Molded articles having a swirl-like or marble-like appearance and compositions for producing same

摘要

Polymer compositions are described that contain at least two different immiscible phases for producing molded articles having a swirl-like or marble-like appearance. The first phase, for instance, may contain one or more polyoxymethylene polymers. The second phase, on the other hand, contains one or more polymers that together have a melting point that is from about 5° to about 30° different than the melting point of the polyoxymethylene polymer. In one embodiment, the second phase may contain a thermoplastic elastomer, a glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate, or a polyamide and may have a melting point that is higher than the melting point of the polyoxymethylene polymer. The second phase is present in the polymer composition in relatively low amounts, such as in amounts less than about 5% by weight. The second phase can contain a high concentration of colorants that creates a contrast of colors when the molded article is produced.

主权项

1. A molded polymer article comprising:
a multi-phase polymer composition comprising a first phase that is immiscible with a second phase, the first phase remaining distinct from the second phase in the molded article, the first phase comprising a polyoxymethylene polymer having a melting point, the second phase comprising a thermoplastic, semi-crystalline polymer having a melting point of from about 170° C. to about 210° C. wherein the melting point of the thermoplastic, semi-crystalline polymer is at least 5° C. higher or lower than the melting point of the polyoxymethylene polymer and wherein the second phase contains at least one colorant comprising an inorganic pigment in an amount greater than 30% by weight, based upon the weight of the second phase.