Abstract: An injection molding process for making a plastic article, the process comprising the steps of: A. Forming a moisture-curable composition comprising a 1. Silane-functionalized polyethylene, 2. Moisture source, e.g., a moisture-containing filler, wherein the moisture source excludes alcohols, and 3. Condensation catalyst; B. Injecting the composition into a mold; C. Subjecting the composition to conditions sufficient to 1. Release moisture from the moisture source, and 2. Partially cure the composition; D. Removing the partially cured composition from the mold; and E. Continuing the cure of the composition outside of the mold. The process is particularly well suited for the manufacture of thick parts, such as wire and cable elastomeric connectors.

Abstract: Crosslinked, melt-shaped articles are manufactured by a process that does not require the use of post-shaping external heat or moisture, the process comprising the steps of: A. Forming a crosslinkable mixture of a 1. Organopolysiloxane containing one or more functional end groups; and 2. Silane-grafted or silane-copolymerized polyolefin; and B. Melt-shaping and partially crosslinking the mixture; and C. Cooling and continuing crosslinking the melt-shaped article. Crosslinking is promoted by the addition of a catalyst to the mixture before or during melt-shaping or to the melt-shaped article.

Abstract: Compositions comprising: A. Ethylene-based polymer, e.g., LDPE; B. Polyalkylene glycol, e.g., PEG; C. Tertiary hindered amine stabilizer; D. Sulphur-containing hindered phenol antioxidant; E. Peroxide; and F. Optional coagent are useful in the preparation of TRXLPE insulation for medium voltage cable that exhibits a commercially desirable balance of long term heat aging retardancy and water-tree resistance.

Abstract: The present invention is crosslinked polymer particles, prepared from a free-radical activated reaction of an unsaturated coagent and low molecular weight hydrocarbons or certain polymers. This invention allows particles to be made from mixtures of coagents and saturated compounds. The invention is also a process for preparing crosslinked polymer particles.

Abstract: Polymer compositions comprise a (i) silane-functionalized polymer, e.g., a polyethylene grafted with vinyl triethoxy silane, (H) polyfunctional alcohol e.g., ?,?,??,??˜tetramethyl-I,3-benzenediethanol and, optionally, (iii) acid, e.g., an alkylated aryl disulfonic acid. The use of polyfunctional alcohols in the absence of a strong acid yields a light-crosslinking of the silane-functionalized polymer and this, in turn, provides a polymer melt with improved extensional properties such as elongational viscosity and melt strength. The use of a polyfunctional alcohol in combination with a blocked strong acid provides a slow rate of crosslinking during melt processing and a high degree of ultimate crosslinking after the polymer composition has been shaped or molded.

Abstract: Ethylene-vinylsilane copolymers are moisture-cured under ambient conditions using a synergistic combination of at least one Lewis acid and at least one Brønsted acid or at least one Lewis base and at least one Brønsted base. Preferably the catalyst system comprises a Lewis acid, e.g., dibutyltin dilaurate, in combination with a Brønsted acid, e.g., sulfonic acid. The Lewis acid or base and the Brønsted acid or base is present in the catalyst system at a molar ratio of Lewis acid/base to Brønsted acid/base of 1:10 to 10:1.

Abstract: Tapes comprising (A) a first ribbon comprising (1)(a) a polyolefin containing at least one silane functionality, and (1)(b) a hydroxy-terminated silicone polymer, or (2) a blend of a vinyl silane, polyolefin, organic initiator, e.g., peroxide, and a hydroxy-terminated silicone polymer, and (B) a second ribbon comprising a catalyst masterbatch, the second ribbon carried on the first ribbon, allow for the delivery of a consistent mixture of resin and catalyst to an injection molding machine.

Abstract: The present invention yields a triallyl phosphate (TAP)-mediated, rheology-modified polymer being prepared in a reaction from a reaction mixture made from or containing (a) a free-radical, chain-scissionable organic polymer and (b) TAP, wherein the TAP-mediated, rheology-modified polymer has extensional viscosity at Hencky strains above one greater than that of the free-radical, chain-scissionable organic polymer and/or a Relaxation Spectra Index (RSI) greater than that of the free-radical, chain-scissionable organic polymer.