팽창된 폴리머 펠릿

In the following description, and in preferred embodiments of the present invention described implementations.

1 embodiments of the invention

At least one polyamide polymer pellets used in the creation of expanded polymers comprising. Can be based on polyamide polymer. In particular, polymer based on 100% by weight of the polymers each case, at least 10% by weight polyamide, particularly in at least 30% by weight, preferably at least 50% by weight can be a. Each case based on 100% by weight polymer are within desired ranges, polyamide 10% by weight to 99, preferably 25 to 99% by weight, more preferably 50 to 99% by weight are disclosed. Also, polymer is 100% by weight of polyamide or, is more than including the same.

Can be based on polyamide polymer. In particular, polymer based on 100% by weight of the polymers each case, at least 10% by weight polyamide, particularly in at least 30% by weight, preferably at least 50% by weight can be a. Each case based on 100% by weight polymer are within desired ranges, polyamide 10% by weight to 99, preferably 25 to 99% by weight, more preferably 50 to 99% by weight are disclosed. Also, polymer is 100% by weight of polyamide or, is more than including the same.

Polyamide or polyamide - appropriate polymer may be expandable containing polymers are disclosed. In particular, 10 mpa fiber and having a higher modulus, and/or low temperature dependence are those suitable for the. For example, polyamide -6 (PA 6), polyamide -6. 6 (PA 6. 6), polyamide -6. 10 (PA 6. 10), polyamide -11 (PA 11), polyamide -12 (PA 12), polyamide -10. 12, or polyamide 10. 10 to 900oC. Also, a combination thereof can be are used. In particular, PA 11 or PA 12, or suitable mixture thereof. Preferably, the PA 12 are used. Suitable commercially available polyamide or polyamide - containing polymer.

In particular, polyether block amides (PEBA) is suitable. Segment (segment) and polyether - segments - polyether block amides polyamide block copolymer. For example, based on 100% by weight of polyether block amides suitable polyether block amides are each case, 1 to 90% by weight, particularly 1 to 50% by weight content of polyether - block, and 10 to 99% by weight, in particular 50 to 99% by weight content of - block comprises polyamide. Also, 2 or more, in particular two different polyether block amides using 2 process from mixtures or blends. Also, polymer is 100% by weight of polyether block amides device to, is more than including the same. Also, polymer is 100% by weight of a polyamide and polyether block amides is made of, is more than including the same.

Also, the characteristics including at least one of polyether block amides are especially suitable disclosed:

- 20 to 70 Shore D, especially in the range of 35 to 70 Shore D Shore D hardness;

- 10 to 1100 mpa, especially tensile modulus in the range of 80 to 1000 mpa;

- 1000 1030 g/m3 to a density in the range; and

- 110 to 200 °C, in particular melting point in the range of 130 to 175 °C/melting range.

Herein, Shore D hardness are measured according to ISO 868. Tensile modulus measured according to ISO 527 - 1 are disclosed. Density are measured according to ISO 1183. In the present invention, the melting point or melting range measurement according to the ISO 11357 relative to each. Herein, melting point or melting range of the polymer melting point or each semi crystalline polymer in the second crystalline region is information specifying ranges other.

Suitable polyether block amides are commercially available. They are known by, e.g. such as described WO 2006/045513 A1 (reactive end) - containing reactive end blocks and polyether blocks containing reactive ends polyamide - (copolycondensation) can be generated by a hybrid of condensation.

Above-mentioned polyamide and polyether block amides among, or mixtures thereof be used to blend may be filled. Expanded polymer pellets in addition to polyamide polymers generating another polymer, e.g. thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyphenylene ether (PPE), styrene - acrylonitrile (SAN), and/or rubber, especially containing blended with 1308. or TPU. 100% by weight based on the polymer content of the other polymer, less than 50% by weight, in particular less than 10 weight %, preferably 5% by weight can be not more than disclosed. In one embodiment, thermoplastic polyurethane polymer used to generate the expanded pellets (i.e., including 0%) does not. In one embodiment, the expanded polyamide polymer other than a polymer used to generate the pellets does not (i.e., including 0%).

Pellets are used to generate the expanded polymers characterized in any form, e.g. as granular or powder, in particular can be used as granules. Polymers suitable describe a commercially available. (Adherent humidity) or moisture (water) when base or starting polymer with moisture containing, polymer is preferably dried before fusion and, according to procedures known to one skilled forming (foaming) are completed prior to drying.

The first step of the method 1, molten polymer are disclosed. Suitable methods are known to one skilled in the fusion or melting. Pressures of, for example can be carried out in an extruder. Suitable extrusion devices or extruder are fulfilled not terminal server. Conventional extruders or commercial available extruders, a monoaxial or biaxial extruder can be e.g. are used. Also, an extruder homogeneously dispersing polymer could be bonded each other.

(Dimensioning) dimension of the extruder (e.g., extruder screw of design, length and the rotational speed, temperature profile, pressure) is by one skilled, homogeneous that are added to the molten polymer materials can be selected to controlling displaying. An extruder temperature completely melted material is typically operated with each other. A polymer composed of rely on at a suitable temperature, can be determined by one skilled daily, e.g. polyamide 12 temperature most suitable for the 180 to 320 °C, particularly in a range of 220 to 290 °C.

Also, the use of a process from 2 disposed in series in the extruder. Excellent results, e.g. first obtained when the bottom 2 extrusion 1 extrusion biaxial extrusion first shortened servo. 1 an extruder (plasticize) plasticized material first and additional materials, e.g. homogeneously dispersing agent disposed thereon. Due to inclusion of blowing agent, material and coefficient of greatly reduced, improving the characteristics and the required pressure first 2 an extruder melt forming expansion can be used in order to increase the material to cool. Also, this material is heated and then cooled in a controlled manner allows for sufficiently to allow a single compressor connected can be achieved. Additionally, the insertion of a process from a first static mixer and extruder between 1 2. An appropriate temperature range of 170 to 320 °C first extruder 1, particularly in a range of 170 to 220 °C or 220 to 290 °C. First extruder having use in polymer at a suitable temperature for 2 more strongly dependent, e.g. polyamide 12 subjected to 150 to 190 °C, particularly in the range of 165 to 180 °C suitable mass temperature, polyether block amides for the 130 to 180 °C, particularly in the range of 155 to 165 °C temperature suitable for the mass.

One illustrative (1) 1 is shown in the auditory canal, biaxial extruder (2) and a minor axis extruder (9) has. According to also 1, polymer hopper (hopper: 4) introduced in, blowing agent (5) is injection device (6) supplied by. Polymer with hopper (4) in, and/or injection device (6) near the point of or additional materials, e.g. introducing process from chain extender. Extruder (2) includes a gear (3) are confirmed each other through. Extruder (2) in, polymer is melted and, injection blowing agent (5) mixed with and, optionally additional material are included. According to also 1, adapter (adapter: 7) is extruder (2) on extruder (9) provided between, extruder (9) includes a gear (8) are confirmed each other through. Extruder (9) is, e.g. cooling extrusion actuator disclosed. Extruder (9) in, than polymer melt blowing agent mixed cooled, subsequently die (11), preferably extruded through a round die, forming or expansion extrudates (extrudate: 12) obtained as follows. Die (11) the adapter (10) through extruder (9) coupled with each other.

In one embodiment, at least one blowing agent is molten polymer are included. Generally, volatile liquid, gas, and extrusion size and conditions for forming polymer melt in inert gas decomposable compounds suitable as a foaming agent. Suitable blowing agents are nitrogen, carbon dioxide, ethanol, isopropanol, or mixtures are disclosed. In particular, supercritical carbon dioxide (supercritical), or a mixture of suitable supercritical carbon dioxide with ethanol. Prior to the foaming agent be combined without extrusion and can be fed to the base polymer. Alternatively, the foaming agent can be added to the polymer melt extruder suitable place, can be intermixed in the extruder. Preferably, the foaming agent homogeneously dispersed in the molten polymer or polymer substrate. The amount of 100% by weight based on the polymer melt added expanded agent each case, 1 to 20% by weight, in particular 1 to 10% by weight in a range of. 100% by weight based on the polymer melt are a specified quantity of the blowing agent, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7. 5, 10 or 15% by weight are disclosed. For example, 100% by weight based on the polymer melt, 2 to 6% by weight of 2 to 4% by weight of carbon dioxide and carbon dioxide having a particularly suitable for ethanol - ethanol mixture.

In addition to blowing agent, other conventional additives or materials for facilitating processing another, e.g. polylactide, chain extender, flame inhibitors (flame inhibitor), plasticizer, adjuvant, pigment, dye, ten or - light stabilizer, antistatic agent, filler, or mixtures can be added to the polymer melt in an extruder. Foam cell nucleation (foam cell nucleation) parts by weight of polylactide are suitable and promote polymer melt additive solubility may be or may not be soluble at (soluble) are disclosed. Example of talc (talc) or silica are non - soluble comprises polylactide. Also, polymer melt process from adding a cross-linking agent. These crosslinked, e.g. in WO 2006/045513 A1 and EP 1 650 255 A 1 described. In one implementation, cross-linking agent or used, polymer pellets are not cross-linked.

In one embodiment, at least one chain extender is polymer melt are included. Also, the polymer with process from at least one chain extender is supplied to an extrusion device. Suitable chain extenders are increasing polymer melt strength (melt strength) compounds. The chain extender is particularly well suited to increase molecular weight (degree of branching) branching degree, rheology properties such as melt viscosity of the polymers melt strength and used to improve the molten polymer that reacts with reactive calculators, e.g. oligomeric or polymeric compounds having epoxy. Styrenes - acrylate copolymers can be based on appropriate chain extender, and commercially available, e.g. BASF of Joncryl^® ADR-a 4368C are disclosed. The appropriate amount of chain extender are based on 100% by weight of the polymer, 0. 05 to 10% by weight, in particular 0. 1 to 5 weight % or 0. 1 to 3% by weight are disclosed. The application of the maximum diameter of the expanded pellet of a case of using the polymer to produce polyether block amides as especially advantageous disclosed.

In one embodiment, the expanded pellet to produce polyether block amides or comprising polyether block amides are composed of polymers, the chain extender is polymer melt are included as additional material.

Also, used tire (rubber) and cow [chyu[chyu] (caoutchouc) powder granules made with polymer melting is more than. Compounds of pyrolysis (thermal decomposition) can act as a foaming agent in the extruder is decomposed gas (cracked gas) (nitrogen and carbon monoxide), and reinforcing and serve as a polylactide carbon and formation of a substrate.

After extrusion, the melt through a die expansion with each other. Die, e.g. round die or a slit die, especially be a round die. The diameter of the extruder die size, desired particle size and density dependent, e.g. in the range of 1 to 5 mm thereof can. Preferably conveniently, extrusion die attached to a substrate. The pressure in die parts are dependent polymer material and density specifications, in the range of 40 to 400 bar, in particular in the range of 60 to 250 bar thereof can. Preferably, the pressure is in the range of 80 bar to 220 bar to polyamide may be, in the range of 45 bar to 200 bar the polyether block amides urges against the thereof can. Die in polymer melt mass temperature dependent, 140 to 180 °C, particularly in the range of 150 to 170 °C thereof can.

In interior to the die, and in particular after leaving the die, the melt and sudden pressure drop, that of the polymer forming encoded. In dependence on the shape of the die, or smaller slugs polymer strand (strand) or foil (foil) obtained as expanded. Preferably, round die is used to obtain a strand. Expanded polymer or foam by means of a stable substrate. Water cooling is lumpy device, water (water bath), conveyor belt, or foams strands geometry can be controlled (calibration unit) can be carried out in a calibration unit.

Subsequently, operability and expanded polymer can be encoded. Suitable devices known to one skilled in the operability, e.g. water (under a-water granulator) lumpy device or submarine assembler are disclosed. pellet, e.g. expanded polymer controlled cooling and pellet lumpy device enabling can be carried out in water. These devices are commercially available. Their operation is, in completely filled sawing chamber discrete particles into polymer strands leave die cut principle WIPO. The dimensions of the extruder/die cut particles cutting speed and throughput and die dimensions apply to the other. Cutting chamber at a suitable temperature are 20 to 100 °C in water, in particular 50 to 100 °C, preferably in a range of 70 to 90 °C. Through the die extrusion with expanded due to the temperature difference between a cutting chamber, in the form of polymer particles, preferably opening (sphere) - type particles instantly solidified each other. Convenient operability device die are placed right behind. For underwater lumpy device suitable, e.g. also is shown in Figure 2. 2. Other appropriate pellet amiableness described in US Patent 5,629,028 oil-in-water.

Figure 2 die face plate (101), cutting blade assembly (cutting blade assembly: 102) and water circulation housing (water circulation housing: 103) having a device for underwater pellet (100) presents an illustrative configuration. As shown, expanded polymer (12) (reference 1 also) is extruder die (104) through die face plate (101) through the, subsequently housing (103) is surrounded by a cutting blade assembly in the circulating water (102) by particles (105) cut to substrate. Extruder die (104) is lumpy water extruder device (100) arranged between, extruder from underwater lumpy device (100) to an expanded polymer (12) a liquid crystal cell. Particles (105) is water circulation housing (103) and leaving, subsequently dried substrate (not shown). Underwater lumpy device (100) includes a gear (106) driven by the other.

Figure 3 water lumpy device die face plate (101) of coarse diagram by a goniophotometer. Die face plate (101) has an externally (107) comprising the. The number of the holes extrusion device size or dimensions apply to the other. Exemplary implementations, the diameter of the holes 2. 3 mm to 2. And 6 mm, and the number of the holes 1 to 4 carbon atoms, e.g. 2. 2 holes of 3 mm diameter which is used can be present.

The shape and size of expanded polymer pellets, e.g. extruder in throughput, the shape of the die, die in temperature and pressure, water temperature and water pressure in water pellet amiableness, pellet amiableness blades can be adjusted by varying the speed of cutting. The selection of appropriate conditions his daily one skilled techniques and knowledge within disclosed.

Expanded polymer pellets are spherical, elliptical, or triangular shape may have. Preferably, pellets are substantially spherical shape. When the pellets are essentially spherical in shape, they are measured according to ISO 9276 e.g. case size of 10 mm to 2, and 20 to 400 kg/m3, e.g. within the range of 50 to 300 kg/m3 comprising particle density can be. Average cell diameter in a range of 10 to 350 micro m are suitable.

Also, the invention relates to a polyamide based on associated and expanded polymer pellets, having a storage elastic modulus of less than 40% of -40 °C to + 40 °C in a temperature range of variation, preferably within the range of 30 to 40% variation visible substrate. Preferably, they are within the range of 70 to 100 kg/m3 density.

Also, the invention relates to a polyether block amides based on expanded polymer pellet associated and, when a testing plate formed 10 to 90%, preferably within the range of 10 to 35% total hysteresis cycle (after 10 or more cycle) exhibit other relative energy loss. Preferably, they are within the range of 50 to 90 kg/m3 density. Herein, the entire hysteresis cycle hysteresis energy loss within the loop region (integration) relative total energy applied during compression, compressed strain (displacement) divided by (integration) in force diagram for compression of exhibits hysteresis loop branch region beneath a share. This example 5a and 5b also and also respectively, 2 more embodiments described below.

Wide application can be used in polymer pellets are expanded. Expanded polymer pellets are very light representing an excellent temperature performance and temperature independence components can be processed. They are lightweight, elastic, and wide temperature range exhibiting excellent energy the [ley[ley] qualitative the [su[su] which freezes (energy resilience) to generate a processed components can be.

Therefore, expanded polymer pellets are sports for clothing such as buffer elements or buffer used to create the test components, e.g. shoes, in particular sports shoe box windows used to create the very suitable. To this end, conveniently expanded polymer pellets are preferably produced components are loaded into corresponding shape cavities having mold including (cavity). Therein, polymer pellets are expanded is composed, in particular by applying heat, e.g. mold and supplying against the edge of the hole.

Also, the invention concerns an inflatable generated using polymer pellets sports clothing and shoes, in particular sports shoes relative to.

For the polymer pellets are expanded for use in other applications, buffer or damping characteristics and large temperature range preferred fields in high stability, e.g. an automotive travelers or aviation industry fields are disclosed. Also, they are excellent methods for forming energy absorption properties can be used. They are, for example motorcars to other components suitable for protection against collision inside.

2 embodiments of the invention

2 first embodiment, the invention relates to a method for the manufacture of molded components related to, the steps of loading a mold pellets expanded of a polymer material or beads, and thermal energy and by providing linking pellets or beads, pellets or beads of expanded polymeric material the maximum diameter of the substrate. ".. ". ". "". "pellets" and "beads" that the term herein interchangeable writ.

As one example, the chain extender is can be provided as an after polymerization of a polymer material. For example, separate in combination of chain extender (compounding), and/or immediately before the expansion can be added to the polymeric material. The unexpanded chain extender to polymer material used for the generation of pellet of a polymer material can be incorporated into the disclosed. Chain extender can be added to a base polymer blend stage. Alternatively, a base polymer is first feeder, e.g. hopper polymers by processing device, e.g. can be fed into, then chain extender can be added.

In order to connect the pellets, a variety of different ways thermal energy can be provided. Thermal energy, e.g. molding tool can be provided in the form of a pressurized steam supply. Alternatively or additionally, thermal energy provided by the electromagnetic field disapproval. Thermal energy, e.g. electromagnetic radiation can be provided by molding tool and/or irradiation (irradiate) pellets. Electromagnetic radiation, e.g. next frequency ranges: radio frequency radiation (30 kHz to 300 MHz), microwave radiation (300 MHz to 300 GHz), infrared radiation (400 THz to 300 GHz), ultraviolet radiation (789 THz to 3 PHz) of 1 or more, can be selected from or another frequency range. Also, thermal energy can be provided by electromagnetic induction. Energy absorbing material to be added to the pellet, e.g. heated or by electromagnetic induction when irradiated with electromagnetic radiation, increasing the amount of thermal energy can be absorbed by pellet. All the aforementioned possibilities can be combined with one another.

During step b, pellets are heated to a temperature of less than a glass transition temperature between the starting point of the melt of a polymer material expanded can be. Amorphous chain mobility increase heated (amorphous chain mobility), and expansion polymer pellet of beads (bead fusion) fusion results in substrate. As one example, heating is preferably carried out at a temperature higher than a glass transition of a polymer material expanded. Exemplary implementations, pellets are heated in a range of expanding from 100 °C 5 °C below the melting point of a polymer material therein. They are expanding from 60 °C 5 °C below to the melting point of a polymer material, e.g. 50 °C 5 °C below melting point to the melting point of a polymer material or expanding from 40 °C can be heated in a range from 5 °C below.

The term "melting point" used herein such as true, polymer material is melted begin temperature big. This increased temperature heat flow diagram to indicate a starting point of the temperature of heat flow in molten, DSC (differential scanning calorimetry) e.g. can be determined according to. The term "melting point" used herein such as true, e.g. obtained by DSC melting peak (melting peak) big. For the DSC under suitable conditions, e.g. at a temperature ranging from 25 °C to 250 °C for heating rate 10 K/min are disclosed. Also, a glass transition temperature of a polymer material expanded, e.g. can be determined by DSC.

The chain extender is a polymer material containing epoxy, fatigue trimellitic dianhydride, and styrene maleic anhydride, or a combination of at least one compound selected from 2 or more of them can be. Suitable chain extenders are reactive epoxy group containing styrene - acrylate nose Polymer, e.g. compounds of formula then are disclosed:

The, R₁ To R₅ The H, CH₃ , Higher alkyl, storing module or combinations thereof; R₆ The alkyl group and, x, y and z 1 to 20 each are disclosed. The chain extender is Joncryl (of BASF)^® ADR-a 4368C commercially available as.

Also, the chain extender is tree - epoxide, 2 - epoxide, or a combination thereof can be. Suitable chain extenders are, e.g. tetra glycidyl diamino diphenyl methane tree glycidyl isocyanurate and preparation/or are disclosed. Other appropriate chain extender styrene maleic acid anhydrous. Other appropriate chain extender in combination with pyromellitic dianhydride complements.

Expanded polymeric material semi - crystalline polymer, or of at least one semi - crystalline polymer containing polymer can be polyvinylpyrrolidone.

The polymers of the polymer material expanded polyamide, polyester, polyether ketone, polyolefin, or a combination thereof can be. Polyamide homopolyamide, copolyamide, polyether block amides, poly phthalamide, can be or a combination thereof. Polyether block amides (PEBA) which are well suited for material are disclosed. Generally, embodiments of the invention in conjunction with polyamide 1 be a defined prior same polyamides. Polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) polyester, thermoplastic polyester ether elastomer (TPEE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or a combination thereof can be. Polyether ketone (PEK) polyether ketones, polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polyether ketone ketone (PEKK), can be or a combination thereof. The polyolefins are polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), olefin nose - block polymer (OBC), polyolefin elastomers (POE), vinyl acetate (EVA)- nose polyethylene, polybutene (PB), polyisobutylene (PIB), can be or a combination thereof.

Other suitable polymers are polyoxymethylene (POM), polyvinylidene chloride (PVCD), polyvinyl alcohol (PVAL), Enterococcus (PLA), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), tetrafluoroethylene (FEP), ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE)-, poly the vinyl [phul[phul] base come the id (PVF), perfluorinated base Oro cock hour which it will know (PFA), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), or a combination thereof are disclosed.

As one example, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and polymers, the chain extender is a polymer material which has a epoxy group containing the same. As another example, polymer comprising PBT, pyromellitic dianhydride in combination with chain extender comprising substrate. As another example, polymer comprising PBT, chain extender comprises styrene maleic anhydride. As another example, polymer comprising PBT, reactive epoxy group containing styrene - acrylate copolymer chain extender, or e.g. Joncryl^® ADR-a 4368C without using a tool.

As another example, polymer is a polyamide, for example polyamide 12, or polyether block amides (PEBA) and, the chain extender is epoxy group containing a polymer material which has a. As another example, polymer is a polyamide, for example polyamide 12, or polyether block amides (PEBA) and, pyromellitic dianhydride in combination with chain extender comprising substrate. As another example, polymer is a polyamide, for example polyamide 12, or polyether block amides (PEBA) and, chain extender comprises styrene maleic anhydride. As another example, polymer is a polyamide, for example polyamide 12, or polyether block amides (PEBA) and, reactive epoxy group containing styrene - acrylate copolymer chain extender, or e.g. Joncryl^® ADR-a 4368C without using a tool.

In still another exemplary example implementation, polymer is thermoplastic polyester ether elastomer (TPEE) and, the chain extender is epoxy group containing a polymer material which has a. As another example, polymer and TPEE, pyromellitic dianhydride in combination with chain extender comprising substrate. As another example, polymer and TPEE, chain extender comprises styrene maleic anhydride. As another example, polymer and TPEE, reactive epoxy group containing styrene - acrylate copolymer chain extender, or e.g. Joncryl^® ADR-a 4368C without using a tool.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to a method for the manufacture of molded components related to the, mold - steps of loading pellets of a polymer material is expanded pellet of expanded polymeric material of a polymer material including an additive - by increasing the content amorphous; expanded and starting point of the glass transition temperature of a polymer material by heating to a temperature less than molten pellets connecting between pellets comprising the following steps. As the aforementioned heating can be performed. The additive increasing the content amorphous of a polymer material, a better connection of the mold so that a polymer modified (modify) pellet of 2000. The additive may be added to the chain extender, not limited to.

Molded components alignting are chain extender or of a polymer material for use in increasing the content amorphous additive, or a combination thereof using the methods described can be generated by using the previous. Also, providing stage of less than before expansion is more than 2. Also, e.g. polymer melting and, adding a chain extender or additives, cooled and, polymer melting and, adding a blowing agent, blowing agent and chain extender or additives in stages 2 of less than before expansion process from the addition. Also, polymer melting and, adding a chain extender, cooled and, repeat the process with the blowing agent addition process from.

The chain extender is 100% by weight based on base of a polymer material, 0. 1 to 20% by weight, in particular 0. 1 to 15% by weight, preferably 0. 1 to 10% by weight, e.g. 0. 1 to 5% by weight or 1 to 5% by weight solids content of the coating can be. The same amount increasing the content amorphous additive can be used are of a polymer material.

Particularly preferred base polymer material comprising a polymeric polyamide selected from, e.g. homopolyamide, copolyamide, polyether block amides, and poly phthalamide are disclosed. As one example, polyamide 12 is very suitable.

The chain extender is a polymer material containing epoxy, e.g. reactive epoxy group containing styrene - acrylate it will be nose Polymer be.

Also 8a, 8b and 8c also according to embodiments of the invention also includes 2 for the production of molded components used to perform the method exhibits parting. 2 8a also includes two portions (201 and 202) and, generally reference number (200) mold represented exhibits. Mold (200) is fed to tube (210) through pellet (220) filled cavity (205) having a predetermined wavelength. 8b also cavity (205) is pellet (220) into when completely filled with exhibits. Pellets is also 8c for connecting, pellet (220) for thermal energy (230) application of exhibits. Wound pellets, mold (200) includes a molded component (not shown) to effect a discharge of portions (201 and 202) can be open through.

Molded components are expanded using a steam seal molding (steam-a chest molding) can be made in the molding from pellets of a polymer material. Contrast described and steam seal molding machines are known. The vaporous seal molding machines are commercially, e.g. company from available Kurtz GmbH (Germany). In the process, first pellets are fed into a mold substrate. After mold closing, pellets are subjected to vapor pressure. Steam pressure and temperature conditions may be used alignting of material (polymer material, chain extender, additive) in dependence on the other. The conditions can be determined by one skilled experiments utilizing application. Temperature, on the one hand polymer in amorphous regions to allow additional mobility of at least glass transition temperature of a polymer material, on the other hand starts to melt formed pellet are ultimately selected to melt of a polymer material so that it will not collapse can be the start of or less. As one example, increased and decreased temperature/pressure molding is a predetermined duration while [su[su] mote [ming[ming] profile (steaming profile) can be performed using. The one skilled, e.g. pressure and time by balancing with suitable pressure, temperature, and time/cycle conditions can be determined. When pressure too high, pellet are collapse high melt can. If too short time, pellet are not sufficient and receive light energy, not be correctly fusion. Also, e.g. melting peak is fused in a double melting peak between the unexpanded for polypropylene use fusion for establishing a process from molten material of a polymer material.

Expanded material pellets are at least partially rupture foam process from located inside.

Article therein inflatable structure at least partially rupture foam generated using pellets of material when, for example molded components generated sound brachytherapycopyright 2000.

Molded components are then generated: packaging material, reusable packaging material, pallet, for transporting medical article, article for transporting chemicals, frangible product for transporting articles, article for interior, exterior insulation article, pipe pipe article, geo foam, temporary housing, road protection against collision inside, device insulating article, industrial insulating article, using a sun visor, dashboard, vehicle seat, center console, door, child/child seat, battery cover/pipe article, engine pipe article, bumper, collision structure, protection of helmet, protective clothing article, boat fender, medical stretcher, surfing/structure board, buoy, boat hull, snow mobile seat, ski/snowboard/water ski/wake board core, jet ski seat, artificial turf, playground or hemp cloth new bottom, sports hole protective floor/wall, conditioning roller, swimming and resistance weight, swimming aids, furniture article, bin hundred, cow mat, [tu[tu] theory, baggage article, airplane seat, airplane/glider wing, within pipe article, cabin tray, cabin trolley pipe article, under floor, heating a protective article, article tip protective equipment, medical cast, turbine/rotor blade core, run - flat tire, hand grip, beverage insulating material, lamp cover, mattress as at least one of can be used as appropriate.

The creation of the buffer element molded components are generated sports for clothing, particularly shoes of windows, preferably can be used as a sole article at the creation of a suitable.

One embodiment of the present invention shoe, in particular buffer element relative to footwear. A window buffer element, in particular be a midsole. Of middle sole are suitable, e.g. polyether block amides possessing containing the maximum diameter of the pellets can be produced by fusing. The midsole 10 and 12 and also are also shown, embodiments 3 and embodiments 4 described more below.

The another embodiment of the present invention, relative to an article containing foam. Using the methods described aforementioned foam expanded polymer pellets can be produced by fusing or open. Article includes sports clothing, e.g. be a sports footwear such as shoes. Buffer element in the form of shoes, as in e.g. windows containing foam net can be.

Also, molded components are a sound can be used. In other words appropriate molded component having a low oxide inclusion content foam open cell (open cell) configuration. As one example, expanded pellets, and consequently a fused at least partially rupture may have foam structure. To generate a foam or fused pellets respond to sound article are, e.g. polyamide 12 can be generated from such as polyamide. Polyamide containing chain extender can be. This expansion pellet is shown in Figure 2. also 16 and 17 are also. Figure 16 (i.e., 0%) does not have the maximum diameter of the scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of expanded polyamide (PA12) pellet exhibits. Figure 17 1. 5% of the maximum diameter of the scanning electron microscope (SEM) Image possessing polyamide (PA12) pellet exhibits. The drawings present in 100 m distance 200 times as the exclusion (enlargement scale) indicating micro are disclosed. The drawings present increasing by tearing the extender when the percentage of cells by a goniophotometer.

Embodiments

The invention relates to embodiments exemplified by embodiments next identifies which, not limiting the present invention.

Embodiments 1

As a base polymer, polyamide 12 material are used. Evonik Industries AG polyamide 12 is used, which is obtained from the been the Marl Vestamid LX 9012. As a foaming agent, based on 100% by weight of a base polymer, 4% by weight of a combination of carbon dioxide and 3% by weight of ethanol (supercritical) are used.

1 base polymer and blowing agents are also shown in setup according to axis extruder (2) has been supplied, the references are the same as prior to the description of Figure 1 by a goniophotometer. Extruder (2) in, hopper (4) introduced through the polymer is melted and, injection blowing agent (5) has been mixed with. Extruder (2) temperature profile is in the range of 170 to 220 °C been. Cooling extruder (9) in, polymer melt blowing agent mixed than, been cooling. Extruder (9) was 170 °C in mass temperature. Subsequently, the molten polymer is extruded at a pressure of 220 bar round die (11) through the expansion chamber, in the form of strand expanded extrudates (12) inducing. Then, expanded extrudates (12) is also 2 such as operability and water supply device has been shown. In been pellet amiableness water temperature 70 °C water circulation system. Lumpy water after pellet are obtained, and density measurement prior been dried. With a density of 89 kg/m3 they been.

In DMA (dynamic mechanical analysis) are pellets having a storage elastic modulus at different temperatures by estimate, irradiated by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and further been.

For DMA, using known test device is characterized in that it has, then testing conditions: 5 °C increment; 5 minutes each temperature and soak time (soak time); 25% initial compressive strain; 5% around pushing sine wave vibration; and a storage elastic modulus at 1 Hz in the vibration -40 °C to + 40 °C temperature sweep his analysis is carried out. Test pellet was about 5 mm are substantially spherical shape having a diameter. The obtained results are represented as a 4 also, this having a storage elastic modulus (kPa) temperature (°C) for EPA12 for by a goniophotometer. For comparison, spherical in shape having a diameter about 4 to 5 mm and similar smaller slugs stiffness (stiffness) polypropylene (BASF of Neopolen P9230K; EPP) 4 measurement of properties are also more aqueous electrolyte.

As clear from the drawing, a storage elastic modulus at expanded polypropylene (EPP) in approximately 288% compared with reduced particles, polyamide pellets -40 °C (EPA12) is to change the temperature up from + 40 °C when, in variation of a storage elastic modulus at approximately 35%, more precisely exhibits reduction of approximately 35%.

In Figure 6, scanning electron microscope (SEM) Image is expanded polyamide pellets aqueous electrolyte. 1 mm of distance 20 times as indicating the exclusion are disclosed. Image, pellet are closed skin (closed particle skin) and uniform cell size particles have, the foam structure so that the particles are found to provide excellent shape by a goniophotometer.

2 embodiments

As a base polymer, PEBA material are used. Evonik Industries AG PEBA material used, which is obtained from the min Marl Vestamid E62 - S3. According to the information providers, according to exhibit a hardness Shore D E character next digits ISO 868, a Shore D hardness of Vestamid E62 - S3 is 62 means that other. As a foaming agent, based on 100% by weight of a base polymer, 4% by weight of 2% by weight of ethanol (supercritical) carbon dioxide and combination of are used. Also, styrene - acrylate copolymers are used based chain extender. The chain extender is of 100% by weight based on base polymer, used in an amount of 2% by weight of Joncryl BASF^® ADR-a 4368C been.

A base polymer, blowing agent and the chain extender is 1 also shown in setup according to axis extruder (2) has been supplied, the references are the same as prior to the description of Figure 1 by a goniophotometer. Extruder (2) in, hopper (4) introduced through the polymer is melted and, injection blowing agent (5) has been mixed with and a chain extension agent. Dry blend (dry blend) as polymer chain extender in the hopper are presented. Extruder (2) temperature profile is in the range of 170 to 220 °C been. Cooling extruder (9) in, polymer melt blowing agent and chain extender mixed than, been cooling. Extruder (9) been 158 °C in mass temperature. Subsequently, the molten polymer is extruded at a pressure of 200 bar round die (11) through the expansion chamber, in the form of strand expanded extrudates (12) inducing. Then, expanded extrudates (12) is also 2 such as operability and water supply device has been shown. In been pellet amiableness water temperature 70 °C water circulation system. Lumpy water after pellet are obtained, and density measurement prior been dried. They are made with a density of 70 kg/m3, irradiated by scanning electron microscope (SEM) been.

Also, for evaluating mechanical properties, pellet are joined together through vapor, test plate has generated. With a density of approximately 84 kg/m3 testing plate characterized in that it has, been test relating to the movement compressed.

Compression testing using known testing apparatus, the testing conditions: 20 mm thickness sample; 50% compression; heel stamp (heel stamp) (50 mm diameter); the speed of 50 mm/min; and 5N pre - load (pre-a load) has been carried out in in the 23 °C. Obtained results are also 5a, 5b and 5c also also to aqueous electrolyte. For comparison, similar stiffness properties made from similar smaller slugs polypropylene (BASF of Neopolen P9230K; EPP) measurement of a testing plate 5c are also more aqueous electrolyte.

The polyether block amides pellet made from expanded diagram of a testing plate 5a also to the second exhibit hysteresis loop 1 cycle, total energy applied during compression of a testing plate is shading with each other. The diagram of the same diagrams but also 5a 5b also, hysteresis are shading within the loop region. Also 5a and 5b also in shading from regions, an entire hysteresis cycle relative energy loss (%) so that the shadow of the shadow of the treated region also 5b 5a also can be calculated by dividing processing. A testing plate 1 of the present embodiment is expanded to the second pellet made from hysteresis cycle was approximately 57% relative energy loss. Additional test cycle are carried out too soon, 10 cycle first relative energy loss was approximately 31%.

Of diagram 5c also made from expanded polypropylene pellets (ePP) compared to a testing plate, made from polyether block amides pellets (ePEBA) expanded to a testing plate exhibits hysteresis loop. Values, when compared with the test plate ePEBA ePP plate excellent recovery force (low plastic deformation) and low hysteresis, the improved compressed characteristics (displacement) to 50% compression strain exhibits excellent mechanical properties to be during compression by proving the are.

In Figure 7, scanning electron microscope (SEM) Image is expanded polyether block amides pellet aqueous electrolyte. 1 mm of distance 20 times as indicating the exclusion are disclosed. Image, pellet are closed skin and uniform cell size particles have, the foam structure so that the particles are found to provide excellent shape by a goniophotometer.

Embodiments 3

As a base polymer, PEBA material are used. Evonik Industries AG PEBA material used, which is obtained from the min Marl Vestamid E62 - S3. Also, styrene - acrylate copolymers based chain extender, i.e. Joncryl^® 100% by weight based on base polymer (BASF) ADR provided 4368C, 1 weight %, 2 weight %, and 2. 5% by weight of water are used in an amount of. For comparison, a base polymer been test without a chain extender. 2 embodiments described the same as those indicating amount of chain extender and a foaming agent that has similarly been melted in an extruder on embodiments with polymer 2. Subsequently, similarly to embodiments 2, rounded melt through a die has been expanded, and expanded water supply device operability and pellet are been attained.

A temperature range of 10 K/min for 25 °C to 250 °C (hollow pipe) pellet are DSC measuring heat flow through a heating velocity - been test temperature behavior. The obtained test results are represented as a 9 also, DSC measurement of data from furnace 1 are used. In Figure 9, the amount of chain extender of designations are curves, of a center 0 and compared by a goniophotometer. Curves provides better for comparison, each 0. 5, 1, and 1. 5 indicating the offset of. As can be ascertained, and curved peak not affected by the width of the chain extender. However, the height of the peak increases the amount of chain extender to form linear slope in that it affected. This, increases the amount of chain extender to form polymer has a crystallinity of reduced means that other.

2. 5% by weight of chain extender containing pellets are loaded into a mold, a mold been fusion by steam. The mold shoe box midsole been to molding tool. Figure 10 exhibits net Image obtained after molding.

4 embodiments

As a base polymer, PEBA material are used. Evonik Industries AG PEBA material used, which is obtained from the been the Marl Vestamid E55. Styrene - acrylate copolymers based chain extender, i.e. Joncryl^® 100% by weight based on base polymer (BASF) ADR provided 4368C, weight % 3, 4. 5% by weight, and 5% by weight of water are used in an amount of. For comparison, a base polymer been test without a chain extender. 2 embodiments described the same as those indicating amount of chain extender and a foaming agent that has similarly been melted in an extruder on embodiments with polymer 2. Subsequently, similarly to embodiments 2, rounded melt through a die has been expanded, and expanded water supply device operability and pellet are been attained.

A temperature range of 10 K/min for 25 °C to 250 °C (hollow pipe) pellet are DSC measuring heat flow through a heating velocity - been test temperature behavior. The obtained test results are represented as also 11, first DSC measurement data from furnace 1 are used. In Figure 11, the amount of chain extender of designations are curves, of a center 0 and compared by a goniophotometer. Curves provides better for comparison, each 0. 5, 1, and 1. 2 indicating the offset of. As can be ascertained, the height of the peak increases the amount of chain extender to form linear slope in that it affected. This, increases the amount of chain extender to form polymer has a crystallinity of reduced means that other.

5% by weight of chain extender containing pellets are loaded into a mold, a mold been fusion by steam. The mold shoe box midsole been to molding tool. Figure 12 exhibits net Image obtained after molding.

5 embodiments

As a base polymer, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) material are used. The BASF Ultradur B4520 PBT material is used which is obtained from the min. Styrene - acrylate copolymers based chain extender, i.e. Joncryl^® 100% by weight based on base polymer (BASF) ADR provided 4368C, 1 and 1% by weight. 5% by weight of water are used in an amount of. For comparison, a base polymer been test without a chain extender. Compact material (compact material) is braided with one another, process molten polymer, addition of chain extender and the resultant material was under pressure. Subsequently, compact material cooling too soon, material temperature within a temperature range of - 25 °C to 250 °C heat flow behavior for 10 K/min using DSC heating using driving speed has been determined. The obtained test results are represented as 13 also, DSC measurement of data from furnace 1 are used. In Figure 13, the amount of chain extender of designations are curves, of a center 0 and compared by a goniophotometer. Curves provides better for comparison, indicating the offset of each 1 and 2. As can be ascertained, the peaks of the curve in its height affected by chain extender. The height of the peak amount of chain extender increases etc. decreases. This, increases the amount of chain extender to form polymer has a crystallinity of reduced means that other.

6 embodiments

As a base polymer, TPEE material are used. The DSM Arnitel EM400 used TPEE material obtained from the min. Styrene - acrylate copolymers based chain extender, i.e. Joncryl^® 100% by weight based on base polymer (BASF) ADR provided 4368C, been used in a quantity of 2% by weight. For comparison, a base polymer been test without a chain extender. Compact material is braided with one another, process molten polymer, addition of chain extender and the resultant material was under pressure. Subsequently, compact material cooling too soon, material temperature within a temperature range of - 25 °C to 250 °C heat flow behavior for 10 K/min using DSC heating using driving speed has been determined. The obtained test results are represented as also 14 and 15 also, DSC measurement of data from furnace 1 are used. In Figure 14, the amount of chain extender of designations are curves, of a center 0 and compared by a goniophotometer. One curve for better comparison, 0. 2 indicating the offset of. As can be ascertained, the peaks of the curve in its height affected by chain extender. The height of the peak decreases with the presence of chain extender etc.. This, means that the polymer has a crystallinity of reduced S. addition of chain extender. Also, curve if extender added smooth disclosed.

Figure 15 2 weight % when adding amount of chain extender, the molten energy exhibits significantly reduced by 29% (normalized). This change in a crystallization due to the addition chain extender example as follows. (A normalizing the cumulative metric and melting energy in relation to the chain extender content) in the same manner also 15 preceding embodiments of expanded PEBA (11 also) 4 5 results of embodiments of expanded PBT and steer the flag which tend to exhibit the same are disclosed.

7 embodiments

As a base polymer, polyamide 12 (PA12) material are used. Polyamide 12 is used (Evonik Industries AG, which is obtained from the Marl) was Vestamid LX 9012. As a foaming agent, based on 100% by weight of a base polymer, 4% by weight of a combination of carbon dioxide and 3% by weight of ethanol (supercritical) are used. Styrene - acrylate copolymers based chain extender, i.e. Joncryl^® 100% by weight based on base polymer (BASF) ADR provided 4368C, 1. 5% by weight has been used in a quantity of, and a chain extension agent is used up.

Representing the same blowing agent and amount of chain extender with polymer has been melted in an extruder similar to embodiments 1. Subsequently, similar to embodiments 1, characterized in that it has rounded melt expansion through the die, and expanded water supply device operability and pellet are been attained.

Also 16 and in Figure 17, scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of expanded polyamide pellets aqueous electrolyte. Figure 16 shows a chain extender also does not have (0%) represents pellets, the 1 17. 5% having exhibits the maximum diameter of the pellets. In the exclusion of distances 200 times as 100 micro m drawing indicating are disclosed. Images are, pellet are partially rupture in the form having a structure of - represents the amount of chain extender with increasing cell walls rupture into in -, the found to provide excellent sound for foam structure by a goniophotometer.