Abstract: Disclosed are thermoplastic elastomer compositions, which are beneficially soil-resistant. The compositions comprise at least one elastomeric phase, at least one thermoplastic phase, and a minor amount of at least one low surface energy additive incorporated therein. Also disclosed are improved articles based on the compositions and the use of at least one low surface energy additive for modifying a thermoplastic elastomer to improve its soil resistance.

Abstract: A thermoplastic elastomer composition is disclosed, comprising at least one thermoplastic elastomer, a minor amount of at least one high molecular weight polydialkylsiloxane, and a minor amount of at least one fluoropolymer. Compositions of the invention have improved durability by virtue of their improved resistance to scratching and marring. Further, compositions of the invention are beneficially low friction as evidenced by a reduced coefficient of friction as compared to unmodified thermoplastic elastomers.

Abstract: A thermoplastic elastomer is disclosed, comprising a polyolefin, a silicone rubber, and a compatibilizing agent comprising a silicone-containing polymer comprising both olefin- and silicone-containing moieties.

Abstract: The use of a nucleating agent in propylene-based thermoplastic elastomer, preferably a propylene-based thermoplastic vulcanizate, is disclosed. The nucleating agent promotes the formation of nucleation sites for crystal growth with the thermoplastic phase. The use of the nucleating agent can reduce crystal size with a thermoplasic phase of the thermoplastic elastomer or vulcanizate and can also increase production efficiency when melt-processing thermoplastic elastomer compositions and articles therefrom.

Abstract: A thermoplastic vulcanizate is disclosed for use in thermoplastic blends of polyester and polycarbonate. A minor amount of the thermoplastic vulcanizate improves the impact strength properties of the polyester/polycarbonate blend.

Abstract: A catalyst system is disclosed for use with elastomeric compositions, such as thermoset elastomers or thermoplastic elastomers. The catalyst system comprises at least one phenolic resin and at least one other ingredient selected from the group consisting of a non-transition metal halide and a nanoclay, provided that when the ingredient is nanoclay, the phenolic resin is brominated. Optionally, the catalyst system can include at least one acid or at least one hydrogen halide scavenger, or both. The catalyst system avoids the use of tin-containing materials, reducing environmental concerns. Elastomers and their preparation in the presence of the catalyst system are also disclosed, including the preparation of white elastomers.

Abstract: Thermoplastic Vulcanizate (TPV) blends are disclosed wherein the otherwise generally compatible blend of thermo-plastic and crosslinked elastomer is made unexpectedly more compatible on the nano-scale, as evaluated Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). The blends comprise a polyolefin matrix, domains of well-dispersed crosslinked olefinic rubber particles and the presence between the rubber particles of ligaments of a compatibilizing copolymer comprising olefin monomeric units and aromatic monomeric units. The addition of the compatibilizer increased the dispersion of olefinic rubber particles.

Abstract: An improved retortable can is provided in which a primary structural element is a layer of paper or paperboard, which is laminated with a shielding layer on each side of the paper or paperboard core, and at least one barrier layer. The shielding layer is resistant to heat and moisture, and the barrier layer substantially reduces the transmission rate of oxygen, moisture, and flavor. A method for manufacturing the paper-based retortable can is also provided, which converts a web of the laminate material into tubes, either in a spiral-wrap (or a convolute) shape or a cylindrical shape that uses a side seal. An additional method for manufacturing paper-based retortable cans is provided in which two separate “half-structures” of laminate are joined in a spiral-wrap manufacturing step to form a single laminated structure with two paper/paperboard interior layers having an adhesive therebetween.

Abstract: A substrate coated with a liquid crystal polymer with an intervening tie layer. A second embodiment provides a surface layer disposed on the LCP layer, sandwiching the LCP layer between the surface layer and the substrate. Methods for constructing the above also is provided.