U.S. patent application number 14/383363 was filed with the patent office on 2015-03-19 for rubber composition and tire containing rubber composition.
This patent application is currently assigned to BRIDGESTONE CORPORATION. The applicant listed for this patent is BRIDGESTONE CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Shojiro Kaita, Junko Matsushita, Satoru Tamaki.
Application Number | 20150080525 14/383363 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49116343 |
Filed Date | 2015-03-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150080525 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Matsushita; Junko ; et
al. |
March 19, 2015 |
RUBBER COMPOSITION AND TIRE CONTAINING RUBBER COMPOSITION
Abstract
Provided is a rubber composition including a rubber component.
The rubber component contains at least a polymer that is a
synthesized polyisoprene or an isoprene copolymer and that has 20%
or less gel fraction.
Inventors: |
Matsushita; Junko;
(Tachikawa-shi, JP) ; Kaita; Shojiro; (Nerima-ku,
JP) ; Tamaki; Satoru; (Kodaira-shi, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
BRIDGESTONE CORPORATION |
Chuo-ku, Tokyo |
|
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
BRIDGESTONE CORPORATION
Chuo-ku, Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
49116343 |
Appl. No.: |
14/383363 |
Filed: |
March 6, 2013 |
PCT Filed: |
March 6, 2013 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2013/001416 |
371 Date: |
September 5, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
524/571 ;
526/340.2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C08L 9/00 20130101; C08K
3/04 20130101; C08L 7/00 20130101; C08L 9/00 20130101; B60C 1/00
20130101; B60C 1/0016 20130101; C08F 36/08 20130101; C08L 9/00
20130101; C08L 7/00 20130101; C08F 4/545 20130101; C08K 3/04
20130101; C08F 36/08 20130101; C08L 7/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
524/571 ;
526/340.2 |
International
Class: |
C08L 9/00 20060101
C08L009/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Mar 7, 2012 |
JP |
2012-050995 |
Claims
1. A rubber composition comprising a rubber component, wherein the
rubber component contains at least a polymer that comprises a
synthesized polyisoprene or an isoprene copolymer and that has 20%
or less gel fraction.
2. The rubber composition according to claim 1, wherein the rubber
component contains the polymer by an amount in a range of 15 mass %
to 100 mass % in total.
3. The rubber composition according to claim 1, wherein the polymer
contains a catalyst residue in an amount of 300 ppm or less.
4. The rubber composition according to claim 1, wherein the polymer
has a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 1.5 million or more
when measured by gel permeation chromatography (GPC).
5. The rubber composition according to claim 1, wherein the polymer
contains nitrogen in an amount of less than 0.02 mass %.
6. The rubber composition according to claim 1, further comprising
a filler, wherein the amount of the filler contained in the rubber
composition is in a range of 10 to 75 mass parts per 100 mass parts
rubber component.
7. A tire containing the rubber composition according to claim
6.
8. A tire comprising a tread member containing the rubber
composition according to claim 6.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a rubber composition and a
tire containing the rubber composition, and in particular, to a
rubber composition that is capable of obtaining a crosslinked
rubber composition with improved durability (i.e., breaking
resistance and abrasion resistance) and a tire containing the
rubber composition.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] In light of the recent social demand for saving energy and
resources, tires are now required to have high durability. To
respond to this demand, rubber materials with high breaking
resistance and abrasion resistance are also desired commonly.
Further, a surge in natural rubber prices has created a need for
developing synthetic rubber that exhibits durability equal to that
of natural rubber.
[0003] To enhance durability of the synthetic rubber, the cis
content of synthetic polyisoprene is conventionally increased to
improve strain-induced crystallinity. Refer, for example, to JP
2006-503935 A (PTL 1) and JP S53-090391 A (PTL2).
[0004] However, the durability of the crosslinked rubber
composition obtained with use of the conventional synthesized
polyisoprene is not sufficient.
CITATION LIST
Patent Literature
[0005] PTL 1: JP 2006-503935 A
[0006] PTL 2: JP S53-090391 A
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
Technical Problem
[0007] The present invention is to provide a rubber composition
that is capable of obtaining a crosslinked rubber composition with
improved durability (i.e., breaking resistance and abrasion
resistance) and a tire containing the rubber composition.
Solution to Problem
[0008] The present inventors considered that the durability of the
crosslinked rubber composition obtained with use of the
conventional synthesized polyisoprene was not sufficient because
gel having a high-molecular weight in high dimensions was contained
in the conventional synthesized polyisoprene.
[0009] The present inventors have found that a rubber composition
including a rubber component containing at least a polymer that is
a synthesized polyisoprene or an isoprene copolymer and that has
20% or less gel fraction provides a crosslinked rubber composition
with improved durability (i.e., breaking resistance and abrasion
resistance) than conventional synthesized rubber, and have made the
present invention.
[0010] Meanwhile, although studies have been conducted on reduction
of the amount of gel in a synthesized polyisoprene (e.g., refer to
U.S. Pat. No. 5,919,876 A), a rubber composition containing a
synthesized polyisoprene with a reduced gel amount has not yet been
studied under the present circumstances.
[0011] The present invention provides a rubber composition
including a rubber component containing at least a polymer that is
a synthesized polyisoprene or an isoprene copolymer and that has
20% or less gel fraction.
[0012] The rubber composition including a rubber component
containing at least a polymer that is a synthesized polyisoprene or
an isoprene copolymer and that has 20% or less gel fraction
provides a crosslinked rubber composition with increased
strain-induced crystallinity and improved durability (i.e.,
breaking resistance and abrasion resistance).
[0013] The phrase "containing at least a polymer" means that the
rubber component contains at least one of the synthesized
polyisoprene and the isoprene copolymer.
[0014] "Synthesized polyisoprene" as used herein refers to an
isoprene homopolymer obtained by polymerizing (or synthesizing)
isoprene monomers. "Isoprene copolymer" as used herein refers to a
copolymer composed of isoprene and a compound other than isoprene.
The isoprene copolymer is obtained by polymerizing (or
synthesizing) isoprene monomers and monomers of a compound other
than isoprene. Both "synthesized polyisoprene" and "isoprene
copolymer" encompass polymers having part of their polymer chains
being denatured.
[0015] The gel fraction (unit: %) as used herein means a value
obtained by: measuring a differential refractive index (RI) Ss
(unit: m second) of a standard sample (gel fraction=0%), which is a
filtrate obtained by passing a THF solution of polymer through a
filter of GPC with a pore size of 0.45 .mu.m; and using a
calibration curve with the concentration (unit: mg/g) of the
polymer in the THF solution on the horizontal axis and the
differential refractive index (RI) Ss (unit: m second) on the
vertical axis. Specifically, the gel fraction is calculated by (i)
passing a THF solution of a target polymer, for which the gel
fraction is to be obtained, through the above filter to measure a
differential refractive index (RI) Sx (unit: m second) of the
solution; (ii) calculating the differential refractive index (RI)
Ss (unit: m second) of the standard sample (gel fraction=0%) of the
concentration (unit: mg/g) of the THF solution containing the
target polymer, for which the gel fraction is to be obtained, using
the calibration curve prepared in advance; and (iii) substituting
the measured Sx and the calculated Ss into the following expression
(X):
Gel fraction (%)={(Ss-Sx)/Ss}.times.100 (X)
[0016] The rubber composition of the present invention preferably
has a total amount of the polymer in the rubber component in an
amount of 15 mass % to 100 mass %.
[0017] The rubber component containing the polymer by an amount in
a range of 15 mass % to 100 mass % in total allows the polymer to
exhibit its property satisfactorily.
[0018] The polymer of the present invention preferably has a 5% or
less 3,4-vinyl bond content in a unit derived from the isoprene of
the polymer.
[0019] The polymer having a 5% or less 3,4-vinyl bond content in a
unit derived from the isoprene of the polymer enhances orientation
of the polymer and improves strain-induced crystallinity.
[0020] The term "3,4-vinyl bond content" as used herein refers to
the ratio of the 3,4-vinyl structure to the whole of the unit of
isoprene.
[0021] The same definition applies to the terms "cis-1,4 bond
content", "trans-1,4 bond content", and "1,2-vinyl bond content" as
used herein.
[0022] In the rubber composition of the present invention, the
polymer preferably contains a catalyst residue in an amount of 300
ppm or less.
[0023] The polymer having 300 ppm or less residual catalyst further
ensures the formation of a network structure when the rubber
composition is in vulcanization.
[0024] In the rubber composition of the present invention, the
polymer preferably has a number average molecular weight (Mn) of
1.5 million or more when measured by gel permeation chromatography
(GPC).
[0025] The polymer having a number average molecular weight (Mn) of
1.5 million or more when measured by gel permeation chromatography
(GPC) provides strain-induced crystallinity satisfactorily when
mixed with a rubber composition to thereby provide a crosslinked
rubber composition with improved durability (i.e., breaking
resistance and abrasion resistance).
[0026] In the polymer of the present invention, the polymer
preferably contains nitrogen in an amount of less than 0.02 mass
%.
[0027] The polymer containing nitrogen in an amount of less than
0.02 mass % more reliably reduces the generation of gel.
[0028] The rubber composition of the present invention further
includes a filler. The amount of the filler contained in the rubber
composition is preferably in a range of 10 mass parts to 75 mass
parts per 100 mass parts rubber component.
[0029] The filler contained in an amount of 10 mass parts to 75
mass parts per 100 mass parts rubber component exhibits its effect
and is reliably blended into the rubber component.
[0030] The rubber composition having the filler amount exceeding 75
mass parts per 100 mass parts rubber component may impair the
workability.
[0031] The crosslinked rubber composition is obtained by
crosslinking the rubber composition of the present invention.
[0032] The crosslinked rubber composition obtained by crosslinking
the rubber composition improves the durability (i.e., breaking
resistance and abrasion resistance) of the crosslinked rubber
composition.
[0033] The tire of the present invention contains the rubber
composition of the present invention.
[0034] The tire containing the rubber composition has improved
durability (i.e., breaking resistance and abrasion resistance).
[0035] The tire of the present invention includes a tread member
containing the rubber composition of the present invention.
[0036] The tire including the tread member having the rubber
composition improves the durability (i.e., breaking resistance and
abrasion resistance) of the tread member.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0037] The present invention provides a rubber composition that is
capable of obtaining a crosslinked rubber composition with improved
durability (i.e., breaking resistance and abrasion resistance) and
a tire containing the rubber composition.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
Rubber Composition
[0038] The rubber composition of the present invention contained at
least a rubber component, and further contains a filler, a
crosslinking agent, and other components as necessary.
[0039] <Rubber Components>
[0040] The rubber component contains at least a polymer, and
further contains other rubber components as necessary.
[0041] <<Polymer>>
[0042] The aforementioned polymer is a synthesized polyisoprene or
an isoprene copolymer.
[0043] The gel fraction in the polymer is not particular limited as
long as it is 20% or less, and it may be selected as appropriate
depending on the application thereof. The gel fraction is
preferably 20% or less, more preferably 10% or less, and most
preferably 5% or less.
[0044] The polymer having 20% or less gel fraction provides a
crosslinked rubber composition with improved durability (i.e.,
breaking resistance and abrasion resistance).
[0045] The polymer having 20% or less gel fraction in the polymer
is obtained by, for example, a polymerization of a predetermined
time (30 minutes to 2 days) at a low temperature (-50.degree. C. to
100.degree. C.) using a first, a second, or a third polymerization
catalyst composition, which will be described later.
[0046] The amount of residual catalyst in the polymer is not
particular limited and may be selected as appropriate depending on
the application thereof. The amount of residual catalyst is
preferably 300 ppm or less (weight ratio), more preferably 200 ppm
or less, and most preferably 100 ppm or less.
[0047] The polymer having a residual catalyst of 300 ppm or less
would not inhibit the formation of a network structure in the
rubber composition containing the polymer upon vulcanization. Such
a polymer also prevents the reduction in the strain-induced
crystallinity and in the durability.
[0048] The polymer having the residual catalyst in the above "more
preferable" range is advantageous in terms of forming an effective
crosslink network.
[0049] The residual catalyst can be measured, for example, by
performing element analysis on the residual metals (e.g., aluminum
and gadolinium) in the polymer.
[0050] The catalyst will be discussed in detail below upon
describing the method of manufacturing the polymer.
[0051] The number average molecular weight (Mn) of the polymer is
not particularly limited and may be chosen as appropriate depending
on the application thereof. The number average molecular weight is
preferably 1.5 million or more, more preferably 1.5 million to 2.0
million, and most preferably 1.5 million to 1.8 million. The
polymer having a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 1.5
million or more provides a crosslinked rubber composition with
sufficiently improved durability (e.g. breaking resistance and
abrasion resistance). The polymer having the number average
molecular weight (Mn) within the above "more preferable" or "most
preferable" range is advantageous in terms of both the durability
and processability.
[0052] Here, the number average molecular weight (Mn) is measured
as a polystyrene conversion average molecular weight by gel
permeation chromatography (GPC) at a temperature of 140.degree. C.
using polystyrene as a standard reference material.
[0053] The polymer having the number average molecular weight (Mn)
of 1.5 million or more is obtained by, for example, a
polymerization of a predetermined time (i.e., 30 minutes to 2 days)
at a low temperature (i.e., -50.degree. C. to 100.degree. C.) using
a first, a second, or a third polymerization catalyst composition,
which will be described later.
[0054] Further, molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn), represented
by the ratio between the weight average molecular weight (Mw) and
the number average molecular weight (Mn) of the polymer, is not
particularly limited and may be selected as appropriate depending
on the application thereof. Preferably, the molecular weight
distribution is 4.0 or less and more preferably 3.0 or less. The
molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn) of 4.0 or less makes the
physical property homogeneous. In the meantime, the molecular
weight distribution (Mw/Mn) within the above "more preferable"
range is advantageous in terms of low heat buildup properties.
Here, the molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn) is calculated from
a weight average molecular weight (Mw) and a number average
molecular weight (Mn) obtained as polystyrene conversion average
molecular weights by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) at a
measurement temperature of 140.degree. C. using polystyrene as a
standard reference material.
[0055] The nitrogen content in the polymer is not particularly
limited and may be selected as appropriate depending on the
application thereof. The nitrogen content of less than 0.02 mass %
is preferable, and 0 mass % is more preferable.
[0056] The polymer having the nitrogen content of less than 0.02
mass % allows its protein-derived nitrogen content to be also less
than 0.02 mass %. This low content prevents generation of gel due
to protein and thus reduces the gel fraction.
[0057] The nitrogen content can be measured, for example, by
performing element analysis.
[0058] <<<Synthesized Polyisoprene>>>
--Cis-1,4 Bond Content--
[0059] The cis-1,4 bond content in the synthesized polyisoprene is
not particularly limited and may be selected as appropriate
depending on the application thereof. The bond content is, however,
preferably 90% or more, more preferably 95% or more, and most
preferably 98% or more.
[0060] The synthesized polyisoprene having cis-1,4 bond content of
90% or more develops intended elongation-induced crystallinity.
[0061] The synthesized polyisoprene having the cis-1,4 bond content
within the above "more preferable" or "most preferable" range is
advantageous in terms of improved durability associated with
strain-induced crystallinity.
[0062] --Trans-1,4 Bond Content--
[0063] The trans-1,4 bond content of the synthesized polyisoprene
is not particularly limited and may be selected as appropriate
depending on the application thereof. The bond content is, however,
preferably 10% or less and more preferably 5% or less.
[0064] The synthesized polyisoprene having trans-1,4 bond content
of 10% or less develops intended strain-induced crystallinity.
[0065] The synthesized polyisoprene having the trans-1,4 bond
content within the above "more preferable" range is advantageous in
terms of improved durability associated with strain-induced
crystallinity.
[0066] --3,4-Vinyl Bond Content--
[0067] The 3,4-vinyl bond content of the synthesized polyisoprene
is not particularly limited and may be selected as appropriate
depending on the application thereof. The bond content is
preferably is 5% or less and more preferably 2% or less.
[0068] The synthesized polyisoprene having the 3,4-vinyl bond
content of 5% or less develops intended strain-induced
crystallinity.
[0069] The synthesized polyisoprene having the 3,4-vinyl bond
content within the above "more preferable" range is advantageous in
terms of improved durability associated with strain-induced
crystallinity.
[0070] --Method of Producing Synthesized Polyisoprene--
[0071] Next, a method of producing the synthesized polyisoprene
will be described in detail. However, the producing method
described in detail below is merely an example. The synthesized
polyisoprene may be produced by polymerizing isoprene monomers in
the presence of a polymerization catalyst composition.
[0072] The method of producing the synthesized polyisoprene
includes at least a polymerization step, and further includes
coupling, cleaning, and other steps arbitrarily selected as
necessary.
[0073] --Polymerization Step--
[0074] The polymerization step is for polymerizing isoprene
monomers.
[0075] In the polymerization step, except that a later-described
first, second, or third polymerization catalyst composition is
used, isoprene monomers may be polymerized in a manner similar to a
general method of producing polymers using a coordination ion
polymerization catalyst. The polymerization catalyst compositions
used in the present invention will be described in detail
later.
[0076] The catalyst that may be used in the polymerization step may
be the first, second, or third polymerization catalyst composition,
which will be described later.
[0077] An arbitrary method can be employed as the polymerization
method including, for example, solution polymerization, suspension
polymerization, liquid phase bulk polymerization, emulsion
polymerization, vapor phase polymerization, and solid state
polymerization. In addition, in the case of using a solvent for
polymerization reaction, any solvent may be used that is inert to
the polymerization reaction, including, for example, toluene,
cyclohexane, n-hexane and mixtures thereof.
[0078] In the case of using a polymerization catalyst composition,
the polymerization step can be carried out in either one of the
following manners. That is, for example, (1) the components forming
the polymerization catalyst composition may be separately provided
in the polymerization reaction system containing isoprene monomers,
to thereby prepare the polymerization catalyst composition in the
reaction system, or (2) the polymerization catalyst composition
prepared in advance may be provided into the polymerization
reaction system. Further, the manner (2) also includes providing
the metallocene complex (active species) activated by the
co-catalyst.
[0079] Further, in the polymerization step, a terminator such as
methanol, ethanol, and isopropanol may be used to stop the
polymerization.
[0080] In the polymerization step, the polymerization reaction of
the isoprene may be preferably performed in an inert gas
atmosphere, and preferably in nitrogen or argon gas atmosphere. The
polymerization temperature of the polymerization reaction is not
particularly limited, and preferably in a range of, for example,
-100.degree. C. to 200.degree. C., and may also be set to
temperatures around room temperature. An increase in polymerization
temperature may reduce the cis-1,4-selectivity in the
polymerization reaction. The polymerization reaction is preferably
performed under pressure in a range of 0.1 MPa to 10.0 MPa so as to
allow the isoprene to be sufficiently introduced into
polymerization system. Further, the reaction time of the
polymerization is not particularly limited, and may preferably be
in a range of, for example, 1 second to 10 days, which may be
selected as appropriate depending on the conditions such as the
type of the catalyst, and the polymerization temperature.
[0081] --First Polymerization Catalyst Composition--
[0082] One example of the first polymerization catalyst composition
includes a polymerization catalyst composition including at least
one complex selected from a group consisting of: a metallocene
complex represented by the following general formula (I); a
metallocene complex represented by the following general formula
(II); and a half metallocene cation complex represented by the
following general formula (III):
##STR00001##
(In the formula (I), M represents a lanthanoid element, scandium,
or yttrium; Cp.sup.R each independently represents an unsubstituted
or substituted indenyl group; R.sup.a to R.sup.f each independently
represent a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon
atoms; L represents a neutral Lewis base; and w represents an
integer of 0 to 3.);
##STR00002##
(In the formula (II), M represents a lanthanoid element, scandium,
or yttrium; Cp.sup.R each independently represents an unsubstituted
or substituted indenyl group; X' represents a hydrogen atom, a
halogen atom, an alkoxy group, a thiolate group, an amide group, a
silyl group, or a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms; L
represents a neutral Lewis base; and w represents an integer of 0
to 3.); and
##STR00003##
(In the formula (III), M represents a lanthanoid element, scandium,
or yttrium; Cp.sup.R' each independently represents an
unsubstituted or substituted cyclopentadienyl, indenyl, fluorenyl
group; X represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, an alkoxy
group, a thiolate group, an amide group, a silyl group, or a
hydrocarbon group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms; L represents a
neutral Lewis base; w represents an integer of 0 to 3; and
[B].sup.- represents a non-coordinating anion.).
[0083] The first polymerization catalyst composition may further
include another component such as a co-catalyst, which is contained
in a general polymerization catalyst composition containing a
metallocene complex. Here, the metallocene complex is a complex
compound having one or more cyclopentadienyl groups or derivative
of cyclopentadienyl groups bonded to the central metal. In
particular, a metallocene complex may be referred to as half
metallocene complex when the number of cyclopentadienyl group or
derivative thereof bonded to the central metal is one.
[0084] In the polymerization system, the concentration of the
complex contained in the first polymerization catalyst composition
is preferably defined to fall within a range of 0.1 mol/L to 0.0001
mol/L.
[0085] In the metallocene complex represented by the general
formulae (I) and (II) above, Cp.sup.R in the formulae represents an
unsubstituted or substituted indenyl group. Cp.sup.R having an
indenyl ring as a basic skeleton may be represented by
C.sub.9H.sub.7-XR.sub.X or C.sub.9H.sub.11-XR.sub.X. Here, X
represents an integer of 0 to 7 or 0 to 11. R each independently
preferably represents a hydrocarbyl group or a metalloid group. The
hydrocarbyl group preferably has 1 to 20 carbon atoms, more
preferably 1 to 10 carbon atoms, and still more preferably 1 to 8
carbon atoms. Preferred specific examples of the hydrocarbyl group
include a methyl group, an ethyl group, a phenyl group, and a
benzyl group. On the other hand, examples of metalloid in the
metalloid group include germyl (Ge), stannyl (Sn), and silyl (Si).
In addition, the metalloid group preferably has a hydrocarbyl group
which is similar to the hydrocarbyl group described above. Specific
examples of the metalloid group include a trimethylsilyl group.
Specific examples of the substituted indenyl group include 2-phenyl
indenyl and 2-methyl indenyl group. Two Cp.sup.R in the general
formulae (I) and (II) may be the same as or different from each
other.
[0086] In the half metallocene cation complex represented by the
general formula (III), CpR' in the formula represents a substituted
or unsubstituted cyclopentadienyl, indenyl, or fluorenyl group,
with the substituted or unsubstituted indenyl group being
preferred. Cp.sup.R' having a cyclopentadienyl ring as a basic
skeleton is represented by C.sub.5H.sub.5-XR.sub.X. Here, X
represents an integer of 0 to 5. Further, R each independently
preferably represents a hydrocarbyl group or a metalloid group. The
hydrocarbyl group preferably has 1 to 20 carbon atoms, more
preferably 1 to 10 carbon atoms, and still more preferably 1 to 8
carbon atoms. Preferred specific examples of the hydrocarbyl group
include a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, a phenyl
group, and a benzyl group. Examples of metalloid in the metalloid
group include germyl (Ge), stannyl (Sn), and silyl (Si). In
addition, the metalloid group preferably has a hydrocarbyl group
which is similar to the hydrocarbyl group described above. Specific
examples of the metalloid group include a trimethylsilyl group.
Cp.sup.R' having a cyclopentadienyl ring as a basic skeleton is
specifically exemplified as follows.
##STR00004##
(In the formula, R represents a hydrogen atom, a methyl group, or
an ethyl group.)
[0087] In the general formula (III), Cp.sup.R' having an indenyl
ring as a basic skeleton is defined as the same as Cp.sup.R in the
general formula (I), and preferred examples thereof are also the
same as those of Cp.sup.R in the general formula (I).
[0088] In the general formula (III), Cp.sup.R' having the fluorenyl
ring above as a basic skeleton may be represented by
C.sub.13H.sub.9-XR.sub.X or C.sub.13H.sub.17-XR.sub.X. Here, X
represents an integer of 0 to 9 or 0 to 17. R independently
preferably represents a hydrocarbyl group or a metalloid group. The
hydrocarbyl group preferably has 1 to 20 carbon atoms, more
preferably 1 to 10 carbon atoms, and still more preferably 1 to 8
carbon atoms. Preferred specific examples of the hydrocarbyl group
include a methyl group, an ethyl group, a phenyl group, and a
benzyl group. On the other hand, examples of metalloid in the
metalloid group include germyl (Ge), stannyl (Sn), and silyl (Si).
In addition, the metalloid group preferably has a hydrocarbyl group
which is similar to the hydrocarbyl group described above. A
specific example of the metalloid group includes a trimethylsilyl
group.
[0089] The central metal represented by M in the general formulae
(I), (II), and (III) represents a lanthanoid element, scandium, or
yttrium. The lanthanoid elements include 15 elements with atomic
numbers 57 to 71, and may be any one of them. Preferred examples of
the central metal represented by M include samarium (Sm), neodymium
(Nd), praseodymium (Pr), gadolinium (Gd), cerium (Ce), holmium
(Ho), scandium (Sc), and yttrium (Y).
[0090] The metallocene complex represented by the general formula
(I) includes a silyl amide ligand represented by
[--N(SiR.sub.3).sub.2]. Groups represented by R (R.sup.a to R.sup.f
in the general formula (I)) in the silyl amide ligand each
independently represent a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1
to 3 carbon atoms, and it is preferred that at least one of R.sup.a
to R.sup.f represents a hydrogen atom. With at least one of R.sup.a
to R.sup.f representing a hydrogen atom, the catalyst can be
synthesized with ease, and the height around silicon can be
reduced, to thereby allow the non-conjugated olefin to be easily
introduced. Based on the same objective, it is further preferred
that at least one of R.sup.a to R.sup.c represents a hydrogen atom,
and at least one of R.sup.d to R.sup.f represents a hydrogen atom.
A methyl group is preferred as the alkyl group.
[0091] The metallocene complex represented by the general formula
(II) includes a silyl ligand represented by [--SiX'.sub.3]. X' in
the silyl ligand represented by [--SiX'.sub.3] is a group defined
as the same as X in the general formula (III) described below, and
preferred examples thereof are also the same as those of X in the
general formula (III).
[0092] In the general formula (III), X represents a group selected
from a group consisting of a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, an
alkoxy group, a thiolate group, an amide group, a silyl group, and
a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms. In the general
formula (III), the alkoxy group represented by X may be any one of
aliphatic alkoxy groups such as a methoxy group, an ethoxy group, a
propoxy group, an n-butoxy group, an isobutoxy group, a sec-butoxy
group, and a tert-butoxy group; and aryl oxide groups such as a
phenoxy group, a 2,6-di-tert-butylphenoxy group, a
2,6-diisopropylphenoxy group, a 2,6-dineopentylphenoxy group, a
2-tert-butyl-6-isopropylphenoxy group, a
2-tert-butyl-6-neopentylphenoxy group, and a
2-isopropyl-6-neopentylphenoxy group, with the
2,6-di-tert-butylphenoxy group being preferred.
[0093] In the general formula (III), the thiolate group represented
by X may be any one of: aliphatic thiolate groups such as a
thiomethoxy group, a thioethoxy group, a thiopropoxy group, a
thio-n-butoxy group, a thioisobutoxy group, a thio-sec-butoxy
group, and a thio-tert-butoxy group; and aryl thiolate groups such
as a thiophenoxy group, a 2,6-di-tert-butylthiophenoxy group, a
2,6-diisopropylthiophenoxy group, a 2,6-dineopentylthiophenoxy
group, a 2-tert-butyl-6-isopropylthiophenoxy group, a
2-tert-butyl-6-thioneopentylphenoxy group, a
2-isopropyl-6-thioneopentylphenoxy group, and a
2,4,6-triisopropylthiophenoxy group, with the
2,4,6-triisopropylthiophenoxy group being preferred.
[0094] In the general formula (III), the amide group represented by
X may be any one of: aliphatic amide groups such as a dimethyl
amide group, a diethyl amide group, and a diisopropyl amide group;
arylamide groups such as a phenyl amide group, a
2,6-di-tert-butylphenyl amide group, a 2,6-diisopropylphenyl amide
group, a 2,6-dineopentylphenyl amide group, a
2-tert-butyl-6-isopropylphenyl amide group, a
2-tert-butyl-6-neopentylphenyl amide group, a
2-isopropyl-6-neopentylphenyl amide group, and a
2,4,6-tri-tert-butylphenyl amide group; and bistrialkylsilyl amide
groups such as a bistrimethylsilyl amide group, with the
bistrimethylsilyl amide group being preferred.
[0095] In the general formula (III), the silyl group represented by
X may be any one of a trimethylsilyl group, a
tris(trimethylsilyl)silyl group, a bis(trimethylsilyl)methylsilyl
group, a trimethylsilyl(dimethyl)silyl group, and a
triisopropylsilyl(bistrimethylsilyl)silyl group, with the
tris(trimethylsilyl)silyl group being preferred.
[0096] In the general formula (III), the halogen atom represented
by X may be any one of a fluorine atom, a chlorine atom, a bromine
atom, and an iodine atom, with the chlorine atom and the iodine
atom being preferred. Specific examples of the hydrocarbon group
having 1 to 20 carbon atoms include: linear or branched aliphatic
hydrocarbon groups such as a methyl group, an ethyl group, an
n-propyl group, an isopropyl group, an n-butyl group, an isobutyl
group, a sec-butyl group, a tert-butyl group, a neopentyl group, a
hexyl group, and an octyl group; aromatic hydrocarbon groups such
as a phenyl group, a tolyl group, and a naphthyl group; aralkyl
groups such as a benzyl group; and hydrocarbon groups such as a
trimethylsilylmethyl group and a bistrimethylsilylmethyl group each
containing a silicon atom, with the methyl group, the ethyl group,
the isobutyl group, the trimethylsilylmethyl group, and the like
being preferred.
[0097] In the general formula (III), the bistrimethylsilyl amide
group and the hydrocarbon group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms are
preferred as X.
[0098] In the general formula (III), examples of the
non-coordinating anion represented by [B].sup.- include tetravalent
boron anions. Examples of the tetravalent boron anion include
tetraphenyl borate, tetrakis(monofluorophenyl)borate,
tetrakis(difluorophenyl)borate, tetrakis(trifluorophenyl)borate,
tetrakis(tetrafluorophenyl)borate,
tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate,
tetrakis(tetrafluoromethylphenyl)borate, tetra(tolyl)borate,
tetra(xylyl)borate, (tripheyl, pentafluorophenyl)borate,
[tris(pentafluorophenyl), phenyl]borate, and
tridecahydride-7,8-dicarbaundecaborate, with the
tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate being preferred.
[0099] The metallocene complexes represented by the general
formulae (I) and (II) and the half metallocene cation complex
represented by the general formula (III) may include 0 to 3,
preferably 0 or 1 neutral Lewis bases represented by L. Examples of
the neutral Lewis base L include tetrahydrofuran, diethyl ether,
dimethylaniline, trimethylphosphine, lithium chloride, neutral
olefins, and neutral diolefins. When a plurality of neutral Lewis
bases represented by L are incorporated, respective L may be the
same as or different from each other.
[0100] The metallocene complexes represented by the general
formulae (I) to (II), and the half metallocene cation complex
represented by the general formula (III) may be each present as a
monomer or as a dimer or a multimer having more monomers.
[0101] The metallocene complex represented by the general formula
(I) can be obtained by, for example, subjecting a lanthanoid
trishalide, a scandium trishalide, or a yttrium trishalide to
reaction in a solvent with a salt of indenyl (for example, a
potassium salt or a lithium salt) and a salt of
bis(trialkylsilyl)amide (for example, a potassium salt or a lithium
salt). The reaction temperature only needs to be set to about room
temperature, and thus the complex can be manufactured in mild
conditions. In addition, reaction time is arbitrary, but about
several hours to several tens of hours. A reaction solvent is not
particularly limited, with a solvent that solves a raw material and
a product being preferred, and for example, toluene may be used. In
the following, a reaction example for obtaining the complex
represented by the general formula (I) is described.
##STR00005##
(In the Formula, X'' represents a halide.)
[0102] The metallocene complex represented by the general formula
(II) can be obtained by, for example, subjecting a lanthanoid
trishalide, a scandium trishalide, or a yttrium trishalide to
reaction in a solvent with a salt of indenyl (for example, a
potassium salt or a lithium salt) and a salt of silyl (for example,
a potassium salt or a lithium salt). The reaction temperature only
needs to be set to about room temperature, and thus the complex can
be manufactured in mild conditions. In addition, reaction time is
arbitrary, but about several hours to several tens of hours. A
reaction solvent is not particularly limited, with a solvent that
solves a raw material and a product being preferred, and for
example, toluene may be used. In the following, a reaction example
for obtaining the complex represented by the general formula (II)
is described.
##STR00006##
wherein X'' represents a halide.
[0103] The half metallocene cation complex represented by the
general formula (III) can be obtained by, for example, the
following reaction:
##STR00007##
[0104] In the general formula (IV) representing a compound: M
represents a lanthanoid element, scandium, or yttrium; Cp.sup.R'
independently represents an unsubstituted or substituted
cyclopentadienyl, indenyl, or fluorenyl; X represents a hydrogen
atom, a halogen atom, an alkoxy group, a thiolate group, an amide
group, a silyl group, or a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 20 carbon
atoms; L represents a neutral Lewis base; and w represents an
integer of 0 to 3. Further, in the general formula
[A].sup.+[B].sup.- representing an ionic compound, [A].sup.+
represents a cation; and [B].sup.- represents a non-coordinating
anion.
[0105] Examples of the cation represented by [A].sup.+ include a
carbonium cation, an oxonium cation, an amine cation, a phosphonium
cation, a cycloheptatrienyl cation, and a ferrocenium cation
containing a transition metal. Examples of the carbonium cation
include trisubstituted carbonium cations such as a
triphenylcarbonium cation and a tri(substituted phenyl)carbonium
cation. Specific examples of the tri(substituted phenyl)carbonium
cation include a tri(methylphenyl)carbonium cation. Examples of the
amine cation include: trialkylammonium cations such as a
trimethylammonium cation, a triethylammonium cation, a
tripropylammonium cation, and a tributylammonium cation;
N,N-dialkylanilinium cations such as a N,N-dimethylanilinium
cation, a N,N-diethylanilinium cation, and a
N,N-2,4,6-pentamethylanilinium cation; and dialkylammonium cations
such as a diisopropylammonium cation and a dicyclohexylammonium
cation. Examples of the phosphonium cation include
triarylphosphonium cations such as a triphenylphosphonium cation, a
tri(methylphenyl)phosphonium cation, and a
tri(dimethylphenyl)phosphonium cation. Of those cations, the
N,N-dialkylanilinium cations or the carbonium cations are
preferred, and the N,N-dialkylanilinium cations are particularly
preferred.
[0106] In the general formula [A].sup.+[B].sup.- representing the
ionic compound to be used in the above reaction is a compound
obtained by combining any one selected from the non-coordinating
anions described above and any one selected from the cations
described above. Preferred examples thereof include
N,N-dimethylanilinium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate and
triphenylcarbonium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate. The ionic
compound represented by the general formula [A].sup.+[B].sup.- is
added in an amount of preferably 0.1-fold mol to 10-fold mol and
more preferably about 1-fold mol, with respect to the metallocene
complex. When the half metallocene cation complex represented by
the general formula (III) is used in polymerization reaction, the
half metallocene cation complex represented by the general formula
(III) may be directly supplied to the polymerization system, or
alternatively, the compound represented by the general formula (IV)
and the ionic compound represented by the general formula
[A].sup.+[B].sup.- may be separately supplied to the polymerization
system, to thereby form the half metallocene cation complex
represented by the general formula (III) in the reaction system. In
addition, the half metallocene cation complex represented by the
general formula (III) may be formed in the reaction system by using
the metallocene complex represented by the general formula (I) or
(II) and the ionic compound represented by the general formula
[A].sup.+[B].sup.- in combination.
[0107] Structures of the metallocene complex represented by the
general formula (I) or (II) and of the half metallocene cation
complex represented by the general formula (III) is preferably
determined by X-ray crystallography.
[0108] The co-catalyst that can be contained in the first
polymerization catalyst composition may be arbitrarily selected
from components used as the co-catalyst for the general
polymerization catalyst composition containing a metallocene
complex. Preferred examples of the co-catalyst include
aluminoxanes, organic aluminum compounds, and the above ionic
compounds. These co-catalysts may be contained alone or in
combination of two or more.
[0109] The aluminoxane is preferably an alkyl aluminoxane. Examples
of the alkyl aluminoxane include methyl aluminoxane (MAO) and
modified methyl aluminoxanes. In addition, preferred examples of
the modified methyl aluminoxane include MMAO-3A (manufactured by
Tosoh Finechem Corporation). A content of the aluminoxane in the
first polymerization catalyst composition is preferably about 10 to
1,000, more preferably about 100, at an element ratio (Al/M) of the
aluminum element Al of the aluminoxane to the central metal element
M in the metallocene complex.
[0110] On the other hand, a preferred example of the organic
aluminum compounds may include an organic aluminum compound
represented by a general formula AlRR'R''(wherein R and R' each
independently represent a hydrocarbon group of C1 to C10 or a
hydrogen atom, and R'' is a hydrocarbon group of C1 to C10).
Examples of the organic aluminum compound include a trialkyl
aluminum, a dialkyl aluminum chloride, an alkyl aluminum
dichloride, and a dialkyl aluminum hydride, with the trialkyl
aluminum being preferred. In addition, examples of the trialkyl
aluminum include triethyl aluminum and triisobutyl aluminum. A
content of the organic aluminum compound in the first
polymerization catalyst composition is preferably 1-fold mol to
50-fold mol and more preferably about 10-fold mol, with respect to
the metallocene complex.
[0111] In the polymerization catalyst composition, the metallocene
complex represented by the general formulae (I) and (II) and the
half metallocene complex represented by the general formula (III)
may be combined with an appropriate co-catalyst, to thereby
increase the cis-1,4 bond content and the molecular weight of a
polymer to be obtained.
[0112] --Second Polymerization Catalyst Composition--
[0113] Next, the second polymerization catalyst composition will be
described.
[0114] A preferred example of the second polymerization catalyst
composition may include:
[0115] component (A): a rare earth element compound or a reactant
of the rare earth element compound and a Lewis base, with no bond
formed between the rare earth element and carbon; and
[0116] component (B): at least one selected from a group consisting
of: an ionic compound (B-1) composed of a non-coordinating anion
and a cation; an aluminoxane (B-2); and at least one kind of
halogen compound (B-3) from among a Lewis acid, a complex compound
of a metal halide and a Lewis base, and an organic compound
containing active halogen.
[0117] Further, if the polymerization catalyst composition contains
at least one kind of the ionic compound (B-1) and the halogen
compound (B-3), the polymerization catalyst composition further
contains:
[0118] component (C): an organic metal compound represented by the
following general formula (X):
YR.sup.1.sub.aR.sup.2.sub.bR.sup.3.sub.c (X)
wherein: Y is a metal selected from Group 1, Group 2, Group 12, and
Group 13 of the periodic table; R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 are the same or
different hydrocarbon groups each having 1 to 10 carbon atoms or a
hydrogen atom; and R.sup.3 is a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 10
carbon atoms, in which R.sup.3 may be the same as or different from
R.sup.1 or R.sup.2 above, with a being 1 and b and c both being 0
when Y is a metal selected from Group 1 of the periodic table, a
and b being 1 and c being 0 when Y is a metal selected from Group 2
and Group 12 of the periodic table, a, b, and c are all 1 when Y is
a metal selected from Group 13 of the periodic table.
[0119] The second polymerization catalyst composition used in the
producing method is required to contain the above components (A)
and (B), and if the polymerization catalyst composition contains at
least one of the above ionic compound (B-1) and halogen compound
(B-3), then it is further required to contain an organometallic
compound represented by the following formula:
[0120] component (C): an organic metal compound represented by the
following general formula (X):
YR.sup.1.sub.aR.sup.2.sub.bR.sup.3.sub.c (X)
wherein: Y is a metal selected from group 1, group 2, group 12 and
group 13 of the periodic table; R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 each represent
a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms or a hydrogen atom,
the R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 being the same as or different from each
other; and R.sup.3 is a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 10 carbon
atoms, in which R.sup.3 may be the same as or different from
R.sup.1 and/or R.sup.2, and furthermore, if Y is a metal selected
from group 1 of the periodic table, then a is 1 and b and c are 0,
if Y is metal selected from group 2 and group 12 of the periodic
table, then a and b are 1 and c is 0, and if Y is a metal selected
from group 13 of the periodic table, then a, b and c are 1.
[0121] The ionic compound (B-1) and the halogen compound (B-3) do
not have carbon atoms to be fed to the component (A), and thus the
component (C) becomes necessary as a source of feeding carbon to
the component (A). Here, the polymerization catalyst composition
still may include the component (C) even if the polymerization
catalyst composition includes the aluminoxane (B-2). Further, the
second polymerization catalyst composition may further include
another component such as a co-catalyst, which is contained in a
regular general rare earth element compound-based polymerization
catalyst composition.
[0122] In the polymerization system, the concentration of the
component (A) contained in the second polymerization catalyst
composition is preferably defined to fall within a range of 0.1
mol/L to 0.0001 mol/L.
[0123] The component (A) contained in the second polymerization
catalyst composition is a rare earth element compound or a reactant
of the rare earth element compound and a Lewis base. Here, a rare
earth element compound or a reactant of the rare earth element
compound and a Lewis base do not have a direct bond of the rare
earth element and carbon. When the rare earth element compound or a
reactant thereof does not have a direct bond of a rare earth
element and carbon, the resulting compound is stable and easy to
handle. Here, the rare earth element compound refers to a compound
containing a lanthanoid element, scandium, or yttrium. The
lanthanoid elements include elements with atomic numbers 57 to 71
of the periodic table. Specific examples of the lanthanoid element
include lanthanum, cerium, praseodymium, neodymium, promethium,
samarium, europium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, holmium,
erbium, thulium, ytterbium, and lutetium. These components (A) may
be contained alone or in combination of two or more.
[0124] The rare earth element compound is preferably composed of a
rare earth metal of a bivalent or trivalent salt or of a complex
compound, and further preferably a rare earth element compound
containing at least one ligand selected from a hydrogen atom, a
halogen atom, and an organic compound residue. Further, the rare
earth element compound or the reactant of the rare earth element
compound and the Lewis base is represented by the following general
formula (XI) or (XII):
M.sup.11X.sup.11.sub.2L.sup.11w (XI)
M.sup.11X.sup.11.sub.3L.sup.11w (XII)
wherein: M.sup.11 represents a lanthanoid element, scandium, or
yttrium; X.sup.11 each independently represent a hydrogen atom, a
halogen atom, an alkoxy group, a thiolate group, an amide group, a
silyl group, an aldehyde residue, a ketone residue, a carboxylic
acid residue, a thicarboxylic acid residue, or a phosphorous
compound residue; L.sup.11 represents a Lewis base; and w
represents 0 to 3.
[0125] Specific examples of a group (ligand) to form a bond to the
rare earth element of the rare earth element compound include: a
hydrogen atom; aliphatic alkoxy groups such as a methoxy group, an
ethoxy group, a propoxy group, an n-butoxy group, an isobutoxy
group, a sec-butoxy group, and a tert-butoxy group; a phenoxy
group, a 2,6-di-tert-butylphenoxy group, a 2,6-diisopropylphenoxy
group, a 2,6-dineopentylphenoxy group, a
2-tert-butyl-6-isopropylphenoxy group, a
2-tert-butyl-6-neopentylphenoxy group, and a
2-isopropyl-6-neopentylphenoxy group; aliphatic thiolate groups
such as thiomethoxy group, a thioethoxy group, a thiopropoxy group,
a thio-n-butoxy group, a thioisobutoxy group, a thio-sec-butoxy
group, and a thio-tert-butoxy group; aryl thiolate groups such as a
thiophenoxy group, a 2,6-di-tert-butylthiophenoxy group, a
2,6-diisopropylthiophenoxy group, a 2,6-dineopentylthiophenoxy
group, a 2-tert-butyl-6-isopropylthiophenoxy group, a
2-tert-butyl-6-thioneopentylphenoxy group, a
2-isopropyl-6-thioneopentylphenoxy group, and a
2,4,6-triisopropylthiophenoxy group; aliphatic amide groups such as
a dimethyl amide group, a diethyl amide group, a diisopropyl amide
group; arylamide groups such as a phenyl amide group, a
2,6-di-tert-butylphenyl amide group, a 2,6-diisopropylphenyl amide
group, a 2,6-dineopentylphenyl amide group, a
2-tert-butyl-6-isopropylphenyl amide group, a
2-tert-butyl-6-neopentylphenyl amide group, a
2-isopropyl-6-neopentylphenyl amide group, and a
2,4,6-tert-butylphenyl amide group; bistrialkylsilyl amide groups
such as a bistrimethylsilyl amide group; silyl groups such as a
trimethylsilyl group, a tris(trimethylsilyl)silyl group, a
bis(trimethylsilyl)methylsilyl group, a
trimethylsilyl(dimethyl)silyl group, and a
triisopropylsilyl(bistrimethylsilyl)silyl group; halogen atoms such
as a fluorine atom, a chlorine atom, a bromine atom, and an iodine
atom. Other examples may include: residues of aldehyde such as
salicylaldehyde, 2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde, and
2-hydroxy-3-naphthaldehyde; residues of hydroxyphenone such as
2'-hydroxyacetophenone, 2'-hydroxybutyrophenone, and
2'-hydroxypropiophenone; residues of diketone such as
acetylacetone, benzoylacetone, propionylaceton, isobutyl acetone,
valerylacetone, and ethylacetylacetone; residues of an carboxylic
acid such as an isovaleric acid, a caprylic acid, an octanoic acid,
a lauric acid, a myristic acid, a palmitic acid, a stearic acid, an
isostearic acid, an oleic acid, a linoleic acid, a
cyclopentanecarboxylic acid, a naphthenic acid, an ethylhexanoic
acid, a pivalic acid, a versatic acid (trade name of a product
manufactured by Shell Chemicals Japan Ltd., a synthetic acid
composed of a mixture of C10 monocarboxylic acid isomers), a
phenylacetic acid, a benzoic acid, 2-naphthoate acid, a maleic
acid, and a succinic acid; residues of thicarboxylic acid such as a
hexanethioic acid, 2,2-dimethylbutanethioic acid, a decanethioic
acid, and a thiobenzoic acid; residues of phosphoric acid ester
such as a phosphoric acid dibutyl, a phosphoric acid dipentyl, a
phosphoric acid dihexyl, a phosphoric acid diheptyl, a phosphoric
acid dioctyl, phosphoric acid bis(2-ethylhexyl), a phosphoric acid
bis(1-methylheptyl), a phosphoric acid dilauryl, a phosphoric acid
dioleyl, a phosphoric acid diphenyl, a phosphoric acid
bis(p-nonylphenyl), a phosphoric acid bis(polyethylene
glycol-p-nonylphenyl), a phosphoric acid(butyl)(2-ethylhexyl), a
phosphoric acid(1-methylheptyl)(2-ethylhexyl), and a phosphoric
acid(2-ethylhexyl)(p-nonylphenyl); residues of phosphonic acid
ester such as a 2-ethylhexyl phosphonic acid monobutyl, a
2-ethylhexyl phosphonic acid mono-2-ethylhexyl, a phenylphosphonic
acid mono-2-ethylhexyl, a 2-ethylhexyl phosphonic acid
mono-p-nonylphenyl, a phosphonic acid mono-2-ethylhexyl, a
phosphonic acid mono-1-methylheptyl, a and phosphonic acid
mono-p-nonylphenyl; residues of phosphinic acid such as a
dibutylphosphinic acid, a bis(2-ethylhexyl)phosphinic acid, a
bis(1-methylheptyl)phosphinic acid, a dilauryl phosphinic acid, a
dioleyl phosphinic acid, a diphenyl phosphinic acid, a
bis(p-nonylphenyl)phosphinic acid, a butyl(2-ethylhexyl)phosphinic
acid, (2-ethylhexyl)(1-methylheptyl)phosphinic acid, an
(2-ethylhexyl)(p-nonylphenyl)phosphinic acid, a butyl phosphinic
acid, 2-ethylhexyl phosphinic acid, a 1-methylheptyl phosphinic
acid, an oleyl phosphinic acid, a lauryl phosphinic acid, a phenyl
phosphinic acid, and a p-nonylphenyl phosphinic acid. These ligands
may be used alone or in combination of two or more.
[0126] As to the component (A) used in the second polymerization
catalyst composition, examples of the Lewis base to react with the
rare earth element compound may include: tetrahydrofuran; diethyl
ether; dimethylaniline; trimethylphosphine; lithium chloride,
neutral olefins, and neutral diolefins. Here, in the case where the
rare earth element compound reacts with a plurality of Lewis bases
(in the case where w is 2 or 3 in Formulae (XI) and (XII)), the
Lewis base L.sup.11 in each Formula may be the same as or different
from each other.
[0127] The component (B) contained in the second polymerization
catalyst composition is at least one compound selected from a group
consisting of: an ionic compound (B-1); an aluminoxane (B-2); and a
halogen compound (B-3). The total content of the component (B)
contained in the second polymerization catalyst composition is
preferably defined to fall within a range of 0.1-fold mol to
50-fold mol, with respect to the component (A).
[0128] The ionic compound represented by (B-1) is formed of
non-coordinating anion and cation, and an example thereof includes:
an ionic compound that reacts with the rare earth element compound
as the component (A) or with the reactant resulting from Lewis base
and the rare earth element compound, so as to form a cationic
transition metal compound. Here, examples of the non-coordinating
anion include: tetraphenyl borate,
tetrakis(monofluorophenyl)borate, tetrakis(difluorophenyl)borate,
tetrakis(trifluorophenyl)borate, tetrakis(tetrafluorophenyl)borate,
tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate,
tetrakis(tetrafluoromethylphenyl)borate, tetra(tolyl)borate,
tetra(xylyl)borate, (tripheyl, pentafluorophenyl)borate,
[tris(pentafluorophenyl), phenyl]borate, and
tridecahydride-7,8-dicarbaundecaborate. Meanwhile, examples of the
cation may include a carbonium cation, an oxonium cation, an
ammonium cation, a phosphonium cation, a cycloheptatrienyl cation,
and a ferrocenium cation containing a transition metal. Specific
examples of the carbonium cation include trisubstituted carbonium
cations such as a triphenylcarbonium cation and a tri(substituted
phenyl)carbonium cation, and more specific examples of the
tri(substituted phenyl)carbonium cation include a
tri(methylphenyl)carbonium cation and a
tri(dimethylphenyl)carbonium cation. Examples of the ammonium
cation include: trialkylammonium cations such as a
trimethylammonium cation, a triethylammonium cation, a
tripropylammonium cation, and a tributylammonium cation (such as a
tri(n-butyl)ammonium cation); N,N-dialkylanilinium cations such as
a N,N-dimethylanilinium cation, N,N-diethylanilinium cation, and a
N,N-2,4,6-pentamethylanilinium cation; and dialkylammonium cations
such as a diisopropylammonium cation and a dicyclohexylammonium
cation. Specific examples of the phosphonium cation include
triarylphosphonium cations such as a triphenylphosphonium cation, a
tri(methylphenyl)phosphonium cation, and a
tri(dimethylphenyl)phosphonium cation. Therefore, the ionic
compound may preferably be a compound obtained by combining any one
selected from the non-coordinating anions described above and any
one selected from the cations described above. Specific examples
thereof preferably include a N,N-dimethylanilinium
tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate and a triphenylcarbonium
tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate. These ionic compounds may be
contained alone or in combination of two or more. The content of
the ionic compound in the second polymerization catalyst
composition is preferably 0.1-fold mol to 10-fold mol, and more
preferably about 1-fold mol, with respect to the component (A).
[0129] The aluminoxane represented by (B-2) is a compound obtained
by contacting an organic aluminum compound with a condensation
agent, and examples thereof include: a chain type aluminoxane or a
cyclic aluminoxane, both having a repeating unit represented by the
general formula (--Al(R')O--) (wherein R' is a hydrocarbon group
having 1 to 10 carbon atoms and may be partly substituted with
halogen atom and/or alkoxy group, and the polymerization degree of
the repeating unit is preferably at least 5, more preferably at
least 10). Here, specific examples of R' include a methyl group, an
ethyl group, a propyl group, and isobutyl group, with the methyl
group being preferred. Further, examples of the organic aluminum
compound used as a raw material of the aluminoxane may include:
trialkyl aluminums such as trimethyl aluminum, triethyl aluminum,
triisobutyl aluminum and the like; and mixtures thereof, with the
trimethyl aluminum being particularly preferred. For example, an
aluminoxane obtained using, as a raw material, a mixture of
trimethyl aluminum and tributyl aluminum can be suitably used. The
content of aluminoxane in the second polymerization catalyst
composition is preferably about 10 to 1,000 at an element ratio
(Al/M) of the aluminum element Al of the aluminoxane to the rare
earth element M forming the component (A).
[0130] The halogen compound represented by (B-3) includes at least
one of: a Lewis acid; a complex compound of a metal halide and a
Lewis base; and an organic compound containing active halogen, and
is capable of reacting with, for example, the rare earth element
compound as the component (A) or with the reactant resulting from
Lewis base and the rare earth element compound, so as to form
compounds such as a cationic transition metal compound, a
halogenated transition metal compound, or a compound with a
charge-deficient transition metal center. The content of the
halogen compound in the second polymerization catalyst composition
is preferably 1-fold mol to 5-fold mol, with respect to the
component (A).
[0131] Examples of the Lewis acid may include: a boron-containing
halogen compound such as B(C.sub.6F.sub.5).sub.3 and an
aluminum-containing halogen compound such as
Al(C.sub.6F.sub.5).sub.3, and may also include a halogen compound
containing an element of Group III, Group IV, Group V, Group VI,
and Group VIII of the periodic table. Preferred examples thereof
include an aluminum halide or an organometallic halide. Preferred
examples of the halogen element include chlorine and bromine.
Specific examples of the Lewis acid include: a methyl aluminum
dibromide; a methyl aluminum dichloride; an ethyl aluminum
dibromide; an ethyl aluminum dichloride; a butyl aluminum
dibromide; a butyl aluminum dichloride; a dimethyl aluminum
bromide; a dimethyl aluminum chloride; a diethyl aluminum bromide;
a diethyl aluminum chloride; a dibutyl aluminum bromide; a dibutyl
aluminum chloride; a methyl aluminum sesquibromide; a methyl
aluminum sesquichloride; a ethyl aluminum sesquibromide; an ethyl
aluminum sesquichloride; a dibutyltin dichloride; an aluminum
tribromide; an antimony trichloride; an antimony pentachloride; a
phosphorus trichloride; a phosphorus pentachloride; a tin
tetrachloride; a titanium tetrachloride; and tungsten hexachloride,
with the diethyl aluminum chloride, the ethyl aluminum
sesquichloride, the ethyl aluminum dichloride, the diethyl aluminum
bromide, the ethyl aluminum sesquibromide, and the ethyl aluminum
dibromide being particularly preferred.
[0132] Preferred examples of the metal halide forming a complex
compound of the metal halide and a Lewis base include: a beryllium
chloride, a beryllium bromide; a beryllium iodide; a magnesium
chloride; a magnesium bromide; a magnesium iodide; a calcium
chloride; a calcium bromide; a calcium iodide; a barium chloride; a
barium bromide; a barium iodide; a zinc chloride; a zinc bromide; a
zinc iodide; a cadmium chloride; a cadmium chloride; a cadmium
bromide; a cadmium iodide; a mercury chloride; a mercury bromide; a
mercury iodide; a manganese chloride; a manganese bromide; a
manganese iodide; a rhenium chloride; a rhenium bromide; a rhenium
iodide; a copper chloride; a copper bromide; a copper iodide; a
silver chloride; a silver bromide; a silver iodide; a gold
chloride; a gold iodide; and a gold bromide, with the magnesium
chloride, the calcium chloride, the barium chloride, the manganese
chloride, the zinc chloride, and the copper chloride being
preferred, and the magnesium chloride, the manganese chloride, the
zinc chloride, and the copper chloride being particularly
preferred.
[0133] Preferred examples of the Lewis base forming a complex
compound of the metal halide and the Lewis base include: a
phosphorus compound; a carbonyl compound; a nitrogen compound; an
ether compound; and an alcohol. Specific examples thereof include:
a tributyl phosphate; a tri-2-ethylhexyl phosphate; a triphenyl
phosphate; a tricresyl phosphate; a triethylphosphine; a
tributylphosphine; a triphenylphosphine; a diethylphosphinoethane;
an acetylacetone; a benzoylacetone; a propionitrileacetone; a
valerylacetone; an ethylacetylacetone; a methyl acetoacetate; an
ethyl acetoacetate; a phenyl acetoacetate; a dimethyl malonate; a
diphenyl malonate; an acetic acid; an octanoic acid; a
2-ethylhexoic acid; an oleic acid; a stearic acid; a benzoic acid;
a naphthenic acid; a versatic acid; a triethylamine; a
N,N-dimethylacetamide; a tetrahydrofuran; a diphenyl ether; a
2-ethylhexyl alcohol; an oleyl alcohol; stearyl alcohol; a phenol;
a benzyl alcohol; a 1-decanol; and a lauryl alcohol, with the
tri-2-ethylhexyl phosphate, the tricresyl phosphate; the
acetylacetone, the 2-ethylhexoic acid, the versatic acid, the
2-ethylhexyl alcohol; the 1-decanol; and the lauryl alcohol being
preferred.
[0134] The Lewis base is subjected to reaction with the metal
halide in the proportion of 0.01 mol to 30 mol, preferably 0.5 mol
to 10 mol, per 1 mol of the metal halide. The use of the reactant
obtained from the reaction of the Lewis base can reduce residual
metal in the polymer.
[0135] An example of the organic compound containing active halogen
includes benzyl chloride.
[0136] The component (C) that is contained in the second
polymerization catalyst composition is an organic compound
represented by the general formula (X):
YR.sup.1.sub.aR.sup.2.sub.bR.sup.3.sub.c (X)
wherein: Y is a metal selected from Group 1, Group 2, Group 12, and
Group 13 of the periodic table; R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 are the same or
different hydrocarbon groups each having 1 to 10 carbon atoms or a
hydrogen atom; and R.sup.3 is a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 10
carbon atoms, in which R.sup.3 may be the same as or different from
R.sup.1 or R.sup.2 above, a being 1 and b and c both being 0 when Y
is a metal selected from Group 1 of the periodic table, a and b
being 1 and c being 0 when Y is a metal selected from Group 2 and
Group 12 of the periodic table, a, b, and c are all 1 when Y is a
metal selected from Group 13 of the periodic table), and is
preferably an organic aluminum compound represented by the general
formula (Xa):
AlR.sup.1R.sup.2R.sup.3 (Xa)
wherein: R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 are the same or different hydrocarbon
groups each having 1 to 10 carbon atoms or a hydrogen atom; and
R.sup.3 is a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, in
which R.sup.3 may be the same as or different from R.sup.1 or
R.sup.2 above). Examples of the organic aluminum compound in the
general formula (X) include: a trimethyl aluminum, a triethyl
aluminum, a tri-n-propyl aluminum, a triisopropyl aluminum, a
tri-n-butyl aluminum, a triisobutyl aluminum, a tri-t-butyl
aluminum, a tripentyl aluminum, a trihexyl aluminum, a
tricyclohexyl aluminum, a trioctyl aluminum; a diethylaluminum
hydride, a di-n-propyl aluminum hydride, a di-n-butyl aluminum
hydride, a diisobutyl aluminum hydride, a dihexyl aluminum hydride;
a diisohexyl aluminum hydride, a dioctyl aluminum hydride, a
diisooctyl aluminum hydride; an ethyl aluminum dihydride, a
n-propyl aluminum dihydride, and an isobutyl aluminum dihydride,
with the triethyl aluminum, the triisobutyl aluminum, the diethyl
aluminum hydride, and the diisobutyl aluminum hydride being
preferred. The organic aluminum compounds as the component (C) may
be contained alone or in combination of two or more. The content of
the organic aluminum compound in the second polymerization catalyst
composition is preferably 1-fold mol to 50-fold mol, and more
preferably about 10-fold mol, with respect to the component
(A).
[0137] --Third Polymerization Catalyst Composition--
[0138] The third polymerization catalyst composition includes the
metallocene-based composite catalyst below and boron anion, and
further preferably includes another component such as a
co-catalyst, which is contained in a regular polymerization
catalyst composition containing a metallocene complex. The third
polymerization catalyst composition is also referred to as
two-component catalyst, which has the metallocene-based composite
catalyst and boron anion. As is the case with the metallocene-based
composite catalyst, the third polymerization catalyst composition
further contains boron anion, which allows the content of each
monomer component in the polymer to be arbitrarily controlled.
[0139] --Metallocene Catalyst--
[0140] The metallocene-based catalyst is represented by the
following formula (A):
R.sub.aMX.sub.bQY.sub.b (A)
wherein: R each independently represents an unsubstituted or
substituted indenyl group, the R being coordinated with M; M
represents a lanthanoid element, scandium, or yttrium; X each
independently represents a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 20 carbon
atoms, the X being m-coordinated with M and Q; Q represents a Group
13 element in the periodic table; Y each independently represents a
hydrocarbon group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms or a hydrogen atom,
the Y being coordinated with Q; and a and b each are 2.
[0141] Preferred examples of the above-described metallocene-based
composite catalyst include a metallocene-based composite catalyst
represented by the following formula (XV):
##STR00008##
wherein: M.sup.1 represents a lanthanoid element, scandium, or
yttrium; Cp.sup.R each independently represents an unsubstituted or
substituted indenyl group; R.sup.A to R.sup.B each independently
represent a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, the
R.sup.A and R.sup.B being .mu.-coordinated with M.sup.1 and Al; and
R.sup.C and R.sup.D each independently represent a hydrocarbon
group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms or a hydrogen atom.
[0142] The use of the above metallocene-based polymerization
catalyst enables the production of the polymer. The use of the
metallocene-based composite compounds such as an aluminum-based
catalyst can reduce or eliminate the amount of alkyl aluminum to be
used in the step of synthesizing the polymer. The use of a
conventional catalyst system would require a large amount of alkyl
aluminum to be used in synthesizing a polymer. Specifically, to
obtain high catalytic effect, the metallocene-based composite
catalyst of the present invention requires only about 5
equivalents, whereas a conventional catalyst system would require
alkyl aluminum in an amount of at least 10 equivalents relative to
a metal catalyst.
[0143] In the metallocene-based composite catalyst, the metal
represented by M in the formula (A) is a lanthanoid element,
scandium, or yttrium. The lanthanoid elements include 15 elements
with atomic numbers 57 to 71, and may be any one of them. Preferred
examples of the metal represented by M include samarium (Sm),
neodymium (Nd), praseodymium (Pr), gadolinium (Gd), cerium (Ce),
holmium (Ho), scandium (Sc), and yttrium (Y).
[0144] In the formula (A), R each independently represents an
unsubstituted or substituted indenyl, the R being coordinated with
the metal M. Specific examples of the substituted indenyl group
include a 1,2,3-trimethyl indenyl group, a heptamethyl indenyl
group, and a 1,2,4,5,6,7-hexamethyl indenyl group.
[0145] In the formula (A), Q represents a Group 13 element in the
periodic table. Specific examples thereof include: boron, aluminum,
gallium, indium, and thallium.
[0146] In the formula (A), X each independently represents a
hydrocarbon group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, the X being
m-coordinated with M and Q. Here, examples of the hydrocarbon group
having 1 to 20 carbon atoms include: a methyl group, an ethyl
group, a propyl group, a butyl group, a pentyl group, a hexyl
group, a heptyl group, an octyl group, a decyl group, a dodecyl
group, a tridecyl group, a tetradecyl group, a pentadecyl group, a
hexadecyl group, a heptadecyl group, and a stearyl group. The
pt-coordination refers to a state of coordination which forms a
crosslinked structure.
[0147] In the formula (A), Y each independently represents a
hydrocarbon group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms or a hydrogen atom,
the Y being coordinated with Q. Here, examples of the hydrocarbon
group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms include, a methyl group, an ethyl
group, a propyl group, a butyl group, a pentyl group, a hexyl
group, a heptyl group, an octyl group, a decyl group, a dodecyl
group, a tridecyl group, a tetradecyl group, a pentadecyl group, a
hexadecyl group, a heptadecyl group, and a stearyl group.
[0148] In the formula (XV) above, the metal represented by M.sup.1
is a lanthanoid element, scandium, or yttrium. The lanthanoid
elements include 15 elements with atomic numbers 57 to 71, and may
be any one of them. Preferred examples of the metal represented by
M.sup.1 include samarium (Sm), neodymium (Nd), praseodymium (Pr),
gadolinium (Gd), cerium (Ce), holmium (Ho), scandium (Sc), and
yttrium (Y).
[0149] In the formula (XV), Cp.sup.R represents an unsubstituted or
substituted indenyl. Cp.sup.R having an indenyl ring as a basic
skeleton may be represented by C.sub.9H.sub.7-XR.sub.X or
C.sub.9H.sub.11-XR.sub.X. Here, X represents an integer of 0 to 7
or 0 to 11, respectively. Further, R each independently preferably
represents a hydrocarbyl group or a metalloid group. The
hydrocarbyl group preferably has 1 to 20 carbon atoms, more
preferably 1 to 10 carbon atoms, and still more preferably 1 to 8
carbon atoms. Preferred specific examples of the hydrocarbyl group
include a methyl group, an ethyl group, a phenyl group, and a
benzyl group. Meanwhile, examples of metalloid in the metalloid
group include germyl (Ge), stannyl (Sn), and silyl (Si). In
addition, the metalloid group preferably has a hydrocarbyl group,
which is similar to the hydrocarbyl group described above. Specific
examples of the metalloid group include a trimethylsilyl group.
Specific examples of the substituted indenyl group include 2-phenyl
indenyl and 2-methyl indenyl group. Two Cp.sup.R in the formula
(XV) may be the same as or different from each other.
[0150] In the formula (XV), R.sup.A and R.sup.B each independently
represent a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, the
R.sup.A and R.sup.B being .mu.-coordinated with M.sup.1 and
A.sup.1. Here, examples of the hydrocarbon group having 1 to 20
carbon atoms include: a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl
group, a butyl group, a pentyl group, a hexyl group, a heptyl
group, an octyl group, a decyl group, a dodecyl group, a tridecyl
group, a tetradecyl group, a pentadecyl group, a hexadecyl group, a
heptadecyl group, and a stearyl group. The .mu.-coordination refers
to a state of coordination which forms a crosslinked structure.
[0151] In the formula (XV), R.sup.C and R.sup.D each independently
represent a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms or a
hydrogen atom. Here, examples of the hydrocarbon group having 1 to
20 carbon atoms include: a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl
group, a butyl group, a pentyl group, a hexyl group, a heptyl
group, an octyl group, a decyl group, a dodecyl group, a tridecyl
group, a tetradecyl group, a pentadecyl group, a hexadecyl group, a
heptadecyl group, and a stearyl group.
[0152] The metallocene-based composite catalyst can be obtained by,
for example, reacting with an organic aluminum compound represented
by AlR.sup.KR.sup.LR.sup.M in a solvent, the metallocene complex
represented by the following formula (XVI):
##STR00009##
wherein: M.sup.2 represents a lanthanoid element, scandium, or
yttrium; Cp.sup.R each independently represents an unsubstituted or
substituted indenyl group; R.sup.E to R.sup.J each independently
represent a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon
atoms, L represents a Lewis base, and w represents an integer of 0
to 3. The reaction temperature only needs to be set to about room
temperature, and thus the complex can be produced in mild
conditions. The reaction time is arbitrary, and may be about
several hours to several tens of hours. The reaction solvent is not
particularly limited, and any solvent which is capable of
dissolving the raw material and the product is preferably used. For
example, toluene and hexane may be used. The structure of the
metallocene-based composite catalyst may preferably be determined
by .sup.1H-NMR or X-ray crystallography.
[0153] In the metallocene complex represented by the formula (XVI),
Cp.sup.R is an unsubstituted indenyl or substituted indenyl, and is
equivalent to Cp.sup.R in the formula (XV). Further, in the formula
(XVI), the metal M.sup.2 represents a lanthanoid element, scandium,
or yttrium, which is equivalent to the metal M.sup.1 in the formula
(XV).
[0154] The metallocene complex represented by the formula (XVI)
includes a silyl amide ligand represented by
[--N(SiR.sub.3).sub.2]. Groups represented by R (R.sup.E to
R.sup.J) in the silyl amide ligand each independently represent a
hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms, and it
is preferred that at least one of R.sup.E to R.sup.J represents a
hydrogen atom. With at least one of R.sup.E to R.sup.J representing
a hydrogen atom, the catalyst can be synthesized with ease.
Further, the alkyl group is preferably a methyl group.
[0155] The metallocene complex represented by the formula (XVI)
further includes 0 or 3, preferably 0 to 1 neutral Lewis bases
represented by L. Examples of the neutral Lewis base L include
tetrahydrofuran, diethyl ether, dimethylaniline,
trimethylphosphine, lithium chloride, neutral olefins, and neutral
diolefins. When a plurality of neutral Lewis bases represented by L
are incorporated, respective L may be the same as or different from
each other.
[0156] The metallocene complex represented by the general formula
(XVI) may be present as monomers or as dimers or multimers having
two or more monomers.
[0157] On the other hand, an organic aluminum compound to be used
for generating the metallocene-based composite catalyst is
represented by a general formula AlR.sup.KR.sup.LR.sup.M, where
R.sup.K and R.sup.L each independently represent a univalent
hydrocarbon group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms or a hydrogen atom
and R.sup.M represents a univalent hydrocarbon group having 1 to 20
carbon atoms, with the R.sup.M being either the same as or
different from R.sup.K or R.sup.L. Examples of the univalent
hydrocarbon groups having 1 to 20 carbon atoms include a methyl
group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, a butyl group, a pentyl
group, a hexyl group, a heptyl group, an octyl group, a decyl
group, a dodecyl group, a tridecyl group, a tetradecyl group, a
pentadecyl group, a hexadecyl group, a heptadecyl group, and a
stearyl group.
[0158] Specific examples of the organic aluminum compound include:
a trimethyl aluminum, a triethyl aluminum, a tri-n-propyl aluminum,
a triisopropyl aluminum, a tri-n-butyl aluminum, a triisobutyl
aluminum, a tri-t-butyl aluminum, a tripentyl aluminum, a trihexyl
aluminum, a tricyclohexyl aluminum, a trioctyl aluminum; a
diethylaluminum hydride, a di-n-propyl aluminum hydride, a
di-n-butyl aluminum hydride, a diisobutyl aluminum hydride, a
dihexyl aluminum hydride; a diisohexyl aluminum hydride, a dioctyl
aluminum hydride, a diisooctyl aluminum hydride; an ethyl aluminum
dihydride, a n-propyl aluminum dihydride, and an isobutyl aluminum
dihydride, with the triethyl aluminum, the triisobutyl aluminum,
the diethyl aluminum hydride, and the diisobutyl aluminum hydride
being preferred. These organic aluminum compounds may be contained
alone or in combination of two or more. The amount of the organic
aluminum compound to be used for generating the metallocene-based
composite catalyst is preferably 1-fold mol to 50-fold mol, and
more preferably about 10-fold mol, with respect to the metallocene
complex.
[0159] In the third polymerization catalyst composition, a specific
example of the boron anion forming the two-component catalyst
includes a tetravalent boron anion. Examples thereof may include: a
tetraphenyl borate, a tetrakis(monofluorophenyl)borate, a
tetrakis(difluorophenyl)borate, a tetrakis(trifluorophenyl)borate,
a tetrakis(tetrafluorophenyl)borate, a
tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate, a
tetrakis(tetrafluoromethylphenyl)borate, a tetra(tolyl)borate, a
tetra(xylyl)borate, a (tripheyl, pentafluorophenyl)borate, a
[tris(pentafluorophenyl), phenyl]borate, and a
tridecahydride-7,8-dicarbaundecaborate, with the
tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate being preferred.
[0160] The boron anion may be used as an ionic compound combined
with cation. Examples of the cation include a carbonium cation, an
oxonium cation, an ammonium cation, an amine cation, a phosphonium
cation, a cycloheptatrienyl cation, and a ferrocenium cation
containing a transition metal. Examples of the carbonium cation
include trisubstituted carbonium cations such as a
triphenylcarbonium cation and a tri(substituted phenyl)carbonium
cation, and more specifically, an example of the tri(substituted
phenyl)carbonium cation includes a tri(methylphenyl)carbonium
cation. Examples of the amine cation include: trialkylammonium
cations such as a trimethylammonium cation, a triethylammonium
cation, a tripropylammonium cation, and a tributylammonium cation;
N,N-dialkylanilinium cations such as a N,N-dimethylanilinium
cation, a N,N-diethylanilinium cation, and a
N,N-2,4,6-pentamethylanilinium cation; and dialkylammonium cations
such as a diisopropylammonium cation and a dicyclohexylammonium
cation. Examples of the phosphonium cation include
triarylphosphonium cations such as a triphenylphosphonium cation, a
tri(methylphenyl)phosphonium cation, and a
tri(dimethylphenyl)phosphonium cation. Of those cations, the
N,N-dialkylanilinium cations or the carbonium cations are
preferred, and the N,N-dialkylanilinium cations are particularly
preferred. Therefore, preferred examples of the ionic compound
include a N,N-dimethylanilinium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate
and a triphenylcarbonium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate. The
content of the ionic compound including a boron anion and a cation
may preferably be added by 0.1-fold mol to 10-fold mol, and more
preferably by about 1-fold mol, with respect to the
metallocene-based composite catalyst.
[0161] Although it is required to use the above metallocene-based
composite catalyst and the above boron anion in the third
polymerization catalyst composition, the presence of a boron anion
in the reaction system for reacting the metallocene catalyst
represented by the formula (XVI) with the organic aluminum compound
would not allow the synthesis of the metallocene-based composite
catalyst of the formula (XV). Accordingly, preparation of the
above-described third polymerization catalyst composition requires
the metallocene-based composite catalyst to be synthesized in
advance and isolated and purified before combined with a boron
anion.
[0162] Preferred examples of the co-catalyst that can be contained
in the third polymerization catalyst composition may include an
organic aluminum compound represented by the
AlR.sup.KR.sup.LR.sup.M, and also include an aluminoxane. The
aluminoxane is preferably an alkyl aluminoxane. Examples of the
alkyl aluminoxane include as methylaluminoxane (MAO) and modified
methylaluminoxanes. Preferred examples of the modified
methylaluminoxane include MMAO-3A (manufactured by Tosoh Finechem
Corporation). These aluminoxanes may be contained alone or in
combination of two or more.
[0163] --Coupling Step--
[0164] The coupling step is for coupling polymers disposed at least
part of (e.g., the end portion) the polymer chains of the
synthesized polyisoprene obtained in the polymerization step.
[0165] In the coupling step, coupling reaction (or specifically
denaturing the ends of polymer chains) is preferably performed when
the polymerization reaction reaches 100%.
[0166] The coupling agent used for the coupling reaction is not
particularly limited and may be selected as appropriate depending
on the application thereof. Examples the coupling agent include,
for example, (i) a tin-containing compound, such as bis(maleic
acid-1-octadecyl)dioctyltin(IV), (ii) an isocyanate compound, such
as 4,4'-diphenylmethanediisocyanate, and (iii) an alkoxysilane
compound, such as glycidylpropyltrimethoxysilane. These coupling
agents may be used alone or in combination of two or more
thereof.
[0167] Among them, bis(maleic acid-1-octadecyl)dioctyltin(IV) is
preferable in terms of its high reaction efficiency and low
gel-formation property.
[0168] The coupling reaction couples the polymer chains to provide
polymers having high molecular weight. The coupling reaction also
inhibits occurrence of resolutions other than hydrolysis to prevent
the number average molecular weight (Mn) from decreasing.
[0169] The reaction temperature of the coupling reaction is not
particularly limited and may be selected as appropriate depending
on the application thereof. The temperature is, however, preferably
10.degree. C. to 100.degree. C., and more preferably 20.degree. C.
to 80.degree. C.
[0170] The reaction temperature of 10.degree. C. or higher can
prevent a significant decrease in reaction rate, and that of
100.degree. C. or lower can prevent the gelation of polymers.
[0171] The reaction time of the coupling reaction is not
particularly limited and may be selected as appropriate depending
on the application thereof. The reaction time is, however,
preferably 10 minutes to 1 hour.
[0172] The reaction time of 10 minutes or longer allows the
reaction to occur satisfactorily, and that of 1 hour or shorter
prevents the gelation of the polymers.
[0173] --Cleaning Step--
[0174] The cleaning step is for cleaning the polyisoprene obtained
in the polymerization step. The medium used in the cleaning is not
particularly limited and may be selected as appropriate depending
on the application thereof. Examples of the medium include
methanol, ethanol, and isopropanol.
[0175] <<Isoprene Copolymer>>
--Compounds Other than Isoprene--
[0176] Compounds other than isoprene that may be copolymerized with
isoprene are not particularly limited and may be selected as
appropriate depending on the application thereof. Examples of such
compounds include, for example, a conjugated diene compound, such
as 1,3-butadiene, 1,3-pentadiene, 2,3-dimethyl butadiene; aromatic
vinyl compound, such as styrene; and an unconjugated olefin
compound, such as ethylene, propylene, 1-butene, 1-pentene,
1-hexene, 1-heptene, and 1-octene. These compounds may be used
alone or in combination of two or more.
[0177] Among them, 1,3-butadiene and styrene are preferable in
terms of controlling the molecular weight.
[0178] --Cis-1,4 Bond Content--
[0179] The cis-1,4 bond content in a unit derived from the isoprene
in the isoprene copolymer is not particularly limited and may be
selected as appropriate depending on the application thereof. The
bond content is, however, preferably is 90% or more, more
preferably 95% or more, and most preferably 98% or more.
[0180] The isoprene copolymer having cis-1,4 bond content of 90% or
more can develop intended strain-induced crystallinity.
[0181] The synthesized polyisoprene having the cis-1,4 bond content
within the above "more preferable" or "most preferable" range is
advantageous in terms of improved durability associated with
strain-induced crystallinity.
[0182] It should be noted that the cis-1,4 bond content is not the
ratio of the cis-1,4 bond to the whole isoprene copolymer but is
the amount of the cis-1,4 bond in the unit derived from the
isoprene (this applies also to trans-1,4 bond content and 3,4-vinyl
bond content which are described below).
[0183] --Trans-1,4 Bond Content--
[0184] The trans-1,4 bond content of the isoprene copolymer is not
particularly limited and may be selected as appropriate depending
on the application thereof. The bond content is, however,
preferably 10% or less, more preferably 5% or less.
[0185] The isoprene copolymer having trans-1,4 bond content of 10%
or less can develop intended strain-induced crystallinity.
[0186] The isoprene copolymer having the trans-1,4 bond content
within the above "more preferable" range is advantageous in terms
of improved durability associated with strain-induced
crystallinity.
[0187] --3,4-Vinyl Bond Content--
[0188] The 3,4-vinyl bond content of isoprene in a unit derived
from the isoprene in the isoprene copolymer is not particularly
limited and may be selected as appropriate depending on the
application thereof. The bond content is, however, preferably 5% or
less, more preferably 2% or less.
[0189] The isoprene copolymer having the 3,4-vinyl bond content of
5% or less can develop intended strain-induced crystallinity.
[0190] The synthesized polyisoprene having the 3,4-vinyl bond
content within the above "more preferable" range is advantageous in
terms of improved durability associated with strain-induced
crystallinity.
[0191] The isoprene copolymer having the unit derived from isoprene
with the 3,4-vinyl bond content of 5% or less is obtained by, for
example, a polymerization of a predetermined time (i.e., 30 minutes
to 2 days) at a low temperature (i.e., -100.degree. C.) using the
first, the second, or the third polymerization catalyst composition
which are described above.
[0192] --Content of Unit Derived from Isoprene in Isoprene
Copolymer--
[0193] The content of the unit derived from isoprene in the
isoprene copolymer is not particularly limited and may be selected
as appropriate depending on the application thereof. The content
is, however, preferably 5 mol % to 95 mol %.
[0194] The isoprene copolymer having 5 mol % or more
isoprene-derived unit allows the isoprene to exhibit its properties
satisfactorily, and that having 95 mol % or less isoprene-derived
unit allows a copolymer component other than isoprene to exhibit
the properties satisfactorily.
[0195] --Chain Structure--
[0196] The chain structure is not particularly limited and may be
selected as appropriate depending on the application thereof.
Examples of the chain structure include, for example, a block
copolymer, a random copolymer, a tapered copolymer, and an
alternating copolymer.
[0197] --Block Copolymer--
[0198] The structure of the block copolymer is any one of
(A-B).sub.x, A-(B-A).sub.x, and B-(A-B).sub.x, wherein A is a block
portion composed of monomer units of isoprene, B is a block portion
composed of monomer units of a compound other than isoprene, and x
is an integer of 1 or more. A block copolymer containing multiple
(A-B) or (B-A) structures is referred to as a multi-block
copolymer.
[0199] --Random Copolymer--
[0200] The structure of the random copolymer has a random
arrangement of monomer units of isoprene and monomer units of a
compound other than isoprene.
[0201] --Tapered Copolymer--
[0202] The tapered copolymer contains random copolymers and block
copolymer in a mixed manner. Specifically, the tapered copolymer
contains at least either a block portion (or block structure)
composed of monomer units of isoprene or a block portion composed
of monomer units of a compound other than isoprene, and a random
portion (or random structure) composed of monomer units of isoprene
and those of a compound other than isoprene that are randomly
arranged.
[0203] The structure of the tapered copolymer shows that the
composition of the isoprene component and the compound component
other than isoprene has continuous or discontinuous
distribution.
[0204] --Alternating Copolymer--
[0205] The alternating copolymer contains isoprene units and units
of a compound other than isoprene that are arranged alternately.
Specifically the structure of the alternating copolymer has a
molecular chain structure of -ABABABAB-, wherein A represents a
monomer unit of isoprene and B represents a monomer unit of a
compound other than isoprene.
[0206] --Method of Producing Isoprene Copolymer--
[0207] Next, a method of producing the isoprene copolymer will be
described in detail. However, the producing method described in
detail below is merely an example. The isoprene copolymer can be
produced by polymerizing isoprene monomers and monomers of a
compound other than isoprene in the presence of a polymerization
catalyst composition.
[0208] The method of producing the isoprene copolymer includes at
least a polymerization step, and further includes coupling,
cleaning, and other steps appropriately selected as necessary.
[0209] --Polymerization Step--
[0210] The polymerization step is for copolymerizing isoprene
monomers and monomers of a compound other than isoprene.
[0211] In the polymerization step, except that the aforementioned
first, second, or third polymerization catalyst composition is
used, isoprene monomers and monomers of a compound other than
isoprene can be copolymerized in a manner similar to that used
conventionally in producing polymers using a coordination ion
polymerization catalyst. The polymerization catalyst compositions
used in the present invention have been already described in the
above.
[0212] The catalyst that may be used in the polymerization step is
the aforementioned first, second, or third polymerization catalyst
composition.
[0213] Any method can be employed as the polymerization method
including, for example, solution polymerization, suspension
polymerization, liquid phase bulk polymerization, emulsion
polymerization, vapor phase polymerization, and solid state
polymerization. In addition, in the case of using a solvent for
polymerization reaction, any solvent may be used that is inert to
the polymerization reaction, including, for example, toluene,
cyclohexane, n-hexane and mixtures thereof.
[0214] In the case of using a polymerization catalyst composition,
the polymerization step can be carried out in either one of the
following manners. That is, for example, (1) the components forming
the polymerization catalyst composition may be separately provided
in the polymerization reaction system containing isoprene monomers
and monomers of a compound other than isoprene, to thereby prepare
the polymerization catalyst composition in the reaction system, or
(2) the polymerization catalyst composition prepared in advance may
be provided into the polymerization reaction system. Further, the
manner (2) also includes providing the metallocene complex (active
species) activated by the co-catalyst.
[0215] Further, in the polymerization step, a terminator such as
methanol, ethanol, and isopropanol may be used to stop the
polymerization.
[0216] In the polymerization step, the polymerization reaction of
the isoprene and a compound other than isoprene may be preferably
performed in an inert gas atmosphere, and preferably in nitrogen or
argon gas atmosphere. The polymerization temperature of the
polymerization reaction is not particularly limited, and preferably
in a range of, for example, -100.degree. C. to 200.degree. C., and
may also be set to temperatures around room temperature. An
increase in polymerization temperature may reduce the
cis-1,4-selectivity in the polymerization reaction. The
polymerization reaction is preferably performed under pressure in a
range of 0.1 MPa to 10.0 MPa so as to allow the isoprene and the
compound other than isoprene to be sufficiently introduced into the
polymerization system. Further, the reaction time of the
polymerization reaction is not particularly limited, but may
preferably be in a range of, for example, 1 second to 10 days,
which may be selected as appropriate depending on the conditions
such as the type of the monomers to be polymerized, the type of the
catalyst, and the polymerization temperature.
[0217] --Coupling Step--
[0218] The coupling step is for coupling polymers by using at least
part (e.g., the end portion) of the polymer chains of the isoprene
copolymers obtained in the polymerization step.
[0219] In the coupling step, coupling reaction (or specifically
denaturing the ends of polymer chains) is preferably performed when
the polymerization reaction reaches 100%.
[0220] The coupling agent used for the coupling reaction is not
particularly limited and may be selected as appropriate depending
on the application thereof. Examples the coupling agent include,
for example, (i) a tin-containing compound, such as bis(maleic
acid-1-octadecyl)dioctyltin(IV), (ii) an isocyanate compound, such
as 4,4'-diphenylmethanediisocyanate, and (iii) an alkoxysilane
compound, such as glycidylpropyltrimethoxysilane. These coupling
agents may be used alone or in combination of two or more.
[0221] Among them, bis(maleic acid-1-octadecyl)dioctyltin(IV) is
preferable in terms of its high reaction efficiency and low
gel-formation property.
[0222] The coupling reaction couples the polymer chains to provide
polymers having high molecular weight. The coupling reaction also
inhibits occurrence of resolutions other than hydrolysis to prevent
the number average molecular weight (Mn) from decreasing.
[0223] The reaction temperature of the coupling reaction is not
particularly limited and may be selected as appropriate depending
on the application thereof. The temperature is, however, preferably
10.degree. C. to 100.degree. C., and more preferably 20.degree. C.
to 80.degree. C.
[0224] The reaction temperature of 10.degree. C. or higher prevents
a significant decrease in reaction rate, and that of 100.degree. C.
or lower prevents the gelation of polymers.
[0225] The reaction time of the coupling reaction is not
particularly limited and may be selected as appropriate depending
on the application thereof. The reaction time is, however,
preferably 10 minutes to 1 hour.
[0226] The reaction time of 10 minutes or longer allows the
reaction to occur satisfactorily, and that of 1 hour or shorter can
prevent the gelation of the polymers.
[0227] --Cleaning Step--
[0228] The cleaning step is for cleaning the isoprene copolymer
obtained in the polymerization step. The medium used in the
cleaning is not particularly limited and may be selected as
appropriate depending on the application thereof. Examples of the
medium include methanol, ethanol, and isopropanol.
[0229] The synthesized polyisoprene and the isoprene copolymer have
been already described in the above.
[0230] The total amount (total content) of the polymer (the
synthesized polyisoprene, the isoprene copolymer, or the
synthesized polyisoprene and the isoprene copolymer) contained in
the rubber component is not particularly limited and may be
selected as appropriate depending on the application thereof.
However, the content is preferably 15 mass % to 100 mass %.
[0231] The rubber component containing the polymer in an amount of
15 mass % or more in total amount allows the polymer to exhibit its
property satisfactorily.
[0232] <<Other Components>>
[0233] The above-mentioned other rubber components are not
particularly limited and may be selected as appropriate depending
on the application thereof. Examples of the rubber components
include butadiene rubber (BR), styrene butadiene rubber (SBR),
acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR), chloroprene rubber,
ethylene-propylene rubber (EPM), ethylene-propylene
unconjugated-diene rubber (EPDM), polysulfide rubber, silicone
rubber, fluoro-rubber, and urethane rubber. These rubber components
may be used alone or in combination of two or more.
[0234] <Filler>
[0235] The filler is not particularly limited and may be selected
as appropriate depending on the application thereof. Examples of
the filler include a carbon black and an inorganic filler, and
preferably at least one selected from the carbon black and the
inorganic filler. The carbon black is more preferably contained in
the rubber composition. The filler is added to the rubber
composition to reinforce the rubber composition.
[0236] The amount (content) of the filler is not particularly
limited and may be selected as appropriate depending on the
application thereof. The content is, however, preferably 10 mass
parts to 75 mass parts, more preferably 20 mass parts to 75 mass
parts, and most preferably 30 mass parts to 60 mass parts, per 100
mass parts rubber component.
[0237] The filler contained in an amount of 10 mass parts or more
exhibits its effect. The filler contained in an amount of 75 mass
parts or less can be reliably blended into the rubber component,
and the filler contained in this amount can thus improve the
performance of the rubber composition.
[0238] The rubber composition containing the filler in an amount
within the above "more preferable" or "most preferable" range is
advantageous in terms of processability, low-loss performance, and
durability.
[0239] --Carbon Black--
[0240] The carbon black is not particularly limited and may be
selected as appropriate depending on the application thereof.
Examples of the carbon black include FEF, GPF, SRF, HAF, N339,
IISAF, ISAF, and SAF. These examples of the carbon black may be
used alone or in combination of two or more.
[0241] The nitrogen adsorption specific surface area of the carbon
black, which is determined according to N.sub.2SA JIS K 6217-2:
2001, is not particularly limited and may be selected as
appropriate depending on the application thereof. However, the
nitrogen absorption specific surface area of the carbon black is
preferably 20 m.sup.2/g to 150 m.sup.2/g, and more preferably 35
m.sup.2/g to 145 m.sup.2/g.
[0242] The rubber composition having the carbon black with 20
m.sup.2/g or more nitrogen adsorption specific surface area
(N.sub.2SA) can prevent deterioration in durability of the obtained
rubber to achieve sufficient crack growth resistance, and that
having the carbon black with 100 m.sup.2/g or less nitrogen
adsorption specific surface area (N.sub.2SA) can improve low-loss
performance to enhance workability.
[0243] The content of the carbon black to 100 mass parts rubber
component is not particularly limited and may be selected as
appropriate depending on the application thereof. However, the
content of the carbon black to 100 mass parts rubber component is
preferably 10 mass parts to 100 mass parts, more preferably 10 to
70 mass parts, and most preferably 20 mass parts to 60 mass
parts.
[0244] The rubber composition containing the carbon black in an
amount of 10 mass parts or more can prevent decline in breaking
resistance caused by insufficient reinforcement, and the rubber
composition containing 100 mass parts or less carbon black can
prevent deterioration in procecessability and low-loss
performance.
[0245] The rubber composition containing the carbon black in an
amount within the above "more preferable" or "most preferable"
range is advantageous in terms of maintaining a balance in each of
the performances.
[0246] --Inorganic Filler--
[0247] The inorganic filler is not particularly limited and may be
selected as appropriate depending on the application thereof.
Examples of the inorganic filler include silica, aluminum
hydroxide, clay, alumina, talc, mica, kaolin, glass balloon, glass
beads, calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide,
magnesium oxide, titanium oxide, potassium titanate, and barium
sulfate. These inorganic fillers may be used alone or in
combination of two or more.
[0248] In using an inorganic filler, a silane coupling agent may
also be used as appropriate.
[0249] <Crosslinking Agent>
[0250] The crosslinking agent is not particularly limited and may
be selected as appropriate depending on the application thereof.
Examples of the crosslinking agent include a sulfur-containing
crosslinking agent, an organic peroxide-containing crosslinking
agent, an inorganic crosslinking agent, a polyamine crosslinking
agent, a resin crosslinking agent, a sulfur compound-based
crosslinking agent, an oxime-nitrosamine-based crosslinking agent,
and sulfur, with the sulfur-containing crosslinking agent being
more preferred as the rubber composition for a tire.
[0251] The content of the crosslinking agent is not particularly
limited and may be selected as appropriate depending on the
application thereof. The preferred content thereof is 0.1 mass
parts to 20 mass parts per 100 mass parts rubber component.
[0252] The rubber composition containing the crosslinking agent in
an amount of 0.1 mass parts or more can develop crosslinking, and
the rubber composition containing the crosslinking agent in an
amount of 20 mass parts or less can prevent the crosslinking that
may be caused by part of the crosslinking agent during kneading,
and can prevent the loss of physical properties of vulcanizate.
[0253] <Other Components>
[0254] The rubber composition may further contain a vulcanization
accelerator in addition to the above components. Examples of
compounds that can be used as the vulcanization accelerator include
guanidine-based compounds, aldehyde-amine-based compounds,
aldehyde-ammonia-based compounds, thiazole-based compounds,
sulfenamide-based compounds, thiourea-based compounds,
thiuram-based compounds, dethiocarbamate-based compounds, and
xanthate-based compounds.
[0255] Further, if necessary, any known agent such as a softening
agent, a vulcanizing co-agent, a colorant, a flame retardant, a
lubricant, a foaming agent, a plasticizer, a processing aid, an
antioxidant, an age resister, an anti-scorch agent, an ultraviolet
rays protecting agent, an antistatic agent, a color protecting
agent, and other compounding agent may be used according to the
intended use thereof.
[0256] (Crosslinked Rubber Composition)
[0257] The crosslinked rubber composition according to the present
invention is not particularly limited as long as it is obtained by
crosslinking the rubber composition of the present invention, and
may be selected as appropriate depending on the application
thereof.
[0258] The conditions for the crosslinking are not particularly
limited and may be selected as appropriate depending on the
application thereof. However, the temperature and the heating time
may preferably be in a range of 120.degree. C. to 200.degree. C.
for 1 minute to 900 minutes.
[0259] (Tire)
[0260] The tire of the present invention is not particularly
limited as long as it contains the crosslinked rubber composition
of the present invention, and may be selected as appropriate
depending on the application thereof.
[0261] The crosslinked rubber composition of the present invention
may be used in any portion of the tire of the present invention,
and the portion may be selected as appropriate depending on the
application thereof. Examples of the portion include, for example,
a tread, a base tread, a sidewall, a side reinforcing rubber, and a
bead filler.
[0262] Among these portions, the tread is advantageous in terms of
durability.
[0263] The tire can be produced by using a conventional method. For
example, a carcass layer, a belt layer, a tread layer, which are
composed of unvulcanized rubber and/or cords, and other members
used for the production of usual tires are successively laminated
on a tire molding drum, then the drum is withdrawn to obtain a
green tire. Thereafter, the green tire is heated and vulcanized in
accordance with an ordinary method, to thereby obtain a desired
tire (for example a pneumatic tire).
[0264] (Applications Other than Tires)
[0265] The crosslinked rubber composition of the present invention
may be used for applications other than tires, such as
anti-vibration rubber, seismic isolation rubber, a belt (conveyor
belt), a rubber crawler, and various types of hoses.
EXAMPLES
[0266] In the following, the present invention will be described in
further detail with reference to Examples. However, the present
invention is in no way limited to the following Examples.
Producing Example 1
Method of Producing Polymer A
[0267] A catalyst solution was first prepared by placing 150
.mu.mol of dimethyl aluminum(.mu.-dimethyl)
bis(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)gadolinium
[(Cp*).sub.2Gd(.mu.-Me).sub.2AlMe.sub.2] (wherein Cp* is
pentamethylcyclopentadienyl ligand), 150 .mu.mol of
triphenylcarbonium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate
(Ph.sub.3CB(C.sub.6F.sub.5).sub.4), and 21.0 mmol of
triisobutylaluminum in a 1 L pressure-resistant glass reactor in a
glove box under nitrogen atmosphere, and dissolving the catalyst
composition in 250 g of toluene. The reactor was then taken out
from the glove box 30 minutes later, and 50.0 g of isoprene was
added to the reactor. Polymerization was then performed at
-40.degree. C. for 60 hours. After the polymerization, 1 mL of an
isopropanol solution containing
2,2'-methylene-bis(4-ethyl-6-t-butylphenol) (NS-5) in an amount of
5 mass % was added to the reactor to stop the reaction. Then, a
large amount of methanol was further added to the reactor to
isolate the polymer, and the isolated polymer was vacuum dried at
70.degree. C. to obtain a polymer A. The yield of the polymer A
thus obtained was 43.1 g.
Producing Example 2
Method of Producing Polymer B
[0268] To obtain a polymer B, 6.2 .mu.mol of
tris[bis(trimethylsilyl)amide]gadolinium
Gd[N(SiMe.sub.3).sub.2].sub.3, 3.22 mmol of triisobutylaluminum,
and 5.0 g of toluene were placed in a 1 L pressure-resistant glass
reactor in a glove box under nitrogen atmosphere, and the compounds
were aged for 30 minutes. Subsequently, 6.2 .mu.mol of
triphenylcarbonium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate
(Ph.sub.3CB(C.sub.6F.sub.5).sub.4) and 472.0 g of cyclohexane were
placed in the reactor and the compounds were further aged for 30
minutes. The reactor was then taken out from the glove box, and
120.0 g of isoprene was added to the reactor. Polymerization was
then performed at room temperature for 12 hours. After the
polymerization, 1 mL of an isopropanol solution containing
2,2'-methylene-bis(4-ethyl-6-t-butylphenol) (NS-5) in an amount of
5 mass % was added to the reactor to stop the reaction. Then, a
large amount of methanol was further added to the reactor to
isolate the polymer, and the isolated polymer was vacuum dried at
70.degree. C. to obtain the polymer B. The yield of the polymer B
thus obtained was 103.0 g.
Producing Example 3
Method of Producing Polymer C
[0269] To obtain a polymer C, 4.65 .mu.mol of
tris[bis(trimethylsilyl)amide]gadolinium
Gd[N(SiMe.sub.3).sub.2].sub.3, 0.70 mmol of diisobutyl aluminum
hydride, and 5.0 g of toluene were placed in a 1 L
pressure-resistant glass reactor in a glove box under nitrogen
atmosphere, and the compounds were aged for 30 minutes.
Subsequently, 4.65 .mu.mol of triphenylcarbonium
tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate
(Ph.sub.3CB(C.sub.6F.sub.5).sub.4) and 378.0 g of cyclohexane were
placed in the reactor and the compounds were further aged for 30
minutes. The reactor was then taken out from the glove box, and
127.5 g of isoprene was added to the reactor. Polymerization was
then performed at room temperature for 3 hours. After the
polymerization, 1 mL of an isopropanol solution containing
2,2'-methylene-bis(4-ethyl-6-t-butylphenol) (NS-5) in an amount of
5 mass % was added to the reactor to stop the reaction. Then, a
large amount of methanol was further added to the reactor to
isolate the polymer, and the isolated polymer was vacuum dried at
70.degree. C. to obtain the polymer C. The yield of the polymer C
thus obtained was 99.0 g.
Producing Example 4
Method of Producing Polymer D
<Preparation of Catalyst>
[0270] Induced to a 100 mL glass bottle sealed with a rubber
stopper after drying and nitrogen substitution were, in the stated
order, 7.11 g (15.2 weight %) of a cyclohexane solution of
butadiene, 0.59 mL (0.56M) of a cyclohexane solution of neodymium
neodecanoato, 10.32 mL (3.23M aluminum concentration) of a toluene
solution of methyl aluminoxane MAO (manufactured by Tosoh Akzo
Corporation), and 7.77 mL (0.90M) of a hexane solution of
diisobutyl aluminum hydride (manufactured by Kanto Chemical Co.,
Inc.), and the compounds were aged at room temperature for 2
minutes. Subsequently, 1.57 mL (0.95M) of a hexane solution of
chlorinated diethyl aluminum (manufactured by Kanto Chemical Co.,
Inc.) was added, and the compounds were aged while occasionally
stirred for 15 minutes. The concentration of neodymium contained in
thus obtained catalyst solution was 0.010M (mol/L).
<Preparation of Polymer D>
[0271] To obtain a polymer D, a 1 L glass bottle sealed with a
rubber stopper was dried and nitrogen substituted, and a
cyclohexane solution of butadiene after dried and purified, and
dried cyclohexane were introduced to the bottle to obtain a state
where 400 g of a 12.5% cyclohexane solution was introduced.
Subsequently, 1.24 mL (0.015 mmol in terms of neodymium) of the
prepared catalyst solution was added. Polymerization was then
performed in a water bath at 25.degree. C. for 3 hours.
Subsequently, 15 equivalents of dioctyltin octane maleate relative
to neodymium were subjected to reaction at 25.degree. C. for 1
hour, and 2 mL of a 5% isopropanol solution of an age resister
2,2'-methylene-bis(4-ethyl-6-t-butylphenol) (NS-5) was added to the
bottle to stop the reaction. Then, reprecipitation was carried out
in isopropanol containing a small amount of NS-5, and the polymer
was dried in a drum to obtain the polymer D at the yield of
substantially 100%.
[0272] Polymers A to D prepared as above and polyisoprene rubber
(trade name: IR2200, JSR Corporation) were measured and evaluated
with the following method to investigate the microstructure
(cis-1,4 bond content), the number average molecular weight (Mn),
and the molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn). The results are
shown in Table 1.
[0273] In addition, the gel fractions of the polymers A to D
prepared as above and polyisoprene rubber (trade name: IR2200, JSR
Corporation) were also measured and evaluated with the following
method. The results are shown in Table 1.
[0274] <Method of Analyzing Synthesized Polyisoprene>
[0275] (1) Microstructure (Cis-1,4 Bond Content)
[0276] The microstructures were calculated from the integral ratio
between the peaks obtained from .sup.1H-NMR and .sup.13C-NMR
[.sup.1H-NMR: .delta.4.6-4.8 (.dbd.CH.sub.2 of 3,4-vinyl unit),
5.0-5.2 (--CH.dbd. of 1,4-unit); 13C-NMR: .delta.23.4 (1,4-cis
unit), 15.9 (1,4-trans unit), 18.6 (3,4-unit)]. The number average
molecular weight (Mn) and molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn)
were obtained by GPC by using polystyrene as a standard
substance.
[0277] (2) Number Average Molecular Weight (Mn) and Molecular
Weight Distribution (Mw/Mn)
[0278] The number average molecular weight (Mn) and molecular
weight distribution (Mw/Mn) were measured through gel permeation
chromatography [GPC: HLC-8020 (manufactured by Tosoh Corporation)]
by using a refractometer as a detector, and calculated in terms of
polystyrene by referencing monodisperse polystyrene as a standard.
The column was GMHXL (manufactured by Tosoh Corporation), the elute
was tetrahydrofuran, and the measurement temperature was 40.degree.
C.
[0279] (3) Gel Fraction
[0280] To determine the gel fraction, 12 mg of sample polymers were
placed in sample bottles containing 5 cc of tetrahydrofuran, and
the sample bottles were allowed to stand overnight. The solutions
were then passed through a 0.45 .mu.m PTFE filter to conduct GPC.
The sample areas (mV) of RIs obtained by GPC were divided by sample
weights used to calculate the percentage.
[0281] (4) Amount of Catalyst Residue
[0282] The amount of catalyst residue (i.e., amount of residual
metal) was measured by performing elemental analysis.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Polymer Polymer Polymer Polymer A B C IR2200
D Mn (.times.1000) 1656 586 775 341 2390 Mw/Mn 2.66 2.68 2.63 4.87
2.19 Cis-1,4 bond (%) 99.2 98.2 97.6 95.0 96.9 Amount of catalyst
4530 280 60 530 220 residue (ppm) Gel fraction (%) 14 15 14 25
67
[0283] <Method of Evaluating Rubber Composition>
[0284] Vulcanized rubbers obtained by preparing and vulcanizing
rubber compositions having the compounding formulation shown in
Table 2 were evaluated by the following method to measure (1)
breaking resistance and (2) abrasion resistance. The results of the
measurement are shown in Table 3.
[0285] (1) Breaking Resistance (Expressed by Index)
[0286] A tensile test was conducted at room temperature in
accordance with JIS K 6301-1995 to measure the tensile strength
(Tb) of the vulcanized rubber compositions. The tensile strengths,
expressed by an index obtained by determining the tensile strength
of Comparative Example 1 as 100, are shown in Table 3. A greater
index value indicates better breaking resistance.
[0287] (2) Abrasion Resistance (Expressed by Index)
[0288] The abrasion resistance was measured with a Lambourn
abrasion testing machine at a slip rate of 60% at room temperature.
The abrasion resistance was expressed by using the reciprocal of
the abrasion mount of Comparative Example 1 as 100. A greater index
value indicates better abrasion resistance.
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Component Mass part Master batch Polymer *1
50.0 Natural rubber (NR) *2 50.0 Carbon black ISAF *3 45.0 Stearic
acid 2.0 Wax *4 2.0 Age register 6C *5 1.0 Final batch Zinc white
3.0 Vulcanization accelerator TBBS *6 1.0 Sulfur 1.4 *1: Polymers A
to D prepared as above and polyisoprene rubber (trade name: IR2200,
JSR Corporation) *2: RSS #3 *3: Seast 6 (manufactured by Tokai
Carbon Co., Ltd.) *4: Microcrystalline wax: Ozoace-0280
(manufactured by Nippon Seiro Co., Ltd.) *5:
N-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N'-p-phenylenediamine (NOCRAC 6C),
manufactured by Ouchi Shinko Chemical Industrial Co., Ltd. *6:
N-tert-butyl-2-benzothiazilsulfenicamide, NOCCELER NS (manufactured
by Ouchi Shinko Chemical Industrial Co., Ltd.)
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 Compar- Compar- ative Example 1 Example 2
Example 3 ative Example 2 Polymer Polymer Polymer Example 1 Polymer
A B C IR2200 D Breaking 113 106 103 100 70 resistance Abrasion 112
104 103 100 63 resistance
[0289] From Tables 2 and 3, the rubber composition containing
synthesized polyisoprene having 20% or less gel fraction provides a
crosslinked rubber composition with improved durability (i.e.,
breaking resistance and abrasion resistance).
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0290] The polymer and the rubber composition containing the
polymer of the present invention can be suitably used in tire
members, particularly in the tread member of tire.
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