CLAIM OF PRIORITY

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent

Application Serial Nos. 62/114,723 bearing Attorney Docket Number 12015005 and filed on February 11, 2015, and 62/114,701 bearing Attorney Docket Number 12015002 and filed on February 11, 2015, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates to thermoplastic elastomer compounds and articles formed therefrom which exhibit useful vibration damping properties at or above room temperature while also exhibiting useful sound and/or noise damping properties.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Demand exists in a variety of applications for materials that exhibit damping properties. In general, damping is the dissipation of mechanical energy from a system. Damping can be important in applications such as electronics, sound isolation, automotive and transportation, building and construction, household appliances, industrial equipment, firearms, healthcare and medical devices, and personal and/or sports protection.

[0004] The capacity of a material for damping is related to its peak temperature of the tangent of delta (Tan Delta Peak Temperature), which can be determined by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) as described, for example, by M.P. Sepe in "Thermal Analysis of Polymers", Rapra Review Reports, Vol. 8, No. 11, 1997, which is incorporated herein by reference. The tangent of delta (Tan Delta) of a material is the ratio of its loss modulus (E") to its storage modulus (Ε'). Consequently, as the value of Tan Delta increases, the response of the material is relatively more viscous than it is elastic, which thus provides greater damping. When graphically depicted against temperature, a Tan Delta curve includes a prominent peak at a particular temperature, which is the Tan Delta Peak Temperature and also can be representative of or comparable to the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the material. In general, a material with a Tan Delta Peak Temperature which is relatively nearer to an application temperature, such as at or above room temperature, will possess better damping properties than a material with a Tan Delta Peak Temperature which is relatively lower than the application temperature.

[0005] One type of damping is sound and/or noise damping, which can be highly desirable for many applications including, for example, in cable jackets and/or other components of high quality headphones and/or earphones. Because damping is frequency specific, sound damping can occur at a different frequency from other damping, such as vibration damping. As such, a material that is good for vibration damping is not necessarily good for sound damping.

[0006] Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), which are polymer materials that exhibit elasticity while remaining thermoplastic, can be used for damping applications. Thermoplastic elastomers can include styrenic block copolymers (SBC), thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPV), thermoplastic olefins (TPO), copolyesters (COPE), thermoplastic urethanes (TPU), copolyamides (COP A), and olefin block copolymers (OBC).

[0007] Some commercially available SBCs, such as HYBRAR 5127 available from Kuraray Co., Ltd., are known to exhibit vibration damping properties at room temperature. HYBRAR 5127 has a Tan Delta Peak Temperature that is reported to be 20 °C (i.e., about room temperature). Although HYBRAR 5127 can be formulated into conventional TPE compounds that exhibit effective room temperature vibration damping, such TPE compounds are not effective at sound damping according to assessments typically used in the acoustics industry.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0008] Consequently, a need exists for TPE compounds and articles formed therefrom which exhibit useful vibration damping properties while also exhibiting beneficial sound and/or noise damping properties at or above room temperature.

[0009] The aforementioned needs are met by one or more aspects of the present invention.

[00010] It has been found that, by adding high softening point tackifier to styrenic block copolymer to provide a thermoplastic elastomer compound, the Copolymer Tan Delta Peak Temperature of the styrenic block copolymer can be shifted to a higher temperature (i.e., the Compound Tan Delta Peak Temperature) and, thereby, the damping capacity of the styrenic block copolymer can be increased for an intended end-use application at a given temperature, such as at or above room temperature. Surprisingly, such thermoplastic elastomer compounds and articles formed therefrom not only exhibit useful damping properties at or above room temperature, but also have useful sound and/or noise damping properties.

[00011] One aspect of the invention is a thermoplastic elastomer compound that includes styrenic block copolymer, high softening point tackifier, plasticizer, and secondary polymer. The styrenic block copolymer has a Copolymer Tan Delta Peak Temperature and the compound has a Compound Tan Delta Peak Temperature. The Compound Tan Delta Peak Temperature is greater than the Copolymer Tan Delta Peak Temperature.

[00012] Another aspect of the invention is a sound damping article formed from the aforementioned thermoplastic elastomer compound. The sound damping article exhibits useful vibration damping properties while also exhibiting beneficial sound and/or noise damping properties at or above room temperature.

[00013] A further aspect of the invention is a sound damping article formed from the aforementioned thermoplastic elastomer compound wherein the sound damping article, in response to a noise stimulus, produces an effective sound pressure level according to IEC 711 that is at least 80 % lower than an effective sound pressure level according to IEC 711 produced by a control article in response to the same noise stimulus. The control article is formed from a control TPE compound that is identical in composition to the thermoplastic elastomer compound except that the control TPE compound is free of high softening point tackifier.

[00014] An even further aspect of the invention is a loudspeaker system that includes at least one speaker driver. At least a portion of the speaker driver is at least partially surrounded by at least a portion of the sound damping article formed from the aforementioned thermoplastic elastomer compound.

[00015] Yet another aspect of the invention is a loudspeaker system that includes a housing, at least one speaker driver at least partially contained in the housing, and a gasket positioned between at least a portion of the housing and at least a portion of the speaker driver. The gasket comprises the sound damping article formed from the aforementioned thermoplastic elastomer compound.

[00016] An even further aspect of the invention is wired headphones or earphones comprising a cable. The cable includes a conductive core at least partially enveloped by a jacket or insulation or both. At least one of the jacket and insulation includes the sound damping article formed from the aforementioned thermoplastic elastomer compound.

[00017] Yet another aspect of the invention is a multi-component plastic article including at least two components formed from different thermoplastic materials and in which at least one of the different thermoplastic materials is the aforementioned thermoplastic elastomer compound.

[00018] Features of the invention will become apparent with reference to the following embodiments. There exist various refinements of the features noted in relation to the above-mentioned aspects of the present invention. Additional features may also be incorporated in the above-mentioned aspects of the present invention. These refinements and additional features may exist individually or in any combination. For instance, various features discussed below in relation to any of the described aspects of the present invention may be incorporated into any of the described aspects of the present invention alone or in any combination.

EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[00019] In some embodiments, the present invention is directed to a thermoplastic elastomer compound that includes styrenic block copolymer, high softening point tackifier, plasticizer, and secondary polymer. In other embodiments, the present invention is directed to a sound damping article formed from the aforementioned thermoplastic elastomer compound. Required and optional features of these and other embodiments of the present invention are described.

[00020] As used herein, the term "Compound Tan Delta Peak Temperature" means the Tan Delta Peak Temperature for a thermoplastic elastomer compound of the present invention that comprises high softening point tackifier and styrenic block copolymer.

[00021] As used herein, the term "Copolymer Tan Delta Peak Temperature" means the Tan Delta Peak Temperature for the neat styrenic block copolymer; that is, for the styrenic block copolymer, itself, prior to combining it with any other ingredients of the thermoplastic elastomer compound of the present invention.

[00022] As used herein, the term "essentially free of a certain component means, in some embodiments, that no amount of that component is intentionally incorporated into a compound. In other embodiments, it means that less than 1 weight percent of the component is intentionally incorporated into the compound; and, in other embodiments, it means that less than 0.1 weight percent of the component is intentionally incorporated into the compound; and, in other embodiments, it means that less than 0.01 weight percent of the component is intentionally incorporated into the compound; and, in other embodiments, it means that less than 0.001 weight percent of the component is intentionally incorporated into the compound.

[00023] As used herein, the term "high softening point tackifier" means a tackifier having a softening point of at least 80 °C according to ASTM 6493.

[00024] As used herein, the term "softening point" means a material softening temperature as measured by a ring and ball type method according to ASTM 6493.

[00025] As used herein, the term "high vinyl" means that the vinyl content of a styrenic block copolymer (prior to hydrogenation) is greater than 50 mole percent. For example, more than 50 mole percent of the polybutadiene, if present in the midblock, is polymerized at the 1,2-position, and/or, more than 50 mole percent of the polyisoprene, if present in the midblock, is polymerized at the 3,4-position, both of which by driving the polymerization with addition of a polar compound, as is well known by those of ordinary skill in the art. After hydrogenation of the high vinyl styrenic block copolymer, there is little or no vinyl unsaturation remaining. Nonetheless, such a styrenic block copolymer is still referred to as "high vinyl" because it is derived from a high vinyl precursor.

[00026] As used herein, the term "low vinyl" means that the vinyl content of a styrenic block copolymer (prior to hydrogenation) is not greater than 50 mole percent.

[00027] As used herein, the term "Noise Reduction Test" means a test performed in accordance with the description provided in the "Noise Reduction Test" section below.

[00028] As used herein, the term "room temperature" means a range of temperature of a defined environment, usually an indoor environment, which is generally considered comfortable for human habitation, and, can include, for example, any temperature ranging from about 15 °C to about 26 °C.

[00029] As used herein, the term "Tan Delta" means the tangent of delta of a material and is the ratio of the material's loss modulus (E") to the material's storage modulus (Ε'). [00030] As used herein, the term "Tan Delta Peak Temperature" means the temperature at which a prominent peak appears in a graphical depiction of Tan Delta against temperature for a material, as determined by dynamic mechanical analysis using TA Instruments Dynamic Mechanical Analysis Model Q800 in "shear sandwich" mode and for a temperature scan from -40 °C to 100 °C increasing at a rate of 5 °C per minute and with an oscillation frequency of 10 Hz.

[00031] Thermoplastic Elastomer Compound

[00032] In some embodiments, the present invention is directed to a thermoplastic elastomer compound that includes styrenic block copolymer and high softening point tackifier.

[00033] It has been found that, by adding high softening point tackifier to styrenic block copolymer to provide a thermoplastic elastomer compound, the Copolymer Tan Delta Peak Temperature of the styrenic block copolymer can be shifted to a higher temperature (i.e., the Compound Tan Delta Peak Temperature). That is, for thermoplastic elastomer compounds of the present invention, the Compound Tan Delta Peak Temperature is greater than the Copolymer Tan Delta Peak Temperature.

[00034] In some embodiments, the Compound Tan Delta Peak Temperature is at least -10 °C. In other embodiments, the Compound Tan Delta Peak Temperature is at least 0 °C. In further embodiments, the Compound Tan Delta Peak Temperature is at least room temperature. In even further embodiments, the Compound Tan Delta Peak Temperature is from about -10 °C to about 70 °C, and, in other embodiments, is from about 5 °C to about 50 °C.

[00035] Styrenic Block Copolymer

[00036] Thermoplastic elastomer compounds of the present invention include one or more styrenic block copolymers.

[00037] Styrenic block copolymers that are suitable for use in the present invention include any available styrenic block copolymers that, when combined with the high softening point tackifier, can provide the thermoplastic elastomer compound with useful damping properties at the temperature of an intended end-use application, for example, room temperature or temperatures higher or lower than room temperature. Suitable styrenic block copolymers can be selected also to provide other properties desirable for the end-use application. The present invention contemplates the use of a single type of styrenic block or combinations of two or more different types of styrenic block copolymers.

[00038] Non-limiting examples of suitable styrenic block copolymers include styrene-ethylene/butylene-styrene (SEBS), styrene-ethylene/propylene- styrene (SEPS), styrene-ethylene/ethylene/propylene-styrene (SEEPS), styrene- isobutylene-styrene (SIBS), styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS), styrene-isoprene- styrene (SIS), and combinations thereof.

[00039] In some embodiments, the styrenic block copolymer is hydrogenated, such as partially hydrogenated or fully hydrogenated.

[00040] In some embodiments, the styrenic block copolymer is selected from hydrogenated styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer with hydrogenated vinylic isoprene midblock or high vinyl styrene- (ethylene/butylene)-styrene block copolymer or combinations of these and/or other styrenic block copolymers.

[00041] Examples of commercially available hydrogenated styrene- isoprene-styrene block copolymer with hydrogenated vinylic isoprene midblock include one or more of the HYBRAR brand of styrenic block copolymers from Kuraray, Co. Ltd., such as grades KL-7125 and KL-7135.

[00042] HYBRAR KL-7125 copolymer is reported by the manufacturer as having a Tan Delta Peak Temperature of -5 °C, a Shore A hardness of 64, a tensile elongation of 680 %, and a melt flow rate (MFR) of 4 g/lOmin at 230 °C with a 2.16 kg weight.

[00043] HYBRAR KL-7135 copolymer, which has a relatively higher molecular weight than that of HYBRAR KL-7125 copolymer but is similar in chemical structure, is reported by the manufacturer as having a Tan Delta Peak Temperature of +1 °C, a Shore A hardness of 68, and a tensile elongation of 550 %. Because of the higher molecular weight, MFR is not measurable at 230 °C and a 2.16 kg weight.

[00044] Examples of commercially available high vinyl styrene-

(ethylene/butylene)-styrene block copolymer include one or more of the KRATON brand, including the KRATON ERS brand, of styrenic block copolymers from Kraton Polymers LLC, such as grades G1641, G1642, G1643, G1645, MD6958, and MD6959. KRATON brand G series styrenic block copolymers are known to have glass transition temperatures (Tg) ranging from around -55 °C to around -38 °C.

[00045] As used herein, "high vinyl" means that the vinyl content of the styrenic block copolymer (prior to hydrogenation) is greater than 50 mole percent. In some embodiments, the vinyl content of the styrenic block copolymer is from about 55 to about 90 mole percent, and, in further embodiments, from about 65 to about 90 mole percent.

[00046] The high vinyl styrene-(ethylene/butylene)-styrene block copolymer has an ethylene/butylene midblock that is the hydrogenation product of 1,3 -butadiene.

[00047] Suitable high vinyl styrene-(ethylene/butylene)-styrene block copolymer include those as described in, for example, United States Patent Nos. 5,777,031 to Djiauw et al. and 6,984,688 to Gu, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[00048] It is to be understood that an isoprene midblock that is hydrogenated is converted to an ethylene/propylene midblock. Similarly, it is to be understood that a butadiene midblock that is hydrogenated is converted to an ethylene/butylene midblock.

[00049] Examples of other commercially available styrenic block copolymers include hydrogenated styrenic block copolymer available under the SIB STAR brand from Kaneka, and hydrogenated styrenic block copolymer available under the S.O.E. brand from Asahi KASEI. Additional examples of other commercially available styrenic block copolymers include styrene- isoprene-styrene block copolymer available under the VECTOR brand from TSRC / Dexco, such as the 4000 series, and under the KRATON brand from Kraton Polymers LLC, such as the Dl 100 series.

[00050] In some embodiments, suitable styrenic block copolymers have a relatively low weight average molecular weight. In other embodiments, suitable styrenic block copolymers have a relatively high weight average molecular weight. For example, suitable styrenic block copolymers can have weight average molecular weights in excess of 75,000 and preferably in excess of 200,000. In some embodiments, the styrenic block copolymer has a weight average molecular weight ranging from about 75,000 to about 1 million or from about 75,000 to about 500,000. In other embodiments, the styrenic block copolymer has a weight average molecular weight ranging from about 200,000 to about 1 million or from about 200,000 to about 500,000.

[00051] The styrenic block copolymer has a Copolymer Tan Delta Peak Temperature. As discussed above, by adding high softening point tackifier to styrenic block copolymer to provide a thermoplastic elastomer compound, the Copolymer Tan Delta Peak Temperature of the styrenic block copolymer can be shifted to a higher temperature (i.e., the Compound Tan Delta Peak Temperature).

[00052] It is believed that the high softening point tackifier is more effective at shifting the Copolymer Tan Delta Peak Temperature to a higher temperature for styrenic block copolymers having a Copolymer Tan Delta Peak Temperature that is greater than about -40 °C but, for example, less than about -10 °C, or, as a further example, less than about 0 °C, or, as an even further example, less than room temperature, or, as yet a further example, less than a temperature greater than room temperature.

[00053] In some embodiments, styrenic block copolymers have a

Copolymer Tan Delta Peak Temperature that is greater than about -40 °C but less than -10 °C, or, less than 0 °C, or, less than room temperature, or, less than a temperature greater than room temperature. In further embodiments, the thermoplastic elastomer compound is essentially free of styrenic block polymers having a Copolymer Tan Delta Peak Temperature that is less than about -40 °C.

[00054] In other embodiments, the thermoplastic elastomer compound is essentially free of styrene-(ethylene-ethylene/propylene)-styrene block copolymer or low vinyl styrene-(ethylene/butylene)-styrene block copolymer or both. Some standard or low vinyl styrenic block copolymers, such as those available under the SEPTON brand from Kuraray Co., Ltd. and including SEPTON 4000 Series SEEPS copolymers, typically have a Copolymer Tan Delta Peak Temperature that is less than about -40 °C.

[00055] In further embodiments, the thermoplastic elastomer compound is essentially free of hydrogenated styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer with hydrogenated vinylic isoprene midblock. Some commercially available examples of such styrenic block copolymers, such as those available from Kuraray Co., Ltd., under the HYBRAR brand, including grades 7125 and 7135, can be more expensive and thus economically less desirable for some end-use applications.

[00056] High Softening Point Tackifier

[00057] Thermoplastic elastomer compounds of the present invention include one or more high softening point tackifiers.

[00058] By adding high softening point tackifier to styrenic block copolymer, the Copolymer Tan Delta Peak Temperature of the styrenic block copolymer can be shifted to a higher temperature (i.e., the Compound Tan Delta Peak Temperature).

[00059] High softening point tackifiers that are suitable for use in the present invention have a softening point of at least about 80 °C according to ASTM 6493. In some embodiments, the softening point is at least 100 °C, and, in other embodiments, at least about 120 °C, and, in further embodiments, at least about 140 °C. In even further embodiments, the softening point ranges from about 80 °C to about 150 °C. [00060] Suitable high softening point tackifiers include those derived from rosin feedstock, terpene feedstock, or hydrocarbon feedstock. Hydrocarbon-based high softening point tackifiers can be aliphatic or aromatic, and saturated or unsaturated.

[00061] Examples of commercially available high softening point tackifiers include hydrogenated hydrocarbon resins available under the ARKON brand, such as grades P100, PI 15, P125, and P140, from Arakawa Chemical Industries, Ltd.; hydrogenated hydrocarbon resins available under the EASTOTAC brand, such as grades H-125-W, H-140-W, and H-142-W, from Eastman Chemical Company; hydrogenated hydrocarbon resins available under the PLASTOLYN brand, such as grade R1140, from Eastman Chemical Company; and hydrogenated hydrocarbon resins available under the REGALREZ brand, such as grade 1139, from Eastman Chemical Company.

[00062] In some embodiments, the high softening point tackifier includes an amorphous hydrocarbon resin derived from aromatic hydrocarbon feedstock. In further embodiments, the high softening point tackifier is fully hydrogenated and has a saturated cyclo-aliphatic structure.

[00063] In some embodiments, the high softening point tackifier has a weight average molecular weight ranging from about 400 to about 3,500. In other embodiments, the high softening point tackifier has a weight average molecular weight ranging from about 1,000 to about 2,000.

[00064] High softening point tackifier is included in the thermoplastic elastomer compound of the present invention in amount ranging from about 20 parts by weight to about 200 parts by weight, per 100 parts by weight of the styrenic block copolymer. In some embodiments, the amount of high softening point tackifier ranges from about 30 parts by weight to about 150 parts by weight, per 100 parts by weight of the styrenic block copolymer.

[00065] It is believed that, in general, a relatively higher proportion of high softening point tackifier is required to shift the Tan Delta Peak Temperature to a higher temperature for styrenic block copolymer having a relatively higher molecular weight. Conversely, it is believed that, in general, a relatively lower proportion of high softening point tackifier is required to shift the Tan Delta Peak Temperature to a higher temperature for styrenic block copolymer having a relatively lower molecular weight.

[00066] Care should be taken to ensure that the thermoplastic elastomer compound of the present invention is formulated to provide properties desirable for a TPE compound and not properties more commonly observed in adhesive compositions. Generally, adhesive compositions are different from TPE compounds at least because adhesive compositions typically are relatively low viscosity compositions which do not possess the useful mechanical properties of TPE compounds. Accordingly, even if up to about 200 parts by weight of high softening point tackifier is used per 100 parts by weight of styrenic block copolymer, the thermoplastic elastomer compound of the present invention is not an adhesive composition. For example, the thermoplastic elastomer compound is not tacky, or it is not sticky to the touch of a human hand.

[00067] Plasticizer

[00068] Thermoplastic elastomer compound of the present invention includes plasticizer. Plasticizer can be used, for example, to adjust softness and/or improve flow or other properties of the thermoplastic elastomer compound.

[00069] Any conventional oil capable of plasticizing styrenic block copolymer, such as mineral oil, vegetable oil, synthetic oil, etc., can be used in the present invention. Examples of commercially available oils include those available under the PURETOL 380 brand from Petro-Canada, and those available under the PRIMOL 382 brand from ExxonMobil.

[00070] In some embodiments, plasticizers with a higher molecular weight than that of the aforementioned conventional oils can be used. Polyisobutene (PIB) is an example of such a plasticizer with a relatively higher molecular weight. For example, medium- to high-molecular weight PIB is commercially available under the OPPANOL brand from BASF. [00071] Secondary Polymer

[00072] Thermoplastic elastomer compound of the present invention includes secondary polymer. Secondary polymer should be compatible with the styrenic block copolymer and can, for example, contribute to improved processability or desirable physical properties, such as hardness, in the thermoplastic elastomer compound.

[00073] Suitable secondary polymer includes polyolefin-based resins, including homopolymers, copolymers, blends of polymers, mixtures of polymers, alloys of polymers, and combinations thereof.

[00074] Non-limiting examples of polyolefins suitable for use in the present invention include polyethylene (including low-density (LDPE), high- density (HDPE), ultra-high molecular weight (UHDPE), linear-low-density (LLDPE), very-low density, etc.), maleated polypropylene, polypropylene, polybutylene, polyhexalene, polyoctene, and copolymers thereof, olefin block copolymer such as ethylene/alpha-olefin interpolymer, and ethylene-vinyl- acetate (EVA) copolymer. In some embodiments, high density polyethylene (HDPE) and/or polypropylene (PP) are preferred. Such polyolefins are commercially available from a number of sources.

[00075] Suitable secondary polymer also includes rubber, such as butyl rubber and ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber. The rubber can be crosslinked or non-crosslinked.

[00076] Mixtures, blends, or alloys of secondary polymer include, for example, a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) that is a blend of a continuous phase of a polyolefin such as polypropylene and a discontinuous phase of a vulcanized rubber such as crosslinked EPDM.

[00077] Suitable secondary polymer also includes polyphenylene ethers

(PPE). Non-limiting examples of types of PPE, sometimes also referred to as polyphenylene oxide, can include poly(2,6-dimethyl-l,4-phenylene ether), poly(2,6-di ethyl- 1,4-phenylene ether), poly(2-methyl-6-ethyl-l,4-phenylene ether), poly(2-methyl-6-propyl- 1,4-phenylene ether), poly(2,6-dipropyl-l,4- phenyl ene ether), poly(2-ethyl-6-propyl-l,4-phenylene ether), poly(2,6- dimethoxy -1,4-phenylene ether), poly(2,6-di(chloro methyl)- 1,4-phenyl ene ether), poly(2,6-di(bromo methyl)- 1,4-phenyl ene ether), poly(2,6-diphenyl- 1,4- phenylene ether), poly(2,6-ditoluyl -1,4-phenylene ether), poly(2,6-dichloro- 1,4-phenylene ether), poly(2,6-dibenzyl- 1,4-phenyl ene ether), poly(2,5- dimethyl- 1,4-phenyl ene ether), and combinations thereof.

[00078] Optional Filler

[00079] In some embodiments, the thermoplastic elastomer compound further includes inorganic filler.

[00080] Inorganic filler can be used, for example, to lower the cost and/or control properties of the thermoplastic elastomer compound. In other embodiments, the inorganic filler also can be used, for example, as a mineral filler flame retardant.

[00081] Non-limiting examples of inorganic fillers include iron oxide, zinc oxide, magnesium oxide, titanium oxide, zirconium oxide, titanium dioxide, alumina, silica, silica-alumina, aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, magnesium carbonate, calcium carbonate (heavy, light, colloidal), barium sulfate, calcium sulfate, sodium sulfate, calcium sulfite, calcium silicate, calcium phosphate, magnesium phosphate, talc, mica, kaolin, clay, wollastonite, hydrotalcite, glass beads, glass powders, silica sand, silica rock, silicon nitride, quartz powder, volcanic pumice, diatomaceous earth, white carbon, iron powder and aluminum powder.

[00082] In some embodiments, the inorganic filler is calcium carbonate, talc, or mixtures thereof.

[00083] Optional Bonding Agent

[00084] In some embodiments in which the thermoplastic elastomer compound is overmolded onto a thermoplastic substrate, the thermoplastic elastomer compound further includes at least one bonding agent.

[00085] For embodiments in which the thermoplastic substrate is polyamide (nylon), suitable bonding agents include maleic anhydride functionalized polymers, such as maleic anhydride functionalized polyolefin and maleic anhydride functionalized styrenic block copolymer. For example, suitable maleic anhydride functionalized polyolefins are described in U.S. Patent No. 7,842,747 to Gu et al., which is incorporated herein by reference.

[00086] Examples of commercially available maleic anhydride functionalized polyolefin include those available under the EXXELOR brand from ExxonMobil Chemical; those available under the POLYBOND brand from Addivant; and those available under the FUSABOND brand from DuPont.

[00087] Examples of commercially available maleic anhydride functionalized styrenic block copolymer include those available under the KRATON FG brand, such as grades FG1901 and FG1924, from Kraton Performance Polymers Inc.

[00088] For embodiments in which the thermoplastic substrate is a polyolefin such as polypropylene, suitable bonding agents include compatible polyolefins such as those described above as secondary polymers, including polypropylene. Commercially available examples include polypropylene available under the BRASKEM H521 brand from Braskem America Inc.

[00089] For embodiments in which the thermoplastic substrate is a another thermoplastic material such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polycarbonate (PC), polycarbonate / acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC/ABS), and polybutylene terephthalate / polycarbonate (PBT/PC), suitable bonding agents include compatible polymers such as TPU or copolyester elastomer (COPE) or blends of TPU/COPE. Commercially available examples include TPU available under the ELASTOLLAN brand from BASF.

[00090] Other Optional Additives

[00091] In some embodiments, the thermoplastic elastomer compound further includes conventional plastics additives in an amount that is sufficient to obtain a desired processing or performance property for the compound. The amount should not be wasteful of the additive nor detrimental to the processing or performance of the compound. Those skilled in the art of thermoplastics compounding, without undue experimentation but with reference to such treatises as Plastics Additives Database (2004) from Plastics Design Library (elsevier.com), can select from many different types of additives for inclusion into the compounds of the present invention.

[00092] Non-limiting examples of optional additives that can be included in the thermoplastic elastomer compounds of the present invention include adhesion promoters; biocides; anti-fogging agents; anti-static agents; blowing and foaming agents; bonding agents and bonding polymers; dispersants; flame retardants and smoke suppressants; impact modifiers; initiators; lubricants; micas; pigments, colorants and dyes; processing aids; release agents; silanes, titanates and zirconates; slip and anti-blocking agents; stabilizers; stearates; ultraviolet light absorbers; viscosity regulators; waxes; and combinations of any of the aforementioned additives.

[00093] In some embodiments, the thermoplastic elastomer compound further includes a physical foaming agent, such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen, or air, and/or a chemical foaming agent, such as organic or inorganic compounds that release gases upon decomposition, and can be injection molded or extruded into a foamed TPE material.

[00094] Ranges of Ingredients in the TPE Compounds

[00095] Table 1 below shows the acceptable, desirable, and preferable ranges of ingredients for the thermoplastic elastomer compound of the present invention, based on 100 parts by weight of the styrenic block copolymer included in the thermoplastic elastomer compound.

[00096] The thermoplastic elastomer compound of the present invention can comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of these ingredients. Any number between the ends of the ranges is also contemplated as an end of a range, such that all possible combinations are contemplated within the possibilities of Table 1 as embodiments of compounds for use in the present invention. Unless expressly stated otherwise herein, any disclosed number is intended to refer to exactly the disclosed number, "about" the disclosed number, or both exactly the disclosed number and "about" the disclosed number.

[00097] In some embodiments, the thermoplastic elastomer compound includes at least about 20 parts, or, at least about 40 parts, but less than about 70 parts, or, less than about 50 parts, by weight of high softening point tackifier, based on 100 parts by weight of the styrenic block copolymer included in the thermoplastic elastomer compound.

[00098] In other embodiment, the thermoplastic elastomer compound includes less than 30 weight percent of high softening point tackifier based on total weight of the compound. In even further embodiments, the thermoplastic elastomer compound includes less than 28 weight percent of high softening point tackifier based on total weight of the compound.

[00099] Processing

[000100] The preparation of thermoplastic elastomer compounds of the present invention is uncomplicated once the proper ingredients have been selected. The compound of the present can be made in batch or continuous operations.

[000101] Mixing in a continuous process typically occurs in an extruder that is elevated to a temperature that is sufficient to melt the polymer matrix with addition of all additives at the feed-throat, or by injection or side-feeders downstream. Extruder speeds can range from about 200 to about 700 revolutions per minute (rpm), and preferably from about 300 rpm to about 500 rpm. Typically, the output from the extruder is pelletized for later extrusion, molding, thermoforming, foaming, calendering, and/or other processing into polymeric articles.

[000102] Subsequent extrusion, molding, thermoforming, foaming, calendering, and/or other processing techniques are well known to those skilled in the art of thermoplastics polymer engineering. Without undue experimentation but with such references as "Extrusion, The Definitive Processing Guide and Handbook"; "Handbook of Molded Part Shrinkage and Warpage"; "Specialized Molding Techniques"; "Rotational Molding Technology"; and "Handbook of Mold, Tool and Die Repair Welding", all published by Plastics Design Library (www.elsevier.com), one can make articles of any conceivable shape and appearance using compounds of the present invention.

[000103] Article Formed from the TPE Compound

[000104] In some embodiments, the present invention is directed to sound damping articles formed from the thermoplastic elastomer compound as described herein. According to the present invention, it is possible to provide excellent sound damping performance while also achieving useful vibration damping properties at or above room temperature.

[000105] The sound damping article of the present invention, in response to a noise stimulus, can produce an effective sound pressure level according to IEC 711 that is at least 80 % lower, and, in some embodiments, at least 90 % lower, than an effective sound pressure level according to IEC 711 produced by a control article in response to the same noise stimulus.

[000106] In some embodiments, such as when the thermoplastic elastomer compound of the present invention includes styrenic block copolymer that is selected from at least one of hydrogenated styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer with hydrogenated vinylic isoprene midblock and high vinyl styrene- (ethylene/butylene)-styrene block copolymer, the control article is formed from a control TPE compound that is identical in composition to the thermoplastic elastomer compound of the present invention except that the control TPE compound is free of high softening point tackifier.

[000107] In other embodiments, the control article is formed from a control TPE compound that is representative of a conventional TPE compound, for example, a TPE compound that is based on olefin block copolymer (OBC) and/or low molecular weight styrenic block copolymer.

[000108] The form of sound damping articles of the present invention can be determined by those of ordinary skill in the art, without undue experimentation, based on the requirements of a particular end-use application. For example, sound damping articles of the present invention can be in the form of a speaker rim seal or a gasket for an audio speaker. Alternatively, for example, sound damping articles of the present invention can be in the form of a jacket and/or insulation for an audio cable.

[000109] In some embodiments, the present invention is directed to a loudspeaker system that includes at least one speaker driver. At least a portion of the speaker driver is at least partially surrounded by at least a portion of a sound damping article of the present invention.

[000110] In other embodiments, the present invention is directed to a loudspeaker system that includes a housing, at least one speaker driver at least partially contained in the housing, and a gasket positioned between at least a portion of the housing and at least a portion of the speaker driver. The gasket includes a sound damping article of the present invention.

[000111] In further embodiments, the present invention is directed to wired headphones or earphones that have a cable. The cable includes a conductive core at least partially enveloped by a jacket or insulation or both. At least one of the jacket or insulation includes a sound damping article of the present invention.

[000112] In even further embodiments, the present invention is directed to a multi -component article which includes at least two components formed from different materials one of which is the thermoplastic elastomer compound as described herein. For example, the thermoplastic elastomer compound can be overmolded onto a substrate. In some embodiments, the substrate is a thermoplastic substrate such as polyamide (nylon) or polyolefin (e.g., polypropylene) or another thermoplastic material such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polycarbonate (PC), polycarbonate / acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC/ABS), or polybutylene terephthalate / polycarbonate (PBT/PC). According to the present invention, the thermoplastic elastomer compound overmolded onto a thermoplastic substrate has 90 degree peel strength of, in some embodiments, greater than about 8 pounds per inch, and, in other embodiments, greater than about 10 pounds per inch.

[000113] In some embodiments, the article or a component of the multi- component article can be formed from the TPE compound by injection molding, extruding, thermoforming, calendering, blow molding, and via additive 3-D manufacturing.

[000114] The article of the present invention can comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of, the thermoplastic elastomer compound.

[000115] Noise Reduction Test

[000116] Sound damping properties of the thermoplastic elastomer compound of present invention and sound damping articles formed therefrom can be assessed, for example, according to the Noise Reduction Test as described herein below. Alternatively, other methodologies known to a person having ordinary skill in the art can be utilized without undue experimentation.

[000117] In the context of the present invention, the "Noise Reduction Test" means an assessment performed by a person of ordinary skill in the art in accordance with the following:

[000118] A test specimen is formed by extruding a test TPE compound at 200 °C to form a length (about 100 cm) of cable jacket having an outer diameter of 1.5 mm and a jacket thickness of 0.5 mm. [000119] A control specimen is formed by extruding a control TPE compound at 200 °C to form a length (about 100 cm) of cable jacket having an outer diameter of 1.5 mm and a jacket thickness of 0.5 mm.

[000120] The test specimen and the control specimen together are placed parallel and adjacent to each other directly on the surface of a conventional lab bench top.

[000121] First, the pair of the test specimen and the control specimen together is subjected to a "Hitting Test". According to the Hitting Test, the pair of the test specimen and the control specimen is repeatedly hit with a solid wooden rod (25 mm diameter and any sufficient length) in a manner and with a force sufficient to simulate incidental contact with an object experienced by a cable for consumer audio headphones and/or earphones during actual usage until a static response is captured as a noise frequency response curve and an effective sound level pressure (dB) is determined using an electronic artificial ear according to IEC 711.

[000122] Second, the pair of the test specimen and the control specimen together is subjected to a "Rubbing Test". According to the Rubbing Test, the pair of the test specimen and the control specimen is repeatedly rubbed with a solid wooden rod (25 mm diameter and any sufficient length) in a manner and with a force sufficient to simulate incidental contact with an object experienced by a cable for consumer audio headphones and/or earphones during actual usage until a static response is captured as a noise frequency response curve and an effective sound level pressure (dB) is determined using an electronic artificial ear according to IEC 711.

[000123] The effective sound pressure levels according to IEC 711 for the test specimen for each of the Hitting Test and the Rubbing Test are compared to the same for the control specimen to determine a percent noise reduction of the test specimen based on the effective sound pressure level of the control specimen for each of the Hitting Test and the Rubbing Test.

[000124] In addition or as an alternative to using an electronic artificial ear according to IEC 711, differences in effective sound level pressure can be assessed by a human qualified as a so-called "golden ear".

USEFULNESS OF THE INVENTION

[000125] As discussed above, thermoplastic elastomer compounds of the present invention and articles formed therefrom exhibit useful vibration damping properties at or above room temperature while also exhibiting useful sound and/or noise damping properties.

[000126] It has been found that, by adding high softening point tackifier to styrenic block copolymer to provide a thermoplastic elastomer compound, the Copolymer Tan Delta Peak Temperature of the styrenic block copolymer can be shifted to a higher temperature (i.e., the Compound Tan Delta Peak Temperature). Advantageously, the vibration damping capacity of the styrenic block copolymer can be increased for an intended end-use application at a given temperature, for example, at least -10 °C, or at least 0 °C, or at room temperature, or greater than room temperature. Surprisingly, it has been found that sound and/or noise damping properties also can be improved.

[000127] Accordingly, thermoplastic elastomer compounds of the present invention can be used to form any article or any component of a multi- component article which requires vibration damping properties and sound or noise damping properties for applications at temperatures that are, for example, at least -10 °C, or at least 0 °C, or at room temperature, or greater than room temperature.

[000128] Because of its usefulness and versatility, the thermoplastic elastomer compound of the present invention has potential for a variety of applications in many different industries, including but not limited to: automotive and transportation; household appliances; industrial equipment; electronics; acoustics; communications; healthcare and medical; defense; firearms; security; personal safety; and other industries or applications benefiting from a combination of vibration damping and sound or noise damping at or above room temperature. This combination of properties makes the sound damping article of the present invention especially useful in high quality audio equipment.

EXAMPLES

[000129] Non-limiting examples of thermoplastic elastomer compounds of various embodiments of the present invention are provided.

[000130] Examples Showing Effect of High Softening Point Tackifier

[000131] Table 2a below shows sources of ingredients for the thermoplastic elastomer compounds of Examples 1 to 14 and Comparative Example A.

[000132] Table 2b below shows the formulations and certain properties of Examples 1 to 4 and Comparative Example A.

Table 2c below shows the formulations and certain properties of

[000134] Table 2c below shows the formulations and certain properties of Examples 9 to 14.

(deg C) 1 2 13

[000135] Examples of Sound Damping TPE Compounds

[000136] Table 3a below shows sources of ingredients for the thermoplastic elastomer compounds of Examples 15 to 19, which can be useful for sound and/or noise damping end-use applications.

Table 3a

Chemical Brand Source Table 3a

Chemical Brand Source

Styrene-(ethylene/butylene)-styrene block

copolymer SEPTON 8004 Kuraray

Hydrogenated styrene-i soprene-styrene

block copolymer with hydrogenated

vinylic isoprene midblock HYBRAR 7125 Kuraray

High vinyl styrene-(ethylene/butylene)- styrene block copolymer (Low molecular

weight) KRATON G1642 Kraton

550 vis USP white

White mineral oil oil (numerous)

Bluestar New

Chemical

Polyphenylene ether LXR 040C Materials

PLASTOLYN Eastman

Hydrocarbon resin R1140 Chemical

Polypropylene D036W6 Braskem

Wax K EM AM IDE E PMC Biogenix

Antioxidant IRGAFOS 168 BASF

Antioxidant IRGANOX 1010 BASF

[000137] Table 3b below shows the formulations and certain properties of Examples 15 to 19.

Table 3b

Example L5 16 L7

Ingredient Parts Wt. % Parts Wt. % Parts Wt. %

IRGANOX 1010 0.15 0.16 0.15 0.16 0.15 0.15

TOTAL 91.6 100.00 91.6 100.00 101.6 100.00

Hardness (Shore A) 52 51 52

Tensile (psic) 1400 1340 1110

Elongation (%) 410 430 440

Noise Reduction (%) >80 >80 >80

[000138] Without undue experimentation, those having ordinary skill in the art can utilize the written description of the present invention, including the Examples, to formulate thermoplastic elastomer compounds and articles formed therefrom which exhibit useful vibration damping properties while also exhibiting beneficial sound and/or noise damping properties at or above room temperature. [000139] All documents cited in the Embodiments of the Invention are, in relevant part, incorporated herein by reference; the citation of any document is not to be construed as an admission that it is prior art with respect to the present invention.

[000140] While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of the present invention.