Patent ID: 8541511
Filing Date: 2013-09-24
Classification: C08F

Abstract:
1. A process for forming a partially neutralized amphiphilic multiblock copolymer thermoplastic elastomer composition having an increased rate of water adsorption over a non-neutralized copolymer comprising the steps of: a) forming an amphiphilic multiblock copolymer comprising at least one hydrophilic middle block; and at least one hydrophobic block on each end of the copolymer; b) admixing 5 to 50 weight percent of a diluent, based on the copolymer composition, prior to the addition of all of the base in step c), wherein said dilutent is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol derivatives, methoxy polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol, and c) partially neutralizing said amphiphilic copolymer during or after the addition of the dilutent by the addition of a base wherein the hydrophilic block contains a neutralizable monomer that is neutralized at greater than 10% and less than 80%.