TWO-COMPONENT POLYURETHANE ADHESIVE COMPOSITION

Field of Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of two-component polyurethane adhesive compositions.

Background of the Invention

[0002] Two-component polyurethane adhesives are commonly used in bonding various substrates together such as glass, metal or coated metal and plastics.

[0003] For applications such as bonding components of an electric vehicle battery pack, thermally-conductive two-component polyurethane adhesives are increasingly used. Typically, two component polyurethane adhesives have good bonding strength but do not have adequate elongation and toughness.

[0004] Two-component thermally conductive polyurethane adhesives are commonly prepared by combining an isocyanate component with a polyol component. The polyol component has polyether polyol, such as polypropyleneoxide polyol or a blend of polyetherpolyols, such as polypropyleneoxide polyols having different molecular weights. Both isocyanate and polyol component comprise high levels of thermally conductive fillers, impacting the physical properties, in particular elongation. Typical two-component thermally conductive polyurethane adhesives do not offer high bonding strength and good elongation at the same time.

[0005] A need remains for thermally conductive, two-component polyurethane adhesives having good thermal conductivity, high bonding strength and good elongation.

Summary of the Invention

[0006] In a first aspect, the invention provides a thermally conductive, two-component polyurethane adhesive composition comprising:

(A) a polyisocyanate component, Component A, comprising:

(a1) at least one polyisocyanate;

(a2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component A;

(a3) optionally a polyether polyol;

(a4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter;

(B) a polyol component, Component B, comprising:

(b1) at least one polyether polyol; (b2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component B;

(b3) a catalyst capable of catalyzing the reaction of an isocyanate and a polyol;

(b4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter; wherein at least one of the polyether polyols in Component A and Component B is a poly(tetramethylene oxide) glycol, and wherein the equivalent ratio of the isocyanate from Component A over the hydroxyl from Component B is from 0.8 to 2.0.

[0007] In a second aspect, the invention provides a method for adhering two or more substrates, comprising the steps of:

(1) providing a thermally conductive, two-component polyurethane adhesive composition comprising:

(A) a polyisocyanate component, Component A, comprising:

(a1 ) at least one polyisocyanate;

(a2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component A;

(a3) optionally a polyether polyol;

(a4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter;

(B) a polyol component, Component B, comprising:

(b1 ) at least one polyether polyol;

(b2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component B;

(b3) a catalyst capable of catalyzing the reaction of an isocyanate and a polyol;

(b4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter; wherein at least one of the polyether polyols in Component A and Component B is a poly(tetramethylene oxide) glycol, and wherein the equivalent ratio of the isocyanate from Component A over the hydroxyl from Component B is from 0.8 to 2.0;

(2) mixing Component A and Component B in a desired ratio to produce the adhesive;

(3) applying the adhesive to at least one substrate; (4) bringing a second substrate into contact with the adhesive; and

(5) allowing the adhesive to cure.

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0008] The inventors have found that it is possible to achieve good thermal conductivity, high bond strength and good elongation using the two-component polyurethane adhesive of the invention.

Definitions and abbreviations

MDI 4,4'-Methyleneb/s(phenyl isocyanate)

HDI Hexamethylene diisocyanate

IPDI isophorone diisocyanate

Pll polyurethane

SEC size exclusion chromatography

RH relative humidity

CF cohesive failure

AF adhesive failure

[0009] Equivalent and molecular weights are measured by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) with a Malvern Viscothek GPC max equipment. Tetrahydrofuran (THF) was used as an eluent, PL GEL MIXED D (Agilent, 300*7.5 mm, 5 pm) was used as a column, and MALVERN Viscotek TDA (integrated refractive index viscometer and light scattering) was used as a detector.

[0010] Component A

Component A comprises:

(a1) at least one polyisocyanate;

(a2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component A;

(a3) optionally a polyether polyol;

(a4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter;

[0011] At least one polyisocyanate (a1 )

The polyisocyanate is not particularly limited. Preferred are polyisocyanates with isocyanate functionality of 2 or more and 4 or less.

[0012] Aliphatic and aromatic diisocyanates may be used, with aromatic being preferred. Examples of suitable diisocyanates include toluene diisocyanate (TDI), hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI), naphthalene diisocyanate (NDI), methylene bis- cyclohexylisocyanate (HMDI) (hydrogenated MDI), MDI (in particular 4,4’- and 4,2- MDI) and isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), polycarbodiimide-modified MDI, with polycarbodiimide-modified MDI being particularly preferred. [0013] In a preferred embodiment, the polyisocyanate is selected from polymeric MDI, polycarbodiimide-modified MDI, and mixtures of these.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the polyisocyanate is polycarbodiimide- modified 4,4'-methylenediphenyl diisocyanate. Particularly preferably, Component A comprises 15 to 25 wt% polycarbodiimide-modified 4,4'-methylenediphenyl diisocyanate, based on the total weight of Component A.

[0015] The at least one polyisocyanate is preferably present in Component A at 18-24 wt%, more preferably 19-22 wt%, particularly preferably 20 wt%, based on the total weight of Component A.

[0016] The total polyisocyanate concentration in Component A is preferably 18-24 wt%, more preferably 19-22 wt%, particularly preferably 20 wt%, based on the total weight of Component A.

[0017] Thermally conductive filler (a2), (b2)

Component A and Component B comprise 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component A or Component B.

[0018] The thermally conductive filler used as a2 and b2 is not particularly limited. Suitable thermally conductive fillers are those that have a coefficient of thermal conductivity that is greater than 5 W/m°K, greater than 10 W/m°K, or greater than 15 W / m°K. Examples of thermally conductive fillers include alumina, alumina trihydrate or aluminum trihydroxide, silicon carbide, boron nitride, diamond, and graphite, or mixtures thereof. Particularly preferred are aluminium trihydroxide (ATH), and aluminium oxide, with ATH being the most preferred. Thermally-conductive fillers may be surface treated or non-treated.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the thermally conductive filler has a broad particle size distribution characterized by a ratio of Dgo I D50 of at or about 3 or more. Particularly preferably the thermally conductive filler is ATH or aluminium oxide having a broad particle size distribution characterized by a ratio of Dgo I D50 of at or about 3 or more, most preferably ATH.

[0020] Also preferred are thermally conductive fillers having a bimodal particle size distribution. A bimodal distribution is when, for example, the ratio Dgo I D50 is at or about 3 or more, more preferably at or about 5 or more, more particularly preferably at or about 9 or more. For example, particles having a D ₅ o of 5 to 20 microns and a D ₉₀ of 70 to 90 microns, particularly a D ₅ o of 7-9 microns and a D ₉₀ of 78-82 microns. Particle size can be determined using laser diffraction. For ATH a suitable solvent is deionized water containing a dispersion aid, such as Na4P2O? x 10 H2O, preferably at 1 g/l. Preferred are aluminium oxide and ATH having a bimodal distribution, particularly ATH. In a preferred embodiment, the thermally conductive filler is ATH having Dgo I D50 at or about 3 or more, more preferably at or about 5 or more, particularly preferably at or about 9 or more.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the thermally conductive filler is bimodally distributed aluminium trihydroxide (ATH), having the following particle size distribution (by laser diffraction in deionized water containing a dispersion aid, such as Na4P2C>7 x 10 H2O, preferably at 1 g/l):

D10 (micron) 0.5

D50 (micron) 8

Dgo (micron) 80

[0022] The thermally conductive filler is present in the final adhesive at a concentration of 65-85 wt%, based on the total weight of the adhesive. It is preferably present in the final adhesive at a concentration that gives a thermal conductivity of at or about 1.1 W/mK or more, after curing for 7 days at 23°C.

[0023] If Component A and Component B are mixed in a volumetric ratio of 1 : 1 , the preferred concentration of the thermally conductive filler in Component A is from 60 to 85 wt%, more preferably 62 to 70 wt%, based on the total weight of Component

A.

[0024] If Component A and Component B are mixed in a volumetric ratio of 1 : 1 , the preferred concentration of the thermally conductive filler in Component B is from 60 to 85 wt%, more preferably 63 to 72 wt%, based on the total weight of Component

B.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, Component A comprises 60 to 85 wt%, more preferably 62 to 70 wt%, based on the total weight of Component A, of ATH having Dgo I D50 at or about 3 or more, more preferably at or about 5 or more, particularly preferably at or about 9 or more.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, Component B comprises 60 to 85 wt%, more preferably 62 to 70 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B, of ATH having Dgo I D50 at or about 3 or more, more preferably at or about 5 or more, particularly preferably at or about 9 or more.

[0027] Polyether polyol (a3, b1)

The at least one polyetherpolyol is preferably a diol, triol or tetra-ol. Preferably it is a diol, triol or a mixture of a diol and a triol, with mixtures of diols and triols being particularly preferred.

[0028] Polyether polyols are well-known in the art and include, for example, polyoxyethylene, polyoxypropylene, polyoxybutylene, and polytetramethylene ether diols and triols which may be prepared, for example, by reacting an unsubstituted or halogen- or aromatic-substituted ethylene oxide or propylene oxide with an initiator compound containing two or more active hydrogen groups such as water, ammonia, a polyalcohol, or an amine. In general, polyether polyols may be prepared by polymerizing alkylene oxides in the presence of an active hydrogen-containing initiator compound. Preferred polyether polyols contain one or more alkylene oxide units in the backbone of the polyol. Preferred alkylene oxide units are ethylene oxide, propylene oxide, butylene oxide and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the polyol contains propylene oxide units, ethylene oxide units or a mixture thereof. In the embodiment where a mixture of alkylene oxide units is contained in a polyol, the different units can be randomly arranged or can be arranged in blocks of each alkylene oxides. In one preferred embodiment, the polyol comprises propylene oxide chains. In a preferred embodiment, the polyether polyols are a mixture of polyether diols and polyether triols. Preferably, the polyether polyol or mixture has a functionality of at least about 2.0; and is preferably about 2.0 to 3.0 or greater, for example, 3.5, 4.0 or greater. Preferably, the equivalent weight of the polyether polyol mixture is from 45 to 1,200 g/eq.

[0029] More specific examples of polyether polyols include:

1. Difunctional polyols (diols), such as poly(alkylene oxide)diols, where the alkylene group is C2 to C4, particularly poly(ethylene oxide)diol, polypropylene oxide)diol, poly(butylene oxide) diol and poly(tetramethylene oxide)diol, with polypropylene oxide)diol being particularly preferred. In a particularly preferred embodiment the polyether polyol comprises a nominally difunctional, polypropylene oxide) having an equivalent weight of from 80 to 2,500 g/eq, more preferably 200 to 1500 g/eq;

2. Trifunctional polyols (triols), such as those based on the akylene oxides initiated with a trifunctional polyol, such as trimethylolpropane, where the alkylene group is C2 to C4, particularly ethylene oxide, propylene oxide, butylene oxide, tetramethylene oxide and butylene oxide, with propylene oxide being particularly preferred. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the polyether polyol comprises a nominally trifunctional polypropylene oxide) having an equivalent weight of from 80 to 2,500 g/eq, more preferably 80 to 90 g/eq; the polymer may or may not be capped with ethylene oxide to modify reactivity.

3. A mixture of 1 and 2. Particularly preferred is a mixture of 1 and 2, more particularly preferred is a mixture of a) a nominally difunctional, polypropylene oxide) having an equivalent weight of from 100 to 2,500, more preferably 200 to 1 ,500, particularly preferably 200 to 1,100 and b) a nominally trifunctional polypropylene oxide)and equivalent weight of 80 to 90. [0030] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the at least one polyol comprises a mixture of propylene oxide-based diols and triols.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one polyol comprises a mixture of two or more diols with one or more triols. Particularly preferred is a mixture of two or more polypropylene oxide)-based diols with a polypropylene oxide)-based triol. [0032] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one polyol in Component B comprises:

• a polypropylene oxide) diol having an equivalent weight of 1 ,000 g/eq;

• a polypropylene oxide) diol having an equivalent weight of 200-220 g/eq;

• a polypropylene oxide) triol having an equivalent weight of 80-90 g/eq.

[0033] In another preferred embodiment, the at least one polyol in Component B comprises:

• a polypropylene oxide) diol having an equivalent weight of 1 ,000 g/eq at about 1 to 3 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B;

• a polypropylene oxide) diol having an equivalent weight of 200-220 g/eq at 8 to 10 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B;

• a polypropylene oxide) triol having an equivalent weight of 80-90 g/eq at 1.5 to 4 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B.

[0034] Component A and/or Component B comprise poly(tetramethylene oxide)diol (PTMEG) as polyol. The PTMEG preferably has a molecular weight of 200 to 2,000 Da, preferably 500 to 1500 Da, more preferably 1 ,000 Da.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, the PTMEG is present in Component B. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the PTMEG is present in Component B at 1 to 20 wt%, preferably 5 to 20 wt%, more preferably 10 to 15 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment, the PTMEG is present only in Component B. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the PTMEG is present only in Component B at 1 to 20 wt%, preferably 5 to 20 wt%, more preferably 10 to 15 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, the PTMEG has a molecular weight of 1 ,000 Da, and is present in Component B at 10 to 15 wt%, more preferably 11 to 12 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the PTMEG has a molecular weight of 1 ,000 Da, and is present only in Component B at 10 to 15 wt%, more preferably 11 to 12 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B. [0039] In a preferred embodiment, the PTMEG is present in the final adhesive (mixture of Components A and B) at 5 to 7.5 wt%, more preferably 5 to 6 wt%, based on the total weight of the adhesive.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, Component B comprises:

• a polypropylene oxide) diol having an equivalent weight of 1 ,000 g/eq;

• a polypropylene oxide) diol having an equivalent weight of 200-220 g/eq;

• a polypropylene oxide) triol having an equivalent weight of 80-90 g/eq; and

• PTMEG diol having an equivalent weight of 250 -1 ,000 g/eq, more preferably 500 g/eq.

[0041] In another preferred embodiment, Component B comprises:

• a polypropylene oxide) diol having an equivalent weight of 1 ,000 g/eq at about 1 to 3 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B;

• a polypropylene oxide) diol having an equivalent weight of 200-220 g/eq at 8 to 10 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B;

• a polypropylene oxide) triol having an equivalent weight of 80-90 g/eq at 1.5 to 4 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B; and

• PTMEG diol having an equivalent weight of 250 -1 ,000 g/eq, more preferably 500 g/eq, at 5 to 15 wt%, more preferably 10 to 12 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B.

[0042] In another preferred embodiment, Component B comprises:

• a polypropylene oxide) diol having an equivalent weight of 1 ,000 g/eq at about 1 to 3 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B;

• a polypropylene oxide) diol having an equivalent weight of 200-220 g/eq at 8 to 10 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B;

• a polypropylene oxide) triol having an equivalent weight of 80-90 g/eq at 1.5 to 4 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B; and

• PTMEG diol having an equivalent weight of 500 g/eq, at 10 to 12 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B.

Silane adhesion promoter (a4, b4)

[0043] The silane adhesion promoter is any molecule bearing a hydrolysable silane moiety attached to a functional group selected from an amino group, a mercapto group and an epoxy group. The hydrolysable silane moiety can come from an alkoxysilane moiety. [0044] The alkoxy groups in the alkoxy silane moiety are preferably selected from Ci to C4 alkoxy, that is, methoxy, ethoxy, propoxy and butoxy. In a preferred embodiment, the alkoxy groups are methoxy or ethoxy, in particular methoxy.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment, the functional group is amino and the trialkoxy silane moiety is trimethoxy silane.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the functional group is mercapto and the trialkoxy silane moiety is trimethoxy silane.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, the functional group is epoxy and the trialkoxy silane moiety is trimethoxy silane.

[0048] Examples of silane adhesion promoters include:

Amino silanes

[0049] Diethylaminomethyltrimethoxy silane, diethylaminomethylmethyldiethoxy silane, diethylaminomethyltriethoxy silane, piperazinylpropylmethyldimethoxy silane, diethylenetriaminopropylmethyldimethoxy silane, aminoethylaminopropyltriethoxy silane, bis-[(3-triethoxysilyl)propyl]amine, diethylaminomethyltriethoxysilane, N-(2- aminoethyl)-3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane, N-(2-aminoethyl)-3- aminopropylmethyldimethoxysilane, aminopropylmethyldimethoxysilane, bis- (trimethoxysilylpropyl)amine, gamma-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane, 3-trimethoxysilyl- N-(3-trimethoxysilylpropyl)propan-1 -amine, N-beta-(aminoethyl)-gamma- aminopropyltrimethoxysilane, gamma-aminopropyltriethoxysilane, phenylaminopropyltrimethoxysilane, N-ethyl-3-trimethoxysilyl-2-methylpropanamine, aminoethylaminopropylmethyldimethoxysilane, N-2-aminoethyl-3- aminopropyltrimethoxysilane, 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane, 3- aminopropyltriethoxysilane, 3-aminopropylmethyldiethoxysilane, N-(2-aminoethyl)-3- aminopropylmethyldimethoxysilane, 1-propanamine, 3-(triethoxysilyl), N-(n-butyl)-3- aminopropyltrimethoxysilane, bis-(trimethoxysilylpropyl)amine, with 3-trimethoxysilyl- N-(3-trimethoxysilylpropyl)propan-1 -amine being particularly preferred.

Epoxy silanes

[0050] 2-(3,4-epoxycyclohexyl)-ethyltriethoxy silane, 3- glycidoxypropylmethyldimethoxysilane, (epoxypropoxypropyl)methyldiethoxysilane, 3-glycidoxypropylmethyldiethoxysilane, gamma-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane, beta-(3,4-epoxycyclohexyl)ethyltrimethoxysilane, 3- glycidyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane, gamma-glycidoxypropyltriethoxysilane, 3- glycidyloxypropyltriethoxysilane, 9-[2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethoxy]-9-[3- (oxiranylmethoxy)propyl]-2,5,8,10,13,16-hexaoxa-9-silaheptad ecane.

Mercapto silanes [0051] Mercaptomethyltriethoxysilane, mercaptomethyltrimethoxysilane, 3- mercaptopropylmethyldiethoxysilane, mercaptopropylmethyldimethoxysilane, gamma-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane, 3-(triethoxysilyl)propanethiol, gammamercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane, 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the silane adhesion promoter is an amino silane.

[0053] In another preferred embodiment, the silane adhesion promoter is 3- trimethoxysilyl-N-(3-trimethoxysilylpropyl)propan-1-amine.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment, the silane adhesion promoter is present in Component A.

[0055] In another preferred embodiment, the silane adhesion promoter is present in Component B.

[0056] In another preferred embodiment, the silane adhesion promoter is present only in Component A.

[0057] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the silane adhesion promoter is 3- trimethoxysilyl-N-(3-trimethoxysilylpropyl)propan-1-amine and is present only in Component A.

[0058] The silane adhesion promoter, if used, is preferably present in Component A and/or Component B at 0.1 to 4 wt%, preferably 0.5 to 3%, more preferably at 1.5 to 3 wt%, based on the total weight of the respective Component.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment, the silane adhesion promoter is present in Component A at 0.1 to 4 wt%, preferably 0.5 to 3%, more preferably at 1.5 to 3 wt%, based on the total weight of Component A.

[0060] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the silane adhesion promoter is 3- trimethoxysilyl-N-(3-trimethoxysilylpropyl)propan-1 -amine, and is present in component A at 0.1 to 4 wt%, preferably 0.5 to 3%, more preferably at 1.5 to 3 wt%, based on the total weight of Component A.

Optional ingredients of Component A

[0061] Component A may additionally comprise fillers in addition to the thermally conductive fillers, such as talc, fumed silica, carbon black, and mixtures of these. In a preferred embodiment, Component A comprises fumed silica. In another preferred embodiment, Component A comprises carbon black. In a particularly preferred embodiment, Component A comprises fumed silica and carbon black.

[0062] Component A may comprise a polyol, including any of the polyols described above. In a particularly preferred embodiment, Component A comprises a diol of molecular weight 1 ,000 to 2,500 Da, more preferably 2,000 Da. [0063] If present, the polyol in Component A is preferably present at 5 to 15 wt%, more preferably 9 to 12 wt%, based on the total weight of Component A.

[0064] In a particularly preferred embodiment, Component A comprises 9 to 12 wt%, based on the total weight of Component A, of a propylene glycol initiated, 2000 molecular weight homopolymer diol, having an average equivalent weight of 1 ,000 g/eq, average OH number 56 mg KOH/g.

Component B

[0065] Component B comprises:

(b1) at least one polyether polyol;

(b2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component B;

(b3) a catalyst capable of catalyzing the reaction of an isocyanate and a polyol;

(b4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter.

Polyether polyol

[0066] The polyetherpolyol used in Component B may be selected from any of those listed above.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment, the polyether polyol (b1) is selected from polypropylene oxide)-based diols and triols.

[0068] In another preferred embodiment, the polyetherpolyol (b1) comprises polyols selected from:

Polypropylene oxide) diol;

Polypropylene oxide) triol; poly(tetramethylene oxide) diol; and mixtures of these.

[0069] In another preferred embodiment, the polyether polyol (b1) comprises polyols selected from: a polypropyleneoxide) polyol diol having an average molecular weight 425 g/mol; a polypropyleneoxide) polyol triol having an average molecular weight 250 g/mol; poly(tetramethylene oxide) diol; and mixtures of these.

[0070] In another preferred embodiment, the polyether polyol (b1) comprises polyols selected from: a polypropyleneoxide) polyol diol having an average molecular weight 425 g/mol, average equivalent weight 215.7 g/eq, average OH number 259 mg KOH/g; a polypropyleneoxide) polyol triol having an average molecular weight 250, average equivalent weight 84.9 g/eq, average OH number 660 mg KOH/g; poly(tetramethylene oxide) diol; and mixtures of these.

[0071] In a preferred embodiment, Component B comprises a poly(tetramethylene oxide)diol having a molecular weight of from 200 to 2,000 Da, more preferably 1,000 Da.

[0072] In another preferred embodiment, the polyether polyol comprises 1,4- butane diol.

[0073] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the polyether polyol comprises polyols selected from:

Polypropylene oxide) diol;

Polypropylene oxide) triol; poly(tetramethylene oxide) diol;

1,4-butane diol; and mixtures of these.

[0074] The total polyether polyol content of Component B is preferably from 20 to 30 wt%, more preferably 24 to 28 wt%, particularly preferably 25 to 27 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B.

[0075] The poly(tetramethylene oxide)diol preferably represents from 3 to 55%, preferably 20 to 55 %, more preferably 30 to 50 %, particularly preferably 40 to 48 % of the total polyol content of Component B, based on weight percentages.

[0076] The poly(tetramethylene oxide)diol is preferable present in Component B at 1 to 20 wt%, preferably 5 to 20 wt%, more preferably 7 to 15 wt%, particularly preferably 8 to 12 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B.

[0077] In a preferred embodiment, Component B comprises:

Polypropylene oxide) diol;

Polypropylene oxide) triol; poly(tetramethylene oxide) diol having a molecular weight of 1 ,000 Da; and mixtures of these.

[0078] In another preferred embodiment, the polyether polyol (b1) comprises polyols selected from: a polypropyleneoxide) polyol diol having an average molecular weight 425 g/mol; a polypropyleneoxide) polyol triol having an average molecular weight 250 g/mol; poly(tetramethylene oxide) diol having a molecular weight of 1 ,000 Da; and mixtures of these.

[0079] In another preferred embodiment, the polyether polyol (b1) comprises polyols selected from: a polypropyleneoxide) polyol diol having an average molecular weight 425 g/mol, average equivalent weight 215.7 g/eq, average OH number 259 mg KOH/g; a poly(propyleneoxide) polyol triol having an average molecular weight 250, average equivalent weight 84.9 g/eq, average OH number 660 mg KOH/g; poly(tetramethylene oxide) diol having a molecular weight of 1 ,000 Da; and mixtures of these.

[0080] In a preferred embodiment, Component B comprises:

Polypropylene oxide) diol;

Polypropylene oxide) triol;

1,4-butane diol; poly(tetramethylene oxide) diol having a molecular weight of 1 ,000 Da; and mixtures of these.

[0081] In another preferred embodiment, the polyether polyol (b1) comprises polyols selected from: a polypropyleneoxide) polyol diol having an average molecular weight 425 g/mol; a polypropyleneoxide) polyol triol having an average molecular weight 250 g/mol;

1,4-butane diol; poly(tetramethylene oxide) diol having a molecular weight of 1 ,000 Da; and mixtures of these.

[0082] In another preferred embodiment, the polyether polyol (b1) comprises polyols selected from: a polypropyleneoxide) polyol diol having an average molecular weight 425 g/mol, average equivalent weight 215.7 g/eq, average OH number 259 mg KOH/g; a polypropyleneoxide) polyol triol having an average molecular weight 250, average equivalent weight 84.9 g/eq, average OH number 660 mg KOH/g;

1,4-butane diol; poly(tetramethylene oxide) diol having a molecular weight of 1 ,000 Da; and mixtures of these.

Catalyst (b3)

[0083] Component B comprises a catalyst capable of catalysing the reaction of an NCO functionality with an OH functionality.

[0084] Examples of such catalysts include tertiary amine catalysts, organometallic catalysts, such as bismuth catalysts, alkyl tin carboxylates, oxides and tin mercaptides.

[0085] Specific examples of tertiary amine catalysts include N-methyl morpholine, N-methyl imidazole, triethylenediamine, bis-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)-ether, 1,4- diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO), dimethylcyclohexylamine, dimethylethanolamine, 2,2-dimorpholinyl-diethylether (DMDEE), N,N,N- dimethylaminopropyl hexahydrotriazine, dimethyltetrahydropyrimidine, tetramethylethylenediamine, dimethylcyclohexylamine, 2,2-N,N benzyldimethylamine, dimethylethanol amine, dimethylaminopropyl amine, Penta-dimethyl diethylene triamine, N,N,N',N'-tetramethyl-1,6-hexanediamine, N,N',N'- trimethylaminoethylpiperazine, 1,1'-[[3-(dimethylamino)propyl]imino]bispropan-2-ol, 1 ,3,5-tris[3-(dimethylamino)propyl]hexahydro-1 ,3,5-triazine, N-N-dimethyldipropylene triamine, N,N,N'-trimethylaminoethylethanolamine, with DMDEE being particularly preferred.

[0086] If an organometallic catalyst is used, it is any organometallic catalyst capable of catalyzing the reaction of isocyanate with a functional group having at least one reactive hydrogen. Examples include bismuth catalysts, metal carboxylates such as tin carboxylate and zinc carboxylate. Metal alkanoates include stannous octoate, bismuth octoate or bismuth neodecanoate. Preferably the at least one organometallic catalyst is a bismuth catalyst or an organotin catalyst. Examples include dibutyltin dilaurate, dimethyl tin dineodecanoate, dimethyltin mercaptide, dimethyltin carboxylate, dimethyltin dioleate, dimethyltin dithioglycolate, dibutyltin mercaptide, dibutyltin b/s(2-ethylhexyl thioglycolate), dibutyltin sulfide, dioctyltin dithioglycolate, dioctyltin mercaptide, dioctyltin dioctoate, dioctyltin dineodecanoate, dioctyltin dilaurate. In a particularly preferred embodiment, it is a tin catalyst, particularly preferably dioctyltin mercaptide.

[0087] The catalyst is preferably used at 0.001 to 0.12 wt%, more preferably 0.01 to 0.1 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B.

[0088] In a preferred embodiment, the catalyst is dioctyl tin mercaptide, used at 0.03 to 0.07 wt% based on the total weight of Component B.

Optional ingredients of Component B

[0089] Component B may additionally comprise fillers in addition to the thermally conductive fillers, such as talc, fumed silica, carbon black, zeolites, and mixtures of these.

[0090] In a preferred embodiment, Component B comprises fumed silica.

[0091] In another preferred embodiment, Component B comprises carbon black.

[0092] In another preferred embodiment, Component B comprises a zeolite.

[0093] In a particularly preferred embodiment, Component B comprises fumed silica and carbon black, more preferably Component B comprises fumed silica, carbon black and a zeolite.

[0094] Component B may optionally comprise a polyisocyanate, in an amount that when reacted with the polyol part of Component B results in an excess of remaining OH groups. [0095] In a preferred embodiment, Component B comprises MDI, polycarbodiimide-modified MDI.

[0096] If Component B comprises a polyisocyanate, it is preferably present at 0.4 to 2 wt%, more preferably 1 to 1.5 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B.

[0097] In a preferred embodiment, Component B comprises 0.4 to 2 wt%, more preferably 1 to 1.5 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B, of polycarbodiimide-modified MDI.

Ratio of NCO groups to OH groups

[0098] The equivalent ratio of the isocyanate from Component A over the hydroxyl from Component B is from 0.8 to 2.0, preferably from 0.9 to 1.5, and more preferably from 1.0 to 1.3.

Method of manufacture

[0099] The adhesive compositions of the invention are made by mixing the ingredients of each Component separately, preferably under inert and dry conditions and/or under vacuum, until a homogenous mixture is obtained. Once Component A and B are each prepared, they are stored in separate containers until use.

Method of use

[0100] In one aspect, the invention provides a method for adhering two or more substrates, comprising the steps of:

(1) providing a thermally conductive, two-component polyurethane adhesive composition comprising:

(A) a polyisocyanate component, Component A, comprising:

(a1) at least one polyisocyanate;

(a2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component A;

(a3) optionally a polyether polyol;

(a4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter;

(B) a polyol component, Component B, comprising:

(b1) at least one polyetherpolyol;

(b2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component B;

(b3) a catalyst capable of catalyzing the reaction of an isocyanate and a polyol;

(b4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter; wherein at least one of the polyether polyols in Component A and Component B is a poly(tetramethylene oxide) glycol; (2) mixing Component A and Component B in a desired ratio to produce the adhesive;

(3) applying the adhesive to at least one substrate;

(4) bringing a second substrate into contact with the adhesive; and

(5) allowing the adhesive to cure.

[0101] As mentioned above, a preferred way of providing Components of the adhesive of the invention is in airtight containers, such as airtight sealed tubes. The containers are opened immediately prior to use.

[0102] The adhesive composition of the invention may be applied by any application method, manually or with robotic equipment, including, for example, by spreading, application through a nozzle.

[0103] In a preferred embodiment one or both of the first and second substrates are selected from metal, coated metal, glass, glass with primer, glass with enamel coating, plastic (e.g. polypropylene, for example with talc or glass fiber), polycarbonate, sheet molded compounds, composites (e.g. carbon fiber reinforced epoxy, glass fibre reinforced polyamide). In a preferred embodiment, at least one of the first and second substrates is metal, in particular steel or aluminium, particularly preferably e-coated steel, e-coated aluminium. In a particularly preferred embodiment, both substrates are e-coated steel.

[0104] Curing begins as soon as Components A and B are mixed. Typical curing conditions are 3 to 7 days at 23°C.

Effect of the invention

[0105] The adhesives of the invention show a thermal conductivity, after curing for 7 days at 23°C, of at least 1 W/mK, more preferably at least 1.12 W/mK, more particularly preferably at least 1.16 W/mK, when measured in accordance with ASTM D5470.

[0106] The adhesives of the invention preferably show a lap shear elongation at maximum stress, after curing for 7 days at 23°C, of 50% or greater, more preferably 60% or greater, more particularly preferably 64% or greater, when measured according to SAE J 1529 method.

[0107] For tensile strength, the two-component adhesive sample was dispensed through the spiral static mixer between two releasing papers and then pressed to form a round plaque with 3 mm thickness. The round plaque was cured for 7 days at conditions of 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH). Three test specimens were cut from the cured sample plaque with the Die C of ASTM D412 and tested at a pulling speed of 50 mm per minute with an Instron Tester Model 5969. Tensile strength (MPa) was calculated by the force at peak (Newton) divided by the specimen cross- section area (mm ² ) and elongation was determined at the break point of the specimen, all in accordance with ASTM D412. Results for tensile strength and elongation of an adhesive sample were reported from the average of three specimens.

[0108] Tensile strength is preferably more than 4 MPa, more preferably more than 5 MPa and more particularly preferably more than 6 MPa. Elongation is preferably more than 15% at break, more preferably more than 25% at break, and more particularly preferably more than 30% at break.

[0109] For impact peel measurements, specimens were prepared using E-coated (ED6100C) steel coupons of 25.4 mm in width, 101.6 mm in length and 0.8 mm in thickness. The 2K adhesive sample was dispensed through a spiral static mixer onto one end of the e-coated steel coupon which was then mated with another same e- coated steel coupon forming a 30 mm adhesive overlap and 1.2 mm bondline thickness at the end of the specimen. The impact peel specimen was cured under 23 °C and 50% relative humidity for 7 days or specified conditions, the cured impact specimen was pre-bent into a V shape at the other non-bonded end and then tested with a vertical impacting mass of 23.7 kg at a rate of 2.4 m/s. The reported impact peel strength (Newton/mm) is of the average for the region between 45% and 90% of the displacement to failure, all in accordance with ISO 11343 [2003 04 01], Typically, at least three specimens were tested and averaged for the adhesive sample.

[0110] Impact peel strength is preferably more than 8 N/mm, more preferably more than 10 N/mm, more particularly preferably more than 12 N/mm, most preferably more than 15 N/mm. Impact peel failure is preferably more than 85% cohesive failure (CF), more preferably more than 95% CF, and most preferably 100% CF.

[0111] The adhesives of the invention preferably show a lap shear failure mode, after curing for 7 days at 23°C, of 85% or greater cohesive failure, more preferably 95% or greater cohesive failure, most preferably 100% cohesive failure when measured according to SAE J 1529 test procedure.

[0112] The press flow viscosity of either component A or B is preferably more than 5 seconds/20 grams, more preferably more than 9 seconds/20 grams, more particularly preferably more than 12 seconds/20 grams. The press flow viscosity of either component A or B is preferably less than 60 seconds/20 grams, more preferably less than 45 seconds/20 grams, more particularly preferably more than 35 seconds/20 grams. All numbers relate to press flow viscosities determined by recording the amount of time (in seconds) for 20 grams of the adhesive sample component to pass through a 2.64 mm orifice under conditions of 310 kPa applied pressure at 25 °C.

[0113] Brookfield viscosity is measured according to the procedure described in US patent no. 5,922,809 at column 12, lines 38 to 49 using a Model DV-E Brookfield Viscometer or equivalent. The freshly prepared adhesive component (either component A or component B) is first conditioned at 40°C for at least 2 hours. The test is then done with a RV spindle #7 at a speed of 6 revolutions per second and at 40 °C unless specified otherwise.

[0114] The Brookfield viscosity of either component A or B at 40°C is preferably more than 50,000 centipoises, more preferably more than 100,000 centipoises, more particularly preferably more than 160,000 centipoises. The Brookfield viscosity of either component A or B at 40°C is preferably less than 1,000,000 centipoises, more preferably less than 700,000 centipoises, more particularly preferably less than 550,000 centipoises.

[0115] Electrical resistivity is measured as follows: two copper strips (50 mm in length and 12 mm in width) are set in parallel on a nonconductive surface such as a cardboard with 50 mm between them. An adhesive bead (about 4 mm in diameter) is dispensed perpendicularly to the two copper strips through a static mixer, passing through the middle of the strips. The bead is cured for 7 days (or a specific time) at 23°C and 50% relative humidity. The resistivity of the bead is determined with an electric multi-meter by contacting its two probes with the two copper strips. Electrical resistivity is preferably more than 300,000 ohms, more preferably more than 500,000 ohms, more particularly preferably more than 1x10 ⁶ ohms, and most preferably more than 2x10 ⁶ ohms.

Applications

[0116] The properties of the adhesives of the invention make them particularly suited to applications in which good adhesion, good elongation and good thermal conductivity are required.

[0117] In a preferred embodiment, the adhesives of the invention are used to adhere battery assemblies, to adhere battery cells together and adhere battery cells into the module or adhere battery cells to the cooling plate.

Particularly preferred embodiments

[0118] The following are particularly preferred embodiments of the adhesive compositions of the invention:

1. A thermally conductive, two-component polyurethane adhesive composition comprising:

(A) a polyisocyanate component, Component A, comprising: (a1) at least one polyisocyanate;

(a2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component A;

(a3) optionally a polyether polyol;

(a4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter;

(B) a polyol component, Component B, comprising:

(b1) at least one polyetherpolyol;

(b2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component B;

(b3) a catalyst capable of catalyzing the reaction of an isocyanate and a polyol;

(b4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter; wherein at least one of the polyether polyols in Component A and Component B is a poly(tetramethylene oxide) glycol, and wherein the equivalent ratio of the isocyanate from Component A over the hydroxyl from Component B is from 0.8 to 2.0. A method for adhering two or more substrates, comprising the steps of:

(1) providing a thermally conductive, two-component polyurethane adhesive composition comprising:

(A) a polyisocyanate component, Component A, comprising:

(a1) at least one polyisocyanate;

(a2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component A;

(a3) optionally a polyether polyol;

(a4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter;

(B) a polyol component, Component B, comprising:

(b1) at least one polyether polyol;

(b2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component B;

(b3) a catalyst capable of catalyzing the reaction of an isocyanate and a polyol;

(b4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter; wherein at least one of the polyether polyols in Component A and Component B is a poly(tetramethylene oxide) glycol, and wherein the equivalent ratio of the isocyanate from Component A over the hydroxyl from Component B is from 0.8 to 2.0;

(2) mixing Component A and Component B in a desired ratio to produce the adhesive;

(3) applying the adhesive to at least one substrate;

(4) bringing a second substrate into contact with the adhesive; and

(5) allowing the adhesive to cure. A thermally conductive, two-component polyurethane adhesive composition comprising:

(A) a polyisocyanate component, Component A, comprising:

(a1) at least one polyisocyanate;

(a2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component A;

(a3) optionally a polyether polyol;

(a4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter;

(B) a polyol component, Component B, comprising:

(b1) at least one polyetherpolyol, comprising poly(tetramethylene oxide) glycol;

(b2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component B;

(b3) a catalyst capable of catalyzing the reaction of an isocyanate and a polyol; and

(b4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter; wherein the equivalent ratio of the isocyanate from Component A over the hydroxyl from Component B is from 0.8 to 2.0. A thermally conductive, two-component polyurethane adhesive composition comprising:

(A) a polyisocyanate component, Component A, comprising:

(a1) at least one polyisocyanate, comprising polycarbodiimide-modified MDI;

(a2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component A;

(a3) optionally a polyether polyol;

(a4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter;

(B) a polyol component, Component B, comprising: (b1) at least one polyetherpolyol, comprising poly(tetramethylene oxide) glycol;

(b2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component B;

(b3) a catalyst capable of catalyzing the reaction of an isocyanate and a polyol; and

(b4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter; wherein the equivalent ratio of the isocyanate from Component A over the hydroxyl from Component B is from 0.8 to 2.0.

5. A thermally conductive, two-component polyurethane adhesive composition comprising:

(A) a polyisocyanate component, Component A, comprising:

(a1) at least one polyisocyanate;

(a2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component A;

(a3) optionally a polyether polyol;

(a4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter;

(B) a polyol component, Component B, comprising:

(b1) at least one polyetherpolyol, comprising at least

8 wt% poly(tetramethylene oxide) glycol, based on the total weight of Component B;

(b2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component B;

(b3) a catalyst capable of catalyzing the reaction of an isocyanate and a polyol; and

(b4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter; wherein the equivalent ratio of the isocyanate from Component A over the hydroxyl from Component B is from 0.8 to 2.0.

6. A thermally conductive, two-component polyurethane adhesive composition comprising:

(A) a polyisocyanate component, Component A, comprising:

(a1) at least one polyisocyanate, comprising polycarbodiimide-modified MDI;

(a2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component A;

(a3) optionally a polyether polyol; (a4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter;

(B) a polyol component, Component B, comprising:

(b1) at least one polyetherpolyol, comprising at least 8 wt% poly(tetramethylene oxide) glycol, based on the total weight of Component B;

(b2) 40 to 85 wt% thermally conductive filler, based on the total weight of Component B;

(b3) a catalyst capable of catalyzing the reaction of an isocyanate and a polyol; and

(b4) optionally a silane adhesion promoter; wherein the equivalent ratio of the isocyanate from Component A over the hydroxyl from Component B is from 0.8 to 2.0. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the equivalent ratio of the isocyanate from Component A over the hydroxyl from Component B is from 0.9 to 1 .5. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the equivalent ratio of the isocyanate from Component A over the hydroxyl from Component B is from 1.0 to 1 .3. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein Component B comprises poly(tetramethylene oxide) glycol. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein Component A comprises poly(tetramethylene oxide) glycol. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein Component A and Component B comprise poly(tetramethylene oxide) glycol. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein Component B comprises poly(tetramethylene oxide) glycol at 1 to 20 wt%, preferably 5 to 20 wt%, more preferably 10 to 15 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the poly(tetramethylene oxide) glycol has a molecular weight of 200 to 2,000 Da. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein poly(tetramethylene oxide) glycol is present in the adhesive at 1 to 7.5 wt%, preferably 5 to 7.5 wt%, more preferably 5 to 6 wt%, based on the total weight of the adhesive. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein Component A comprises a silane adhesion promoter. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein Component A comprises an amino silane adhesion promoter. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein Component A comprises a silane adhesion promoter at 0.1 to 4 wt%, preferably at 0.5 to 3, more preferably at 1.5 to 3 wt%, based on the total weight of Component A. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the adhesive comprises a silane adhesion promoter at 0.1 to 2 wt%, preferably 0.5 to 2 wt%, more preferably 0.75 to 1.5 wt%, based on the total weight of the adhesive. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the silane adhesion promoter is 3- trimethoxysilyl-N-(3-trimethoxysilylpropyl)propan-1-amine. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein Component B comprises poly(tetramethylene oxide) glycol at 5 to 20 wt%, more preferably 10 to 15 wt%, based on the total weight of Component B, and Component A comprises a silane adhesion promoter at 0.1 to 4 wt%, preferably 0.5 to 3 wt%, more preferably at 1.5 to 3 wt%, based on the total weight of Component A. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the Component B comprises a polyether polyol selected from a diol, a triol and mixtures of these. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein Component B comprises polypropylene oxide) diol; polypropylene oxide) triol; and poly(tetramethylene oxide) diol. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein Component B comprises: a polypropylene oxide) diol having an average equivalent weight of 900-1 ,100 g/eq; a polypropylene oxide) diol having an average equivalent weight of 190-230 g/eq; a polypropylene oxide) triol having an average equivalent weight of 70-100 g/eq; and poly(tetramethylene oxide) diol. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein Component B comprises: a polypropylene oxide) diol having an average equivalent weight of 1,000 g/eq; a polypropylene oxide) diol having an average equivalent weight of 215.7 g/eq; a polypropylene oxide) triol having an average equivalent weight of 84.9 g/eq; and poly(tetramethylene oxide) diol. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein Component B comprises:

8 to 14 wt% polypropylene oxide) diol;

1.5 to 5 wt% polypropylene oxide) triol; and

5 to 15 wt% poly(tetramethylene oxide) diol; based on the total weight of Component B. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein Component B comprises:

1 to 4 wt% of a polypropylene oxide) diol having an average equivalent weight of 900-1,100 g/eq;

7 to 14 wt% of a polypropylene oxide) diol having an average equivalent weight of 190-230 g/eq;

1.5 to 3 wt% of a polypropylene oxide) triol having an average equivalent weight of 70-100 g/eq; and

5 to 15 wt% poly(tetramethylene oxide) diol; based on the total weight of Component B. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein Component B comprises:

1 to 4 wt% of a polypropylene oxide) diol having an average equivalent weight of 1 ,000 g/eq;

7 to 14 wt% of a polypropylene oxide) diol having an average equivalent weight of 215.7 g/eq;

1.5 to 3 wt% of a polypropylene oxide) triol having an average equivalent weight of 84.9 g/eq; and

5 to 15 wt% poly(tetramethylene oxide) diol; based on the total weight of Component B. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein Component B comprises 1 ,4-butane diol. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein Component B comprises 0.5 to 2.5 wt% 1,4-butane diol, based on the total weight of Component B. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein Component A comprises polymeric MDI that contains MDI. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein Component A comprises polycarbodiimide-modified 4,4'-Methylenediphenyl diisocyanate. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein Component A comprises 8 to 25 wt% polycarbodiimide-modified 4,4'-Methylenediphenyl diisocyanate, based on the total weight of Component B. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the catalyst p3) is selected from tertiary amine catalysts, organometallic catalysts, such as bismuth catalysts, alkyl tin carboxylates, oxides and tin mercaptides. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the catalyst p3) is selected from N- methyl morpholine, N-methyl imidazole, triethylenediamine, bis-(2- dimethylaminoethyl)-ether, 1 ,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO), dimethylcyclohexylamine, dimethylethanolamine, 2,2-dimorpholinyl-diethylether (DMDEE), N,N,N-dimethylaminopropyl hexahydrotriazine, dimethyltetrahydropyrimidine, tetramethylethylenediamine, dimethylcyclohexylamine, 2,2-N,N benzyldimethylamine, dimethylethanol amine, dimethylaminopropyl amine, Penta-dimethyl diethylene triamine, N,N,N',N'-tetramethyl-1,6-hexanediamine, N,N',N'- trimethylaminoethylpiperazine, 1 , 1 '-[[3-(dimethylamino)propyl]imino]bispropan- 2-ol, 1 ,3,5-tris[3-(dimethylamino)propyl]hexahydro-1 , 3, 5-triazine, N-N- dimethyldipropylene triamine, and N,N,N'-trimethylaminoethylethanolamine, and mixtures of these, with DMDEE being particularly preferred.

35. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the catalyst (b3) is selected from dibutyltin dilaurate, dimethyl tin dineodecanoate, dimethyltin mercaptide, dimethyltin carboxylate, dimethyltin dioleate, dimethyltin dithioglycolate, dibutyltin mercaptide, dibutyltin b/s(2-ethylhexyl thioglycolate), dibutyltin sulfide, dioctyltin dithioglycolate, dioctyltin mercaptide, dioctyltin dioctoate, dioctyltin dineodecanoate, dioctyltin dilaurate, and mixtures of these.

36. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the catalyst (b3) is dioctyltin mercaptide.

37. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the thermally conductive filler (a2, b2) is selected from fillers that have a coefficient of thermal conductivity that is greater than 5 W/m°K, greater than 10 W/m°K, or greater than 15 W/ m°K.

38. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the thermally conductive filler (a2, b2) is selected from alumina, surface treated or non-treated alumina trihydrate or aluminum trihydroxide, silicon carbide, boron nitride, diamond, and graphite, and mixtures thereof.

39. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the thermally conductive filler is aluminium trihydroxide (ATH) or aluminium oxide.

40. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the thermally conductive filler is aluminium trihydroxide.

41. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the thermally conductive filler has a broad particle size distribution characterized by a ratio of Dgo I D50 of at or about 3 or more.

42. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the thermally conductive filler is ATH or aluminium oxide having a broad particle size distribution characterized by a ratio of D ₉₀ 1 D50 of at or about 3 or more, most preferably ATH.

43. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the thermally conductive filler has a ratio Dgo / D50 of at or about 5 or more. 44. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the thermally conductive filler has a ratio Dgo I D50 of at or about 9 or more.

45. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the thermally conductive filler has a D50 of 5 to 20 microns and a Dgo of 70 to 90 microns.

46. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the thermally conductive filler has a D50 of 7-9 microns and a Dgo of 78-82 microns.

47. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the thermally conductive filler is ATH having a Dgo I D50 of at or about 3 or more.

48. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the thermally conductive is ATH having Dgo I D50 of at or about 5 or more.

49. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the thermally conductive is ATH having Dgo I D50 of at or about 9 or more.

50. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the thermally conductive filler is present in the adhesive at a concentration of 65-85 wt%, based on the total weight of the adhesive.

51. Any one preceding embodiment, wherein the adhesive has a thermal conductivity of at or about 1.1 W/mK or more, after curing for 7 days at 23°C.

EXAMPLES

Test methods

Press flow viscosity

[0119] The freshly prepared adhesive component (either component A or component B) was first conditioned at 25 °C for at least 2 hours. Then, its press flow viscosity (seconds/20 grams) was determined by recording the amount of time (in seconds) for 20 grams of the adhesive sample component to pass through a 2.64 mm orifice under conditions of 310 kPa applied pressure at 25 °C, unless otherwise specified. The press flow viscosity of either component A or B is more than 5 seconds/20 grams, preferably more than 9 seconds/20 grams, more preferably more than 12 seconds/20 grams. The press flow viscosity of either component A or B is less than 60 seconds/20 grams, preferably less than 45 seconds/20 grams, more preferably more than 35 seconds/20 grams. Lap shear test

[0120] The lap shear test was performed according to SAE J 1529 test procedure which is described below. A round bead (approximately 4 mm in diameter) of a two- component adhesive composition was dispensed with an air gun through a static mixer and applied along the width of the 25 mm by 100 mm of a e-coated (ED6100C) steel coupon and at the coupon end. The second e-coated (ED6100C) steel coupon of same size was immediately pressed on the adhesive bead to give a final height of 1 mm and an overlap of 12.7mm for the 2 component adhesive composition in between. The prepared lap shear sample was allowed to cure under conditions of 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH) for 7 days unless specified otherwise. The sample was then pulled right away or after more environmental exposures at a rate of 1.27 mm/min with an Instron Tester. The load (Newton) at sample break divided by the sample area (mm ² ) gives the lap shear adhesion strength (MPa). The failure mode was evaluated as adhesive failure (AF), thin film failure (TF) and/or cohesive failure (CF). In case of AF, the cured bead was separated from the tested substrate surface, while in CF, separation occurred within the adhesive composition and TF is a special case of CF in which there is a thin film of cured adhesive composition left on the substrate after testing.

Lap shear strength of room temperature testing is more than 4 MPa, preferably more than 5 MPa, and more preferably more than 6 MPa. Lap shear elongation at max stress is more than 50%, preferably more than 55%, and more preferably more than 60%. Lap shear failure is more than 85% CF, preferably more than 95% CF, and most preferably 100% CF.

Brookfield Viscosity

[0121] Brookfield viscosity was measured according to the procedure described in US patent no. 5,922,809 at column 12, lines 38 to 49 using a Model DV-E Brookfield Viscometer or equivalent. The freshly prepared adhesive component (either component A or component B) was first conditioned at 40 °C for at least 2 hours. The test was then done with a RV spindle #7 at a speed of 6 revolutions per second and at 40 °C unless specified otherwise.

The Brookfield viscosity of either component A or B at 40 °C is more than 50,000 centipoises, preferably more than 100,000 centipoises, more preferably more than 160,000 centipoises. The Brookfield viscosity of either component A or B at 40 °C is less than 1 ,000,000 centipoises, preferably less than 700,000 centipoises, more preferably less than 550,000 centipoises.

Tensile and Elongation Properties

[0122] The two-component adhesive sample was dispensed through the spiral static mixer between two releasing papers and then pressed to form a round plaque with 3 mm thickness. The round plaque was cured for 7 days at conditions of 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH). Three test specimens were cut from the cured sample plaque with the Die C of ASTM D412 and tested at a pulling speed of 50 mm per minute with an Instron Tester Model 5969. Tensile strength (MPa) was calculated by the force at peak (Newton) divided by the specimen cross-section area (mm ² ) and elongation was determined at the break point of the specimen, all in accordance with ASTM D412. Results for tensile strength and elongation of an adhesive sample were reported from the average of three specimens.

[0123] Tensile strength is preferably more than 4 MPa, more preferably more than 5 MPa and more particularly preferably more than 6 MPa. Elongation is preferably more than 15% at break, more preferably more than 25% at break, and more particularly preferably more than 30% at break.

Impact Peel Test

[0124] Impact peel specimens were prepared using E-coated (ED6100C) steel coupons of 25.4 mm in width, 101.6 mm in length and 0.8 mm in thickness. The adhesive sample was dispensed through a spiral static mixer onto one end of the e- coated steel coupon which was then mated with another same e-coated steel coupon forming a 30 mm adhesive overlap and 1.2 mm bondline thickness at the end of the specimen. The impact peel specimen was cured under 23 °C and 50% relative humidity for 7 days or specified conditions, the cured impact specimen was pre-bent into a V shape at the other non-bonded end and then tested with a vertical impacting mass of 23.7 kg at a rate of 2.4 m/s. The reported impact strength (Newton/mm) is of the average for the region between 45% and 90% of the displacement to failure, all in accordance with ISO 11343 [2003 04 01], Typically, at least three specimens were tested and averaged for the adhesive sample.

[0125] Impact peel strength is more than 8 N/mm, preferably more than 10 N/mm, more preferably more than 12 N/mm. Most preferably more than 15 N/mm. Impact peel failure is more than 85%CF, preferably more than 95% CF, and most preferably 100%CF.

Thermal Conductivity

[0126] Thermal Conductivity of the two-component adhesive sample was measured using Linseis Thermal Interface Material (TIM) Tester. The adhesive sample was dispensed through the static mixer between two releasing papers and then pressed to form a round plaque with about 1 mm thickness. The round plaque was cured for 7 days at conditions of 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH). The cured round plaque was then cut into five individual specimens of 1-inch square in size and the thicknesses were measured again with a calliper (about 1 mm). The thermal impedance of the adhesive sample was measured at five different thicknesses by stacking specimens one at a time at 25°C with a 30°C gradient across the sample and set pressure of 0.3 MPa. Liquid silicone was used on both sides of each specimen to ensure good thermal contact between the specimens and the plates. The thermal conductivity of the adhesive sample (W/mK) is obtained from the thermal impedance plot, all in accordance with ASTM D5470.

Electrical resistivity

[0127] Two copper strips (50 mm in length and 12 mm in width) were set in parallel on a nonconductive surface such as a cardboard with 50 mm between them. An adhesive bead (about 4 mm in diameter) was dispensed perpendicularly to the two copper strips through a static mixer, passing through the middle of the strips. The bead was cured for 7 days (or a specific time) at 23°C and 50% relative humidity.

The resistivity of the bead was determined with an electric multi-meter by contacting its two probes with the two copper strips.

Electrical resistivity is more than 300,000 ohms, preferably more than 500,000 ohms, more preferably more than 1x10 ⁶ ohms, and most preferably more than 2x10 ⁶ ohms.

Preparation of comparative and inventive adhesives

[0128] The ingredients of Component A for Comparative Example 1 and Inventive Examples 1-4 are shown in Table 2.

[0129] Ingredients 1 , 1a and 2 were added to a container and mixed at 1,000 rpm for 3 minutes using FlackTek speed mixer of model DAC600.2 VAC-LR. Then, ingredient 3 was added, and mixing was continued for another 3 minutes at 1000 rpm. The temperature of the mixture was raised to 54 °C and mixing was continued for an additional 2 minutes at 1000 rpm. Half of ingredients 4, 5 and 6 were added and mixing was continued for 2.5 minutes. Ingredient 7 and the remaining half of ingredients 4, 5 and 6 were added and mixing was continued for 2.5 minutes at 1000 rpm. Finally, the whole mixture was mixed for 3 minutes at 1000 rpm under vacuum. The finished material was packaged into air-tight tubes. [0130] The ingredients for Component B of Comparative Example 1 and Inventive Examples 1-4 are shown in Table 3. [0131] Ingredients 1 , 1a-d (1d was preheated at 54°C for 2 hours prior to use), 2 and 3 were added into a container and mixed at 1 ,000 rpm for 1 minute using FlackTek speed mixer of model DAC600.2 VAC-LR (1d can also be added after ingredient 3 is already mixed in). Half of ingredients 4, 5, 6 and 7 were added and mixing was continued at 1000 rpm for 2.5 minutes. The second half of ingredients 4, 5, 6 and 7 were added and mixing was continued at 1000 rpm for 2.5 minutes.

Finally, the whole mixture was mixed at 1000 rpm for 3 minutes under vacuum. The material was packaged into air-tight tubes.

[0132] Tables 4 and 5 give the press flow viscosities for the components A and B of the comparative and inventive example 2 and 4. Table 6 gives the Brookfield viscosities for the components A and B of inventive example 2 and 4.

Table 4. press flow viscosity of comparative example components A and B Table 5. press flow viscosity of inventive example components A and B

Table 6. Brookfield viscosity of inventive example components A and B [0133] Adhesives were prepared by dispensing Component A and Component B in a one-to-one volume ratio through a spiral static mixer. Component temperature could be at room temperature or at a higher temperature such as 40 °C. Curing was typically for 7 days at 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH). The characteristics of the cured adhesives are listed in Table 7, Table 8 and Table 9. [0134] The adhesives all showed a good thermal conductivity of greater than 1

W/mK. Lap shear strength was comparable for all adhesives, and all showed a failure mode of 100% cohesive failure. However, the Inventive Examples all showed a significantly improved lap shear elongation at maximum stress, as compared to the

Comparative Example. The inventive sample 2 also showed much better tensile elongation than the comparative sample. The inventive sample 4 had a resistivity of more than 2 x 10 ⁶ ohms. Both inventive sample 2 and 4 showed impact peel strength of 18.4 N/mm and 21.1 N/mm, respectively.

Table 8. tensile and elongation properties of comparative and inventive adhesives

Table 9. Impact peel strength of inventive adhesives