Arkema France

Trinseo Europe Gmbh

Jack Reed

Florence Mehlmann

Charles C Crabb

Amy A Lefebvre

Adam N Toft

The invention relates to multi-layer thermoplastic composites, and in particular composites having fluoropolymer in the outer layer and a thermoplastic substrate layer. The fluoropolymer outer layer may either be a layer comprising a majority, and preferably 100 percent fluoropolymer, or may be a blend of a thermoplastic matrix with fluoropolymer at a level of from 5 to 60 weight percent, based on the total weight of all polymers. Especially useful thermoplastic matrices include acrylic polymers, and styrenic polymers, especially styrenic copolymers such as acrylonitrile/styrene/acrylate (ASA), acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene (ABS) and styrene/acrylonitrile (SAN). While the fluoropolymer may be any fluoropolymer, thermoplastic fluoropolymers, such as polymers and copolymers of polyvinylidene fluoride are especially useful. The improved flame retardant composite of the invention is especially useful in cap layers over plastic substrates, such as for flame-retardant plastic decking, railings, posts, fencing, siding, roofing, and window profiles.

Thermoplastic composite

The invention relates to multilayer composites having improved weathering properties without reducing flame retardation properties. The composites have a fluoropolymer layer over a thermoplastic layer. The multilayer composite may be a fluoropolymer layer directly over a relatively flammable substrate or non-flammable substrate (like PVC), or it may be a fluoropolymer layer over a relatively flammable cap layer, over a substrate (that is flammable or non-flammable). The composite is formed using coating, coextrusion and/or lamination techniques. The multilayer composite is especially useful in articles having surfaces that are used in a relatively horizontal position, including decking, railings, roofing and window profiles. The composites provide improved weathering for the substrate without a reduction in flame-resistance, when compared to the substrate without the outer fluoropolymer layer. The multi-layer composite also provides enhanced chemical resistance, hardness, scratch and mar, and water resistance.

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Milton, DE, United States of America

Jack Reed