Abstract: The adherence of protective and/or decorative paints to polyphenylene ether resins, alone, or combined with high impact strength polystyrene resins, is markedly improved by adding a high impact rubber modified terpolymer resin comprising units of a non-polar aromatic monovinyl compound, e.g., styrene, a polar monovinyl compound, e.g., acrylonitrile, acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, maleic anhydride, etc., and a diene rubber, e.g., butadiene.

Abstract: Disclosed are thermoplastic compositions of improved mold flow comprising a polyphenylene ether resin and novel rubber modified polystyrenes containing dispersed rubbery particles having a maximum mean diameter of about 2.0 microns and a ratio of the volume average particle size/number average particle size of from not substantially less than 2.00 up to 3.20. Articles molded from the composition have vastly improved surface gloss and ductile impact strength in comparison with conventional polyphenylene/high impact rubber modified polystyrene compositions.

Abstract: The ultraviolet light radiation stability as manifested, for instance, by the resistance to yellowing is improved for polyphenylene ether resins and blends by including a combination of a benzotriazole-based screening-type UV stabilizer and a hindered dipiperidinyl antioxidant-type UV stabilizer. The combination of the two stabilizers exhibits syneristic behavior in the compositions, conferring better resistance to yellowing than can be predicted and expected from the observed effects of each stabilizer alone. Flame retardant embodiments are illustrated.

Abstract: The ultraviolet light stability of polyphenylene ether resins and blends is improved by the addition of small amounts of ortho-hydroxy-substituted alkoxybenzophenones and tetraalkyl dipiperidinyl aliphatic diesters in combination, as described. Plasticized, flame retardant and mineral filled versions are also disclosed.

Abstract: Blends of a polyphenylene ether resin, optionally containing an impact modifier, are filled with finely divided particulate clay which is characterized by a very narrow size distribution, 98 percent or more of the particles being less than 2 microns in diameter, and a very small particle size, with the particles having mean equivalent spherical diameter of from 0.2 to 0.4 microns. This particular clay filler provides rigidity and stiffness, as expected, but with better retention of other physical properties which are normally adversely affected by other mineral fillers, such as larger particle size clay and titanium dioxide. Adhesion between this clay and the polymer, which is already good, is further enhanced by pre-cleaning the clay particles to remove surface dirt, chemicals and salts.