from about 0.23 to about 0.49, or alternatively from about 0.25 to
about 0.47.
[0064] Additional improvements in processing may include a decrease
in the head pressure. The viscosity at 100 rad/s is a useful
indicator that correlates with the extrusion pressure in polymer
processes. For example, a POL-IP may have a viscosity at 100 rad/s
value of from 2.times.10.sup.3 Pas to about 2.4.times.10.sup.3 Pas,
alternatively from about 1.9.times.10.sup.3 Pas to about
2.3.times.10.sup.3 Pas, alternatively from about 1.8.times.10.sup.3
Pas to about 2.2.times.10.sup.3 Pas.
[0065] In an embodiment, the POL-IP is contacted with one or
polymer processing aids (PPAs) to form a POL-IP composition or
POL-IPC. A PPA functions to improve the processing characteristics
of the polymer and to eliminate surface related imperfections that
occur during processing. Any suitable PPA may be contacted with the
POL-IP to form a composition suitable for use in this disclosure.
Examples of PPAs suitable for use with POL-IPs include without
limitation fluoroelastomers, polyethylene glycol, low molecular
weight polyethylene waxes and combinations thereof. In an aspect,
the PPA is a fluoroelastomer. POL-IPCs may display processing
and/or melt fracture characteristics that are similar to those
previously described herein for the POL-IP. In some embodiments,
the processing and/or melt fracture characteristics of the POL-IPCs
are improved with respect to that of the POL-IP. In an embodiment a
POL-IP of the type disclosed herein is characterized by the ability
to form a composition with a PPA (e.g., fluoroelastomer) (i.e., to
form a POL-IPC) that has improved processing and/or melt fracture
characteristics.
[0066] POL-IPs as described herein may be formed into various
articles, including but not limited to, household containers,
utensils, film products, drums, fuel tanks, pipes, geomembranes,
and liners. In an aspect, the POL-IP of this disclosure is
fabricated into a pipe by a plastics shaping process such as
extrusion.
[0067] Pipe extrusion in the simplest terms is performed by
melting, conveying polyethylene pellets into a particular shape
(generally an annular shape), and solidifying that shape during a
cooling process. There are numerous steps to pipe extrusion as
provided below. The polymer feedstock can either be a pre-pigmented
polyethylene resin or it can be a mixture of natural polyethylene
and color concentrate (referred to as "Salt and Pepper blends"). In
North America, the most common feedstock for pipe extrusion is
"Salt and Pepper blends." In Europe and other areas of the world,
the most common feedstock for pipe extrusion is pre-pigmented
polyethylene resin. Feedstock is rigidly controlled to obtain the
proper finished product (pipe) and ultimate consumer
specifications.
[0068] The feedstock is then fed into an extruder. The most common
extruder system for pipe production is a single-screw extruder. The
purpose of the extruder is to melt, convey, and homogenize the
polyethylene pellets. Extrusion temperatures typically range from
178.degree. C. to 250.degree. C. depending upon the extruder screw
design and flow properties of the polyethylene.
[0069] The molten polymer is then passed through a die. The die
distributes the homogenous polyethylene polymer melt around a solid
mandrel, which forms it into an annular shape. Adjustments can be
made at the die exit to try to compensate for polymer sag through
the rest of the process. In order for the pipe to meet the proper
dimensional parameters, the pipe is then sized. There are two
methods for sizing: vacuum or pressure. Both employ different
techniques and different equipment.
[0070] Next, the pipe is cooled and solidified in the desired
dimensions. Cooling is accomplished by the use of several water
tanks where the outside pipe is either submerged or water is
sprayed on the pipe exterior. The pipe is cooled from the outside
surface to the inside surface. The interior wall and inside
surfaces of the pipe can stay very hot for a long period of time,
as polyethylene is a poor conductor of heat. Finally, the pipe is
printed and either coiled or cut to length.
EXAMPLES
[0071] Molecular weight and molecular weight distributions were
obtained using a PL-GPC 220 (Polymer Labs, an Agilent Company)
system equipped with a IR4 detector (Polymer Char, Spain) and three
Styragel HMW-6E GPC columns (Waters, Mass.) running at 145.degree.
C. The flow rate of the mobile phase 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene (TCB)
that contains 0.5 g/L 2,6-di-t-butyl-4-methylphenol (BHT) was set
at 1 mL/min and the concentration of polymer solutions was
generally kept in the range of 1.0-1.5 mg/mL, depending on the
molecular weight. Sample preparation was conducted at 150.degree.
C. for nominally 4 h with occasional and gentle agitation before
the solutions being transferred to sample vials for injection. The
integral calibration method was used to deduce molecular weights
and molecular weight distributions using a Chevron Phillips
Chemicals Company's HDPE polyethylene resin, MARLEX BHB5003, as the
broad standard. The integral table of the broad standard was
pre-determined in a separate experiment with SEC-MALS.
[0072] For the dynamic frequency sweep measurement, the PE pellet
samples (i.e. POL-IPs) were compression molded at 182.degree. C.
for a total of 3 minutes. The samples were allowed to melt at a
relatively low pressure for 1 minute and then subjected to a high
molding pressure for additional 2 minutes. The molded samples were
then quenched in a cold (room temperature) press, and then 25.4 mm
diameter disks were stamped out of the molded slabs for the
measurement in a rotational rheometer. The measurements were
performed in parallel plates of 25 mm in diameter at 190.degree. C.
using a controlled-stress rheometer equipped with an air bearing
system (Physica MCR-500, Anton Paar). The test chamber of the
rheometer was purged with nitrogen to minimize oxidative
degradation. After thermal equilibration, the specimens were
squeezed between the plates to a 1.6 mm thickness, and the excess
was trimmed. The dynamic frequency sweep test was performed with
1.about.10% strain in the LVE regime at angular frequencies from
0.0316 to 316 rad/s. Smaller strain values were used for high
viscosity samples to avoid overloading the torque transducer and to
keep within the linear viscoelastic limits of the sample. The
instrument automatically reduces the strain at high frequencies if
necessary to keep from overloading the torque transducer. These
data were fit to the Carreau-Yasuda equation to determine zero
shear viscosity (.eta..sub.0), relaxation time (.tau.), and a
measure of the breadth of the relaxation time distribution
(CY-a).
[0073] Melt fracture behavior was determined by capillary
rheometry. Capillary extrusion experiments were carried out at
190.degree. C., using a dual-bore capillary rheometer (Rosand RH-7,
Malvern) operated in constant speed mode. A capillary die with 1 mm
diameter and of 16 mm length and an orifice die with 1 mm diameter
were used throughout this study. The entrance angle for the dies
was 180.sup..degree., and the contraction ratio from the reservoir
barrel to the die was about 15. Bagley and Rabinowitsch corrections
were applied to obtain steady shear stresses as a function of shear
rate. The stresses obtained from the capillary experiments were
compared with the magnitude of complex moduli measured from the
dynamic frequency sweep tests. The extrudates were collected at
different shear rates and imaged using an optical microscope to
identify onset and evolution of the melt fractures.
Example 1
[0074] Four POL-IPs of the type disclosed herein were prepared as
follows and designated Samples 1-4: Samples 1-3 were produced using
the following polymerization procedure. All polymerization runs
were conducted in a one-gallon stainless steel reactor with 1.8 L
of isobutane. Both metallocene solutions of MTE-A and MTE-B were
prepared at about 1 mg/mL in toluene. The Structures of MTE-A and
MTE-B utilized in preparing the samples is shown in FIG. 1. Alkyl
aluminum (triisobutylaluminum, Tiba), fluorided alumina, premixed
MTE-A and MTE-B at the given ratio were added in that order through
a charge port while slowly venting isobutane vapor. The charge port
was closed and isobutane was added. The contents of the reactor
were stirred and heated to the desired run temperature of about
92.degree. C., and ethylene was then introduced into the reactor
with 1-hexene and hydrogen. Ethylene and hydrogen were fed on
demand at the specified weight ratio to maintain the target reactor
pressure of 390 psig pressure for 45 min. The reactor was
maintained at the desired temperature throughout the run by an
automated heating-cooling system. Polymerization conditions and
polymer information for Samples 1-3 are summarized in Table 1.
[0075] Sample 4 was produced using the following polymerization
procedure. All polymerization runs were conducted in a one-gallon
stainless steel reactor with 1.8 L of isobutane. Both metallocene
solutions of MET-A and MTE-B were prepared at about 1 mg/mL in
toluene. Alkyl aluminum (triisobutylaluminum, Tiba), sulfated
alumina, premixed MTE-A and MTE-B at the given ratio were added in
that order through a charge port while slowly venting isobutane
vapor. The charge port was closed and isobutane was added. The
contents of the reactor were stirred and heated to the desired run
temperature of about 92.degree. C., and ethylene was then
introduced into the reactor with 1-hexene and hydrogen. Ethylene
and hydrogen were fed on demand at the specified weight ratio to
maintain the target reactor pressure of 390 psig pressure for 40
min. The reactor was maintained at the desired temperature
throughout the run by an automated heating-cooling system.
Polymerization conditions and polymer information are summarized in
Table 2. Two batches of the polymer were produced and combined.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Solid Sample Metallocene Metallocene
MTE-A/MTE-B H.sub.2/Ethylene PE Density No (I) (II) (mg/mg) (ppm,
wt) (g) HLMI (g/cc) Mn/1000 Mw/1000 Mz/1000 1 MTE-A MTE-B 1.2 mg/.7
mg 100 369 9.7 0.9507 31.9 245.0 1597.5 2 MTE-A MTE-B 1.2 mg/1.3 mg
150 447 7.1 0.9497 14.1 322.1 1854.7 3 MTE-A MTE-B 1.2 mg/1.4 mg
175 374 7.8 0.9517 17.5 291.5 1364.4 Polymerization condition: 92
C/390 psi, 45 min, 5 g 1-hexene, 300 mg flourided alumina, 0.8 mmol
Tiba
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Sample Metallocene Metallocene MTE-A/MTE-B
H2/Ethylene Solid No. (I) (II) (mg/mg) (ppm, wt) PE HLMI Density
Mn/1000 Mw/1000 Mz/1000 4 MTE-A MTE-B 1.2 mg/1.1 mg 200 147 8.4
0.9482 22.0 294.1 1648.0 Polymerization condition: 92 C/390 psi, 40
min, 6 g 1-hexene, 200 mg sulfated alumina, 0.8 mmol Tiba
[0076] The MWD profiles of Samples 1-4 are presented in FIG. 2.
Also shown in FIG. 2 is the MWD profile for comparative Sample A
which is MARLEX H525 high density polyethylene which is a
chromium-based resin (Cr-based resin) commercially available from
Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LP.
[0077] The zero-shear viscosity, relaxation time and rheological
breadth of the samples was determined and this data is presented in
Table 3.
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 Zero Shear Relaxation Rheological Sample
Viscosity (Pa s) Time (s) Breadth (CY-a) 1 5.56E+05 7.95E+00 0.3806
2 4.31E+13 5.83E+04 0.0341 3 1.66E+06 2.32E+01 0.2902 4 6.14E+06
6.42E+01 0.1866 A 9.14E+06 9.95E+01 0.1728
[0078] Samples 1-4 displayed broad rheological distributions and
high zero-shear viscosities suggesting the samples melt strength
and procesability is similar to that of Cr-based resins.
Additionally, FIG. 3 which is a graph of the viscosity as a
function of frequency demonstrates that Samples 1-4 displayed
viscosity curves similar to that of Cr-based resins.
Example 2
[0079] The melt fracture behavior of the POL-IPs was investigated.
Specifically the melt fracture behavior of Samples 1-4 were
assessed by capillary rheometry and this data is presented in Table
4. Samples 1B and Sample 2B were compositions prepared using the
polymer of samples 1 and 2 respectively and a polymer processing
aid (PPA) comprising fluoro-polymer or fluoro-elastomer processing
aids.
TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 Smooth to Matte Slip-Stick transition Sample
Stress Shear Stress Shear Magnitude No. (kPa) Rate (s.sup.-1) (kPa)
Rate (s.sup.-1) (psi) 1 36.5 2.12 201.7 357 217.2 1B 47.7 4.89 --
-- -- 2 77.7 16.6 271.8 323 1103.1 2B -- -- 349.1 1450 423.7 3 38.3
1.86 202.9 295 409.1 4 <30.2 <1.21 242.5 350 735.9 A 35.7
1.89 193 353 84
[0080] The results demonstrate that the magnitude of slip-stick
oscillation of Samples 1-4 (i.e., POL-IPs) is larger than that of
the Cr-based resin (i.e., Sample A) indicating that Samples 1-4
have good melt fracture potential. Samples 1-4 displayed a
relatively low onset of stresses of smooth-to-matte transition
which is similar to that of Sample A and may be attributable to the
presence of the HMW tails in these samples. Overall the melt
fracture behavior of Samples 1-4 is expected to be similar to that
of the Cr-based resin.
[0081] Further the Samples 1B and 2B containing a PPA had melt
fracture behavior that was characterized by a delay in or the
disappearance of the smooth-to-matte transition and a reduction in
or disappearance of the slip-stick transition.
Additional Disclosure
[0082] The following enumerated embodiments are provided as
non-limiting examples.
[0083] A first embodiment which is a metallocene-catalyzed polymer
comprising (i) a higher molecular weight component and (ii) a lower
molecular weight component wherein the polymer has a polydispersity
index of from about 10 to about 26; a zero shear viscosity of from
about 5.times.10.sup.5 Pas to about 2.times.10.sup.14 Pas and a
smooth-to-matte transition critical stress of from about 20 kPa to
about 85 kPa at a shear rate of from about 1.5 s.sup.-1 to about 17
s.sup.-1.
[0084] A second embodiment which is the polymer of the first
embodiment wherein the higher molecular weight component is present
in an amount of from about 3 wt. % to about 30 wt. %.
[0085] A third embodiment which is the polymer of any of the first
through second embodiments wherein the lower molecular weight
component is present in an amount of from about 70 wt. % to about
97 wt. %.
[0086] A fourth embodiment which the polymer of any of the first
through third embodiments having a weight average molecular weight
of from about 260 kg/mol to about 350 kg/mol.
[0087] A fifth embodiment which is the polymer of any of the first
through fourth embodiments having a number average molecular weight
of from about 12 kg/mol to about 26 kg/mol.
[0088] A sixth embodiment which is the polymer of any of the first
through fifth embodiments having a z-average molecular weight of
from about 1500 kg/mol to about 2500 kg/mol.
[0089] A seventh embodiment which is the polymer of any of the
first through sixth embodiments having a short-chain branching
content of from about 0.5 SCB/1000 C. to about 3.5 SCB/1000 C.
wherein from about 50% to about 80% of the short chain branches are
located in the higher molecular weight component.
[0090] An eighth embodiment which is the polymer of any of the
first through seventh embodiments having a long-chain branching
content of from about 0.002 branches per 1000 carbon to about 0.2
branches per 1000 carbon.
[0091] A ninth embodiment which is the polymer of any of the first
through eighth embodiments having a high load melt index of from
about 5 to about 12.
[0092] A tenth embodiment which is the polymer of any of the first
through ninth embodiments having a CY-a parameter of from about
0.03 to about 0.4.
[0093] An eleventh embodiment which is the polymer of any of the
first through tenth embodiments having a tau eta value of from
about 7 s to about 2.0.times.10.sup.5 s.
[0094] A twelfth embodiment which is the polymer of any of the
first through eleventh embodiments having a magnitude of slip-stick
fracture of from about 200 psi to about 1200 psi.
[0095] A thirteenth embodiment which is the polymer of any of the
first through twelfth embodiments having an N.sub.--100 value of
from about 0.2 to about 0.5.
[0096] A fourteenth embodiment which is the polymer of any of the
first through thirteenth embodiments having a viscosity at 100
rad/s of from 2.times.10.sup.3 Pas to about 2.4.times.10.sup.3
Pas.
[0097] A fifteenth embodiment which is a composition comprising the
polymer of any of the first through fourteenth embodiments and a
polymer processing aid.
[0098] A sixteenth embodiment which is the polymer of the fifteenth
embodiment wherein the polymer processing aid comprises
fluoroelastomers, polyethylene glycol, low molecular weight waxes,
or combinations thereof.
[0099] A seventeenth embodiment which is an article made from the
polymer of any of the first through sixteenth embodiments.
[0100] An eighteenth embodiment which is an article made from the
composition of the fifteenth embodiment.
[0101] A nineteenth embodiment which is a dual metallocene
catalyzed polyethylene comprising (i) a higher molecular weight
component and (ii) a lower molecular weight component wherein the
polymer has a polydispersity index of from about 10 to about 26; a
zero shear viscosity of from about 5.times.10.sup.5 Pas to about
2.times.10.sup.14 Pas and a smooth-to-matte transition stress of
from about 20 kPa to about 85 kPa at a shear rate of from about 1.5
s.sup.-1 to about 17 s.sup.-1.
[0102] A twentieth embodiment which is a composition comprising the
dual metallocene catalyzed polyethylene of the nineteenth
embodiment and a fluoroelastomer.
[0103] A twenty-first embodiment which is a pipe made from the
composition of any of the twentieth through twenty-first
embodiments.
[0104] A twenty-second embodiment which is the polymer of any of
the first through eighteenth embodiments wherein the polymer is a
copolymer of ethylene and 1-hexene.
[0105] While embodiments of the disclosure have been shown and
described, modifications thereof can be made without departing from
the spirit and teachings of the disclosure. The embodiments
described herein are exemplary only, and are not intended to be
limiting. Many variations and modifications of the disclosure
disclosed herein are possible and are within the scope of the
disclosure. Where numerical ranges or limitations are expressly
stated, such express ranges or limitations should be understood to
include iterative ranges or limitations of like magnitude falling
within the expressly stated ranges or limitations (e.g., from about
1 to about 10 includes, 2, 3, 4, etc.; greater than 0.10 includes
0.11, 0.12, 0.13, etc.). For example, whenever a numerical range
with a lower limit, N.sub.L, and an upper limit, N.sub.U, is
disclosed, any number falling within the range is specifically
disclosed. In particular, the following numbers within the range
are specifically disclosed: N=N.sub.L+k*(N.sub.U-N.sub.L), wherein
k is a variable ranging from 1 percent to 100 percent with a 1
percent increment, i.e., k is 1 percent, 2 percent, 3 percent, 4
percent, 5 percent, . . . 50 percent, 51 percent, 52 percent, . . .
, 95 percent, 96 percent, 97 percent, 98 percent, 99 percent, or
100 percent. Moreover, any numerical range defined by two N numbers
as defined in the above is also specifically disclosed. Use of the
term "optionally" with respect to any element of a claim is
intended to mean that the subject element is required, or
alternatively, is not required. Both alternatives are intended to
be within the scope of the claim. Use of broader terms such as
comprises, includes, having, etc. should be understood to provide
support for narrower terms such as consisting of, consisting
essentially of, comprised substantially of, etc.
[0106] Accordingly, the scope of protection is not limited by the
description set out above but is only limited by the claims which
follow, that scope including all equivalents of the subject matter
of the claims. Each and every claim is incorporated into the
specification as an embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, the
claims are a further description and are an addition to the
embodiments of the present disclosure. The discussion of a
reference herein is not an admission that it is prior art to the
present disclosure, especially any reference that may have a
publication date after the priority date of this application. The
disclosures of all patents, patent applications, and publications
cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference, to the extent
that they provide exemplary, procedural or other details
supplementary to those set forth herein.
* * * * *