Abstract: A thermoplastic composition includes a poly(arylene ether), a hydrogenated block copolymer, a pre-blend of a thermoplastic vulcanizate and a hydrogenated block copolymer, an ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer, and a hydrocarbon resin. Pre-blending the thermoplastic vulcanizate with a portion of the hydrogenated block copolymer was found to markedly improve the flame resistance and physical properties of the composition compared to those of compositions in which the thermoplastic vulcanizate and hydrogenated block copolymer are separately added to the final compounding process. Addition of hydrocarbon resin further improves the balance of flame retardancy and physical properties.

Abstract: Articles made from poly(arylene ether) compositions wherein injection molded test specimens having a thickness of 2.5 mm of the compositions exhibit an energy to maximum load of at least 50 kg-cm under ISO 6603 after being subjected to autoclave sterilization with steam heat at 121° C. for 83.2 hours and exhibit an average percent change in energy to maximum load of less than or equal to an absolute value of 10% after 83.2 hours under the same autoclave sterilization conditions. The test specimens are independently prepared using one of injection molding, compression molding, blow molding, sheet extrusion, or thermoformed techniques. Articles include various trays, cages, housings, medical instruments, and other articles that are subjected to steam autoclave sterilization.

Abstract: A poly(arylene ether)-polyolefin composition is prepared by melt-blending a poly(arylene ether) and a compatibilizer to form a first blend, and melt-blending the first blend and a polyolefin to form a second blend. The composition lacks an unhydrogenated block copolymer, a poly(alkenyl aromatic) resin, or both. Multiple mixing elements, low throughput, and high extruder rotations per minute may be used to achieve high energy mixing of the first and second blends. Compositions prepared by the method exhibit an improved balance of impact strength, stiffness, and heat resistance, as well as reduced variability of physical properties.

Abstract: A poly(arylene ether)-polyolefin composition is prepared by melt-blending a poly(arylene ether) and a compatibilizer to form a first blend, and melt-blending the first blend and a polyolefin to form a second blend. The composition lacks an unhydrogenated block copolymer, a poly(alkenyl aromatic) resin, or both. Multiple mixing elements, low throughput, and high extruder rotations per minute may be used to achieve high energy mixing of the first and second blends. Compositions prepared by the method exhibit an improved balance of impact strength, stiffness, and heat resistance, as well as reduced variability of physical properties.