Low Compression Golf Balls Containing Cores Made Of Plasticized Thermoplastic Compositions

摘要

Low compression multi-piece golf balls having a solid core comprising at least one layer made of a plasticized thermoplastic composition are provided. Preferably, the ball has a compression of less than 60 and more preferably less than 50. The ball includes a cover in addition to the core sub-assembly. For example, two-piece and three-piece golf balls may be made. The plasticized thermoplastic composition preferably comprises: a) ethylene acid copolymer, b) plasticizer, and c) cation source. Preferably, a fatty acid ester such as butyl oleate is used as the plasticizer. In two-layered core constructions, the outer core layer is preferably formed from a thermoset composition such as polybutadiene rubber. The core layers may have different hardness levels. The core structure and resulting ball have relatively good resiliency at given compressions.

主权项

1. A golf ball, comprising:
i) a core comprising a thermoplastic composition, the core having an outer surface hardness (Hcore surface) and a center hardness (Hcore center), the Hcore surface being greater than the Hcore center to provide a positive hardness gradient, the thermoplastic composition comprising;
a) an acid copolymer of ethylene and an α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acid, optionally including a softening monomer selected from the group consisting of alkyl acrylates and methacrylates;b) a plasticizer; andc) a cation source present in an amount sufficient to neutralize from about 0 to about 100% of all acid groups present in the composition; and ii) a cover disposed about the core, wherein the ball has a compression of less than 60.