Polymer interlayers comprising epoxidized vegetable oil

Abstract

An interlayer comprised of a thermoplastic resin, varying amounts of an epoxidized vegetable oil, and, optionally, a conventional plasticizer. The use of a thermoplastic resin, an epoxidized vegetable (plant) oil, and, optionally, a conventional plasticizer creates synergy allowing the flow of the interlayer to be increased without sacrificing other characteristics typically associated with an increased flow (e.g., increased blocking and creep, exudation, surface roughness formation, decreased mechanical strength, and decreased manufacturing capability). In this regard, the epoxidized vegetable oil acts as a flow improvement agent, resulting in a high-flow interlayer. As a result, a thinner interlayer can be utilized in forming multiple layer panels because the resulting thinner interlayer has improved flow properties.