US5412035A — Pressure-sensitive adhesives

Claim 1

Independent Claim 290 words

A pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) composition which comprises (1) at least 50% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, and (2) a crystalline polymeric additive having a weight average molecular weight of less than 25,000 and a first order transition point T a in the composition greater than 23° C.; said composition, when tested for peel strength under selected test conditions as a PSA composite consisting of a selected backing and a layer of the PSA composition of selected thickness, (i) at a selected temperature T 1 which is less than T a and is from 20° C. to 60° C., having a PSA peel strength P 1 , and (ii) at a selected temperature T 2 which is higher than T a and is not greater than 100° C., having a PSA peel strength P 2 ; a comparative composition which is the same as said composition except that it does not contain the additive, when tested for peel strength under the same test conditions, as a comparative PSA composite consisting of the same backing and a layer of the comparative PSA composition of the same thickness, (i) at T 1 , having a PSA peel strength P 1 c or undergoing non-adhesive failure, and (ii) at T 2 , having a PSA peel strength P 2 c or undergoing non-adhesive failure; and at least one of the following conditions being fulfilled (a) P 1 -P 2 is at least 25 g/cm, (b) 100(P 1 -P 2 )/P 1 is at least 25, (c) the comparative PSA composite undergoes non-adhesive failure at T 1 or T 2 , and (d) (P 1 -P 2 )/P 1 is greater than (P 1 c -P 2 c )/P 1 c .

Claim 2

Dependent Claim 290 words

A pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) composition which comprises (1) at least 50% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, and (2) a crystalline polymeric additive having a weight average molecular weight of less than 25,000 and a first order transition point T a in the composition greater than 23° C.; said composition, when tested for peel strength under selected test conditions as a PSA composite consisting of a selected backing and a layer of the PSA composition of selected thickness, (i) at a selected temperature T 1 which is less than T a and is from 20° C. to 60° C., having a PSA peel strength P 1 , and (ii) at a selected temperature T 2 which is higher than T a and is not greater than 100° C., having a PSA peel strength P 2 ; a comparative composition which is the same as said composition except that it does not contain the additive, when tested for peel strength under the same test conditions, as a comparative PSA composite consisting of the same backing and a layer of the comparative PSA composition of the same thickness, (i) at T 1 , having a PSA peel strength P 1 c or undergoing non-adhesive failure, and (ii) at T 2 , having a PSA peel strength P 2 c or undergoing non-adhesive failure; and at least one of the following conditions being fulfilled (a) P 1 -P 2 is at least 25 g/cm, (b) 100(P 1 -P 2 )/P 1 is at least 25, (c) the comparative PSA composite undergoes non-adhesive failure at T 1 or T 2 , and (d) (P 1 -P 2 )/P 1 is greater than (P 1 c -P 2 c )/P 1 c .

Claim 3

Dependent Claim 315 words

A PSA composition according to claim 1 wherein the peel strength tests are carried out by (q) using a PSA composite or comparative PSA composite which consists of a backing which is a polyethylene terephthalate film 1.0 mil (0.0025 cm) thick, a woven fabric, or a non-woven material, and a layer 1.0 mil (0.0025 cm) thick of the solvent-free PSA composition; (r) applying the PSA composite or comparative PSA composite to a receptor at a temperature at which the PSA is tacky and by a method substantially equivalent to the method described in PSTC-1 or the method described in ASTM-D3330, the receptor being (i) a stainless steel plate as specified in Appendage B of PSTC-1, (ii) a rigid sheet of extruded high density polyethylene, (iii) a rigid sheet of glass, or (iv) human skin; (s) maintaining the assembly of the receptor and the PSA composite produced in step (r) at a temperature which is room temperature (about 19° C.) when the receptor is (i), (ii) or (iii) and body temperature when the receptor is human skin, and for a time of about x minutes, where x is 1,240, 1440, 10,080 or 43,200; and (t) after step (c), peeling the PSA composite from the receptor at an angle of about 180° and at a rate of about 12 inch (30 cm)/minute; and wherein (u) (i) the PSA composite and the comparative PSA composite are applied to the receptor at room temperature, T 1 is room temperature when the receptor is (i), (ii) or (iii) and body temperature when the receptor is human skin, and T 2 is a temperature in the range of 35° to 100° C., or (ii) the PSA composite and the comparative PSA composite are applied to the receptor at a temperature above room temperature, T 1 is above room temperature, and T 2 is (T a +p)° C., where p is 5-50.

Claim 4

Dependent Claim 119 words

A PSA composition according to claim 1 wherein, when condition (a) is applicable, P 1 -P 2 is at least 35 g/cm; when condition (b) is applicable, 100(P 1 -P 2 )/P 1 is at least 30; when condition (c) is applicable, the comparative PSA composite undergoes non-adhesive failure at T 1 or T 2 (or both), and P 1 -P 2 is at least 25 g/cm, and/or 100(P 1 -P 2 )/P 1 is at least 25; and when condition (d) is applicable, (P 1 c -P 2 c )/P 1 c is positive and the ratio of (P 1 -P 2 )/P 1 to (P 1 c -P 2 c )/P 1 c is at least 1.2.

Claim 5

Dependent Claim 75 words

A PSA composition according to claim 1 wherein the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component comprises a polyacrylate having a molecular weight of 500,000 to 2,000,000 and comprising 60 to 98% by weight of units derived from polymers of one or more alkyl or substituted alkyl acrylates or methacrylates, acrylamides or methacrylamides wherein the alkyl groups contain 2 to 12 carbon atoms, and 2 to 40% of units derived from methacrylic acid, acrylic acid, methacrylamide or acrylamide.

Claim 6

Dependent Claim 33 words

A PSA composition according to claim 1 wherein the additive has a heat of fusion of at least 20 Joules/g, and a first order transition point (T a ) of 30° to 60°.

Claim 7

Dependent Claim 30 words

A PSA composition according to claim 1 wherein the additive has a heat of fusion of at least 20 Joules/g and a first order transition point of 37° to 42°.

Claim 8

Dependent Claim 29 words

A PSA composition according to claim 1 wherein the additive is a crystalline polymer in which the crystallinity results from side chains which are attached to the polymer backbone.

Claim 9

Dependent Claim 49 words

A PSA composition according to claim 7 wherein the additive comprises a polymer of one or more monomers selected from substituted and unsubstituted acrylates, fluoroacrylates, vinyl esters, acrylamides, maleimides, α-olefins, p-alkyl styrenes, alkylvinyl ethers, alkylethylene oxides, triglycerides, alkyl phosphazenes and amino acids; a polyisocyanate; a polyurethane; or a polysiloxane.

Claim 10

Dependent Claim 46 words

A PSA composition according to claim 7 wherein the additive comprises repeating units of the general formula ##STR2## where Y is an organic radical forming part of a polymer backbone and Cy comprises a crystallizable moiety comprising linear polymethylene moieties containing 12 to 20 carbon atoms.

Claim 11

Dependent Claim 77 words

A PSA composition according to claim 9 wherein the additive is a polyacrylate containing 50 to 98% of units derived from one or more straight chain alkyl acrylates, methacrylates, acrylamides or methacrylamides wherein the alkyl groups contain 12 to 20 carbon atoms, and 2 to 50% of units derived from one or more other monomers selected from other alkyl acrylates, methacrylates, acrylamides and methacrylamides; acrylic and methacrylic acids; acrylamide; methacrylamide; maleic anhydride; and comonomers containing amine groups.

Claim 12

Dependent Claim 121 words

A PSA composition according to claim 1 wherein the additive is a polymer comprising 60 to 100% of units derived from at least one monomer selected from the group consisting of alkyl acrylates, alkyl methacrylates, N-alkyl acrylamides, vinyl ethers, and vinyl esters containing 12 to 30, preferably 12 to 22 carbon atoms, 0 to 20% of units derived from at least one monomer selected from the group consisting of alkyl acrylates, alkyl methacrylates, N-alkyl acrylamides, vinyl ethers, and vinyl esters containing 4 to 12 carbon atoms, and 0 to 15% of units derived from at least one polar monomer selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, itaconic acid, acrylamide, methacrylamide, acrylonitrile, methacrylonitrile, vinyl acetate and N vinyl pyrrolidone.

Claim 13

Dependent Claim 20 words

A PSA composition according to claim 1 wherein the additive has a weight average molecular weight of 3,500 to 25,000.

Claim 14

Dependent Claim 20 words

A PSA composition according to claim 4 wherein the additive has a weight average molecular weight of 500 to 4,000.

Claim 15

Dependent Claim 30 words

A PSA composition according to claim 1 wherein the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component is present in amount 65 to 99%, and the additive is present in amount 1 to 35%.

Claim 16

Dependent Claim 52 words

A PSA composition according to claim 1 wherein the solubility parameter of the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component (δ 1 ) and the solubility parameter of the additive (δ 2 ) are such that (δ 2 -δ 1 ) is greater than or equal to -0.5 and less than or equal to 1.5.

Claim 17

Dependent Claim 271 words

A PSA composite which comprises (A) a flexible backing, and (B) adherent to the backing, a solvent-free layer of a pressure-sensitive adhesive composition which comprises (1) at least 50% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, and (2) a crystalline polymeric additive having a weight average molecular weight of less than 25,000 and a first order transition temperature T a in the composition greater than 23° C.; said PSA composite, when tested for peel strength under selected test conditions, (i) at a selected temperature T 1 which is less than T a and is from 20° C. to 60° C., having a PSA peel strength P 1 , and (ii) at a selected temperature T 2 which is higher than T a and is not greater than 100° C., having a PSA peel strength P 2 ; a comparative PSA composite, which is the same as said composite except that the pressure-sensitive adhesive does not contain the additive, when tested for peel strength under the same test conditions, (i) at T 1 , having a PSA peel strength P 1 c or undergoing non-adhesive failure, and (ii) at T 2 , having a PSA peel strength P 2 c or undergoing non-adhesive failure; and at least one of the following conditions being fulfilled (a) P 1 -P 2 is at least 25 g/cm, (b) 100(P 1 -P 2 )/P 1 is at least 25, (c) the comparative PSA composite undergoes non-adhesive failure at T 1 or T 2 , and (d) (P 1 -P 2 )/P 1 is greater than (P 1 c -P 2 c )/P 1 c .

Claim 18

Dependent Claim 271 words

A PSA composite which comprises (A) a flexible backing, and (B) adherent to the backing, a solvent-free layer of a pressure-sensitive adhesive composition which comprises (1) at least 50% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, and (2) a crystalline polymeric additive having a weight average molecular weight of less than 25,000 and a first order transition temperature T a in the composition greater than 23° C.; said PSA composite, when tested for peel strength under selected test conditions, (i) at a selected temperature T 1 which is less than T a and is from 20° C. to 60° C., having a PSA peel strength P 1 , and (ii) at a selected temperature T 2 which is higher than T a and is not greater than 100° C., having a PSA peel strength P 2 ; a comparative PSA composite, which is the same as said composite except that the pressure-sensitive adhesive does not contain the additive, when tested for peel strength under the same test conditions, (i) at T 1 , having a PSA peel strength P 1 c or undergoing non-adhesive failure, and (ii) at T 2 , having a PSA peel strength P 2 c or undergoing non-adhesive failure; and at least one of the following conditions being fulfilled (a) P 1 -P 2 is at least 25 g/cm, (b) 100(P 1 -P 2 )/P 1 is at least 25, (c) the comparative PSA composite undergoes non-adhesive failure at T 1 or T 2 , and (d) (P 1 -P 2 )/P 1 is greater than (P 1 c -P 2 c )/P 1 c .

Claim 19

Dependent Claim 187 words

An assembly comprising a receptor and a PSA composite which is adherent to the receptor and which comprises (A) a flexible backing, and (B) between the backing and the receptor, a layer of a pressure-sensitive adhesive composition which comprises (1) at least 50% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, and (2) a crystalline polymeric additive having a weight average molecular weight of less than 25,000 and a first order transition temperature T a in the composition greater than 23° C.; said PSA composite, when tested for peel strength from said receptor under selected test conditions, (i) at a selected temperature T 1 which is less than T a and is from 20° C. to 60° C., having a PSA peel strength P 1 , and (ii) at a selected temperature T 2 which is higher than T a and is not greater than 100° C., having a PSA peel strength P 2 ; and at least one of the following conditions being fulfilled (a) P 1 -P 2 is at least 25 g/cm, and (b) 100(P 1 -P 2 )/P 1 is at least 25

Claim 20

Dependent Claim 187 words

An assembly comprising a receptor and a PSA composite which is adherent to the receptor and which comprises (A) a flexible backing, and (B) between the backing and the receptor, a layer of a pressure-sensitive adhesive composition which comprises (1) at least 50% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, and (2) a crystalline polymeric additive having a weight average molecular weight of less than 25,000 and a first order transition temperature T a in the composition greater than 23° C.; said PSA composite, when tested for peel strength from said receptor under selected test conditions, (i) at a selected temperature T 1 which is less than T a and is from 20° C. to 60° C., having a PSA peel strength P 1 , and (ii) at a selected temperature T 2 which is higher than T a and is not greater than 100° C., having a PSA peel strength P 2 ; and at least one of the following conditions being fulfilled (a) P 1 -P 2 is at least 25 g/cm, and (b) 100(P 1 -P 2 )/P 1 is at least 25

Claim 21

Dependent Claim 182 words

A process for removing a PSA composite from a receptor to which it is adhered, the PSA composite comprising (A) a backing, and (B) between and in contact with the backing and the receptor, a layer of a pressure-sensitive adhesive composition which comprises (1) at least 50% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, and (2) a crystalline polymeric additive having a weight average molecular weight of less than 25,000 and a first order transition temperature T a in the composition greater than 23° C., and which has a PSA peel strength at a temperature T 1 which is less than T a and is from 20° C. to 60° C.; which process comprises reducing the PSA peel strength of the PSA composite by heating the PSA composite from a temperature which is less than T a and is from 20° C. to 60° C. to a temperature which is higher than T a and is not greater than 100° C., and removing the PSA composite from the receptor while the PSA composite is at a temperature above T a .

Claim 22

Dependent Claim 182 words

A process for removing a PSA composite from a receptor to which it is adhered, the PSA composite comprising (A) a backing, and (B) between and in contact with the backing and the receptor, a layer of a pressure-sensitive adhesive composition which comprises (1) at least 50% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, and (2) a crystalline polymeric additive having a weight average molecular weight of less than 25,000 and a first order transition temperature T a in the composition greater than 23° C., and which has a PSA peel strength at a temperature T 1 which is less than T a and is from 20° C. to 60° C.; which process comprises reducing the PSA peel strength of the PSA composite by heating the PSA composite from a temperature which is less than T a and is from 20° C. to 60° C. to a temperature which is higher than T a and is not greater than 100° C., and removing the PSA composite from the receptor while the PSA composite is at a temperature above T a .

Claim 23

Dependent Claim 255 words

A PSA composite which comprises (A) a flexible backing, and (B) adherent to the backing, a solvent-free layer of a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) composition which comprises (1) at least 50% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, and (1) at least 50% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, and a crystalline polymeric additive having a weight average molecular weight of less than 25,000 and a first order transition point T a in the composition greater than 23° C.; said PSA composite, when tested for peel strength by the method described in PSTC-1 using as the receptor a stainless steel plate as specified in Appendage B of PSTC-1 and after maintaining the assembly of the receptor and the PSA composite at a temperature of about 19° C. for about 240 minutes, (i) at a selected temperature T 1 which is less than T a and is from 20° C. to 60° C., having a PSA peel strength P 1 , and (ii) at a selected temperature T 2 which is higher than T a and is not greater than 100° C., having a PSA peel strength P 2 ; wherein P 1 -P 2 is at least 25 g/cm, or 100(P 1 -P 2 )/P 1 is at least 25, or both, and a comparative PSA composite which is the same as said composite except that the PSA composition does not contain the additive, when tested for peel strength under the same test conditions, having a PSA peel strength at T 1 .

Claim 24

Dependent Claim 255 words

A PSA composite which comprises (A) a flexible backing, and (B) adherent to the backing, a solvent-free layer of a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) composition which comprises (1) at least 50% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, and (1) at least 50% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, and a crystalline polymeric additive having a weight average molecular weight of less than 25,000 and a first order transition point T a in the composition greater than 23° C.; said PSA composite, when tested for peel strength by the method described in PSTC-1 using as the receptor a stainless steel plate as specified in Appendage B of PSTC-1 and after maintaining the assembly of the receptor and the PSA composite at a temperature of about 19° C. for about 240 minutes, (i) at a selected temperature T 1 which is less than T a and is from 20° C. to 60° C., having a PSA peel strength P 1 , and (ii) at a selected temperature T 2 which is higher than T a and is not greater than 100° C., having a PSA peel strength P 2 ; wherein P 1 -P 2 is at least 25 g/cm, or 100(P 1 -P 2 )/P 1 is at least 25, or both, and a comparative PSA composite which is the same as said composite except that the PSA composition does not contain the additive, when tested for peel strength under the same test conditions, having a PSA peel strength at T 1 .

Claim 25

Dependent Claim 17 words

A PSA composite according to claim 19 wherein P 1 -P 2 is at least 35 g/cm.

Claim 26

Dependent Claim 77 words

A PSA composite according to claim 19 wherein the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component comprises a polyacrylate having a weight average molecular weight of 500,000 to 2,000,000 and comprising 60 to 98% by weight of units derived from polymers of one or more alkyl or substituted alkyl acrylates or methacrylates, acrylamides or methacrylamides wherein the alkyl groups contain 2 to 12 carbon atoms, and 2 to 40% of units derived from methacrylic acid, acrylic acid, methacrylamide or acrylamide.

Claim 27

Dependent Claim 33 words

A PSA composite according to claim 19 wherein the additive has a heat of fusion of at least 20 Joules/g, and a first order transition point (T a ) of 30° to 60°.

Claim 28

Dependent Claim 36 words

A PSA composite according to claim 19 wherein the additive comprises repeating units of the general formula ##STR3## where Y is an organic radical forming part of a polymer backbone and Cy comprises a crystallizable moiety.

Claim 29

Dependent Claim 77 words

A PSA composite according to claim 23 wherein the additive is a polyacrylate containing 50 to 98% of units derived from one or more straight chain alkyl acrylates, methacrylates, acrylamides or methacrylamides wherein the alkyl groups contain 12 to 20 carbon atoms, and 2 to 50% of units derived from one or more other monomers selected from other alkyl acrylates, methacrylates, acrylamides and methacrylamides; acrylic and methacrylic acids; acrylamide; methacrylamide; maleic anhydride; and comonomers containing amine groups.

Claim 30

Dependent Claim 120 words

A PSA composite according to claim 19 wherein the additive is a polymer comprising 60 to 100% of units derived from at least one monomer selected from the group consisting of alkyl acrylates, alkyl methacrylates, N-alkyl acrylamides, vinyl ethers, and vinyl esters containing 12 to 30, preferably 12 to 22 carbon atoms, 0 to 20% of units derived from at least one monomer selected from the group consisting of alkyl acrylates, alkyl methacrylates, N-alkyl acrylamides, vinyl ethers, and vinyl esters containing 4 to 12 carbon atoms, and 0 to 15% of units derived from at least one polar monomer selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, itaconic acid, acrylamide, methacrylamide, acrylonitrile, methacrylonitrile, vinyl acetate and N-vinyl pyrrolidone.

Claim 31

Dependent Claim 28 words

A PSA composite according to claim 19 wherein the additive has a weight average molecular weight of 3,500 to 25,000 and is present in amount 1 to 35%.

Claim 32

Dependent Claim 160 words

A PSA composite which comprises (A) a flexible backing; and (B) adherent to the backing, a layer of a composition which is a pressure-sensitive adhesive at 20° C. and which comprises (1) at least 65% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component which, on its own, is a pressure-sensitive adhesive at 20° C., and (2) a crystalline polymeric additive which has a weight average molecular weight of less than 25,000 and a first order transition point T a in the composition of 25° to 100° C. and which comprises repeating units of the general formula ##STR4## where Y is an organic radical forming part of a polymer backbone and Cy comprises a crystallizable moiety, the total weight of the Cy moieties being at least twice the weight of the remainder of the crystalline polymeric additive; said PSA composite being a pressure-sensitive adhesive at T a , but having a lower peel strength at T a than at 20° C.

Claim 33

Dependent Claim 160 words

A PSA composite which comprises (A) a flexible backing; and (B) adherent to the backing, a layer of a composition which is a pressure-sensitive adhesive at 20° C. and which comprises (1) at least 65% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component which, on its own, is a pressure-sensitive adhesive at 20° C., and (2) a crystalline polymeric additive which has a weight average molecular weight of less than 25,000 and a first order transition point T a in the composition of 25° to 100° C. and which comprises repeating units of the general formula ##STR4## where Y is an organic radical forming part of a polymer backbone and Cy comprises a crystallizable moiety, the total weight of the Cy moieties being at least twice the weight of the remainder of the crystalline polymeric additive; said PSA composite being a pressure-sensitive adhesive at T a , but having a lower peel strength at T a than at 20° C.

Claim 34

Dependent Claim 77 words

A PSA composite according to claim 27 wherein the additive is a polyacrylate containing 50 to 98% of units derived from one or more straight chain alkyl acrylates, methacrylates, acrylamides or methacrylamides wherein the alkyl groups contain 12 to 20 carbon atoms, and 2 to 50% of units derived from one or more other monomers selected from other alkyl acrylates, methacrylates, acrylamides and methacrylamides; acrylic and methacrylic acids; acrylamide; methacrylamide; maleic anhydride; and comonomers containing amine groups.

Claim 35

Dependent Claim 116 words

A PSA composite according to claim 27 wherein the additive is a polymer comprising 60 to 100% of units derived from at least one monomer selected from the group consisting of alkyl acrylates, alkyl methacrylates, N-alkyl acrylamides, vinyl ethers, and vinyl esters containing 12 to 30 carbon atoms, 0 to 20% of units derived from at least one monomer selected from the group consisting of alkyl acrylates, alkyl methacrylates, N-alkyl acrylamides, vinyl ethers, and vinyl esters containing 4 to 12 carbon atoms, and 0 to 15% of units derived from at least one polar monomer selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, itaconic acid, acrylamide, methacrylamide, acrylonitrile, methacrylonitrile, vinyl acetate and N-vinyl pyrrolidone.

Claim 36

Dependent Claim 16 words

A PSA composite according to claim 28 wherein the pressure-sensitive adhesive component is an acrylic adhesive.

Claim 37

Dependent Claim 16 words

A PSA composite according to claim 28 wherein T a is 37° C. to 45° C.

Claim 38

Dependent Claim 48 words

A PSA composite according to claim 28 wherein the pressure-sensitive adhesive component is a styrene/butadiene latex-based adhesive, or a thermoplastic rubber of the ABA block copolymer type, wherein A represents a thermoplastic polystyrene end block and B represents a rubber mid block of polyisoprene, polybutadiene or poly (ethylene/butylene).

Claim 39

Dependent Claim 20 words

A PSA composite according to claim 16 which contains at least 65% by weight of the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component.

Claim 40

Dependent Claim 19 words

An assembly according to claim 17 which contains at least 65% by weight of the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component.

Claim 41

Dependent Claim 19 words

A process according to claim 18 which contains at least 65% by weight of the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component.

Claim 42

Dependent Claim 27 words

A PSA composite according to claim 27 which contains 65 to 99% of the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component and 1 to 35% of the crystalline polymeric additive.

Claim 43

Dependent Claim 27 words

A PSA composite according to claim 27 which contains 65 to 95% of the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component and 5 to 35% of the crystalline polymeric additive.

Claim 44

Dependent Claim 27 words

A PSA composite according to claim 27 which contains 70 to 90% of the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component and 10 to 30% of the crystalline polymeric additive.

Claim 45

Dependent Claim 303 words

A pressure-sensitive adhesive composition which is a pressure-sensitive adhesive at at least one temperature in the range 20° to 40° C., and which comprises: (1) p% by weight, based on solids, of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component; and (2) q% by weight, based on solids, of a crystalline polymer additive which (a) has a heat of fusion of at least 20 Joules/g, (b) is intimately admixed with the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, (c) has a first order transition point T m ° C. when measured on its own, (d) has a first order transition point T a ° C. when measured in the composition, where T a is less than T m , and (e) has a weight average molecular weight less than about 25,000 Daltons; p being at least 50, and q being greater than 0 and less than 50 and such that said composition, when tested by an IMTI procedure using a backing which is a 1.75 mil thick film of a polyester thermoplastic elastomer (Hytrel 4056) and a test surface which is human skin, or by an ISPT procedure using a backing which is a 1.5 mil thick film of polyethylene terephthalate (Mylar) and a test surface which is stainless steel as specified in Appendage B of PSTC-1 (i) at a temperature T 1 which is between (T a -10)° C. and (T a -4)° C., having a PSA peel strength P 1 g/cm, and (ii) at a temperature T 2 which is between (T a +4)° C. and (T a +10)° C. having a PSA peel strength P 2 g/cm, where 100(P 1 -P 2 /P 1 ) is at least 50; and said polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, when tested on its own by said IMTI or ISPT procedure, being a pressure-sensitive adhesive at said temperature T 1 .

Claim 46

Dependent Claim 303 words

A pressure-sensitive adhesive composition which is a pressure-sensitive adhesive at at least one temperature in the range 20° to 40° C., and which comprises: (1) p% by weight, based on solids, of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component; and (2) q% by weight, based on solids, of a crystalline polymer additive which (a) has a heat of fusion of at least 20 Joules/g, (b) is intimately admixed with the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, (c) has a first order transition point T m ° C. when measured on its own, (d) has a first order transition point T a ° C. when measured in the composition, where T a is less than T m , and (e) has a weight average molecular weight less than about 25,000 Daltons; p being at least 50, and q being greater than 0 and less than 50 and such that said composition, when tested by an IMTI procedure using a backing which is a 1.75 mil thick film of a polyester thermoplastic elastomer (Hytrel 4056) and a test surface which is human skin, or by an ISPT procedure using a backing which is a 1.5 mil thick film of polyethylene terephthalate (Mylar) and a test surface which is stainless steel as specified in Appendage B of PSTC-1 (i) at a temperature T 1 which is between (T a -10)° C. and (T a -4)° C., having a PSA peel strength P 1 g/cm, and (ii) at a temperature T 2 which is between (T a +4)° C. and (T a +10)° C. having a PSA peel strength P 2 g/cm, where 100(P 1 -P 2 /P 1 ) is at least 50; and said polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, when tested on its own by said IMTI or ISPT procedure, being a pressure-sensitive adhesive at said temperature T 1 .

Claim 47

Dependent Claim 18 words

A composition according to claim 39 wherein p is 50 to 90, and q is 10 to 50.

Claim 48

Dependent Claim 18 words

A composition according to claim 39 wherein p is at least 65 and q is less than 35.

Claim 49

Dependent Claim 18 words

A composition according to claim 39 wherein p is 70 to 80, and q is 20 to 30.

Claim 50

Dependent Claim 23 words

A composition according to claim 39 which comprises a solution of the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component and the additive in an organic solvent.

Claim 51

Dependent Claim 19 words

A composition according to claim 39 which is in the form of a solvent-free layer adherent to a backing.

Claim 52

Dependent Claim 59 words

A composition according to claim 39 which, in the form of a solvent-free layer 1.6 to 1.8 mil thick and adherent to a backing which is a 1.5 mil thick film of polyethylene terephthalate (Mylar), has a tack value greater than about 10 -2 cm -2 at a temperature within the range T a to (T a -10)° C.

Claim 53

Dependent Claim 49 words

A composition according to claim 39 which, in the form of a solvent-free layer 1.6 to 1.8 mil thick and adherent to a backing which is a 1.5 mil thick film of polyethylene terephthalate (Mylar), has a tack value greater than about 10 -2 cm -2 at room temperature.

Claim 54

Dependent Claim 74 words

A composition according to claim 39 which, in the form of a solvent-free layer 1.6 to 1.8 mil thick and adherent to a backing which is a 1.5 mil thick film of polyethylene terephthalate (Mylar), (a) has a tack value greater than about 10 -2 cm -2 at a temperature within the range 32° to 36° C. and (b) undergoes a substantial reduction in PSA peel strength when it is heated to 40° C.

Claim 55

Dependent Claim 28 words

A composition according to claim 39 wherein the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, when tested on its own by said ISPT procedure, is a pressure-sensitive adhesive at room temperature.

Claim 56

Dependent Claim 30 words

A composition according to claim 39 wherein the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, when tested on its own by said ISPT procedure, is a pressure-sensitive adhesive at 32° to 36° C.

Claim 57

Dependent Claim 19 words

A composition according to claim 39 wherein the weight average molecular weight of the additive is 3,500 to 25,000.

Claim 58

Dependent Claim 19 words

A composition according to claim 39 wherein the weight average molecular weight of the additive is 3,500 to 12,000.

Claim 59

Dependent Claim 59 words

A composition according to claim 39 wherein the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component is selected from the group consisting of natural rubber adhesives; thermoplastic rubbers of the A-B-A block copolymer type, where A represents a thermoplastic polystyrene end block and B represents a rubber midblock of polyisoprene, polybutadiene or poly(ethylene/butylene); butyl rubbers; polyisobutylenes; and polymers and copolymers of vinyl ethers.

Claim 60

Dependent Claim 20 words

A composition according to claim 39 wherein the additive is a crystalline polymer which contains side chains comprising crystallizable moieties.

Claim 61

Dependent Claim 25 words

A composition according to claim 53 wherein the weight of the crystallizable moieties is at least twice the weight of the remainder of the additive.

Claim 62

Dependent Claim 35 words

A composition according to claim 53 wherein the additive comprises repeating units derived from at least one monomer selected from acrylates, methacrylates, acrylamides and methacrylamides containing linear aliphatic groups containing 14 to 50 carbon atoms.

Claim 63

Dependent Claim 17 words

A composition according to claim 55 wherein the linear aliphatic groups contain 16 to 22 carbon atoms.

Claim 64

Dependent Claim 25 words

A composition according to claim 55 wherein the additive also comprises units derived from at least one monomer selected from acrylic acid and butyl acrylate.

Claim 65

Dependent Claim 65 words

A composition according to claim 55 wherein the additive consists essentially of 75 to 100% by weight of repeating units derived from at least one monomer selected from acrylates, methacrylates, acrylamides and methacrylamides containing linear alphatic groups containing 14 to 50 carbon atoms, and 0 to 25% by weight of repeating units derived from at least one monomer selected from acrylic acid and butyl acrylate.

Claim 66

Dependent Claim 26 words

A composition according to claim 39 wherein the additive has a first order transition point on its own, T m , of 20° to 102° C.

Claim 67

Dependent Claim 13 words

A composition according to claim 58 wherein T m is 30° to 48°.

Claim 68

Dependent Claim 25 words

A composition according to claim 39 wherein the additive has a first order transition point in the composition, T a , of 33° to 63°.

Claim 69

Dependent Claim 13 words

A composition according to claim 60 wherein T a is 33° to 40.5°.

Claim 70

Dependent Claim 16 words

A composition according to claim 39 wherein T m -T a is 1 to 9° C.

Claim 71

Dependent Claim 18 words

A composition according to claim 39 wherein the additive is a crystalline polymer comprising a crystallizable main chain.

Claim 72

Dependent Claim 40 words

A composition according to claim 64 wherein the additive is a polymer of at least one monomer having the formula CH 2 ═CHR, where R is hydrogen or a linear or branched alkyl group containing 1 to 8 carbon atoms.

Claim 73

Dependent Claim 21 words

A composition according to claim 39 wherein the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component has a glass transition point below about 10° C.

Claim 74

Dependent Claim 16 words

A composition according to claim 39 wherein the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component is an acrylic adhesive.

Claim 75

Dependent Claim 16 words

A composition according to claim 39 wherein the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component is a styrene-butadiene-rubber adhesive.

Claim 76

Dependent Claim 342 words

A PSA composite which comprises (A) a flexible backing, and (B) coated on the backing, a solvent-free layer of a pressure-sensitive adhesive composition which is a pressure-sensitive adhesive at at least one temperature in the range 20° to 40° C., and which comprises: (1) p% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component; and (2) q% by weight of a crystalline polymer additive which (a) has a heat of fusion of at least 20 Joules/g, (b) is intimately admixed with the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, (c) has a first order transition point T m ° C. when measured on its own, (d) has a first order transition point T a ° C. when measured in the composition, where T a is less than T m , and (e) has a weight average molecular weight less than about 25,000 Daltons; p being at least 50, and q being greater than 0 and less than 50 and such that said composite, when tested by an IMTI procedure using a test surface which is human skin, or by an ISPT procedure using a test surface which is stainless steel as specified in Appendage B of PSTC-1 (i) at a temperature T 1 which is between (T a -10)° C. and (T a -4)° C., having a PSA peel strength P 1 g/cm, and (ii) at a temperature T 2 which is between (T a +4)° C. and (T a +10)° C. having a PSA peel strength P 2 g/cm, where 100(P 1 -P 2 /P 1 ) is at least 50; and said polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, when tested on its own by an IMTI procedure using a backing which is a 1.75 mil thick film of a polyester thermoplastic elastomer (Hytrel 4056) and a test surface which is human skin, or by an ISPT procedure using a backing which is a 1.5 mil thick film of polyethylene terephthalate (Mylar) and a test surface which is stainless steel as specified in Appendage B of PSTC-1, being a pressure-sensitive adhesive at said temperature T 1 .

Claim 77

Dependent Claim 342 words

A PSA composite which comprises (A) a flexible backing, and (B) coated on the backing, a solvent-free layer of a pressure-sensitive adhesive composition which is a pressure-sensitive adhesive at at least one temperature in the range 20° to 40° C., and which comprises: (1) p% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component; and (2) q% by weight of a crystalline polymer additive which (a) has a heat of fusion of at least 20 Joules/g, (b) is intimately admixed with the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, (c) has a first order transition point T m ° C. when measured on its own, (d) has a first order transition point T a ° C. when measured in the composition, where T a is less than T m , and (e) has a weight average molecular weight less than about 25,000 Daltons; p being at least 50, and q being greater than 0 and less than 50 and such that said composite, when tested by an IMTI procedure using a test surface which is human skin, or by an ISPT procedure using a test surface which is stainless steel as specified in Appendage B of PSTC-1 (i) at a temperature T 1 which is between (T a -10)° C. and (T a -4)° C., having a PSA peel strength P 1 g/cm, and (ii) at a temperature T 2 which is between (T a +4)° C. and (T a +10)° C. having a PSA peel strength P 2 g/cm, where 100(P 1 -P 2 /P 1 ) is at least 50; and said polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, when tested on its own by an IMTI procedure using a backing which is a 1.75 mil thick film of a polyester thermoplastic elastomer (Hytrel 4056) and a test surface which is human skin, or by an ISPT procedure using a backing which is a 1.5 mil thick film of polyethylene terephthalate (Mylar) and a test surface which is stainless steel as specified in Appendage B of PSTC-1, being a pressure-sensitive adhesive at said temperature T 1 .

Claim 78

Dependent Claim 19 words

A PSA composite according to claim 69 wherein p is at least 65 and q is less than 35.

Claim 79

Dependent Claim 18 words

A PSA composite according to claim 69 wherein the layer of adhesive is at least 0.5 mil thick.

Claim 80

Dependent Claim 16 words

A PSA composite according to claim 71 wherein the layer is less than 1.8 mils thick.

Claim 81

Dependent Claim 16 words

A PSA composite according to claim 69 wherein the layer of adhesive becomes clear when heated.

Claim 82

Dependent Claim 25 words

A PSA composite according to claim 69 which is a bandage, tape, wound closure, or wound dressing for use in the medical or surgical field.

Claim 83

Dependent Claim 62 words

A PSA composite according to claim 74 wherein the adhesive composition has a tack value greater than about 10 -2 cm -2 at room temperature and wherein the PSA composite, when tested by said IMTI procedure, has a PSA peel strength of at least 57 g/cm at 34° C. and a PSA peel strength of less than 7 g/cm at 42° C.

Claim 84

Dependent Claim 11 words

A PSA composite according to claim 69 which is a label.

Claim 85

Dependent Claim 341 words

A process for affixing a flexible backing to a receptor, which process comprises (A) interposing between said flexible backing and said receptor a solvent-free pressure-sensitive adhesive composition which is a pressure-sensitive adhesive at at least one temperature in the range 20° to 40° C., and which comprises: (1) p% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component; and (2) q% by weight of a crystalline polymer additive which (a) has a heat of fusion of at least 20 Joules/g, (b) is intimately admixed with the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, (c) has a first order transition point T m ° C. when measured on its own, (d) has a first order transition point T a ° C. when measured in the composition, where T a is less than T m , and (e) has a weight average molecular weight of less than about 25,000 Daltons; p being at least 50, and q being greater than 0 and less than 50 and such that said composition, when the receptor is human skin, when tested by an IMTI procedure using said flexible backing and a test surface which is human skin, and, when the receptor is any other surface, when tested by an ISPT procedure using said flexible backing and a test surface which is said receptor (i) at a temperature T 1 which is between (T a -10)° C. and (T a -4)° C., having a PSA peal strength P 1 g/cm, and (ii) at a temperature T 2 which is between (T a +4)° C. and (T a +10)° C. having a PSA peel strength P 2 g/cm, where 100(P 1 -P 2 /P 1 ) is at least 50; and said polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, when tested on its own by said IMTI or ISPT procedure, being a pressure-sensitive adhesive at said temperature T 1 ; and (B) pressing the backing against the receptor, with the pressure-sensitive adhesive composition between them, while the adhesive composition is at a temperature which is below T a and at which the composition is tacky.

Claim 86

Dependent Claim 341 words

A process for affixing a flexible backing to a receptor, which process comprises (A) interposing between said flexible backing and said receptor a solvent-free pressure-sensitive adhesive composition which is a pressure-sensitive adhesive at at least one temperature in the range 20° to 40° C., and which comprises: (1) p% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component; and (2) q% by weight of a crystalline polymer additive which (a) has a heat of fusion of at least 20 Joules/g, (b) is intimately admixed with the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, (c) has a first order transition point T m ° C. when measured on its own, (d) has a first order transition point T a ° C. when measured in the composition, where T a is less than T m , and (e) has a weight average molecular weight of less than about 25,000 Daltons; p being at least 50, and q being greater than 0 and less than 50 and such that said composition, when the receptor is human skin, when tested by an IMTI procedure using said flexible backing and a test surface which is human skin, and, when the receptor is any other surface, when tested by an ISPT procedure using said flexible backing and a test surface which is said receptor (i) at a temperature T 1 which is between (T a -10)° C. and (T a -4)° C., having a PSA peal strength P 1 g/cm, and (ii) at a temperature T 2 which is between (T a +4)° C. and (T a +10)° C. having a PSA peel strength P 2 g/cm, where 100(P 1 -P 2 /P 1 ) is at least 50; and said polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, when tested on its own by said IMTI or ISPT procedure, being a pressure-sensitive adhesive at said temperature T 1 ; and (B) pressing the backing against the receptor, with the pressure-sensitive adhesive composition between them, while the adhesive composition is at a temperature which is below T a and at which the composition is tacky.

Claim 87

Dependent Claim 18 words

A process according to claim 77 wherein p is at least 65 and q is less than 35.

Claim 88

Dependent Claim 24 words

A process according to claim 77 wherein the pressure-sensitive adhesive composition is in the form of a layer on the backing before step (A).

Claim 89

Dependent Claim 12 words

A process according to claim 79 wherein the receptor is substantially non-porous.

Claim 90

Dependent Claim 12 words

A process according to claim 79 wherein the receptor is substantially porous.

Claim 91

Dependent Claim 17 words

A process according to claim 77 wherein the pressure-sensitive adhesive composition has been crosslinked before step (A).

Claim 92

Dependent Claim 35 words

A process according to claim 77 wherein the pressure-sensitive adhesive composition is not tacky at room temperature and is heated to a temperature at which it is tacky during at least part of step (B).

Claim 93

Dependent Claim 349 words

An assembly which comprises a receptor and PSA composite which is adherent to the receptor and which comprises (A) a flexible backing; and (B) coated on the backing, a solvent-free layer of a pressure-sensitive adhesive composition which is a pressure-sensitive adhesive at at least one temperature in the range 20° to 40° C., and which is adherent to the receptor and which comprises (1) p% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, and (2) q% by weight of a crystalline polymer additive which (a) has a heat of fusion of at least 20 Joules/g, (b) is intimately admixed with the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, (c) has a first order transition point T m ° C. when measured on its own, (d) has a first order transition point T a ° C. when measured in the composition, where T a is less than T m , and (e) has a weight average molecular weight less than about 25,000 Daltons; p being at least 50, and q being greater than 0 and less than 50 and such that said PSA composite, when peeled away from the receptor at an angle of about 180° and at a rate of about 12 inch/minute (i) at a temperature T 1 which is between (T a -10)° C. and (T a -4)° C., having a PSA peel strength P 1 g/cm, and (ii) at a temperature T 2 which is between (T a +4)° C. and (T a +10)° C. having a PSA peel strength P 2 g/cm, where 100(P 1 -P 2 /P 1 ) is at least 50; and said polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, when tested on its own by an IMTI procedure using a backing which is a 1.75 mil thick film of a polyester thermoplastic elastomer (Hytrel 4056) and a test surface which is human skin, or by an ISPT procedure using a backing which is a 1.5 mil thick film of polyethylene terephthalate (Mylar) and a test surface which is stainless steel as specified in Appendage B of PSTC-1, being a pressure-sensitive adhesive at said temperature T 1 .

Claim 94

Dependent Claim 349 words

An assembly which comprises a receptor and PSA composite which is adherent to the receptor and which comprises (A) a flexible backing; and (B) coated on the backing, a solvent-free layer of a pressure-sensitive adhesive composition which is a pressure-sensitive adhesive at at least one temperature in the range 20° to 40° C., and which is adherent to the receptor and which comprises (1) p% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, and (2) q% by weight of a crystalline polymer additive which (a) has a heat of fusion of at least 20 Joules/g, (b) is intimately admixed with the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, (c) has a first order transition point T m ° C. when measured on its own, (d) has a first order transition point T a ° C. when measured in the composition, where T a is less than T m , and (e) has a weight average molecular weight less than about 25,000 Daltons; p being at least 50, and q being greater than 0 and less than 50 and such that said PSA composite, when peeled away from the receptor at an angle of about 180° and at a rate of about 12 inch/minute (i) at a temperature T 1 which is between (T a -10)° C. and (T a -4)° C., having a PSA peel strength P 1 g/cm, and (ii) at a temperature T 2 which is between (T a +4)° C. and (T a +10)° C. having a PSA peel strength P 2 g/cm, where 100(P 1 -P 2 /P 1 ) is at least 50; and said polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, when tested on its own by an IMTI procedure using a backing which is a 1.75 mil thick film of a polyester thermoplastic elastomer (Hytrel 4056) and a test surface which is human skin, or by an ISPT procedure using a backing which is a 1.5 mil thick film of polyethylene terephthalate (Mylar) and a test surface which is stainless steel as specified in Appendage B of PSTC-1, being a pressure-sensitive adhesive at said temperature T 1 .

Claim 95

Dependent Claim 12 words

An assembly according to claim 84 wherein the receptor is human skin.

Claim 96

Dependent Claim 13 words

An assembly according to claim 84 wherein the receptor is a glass container.

Claim 97

Dependent Claim 30 words

An assembly according to claim 84 wherein the receptor is a merchandizable product and the backing is a label carrying a price code or a bar code for that product.

Claim 98

Dependent Claim 221 words

A process for removing a PSA composite from a receptor to which it is adhered, the PSA composite comprising (A) a flexible backing; and (B) coated on the backing, a solvent-free layer of a pressure-sensitive adhesive composition which is a pressure-sensitive adhesive at at least one temperature in the range 20° to 40° C., and which is adherent to the receptor and which comprises (1) p% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, and (2) q% by weight of a crystalline polymer additive which (a) has a heat of fusion of at least 20 Joules/g, (b) is intimately admixed with the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, (c) has a first order transition point T m ° C. when measured on its own, (d) has a first order transition point T a ° C. when measured in the composition, where T a is less than T m , and (e) has a weight average molecular weight less than about 25,000 Daltons; p being at least 50, and q being greater than 0 and less than 50; which process comprises heating the PSA composite from a temperature below T a to a temperature above T a , thereby reducing its PSA peel strength, and removing the PSA composite from the receptor while the PSA composite is at a temperature above T a .

Claim 99

Dependent Claim 221 words

A process for removing a PSA composite from a receptor to which it is adhered, the PSA composite comprising (A) a flexible backing; and (B) coated on the backing, a solvent-free layer of a pressure-sensitive adhesive composition which is a pressure-sensitive adhesive at at least one temperature in the range 20° to 40° C., and which is adherent to the receptor and which comprises (1) p% by weight of a polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, and (2) q% by weight of a crystalline polymer additive which (a) has a heat of fusion of at least 20 Joules/g, (b) is intimately admixed with the polymeric pressure-sensitive adhesive component, (c) has a first order transition point T m ° C. when measured on its own, (d) has a first order transition point T a ° C. when measured in the composition, where T a is less than T m , and (e) has a weight average molecular weight less than about 25,000 Daltons; p being at least 50, and q being greater than 0 and less than 50; which process comprises heating the PSA composite from a temperature below T a to a temperature above T a , thereby reducing its PSA peel strength, and removing the PSA composite from the receptor while the PSA composite is at a temperature above T a .

Claim 100

Dependent Claim 18 words

A process according to claim 88 wherein p is 50 to 90, and q is 10 to 50.

Claim 101

Dependent Claim 18 words

A process according to claim 89 wherein p is at least 65 and q is less than 35.

Claim 102

Dependent Claim 18 words

A process according to claim 88 wherein p is 65 to 85, and q is 15 to 35.

Claim 103

Dependent Claim 18 words

A process according to claim 89 wherein p is 70 to 80, and q is 20 to 30.

Claim 104

Dependent Claim 21 words

A process according to claim 89 wherein the PSA composite is heated to a temperature of at least about 40° C.

Claim 105

Dependent Claim 28 words

A process according to claim 91 wherein the receptor is human skin and the PSA composite is heated to a temperature of about 40° C. in step (A).

Claim 106

Dependent Claim 55 words

A process according to claim 89 wherein the PSA composite has a PSA peel strength P 1 g/cm at a temperature below T a and a PSA peel strength P 2 g/cm at the temperature of the PSA composite while it is being removed, and 100(P 1 -P 2 )P 1 is at least 50.

Claim 107

Dependent Claim 20 words

A process according to claim 95 wherein the PSA composite has a PSA peel strength P 1 at room temperature.

Claim 108

Dependent Claim 20 words

A process according to claim 95 wherein the PSA composite has a PSA peel strength P 1 at 32° C.

Claim 109

Dependent Claim 20 words

A process according to claim 95 wherein the PSA composite has a PSA peel strength P 1 at 36° C.

Annuity Stage	Window Opens	Payment Deadline	Surcharge Period Until	Estimated Fee	Status
3.5 Years (Year 4)	1998-05-01	1998-10-31	1999-05-02	$2000.00	Window Closed / Lapsed
7.5 Years (Year 8)	2002-05-01	2002-10-31	2003-05-02	$3760.00	Window Closed / Lapsed
11.5 Years (Year 12)	2006-05-01	2006-10-31	2007-05-02	$7700.00	Window Closed / Lapsed

Pressure-sensitive adhesives

Abstract

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