CPC B29C 48/0018 (2019.02) [B29C 48/022 (2019.02); B29C 48/914 (2019.02); B29C 55/18 (2013.01); B29C 48/08 (2019.02); B29C 48/917 (2019.02); B29C 55/06 (2013.01); B29C 55/08 (2013.01); B29K 2023/06 (2013.01); B29K 2023/12 (2013.01); B29K 2105/04 (2013.01); B29K 2105/041 (2013.01); B29K 2105/16 (2013.01); B29K 2509/00 (2013.01)] | 31 Claims |
1. A process for making a multi-layer breathable barrier film comprising the steps of
co-extruding at least a first composition comprising a polyolefin and an inorganic filler and a second composition comprising a hygroscopic polymer to form a multi-layer molten web, the multi-layer molten web comprising a microporous breathable film layer and a moisture-permeable barrier layer,
casting the molten web against a surface of a chill roll using a vacuum box, or a combination of a vacuum box and one or both of an air knife and an air blanket, and without use of a nip, to form a quenched film, wherein the molten web is configured to hit the surface of the chill roll within a distance of less than about 3 inches, and
stretching the quenched film to form the multi-layer breathable barrier film, wherein the stretching comprises cross-directional intermeshing gear (CD-IMG) stretching and machine direction (MD) stretching, and wherein at least a portion of the stretching is performed at a temperature of between about 60 degrees Fahrenheit and about 200 degrees Fahrenheit;
wherein the process for making the multi-layer breathable barrier film does not include MD-IMG stretching, and wherein the MD stretching occurs after the CD-IMG stretching; and
wherein the microporous breathable film layer made by the process has a basis weight of less than about 10 gsm, a Dart Impact Strength of greater than about 90 grams, and a strain at peak machine direction of at least about 125%.
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