Process for the preparation of block copolymers for tire tread compositions and these copolymers
US7625983B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 7, 2005 |
| Grant date | Dec 1, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 15, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC08L53/02
- WIPO fieldMacromolecular chemistry, polymers
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A process for the preparation of a functionalized, coupled or starred block copolymer which is usable in a sulphur-cross-linkable rubber composition of reduced hysteresis in the cross-linked state, one at least of said blocks consisting of a polyisoprene and at least one other block consisting of a diene elastomer other than a polyisoprene the molar ratio of units originating from one or more conjugated dienes of which is greater than 15%. The process includes the steps of: (i) copolymerization of one or more monomers comprising a conjugated diene other than isoprene using a catalytic system comprising a hydrocarbon solvent, a compound A of a metal of group IIIA, a compound B of an alkaline-earth metal and a polymer initiator C comprising a C—Li bond which is formed of a monolithiated polyisoprene intended to form the polyisoprene, said polyisoprene block(s) having a number-average molecular weight Mn1 of between 2,500 and 20,000 g/mol, so that said block(s) other than a polyisoprene has/have a content of trans-1,4 linkages equal to or greater than 70% and a number-average molecular weight Mn2 of between 65,000 and 350,000 g/mol, and (ii) addition to the product of copolymerization…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.