Adhesive compositions including partially cross-linked resins and methods for use thereof.

(54) Title: ADHESIVE COMPOSITIONS INCLUDING PARTIALLY INTERLINED RESINS AND METHODS FOR THEIR USE.

(54) Title: ADHESIVE COMPOSITIONS INCLUDING PARTIALLY CROSS-LINKED RESINS AND METHODS FOR USE THEREOF.

(57) Summary

An optical connector for terminating an optical fiber can include a ferrule, an optical fiber, and an adhesive composition. The splint may include a fiber receiving passageway that defines an interior surface and the adhesive composition may be disposed within the splint and in contact with the inner surface of the splint and the optical fiber. The adhesive composition may include a partially crosslinked resin and a coupling agent that provides chemical coupling between the partially crosslinked resin and the optical fiber and / or splint.

(57) Abstract

An optical connector for terminating an optical fiber may include a ferrule, an optical fiber, and an adhesive composition. The ferrule may include a fiber-receiving passage defining an inner surface and the adhesive composition may be disposed within the ferrule and in contact with the inner surface of the ferrule and the optical fiber. The adhesive composition may include a partially cross-linked resin and a coupling agent that provides Chemical coupling between the partially cross-linked resin and the optical fiber and / or the ferrule.

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PATENT TITLE No. 347452

Owner (s): CORNING OPTICAL COMMUNICATIONS LLC

Address: 800 17th Street NW, PO Box 489, Hickory, North Carolina, 28603, USA

Name: ADHESIVE COMPOSITIONS PARTIALLY INCLUDING RESINS

INTERLACED AND METHODS FOR THEIR USE.

Classification: CIP: G02B6 / 38; G02B6 / 36; G03C1 / 00

CPC: G02B6 / 3861, G02B6 / 3846; G02B6 / 3885

Inventor (s): EDWARD JOHN FEWKES; JOHN PAUL KRUG; ZIWEI LIU

REQUEST

Number: International filing date:

MX / a / 2015/004544 October 09, 2013

<td colspan="3">PRIORITY</td>

<td>Country:</td><td>Date:</td><td>Number:</td>

<td>US</td><td>October 15, 2012</td><td> 61/713,788</td>

<td>US</td><td>..... October 15, 2012</td><td> 61/713,779</td>

<td>US</td><td>March 5, 2013</td><td> 13/785,472</td>

<td>US</td><td>March 13 2013</td><td> 13/799,255</td>

Validity: Twenty years

Expiration Date: October 9, 2033

Issue Date: April 27, 2017

The reference patent is granted based on articles 1^or, 2^or section V, useful extraction, and 59 of the Industrial Property Law.

In accordance with article 23 of the Industrial Property Law, this patent has a validity of twenty years, non-extendable, counted from the filing date of the application and will be subject to the payment of the fee to keep the rights in force.

Whoever signs this title does so based on the provisions of articles 6, sections III and 7. bis 2 of the Industrial Property Law (Official Gazette of the Federation (QlO.F.) 06/2711991, amended on O2 / 0Í / 1994, 10/25/1996, 12/26/1997, 05/17/1999 , 01/26/2004, 06/16/2005, 01/25/2006, 05/06/2009, 06/01/2010, 06/18/2010, 06/28/2010, 01/27/2012 and 09 / 04/2012); Articles 1, 3, section V, subsection a), 4, and 12, sections I and III of the Regulations of the Mexican Institute of 12/14/1999, amended on 0W7S002, 07/15/2004, 07/28/2004 and 7 / 09/2007), articles 1, 3, 4, 5 section V subsection a) ;. 16 sections l and lll and 30 of the Organic Statute of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (DOF 12/27/1999, amended on 10/10/2002, 07/29/2004, 08/04/2004 and 09/13/2007); 1st. 3 and 5 “subsection a) of the Agreement that delegates powers to the Deputy General Directors, Coordinator, Divisional Directors, Heads of Regional Offices, Divisional Deputy Directors, Departmental Coordinators and other subordinates of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property. (DOF 12/15/1999, amended on 02/04/2000, 07/29/2004, 08/04/2004 and 09/13/2007). i_: .......

This document is signed with an advanced electronic signature (FIEL), based on articles 7 BIS 2 of the Industrial Property Law; 3 of its Regulations, and 1 fraction lll, 2 fraction V, 26 BIS and 26 TER of the Agreement establishing the guidelines for the use of the Payment and Electronic Services Portal (PASE) of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property, in the procedures indicated.

THE DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OF PATENTS

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NAHANNY CANAL REYES

Original string:

NAHANNY MARISOL CANAL REYES | 00001000000403252793 | Administration Service

Tax | 1695 || MX / 2017/38382 | MX / a / 2015/004544 | PCT patent title | 1223 | GAGV | Page (s) jrpoSPnl UgnCk0o0pHPaxhmGRCb8 =

Digital stamp:

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IMPI

Of the fiohedad ♦ nusnuAi

ADHESIVE COMPOSITIONS INCLUDING

INTERLACED AND METHODS FOR THEIR USE

RELATED REQUESTS

This application claims the priority benefit under US Provisional Application 35 USC § 119 Serial No. 61 / 713,788 and 61 / 713,779 both filed on October 15, 2012 and also claims the priority benefit in pursuant to 35 USC § 120 of US Application Serial No. 13 / 799,255 filed on March 13, 2013 and 13 / 785,472 filed on March 5, 2013, the content of each of the four invoked and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD BACKGROUND

The present description relates generally to materials and methods for adhering the parts within optical connectors, and more specifically to adhesive compositions for use in adhering optical fibers to ferrules within optical connectors, and methods for using the themselves.

<img file="MX347452B_D0006.tif" />

IMPI

INSTITUTO MUUCANC&gt; DE LA PRQNEDAD FNDWTRIAL

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND -------- -.

In the assembly of optical connectors, adhesives can be used to bond the optical fibers to the ferrules. The adhesives can typically be thermosetting resins, such as epoxies. The present inventors have recognized that there is a need for a fiber optic adhesive with improved bonding properties.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The concepts of the present disclosure are generally applicable to adhesive compositions for use in adhesion to optical fibers within optical connector ferrules, and methods of using the same. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an optical connector for terminating an optical fiber may comprise a ferrule, an optical fiber end, and an adhesive composition. The splint may comprise a fiber receiving passageway that defines an interior surface and the adhesive composition may be disposed within the splint and in contact with the inner surface of the splint and the fiber optic terminal. The adhesive composition may comprise a partially cross-linked resin and a coupling agent. The adhesive composition may comprise from about 0.1 to about 10 parts by weight of the

<img file="MX347452B_D0007.tif" />

IMPI

INSTITUTO MíIICANl Di LA PIOHUUD INDUSTRIAL coupling agent per 100 parts by weight of partially entangled ream.

According to another embodiment of the present description, a ferrule adhesion system can be used in an optical connector for the termination of an optical fiber. The splint adhesion system may comprise a splint and an adhesive composition. The splint may comprise a fiber receiving passageway that defines an interior surface and the adhesive composition may be disposed within the splint and in contact with the interior surface of the splint. The adhesive composition may comprise a partially crosslinked resin and a coupling agent. The coupling agent may comprise at least one of an alkoxysilane, an oxime silane, an acetoxy silane, a zirconate, titanate, a silane with an epoxy ring at one end and a trimethoxy functional group at the other end, or combinations thereof. . The adhesive composition can comprise from about 0.1 to about? 10 parts by weight of the coupling agent per 100 parts by weight of the partially cross-linked resin.

In accordance with yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for securing a splice optical fiber to a ferrule of an optical connector may comprise the steps of providing a ferrule adhesion system, the ferrule adhesion system comprising the

<img file="MX347452B_D0008.tif" />

TTUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROBIDAD INRUSTRIAL splint and an adhesive composition, ca 1 cooling "'·' L á^-* ίΌΓΓ adhesive at a temperature sufficient to melt the adhesive composition, inserting the terminal optical fiber into a fiber receiving passageway that defines an interior surface of the splint and is in contact with the adhesive composition, and cooling the composition adhesive. The adhesive composition may be disposed within the splint and in contact with the interior surface of the splint. The adhesive composition may comprise a partially crosslinked resin and a coupling agent prior to the heating step. The adhesive composition may comprise from about 0.1 to about 10 parts by weight of the coupling agent per 100 parts by weight of the partially crosslinked resin.

Additional features and advantages of the technology described herein will be set forth in the following detailed description, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that description or recognized by the practice of the technology as described in herein, including the following detailed description, claims, and accompanying drawings.

It is to be understood that both the above general description and the following present embodiments of the detailed description of the technology, and are intended to

IMPI

MRIICANO INSTITUTE

DI LA NOFIEOAU INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX347452B_D0009.tif" />

provide an overview or structure to understand the nature and character of the technology in which it is claimed. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the technology, and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various forms of modality and together with the description serve to explain the principles and operations of the technology. Furthermore, the drawings and descriptions are intended to be illustrative only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims in any way.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following detailed description of specific embodiments of the present description may be better understood when read in conjunction with the following drawings, in which similar structure is indicated by like reference numerals and in which:

Figure 1 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a fiber optic mechanical splice connector for mounting to an end portion of a field optic fiber; and

Figure 2 illustrates a fiber receiver passage of a connector ferrule.

Figure 3 is a perspective view of a splint according to another exemplary embodiment.

IMPI

<img file="MX347452B_D0010.tif" />

INSTITUTO MMtlCANC DE LA NOREDAD πΛιντκιαι

[Figure 4 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a connector according to another exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in greater detail to the various forms of embodiments, some embodiments of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts. Generally, various embodiments of adhesive compositions for use in adhering to optical fibers within optical connector ferrules, and methods of using the same, are described herein. The various embodiments of the adhesive compositions described herein can provide desirable properties, such as, but not limited to, high adhesion strength and / or improved performance after environmental aging. Various embodiments of the adhesive compositions described herein may also have other desirable properties for the process of obtaining an optical fiber within a splint, such as, but not limited to, the shortened cycle time of the process, without the need for mixing. , and / or there are no complications with reaction time.

<img file="MX347452B_D0011.tif" />

Referring to Figure i, the IIIUCS is a field installable mechanical splice fiber optic connector suitable for use with the present technology. The fiber optic connector 10 may include features similar to a member of the UNICAM® family of mechanical splice connectors available from Corning Cable Systems, LLC of Hickory, NC While one embodiment of a fiber optic connector is depicted in Figure 1, it should be understood that adhesive compositions and methods for adhering a fiberglass to a ferrule as described herein are applicable to any fiber optic connector of any design. Such fiber optic connectors include, but are not limited to, single fiber (see, for example, ferrule 12 of connectors 10, 10 'as shown in Figures 1 and 4) or multi-fiber (see, for example, ferrule 12 'as shown in Figure 3), such as fusion splice or mechanical splice connectors. Examples of typical single fiber mechanical splice connectors are provided in US Patents: Nos. 4,755,018; 4,923,274; 5,040,867; and 5,394,496. Examples of typical multi-fiber mechanical splice connectors are provided in US Patents:

Nos. 6,173,097; 6,379,054; 6,439,780; and 6,816,661.

<img file="MX347452B_D0012.tif" />

IMPI

MUERGANO INSTITUTE

DI THE INDUSTRIAL FBÜHEDAD

As illustrated with further reference to Figure 2, the mechanical splice connector 10 includes a connector ferrule 12 that defines a longitudinal hole therealong, referred to herein as a fiber receiving passageway 30. The fiber receiving passageway 30, illustrated in exaggerated scale in Figure 2, defines an interior surface of the ferrule 12, which may be in contact with an adhesive composition 40 to secure an optical fiber, such as an optical fiber terminal. 14. The adhesive composition 40 may be disposed within the splint 12 and in contact with the interior surface of the splint 12 and the fiber optic terminal 14. Various embodiments of adhesive composition 40, including variations of adhesive compositions, are described in detail herein. In various embodiments, the adhesive composition 40 may generally comprise a partially cross-linked resin and a coupling agent, as described in detail herein.

Ferrule 12 may typically comprise a ceramic material, such as, but not limited to, zirconium oxide, alumina, contaminated titanium alumina, glass-filled PPS, or combinations thereof. However, other materials of construction of the ferrule are contemplated herein, such as metals, ceramics, polymers, or combinations thereof.

IMPI

INSTITUTO MEXICANO DF LA PROFIEOAD industrial

<img file="MX347452B_D0013.tif" />

The terminal fiber optic 14 may be a flexible, transparent fiber optic made of glass or plastic. It can function as a waveguide to transmit between the two ends of the optical fiber. Optical fibers typically include a transparent core surrounded by a transparent cladding material with a lower refractive index. Light can be kept in the core by total internal reflection. Silica glass optical fibers may comprise, but some other materials may be used, such as fluorokineonate, fluoroaluminate, and chalcogenide glasses, as well as crystalline materials, such as sapphire. Although shown as end fiber 14 in Figure 1, in other embodiments optical fibers that are not end fibers can be included and used in combination with ferrule 12, 12 'and the processes described herein.

Light can be guided through the core of optical fiber 14 by an optical cladding with a lower refractive index that traps light in the core through total internal reflection. The liner can be covered by a tampon and / or other coating that protects it from moisture and / or physical damage. These coatings can be UV curing urethane acrylate composites applied to the outside of the optical fiber 14 during the drawing process. Coatings can

<img file="MX347452B_D0014.tif" />

IMPI

INJTTTUTO ΜΛ10ΛΝΟ

OF THE WOeiIDAC 'industrial protect fiberglass strands. The t ^ bYñ '”7 ^ LlUd —44 —-— may comprise an inner primary liner and a second outer liner. Fiber optic coatings can be applied in concentric layers.

Still referring to Figure 1, the leading end (also referred to herein as the end face) 11 of the ferrule 12 is typically precision polished such that the fiber optic terminal 14 is flush with (as shown ) or slightly protrudes from the end face of the ferrule 12. However, the fiber optic terminal 14 may also project outwardly from the end face 11 of the ferrule 12 a predetermined distance, if desired. In addition, the end face 11 may be oriented generally perpendicular to the fiber optic receiving passageway to provide an Ultra Physical Contact (UPC) type connector, or it may be formed at a predetermined angle to provide an Angled Physical Contact type connector ( APC), in a known way.

In addition, although a single fiber ferrule 12 is shown for convenience, ferrule 12 may define a plurality of fiber optic receiving passages therethrough to receive a corresponding plurality of fiber optic terminals to provide a connector of multi-fiber mechanical splice or other multi-fiber connector (see generally multi-fiber splint

IMPI ^ a

INSTITUTO MElJCAMi DE LA ROHEDAO INDUSTRIAL fibers 12 'as shown in Figure 3 for a multi-fiber connector).

In general, the rear end 13 of the splint 12 is inserted into and secured within the front end of a splint holder 16 so that the fiber optic terminal 14 extends rearward a predetermined distance of the splint between a pair of components. opposite splice 17,

18, arranged within the splint holder. In turn, ferrule holder 16, which includes splice ferrule 12 and components 17, 18 is disposed within a connector housing 19. A cam element 20 is movably mounted between ferrule holder 16 and connector housing 19 for engaging a keel portion of lower splice component 18, as will be described. If desired, ferrule 12, ferrule support 16, and cam member 20 may be biased relative to connector housing 19, for example by a coil spring 21, to ensure physical contact between end face 11 of the ferrule 12 and the end the opposite face of a ferrule in a fiber optic mating connector or an optical device. Finally, a spring retainer 22 may be disposed between the connector housing 19 and a medial portion of the cam member 20 and is attached to the connector housing to retain one end of the spring 21 relative to the connector housing. As a result, the splint 12, the

<img file="MX347452B_D0015.tif" />

IMPI

MUICAbkl INSTITUTE OF PROREDAD

INDUSTRIAL ferrule 16 and cam member 20 are skewed 'ñ to c'Fa in front, however, allowing the piston rearward relative to the connector housing 19.

As illustrated by the horizontal directional arrow in Figure 1, a field optic fiber 15 can be inserted into the rear end of the splint holder 16 opposite the splint 12 and the fiber optic terminal 14. Although not necessary, the mechanical splice connector 10 may be provided with a means, for example an inductor tube 24 (Figure 4), to guide the field optic fiber 15 into the ferrule holder 16 and between splice components. 17, 18 in general alignment with the terminal fiber optic 14. Preferably, at least one of the splice components 17, 18 has a slot formed therein to receive the terminal fiber optic 14 and the field fiber optic 15. As shown herein, the lower splice component 18 is provided with a longitudinal V-shaped groove to receive and guide the terminal fiber optic 14 and the field optic fiber 15 in fine alignment. Typically, the field optic fiber 15 is sealed or tamped with a tampon 25 that was peeled off to expose a predetermined length of the end of the field optic fiber. The mechanical splice connector 10 may further be provided with a crimp tube or other strain relief mechanism (not shown) to retain and

3

IMPI

INSTITUTO MEXICANO OE LA PROPERTY INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX347452B_D0016.tif" />

restrict relief of field optic fiber buffer 25 15. With buffer 25 removed, field optic fiber 15 can be inserted and advanced to the rear of mechanical splice connector 10 between splice components 17, 18 until the end portion of the field optical fiber 15 makes physical contact with the end portion of the optical fiber length 14. The cam member is actuated by moving or rotating the cam member 20 relative to the ferrule support 16 about the longitudinal axis of the connector 10, to engage the keel on the splice component 18 and thereby force the connector component. lower splice 18 in the direction of the upper splice component 17. Movement of the lower splice component 18 causes the end portion of the fiber optic terminal 14 and the end portion of the fiber optic field 15 to seat within the V-shaped groove formed in the lower splice component 18, aligning and thereby simultaneously securing the field optic fiber 15 relative to the terminating optic fiber 14 between the splice components. Accordingly, the field optical fiber 15 is optically coupled to the terminal optical fiber 14. Also, as used herein, the connector portion, where the optical coupling results are known as a termination zone. In other modalities, field fiber optics

<img file="MX347452B_D0017.tif" />

IMPI

INSTITUTO MEXCANO DEUraomoAD INDUSTRIAL or other fiber optic can be inserted 'Ta ^ YeruTa' directly, and attached to the syrian mine as described here, instead of the terminal fiber 14.

In general, it should be understood that the adhesive compositions described herein may have application in the adhesion of an optical fiber to any part of an optical connector, and are not limited to the adhesion of a splicing optical fiber to the interior wall of the splint. For example, the adhesive compositions described herein can be used to bond any part of an optical connector to any optical fiber connected thereto, including the terminal fiber optic and the field fiber optic.

Also described in the present invention are ferrule adhesion systems for use in an optical connector for terminating an optical fiber. The splint adhesion system may comprise a splint 12 comprising a fiber receptor passage 30 defining an interior surface and an adhesive composition 40 disposed within splint 12 and in contact with the inner surface of splint 12. Various embodiments of the adhesive composition 40 of the splint adhesion systems are described in detail herein. Such an adhesion system may contain the adhesive composition for a long period of time prior to heating to bond the fiber within

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

D £ AN INDUSTRIAL NOTICE

<img file="MX347452B_D0018.tif" />

the splint, such as 8 hours, 16 hours, 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, 6 months, 1 year, or even several years. For example, adhesive composition 40 may be in solid powder form, such as packaged within fiber receiving passageway 30 prior to being heated or otherwise activated and / or cured (eg, via chemical catalyst). . Alternatively, the adhesive composition may be in a solid form molded into the receiving fiber passage 30 and then heated prior to insertion of the optical fiber.

In general, methods for securing ferrule terminal optical fibers of optical connectors 10 are disclosed herein. The method may generally comprise the steps of supplying a splint adhesion system, heating the adhesive composition to a temperature sufficient to melt the adhesive composition, inserting the optical fiber into the receiving fiber path of the splint, and contacting with the adhesive composition, and cooling the adhesive composition.

The splint with an adhesive composition disposed within can be heated to melt the adhesive composition to allow the optical fiber to slide into the opening of the splint. Heating may be to an elevated temperature, such as to allow

6

<img file="MX347452B_D0019.tif" />

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

DE LA ERQUE DAT;

INDtlSTRlAL the entanglement or other chemical reactions of some modalities of the adhesive composition. Heating can be done by a laser (e.g. CO laser₂ industrial with at least 100 W capacity, commercially available), or any other heating process. The warm-up stage can take less than about 15 seconds, with a laser, even less than 10 seconds, less than 8 seconds, or less than 6 seconds. The adhesive composition can then be allowed to cool by any process, such as by accelerated cooling or by simple cooling in an ambient atmosphere to or near room temperature. The cooled adhesive composition sets and the optical fiber can adhere stably to the splint. In some embodiments, the splint and adhesive composition can be substantially cooled to set the adhesive composition within 5 minutes, 2 minutes, 1 minute, 30 seconds, or even 15 seconds in air at room temperature (25 ° C) to a pressure at sea level and zero humidity.

Various embodiments of adhesive compositions will now be disclosed herein. As used herein, an adhesive is a substance capable of holding materials together by surface bonding. In one embodiment, the adhesive composition may comprise

IMPIAS

ΙΑΚΤΓΠΓΓΟ MEXICAN

OE LA NOMEDAD industrial = - generally a partially interlaced resin and a coupling site. In some embodiments, it can be from about 0.1 to about 10 parts by weight of the coupling agent per 100 parts by weight of the partially crosslinked resin. In various embodiments, it can be about 0.1, about 0.5, about 1, about 2, about 4, about 6, about 8, or about 10 parts by weight of the coupling agent per 100 parts by weight of the partially cross-linked resin, or in a range between any combination of the aforementioned weight ratios.

As used herein, a thermoplastic resin is a material comprising a polymeric material that repeatedly softens when heated and hardens when cooled, without crosslinking polymer chains. For example, a thermoplastic resin can repeatedly become soft and hard through heating and cooling cycles. As used herein, "entanglement" refers to the chemical bond that connects a polymer chain to an adjacent polymer chain, and "crosslinkable" describes a chemical species that becomes at least partially entangled when sufficient heat is applied. As used here, partially interlaced or partially interlaced

<img file="MX347452B_D0020.tif" />

refers to the chemical bond that connects a polymer chain to an adjacent polymer cage where not all adjacent chains are attached, in contrast to thermoplastic and thermosetting reams; and partially entangled describes a chemical species that becomes partially entangled when sufficient heat is applied. It should be understood that when the terms partially crosslinked and partially crosslinkable are used to describe polymers and adhesive compositions described herein, the same resin is described at a specific time before crosslinking or after crosslinking. For example, resin is described as partially crosslinkable when it is packed into the ferrule and has not yet been heated to being partially crosslinked. After heating, the resin can be partially entangled. In another embodiment, the resin may be entangled prior to the heating step immediately prior to insertion of the optical fiber, such as if the adhesive composition is molded prior to being placed on the injection splint. However, an injection molded adhesive composition can still be described as partially interlockable, since interlocking can take place in the heating step immediately prior to insertion of the optical fiber. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the adhesive composition is described herein

<img file="MX347452B_D0021.tif" />

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

FROM THE INDUSTRIAL MOMBILITY document, if the adhesive composition is said to comprise a partially crosslinked resin then that is equivalent to saying that the adhesive composition comprises a partially crosslinked resin before the crosslinking step. Although entanglement can provide permanence to securely fix structures to each other during connector assembly and thermoplastic resins can allow materials to flow in a controlled manner for ferrule fabrication, partially interlocking materials may uniquely and synergistically have such advantages. of both types of materials.

In one embodiment, the adhesive composition may comprise the property that at least about 5% by weight of the resin is cross-linked or cross-linked and at least about 5% by weight of the resin is non-cross-linked or cross-linked. In another embodiment, the adhesive composition may comprise the property that at least about 10% by weight of the resin is crosslinked or crosslinked and at least about 10% by weight of the resin is non-crosslinked or crosslinked. In another embodiment, the adhesive composition may comprise the property that at least about 20% by weight of the resin is crosslinked or crosslinkable and at least about 20% by weight of the resin is non-crosslinked or crosslinkable.

IMPI iNjnrtrro mixicano DE U PBCMECAD INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX347452B_D0022.tif" />

In some embodiments, partially entangled .... „res.i..u2l · · materials may have a melting point at temperatures of at least about 250 ° C, 270 ° C, or 290 ° C. In some embodiments, the partially entangled resin materials can be entangled in the presence of air at temperatures of at least about 300 ° C, 325 ° C, or 350 ° C. Additionally, the partially cross-linked resin may be capable of bonding in less than about 5 minutes, 3 minutes, 1 minute, 30 seconds, or even 15 seconds. In contemplated embodiments, the partially entangled resin does not require mixing, is not limited by air, and / or there are no complications with reaction time. In one embodiment, the adhesive composition may comprise one or more partially crosslinked resins such as, but not limited to, a partially crosslinked poly (phenylene sulfide).

In other embodiments, the adhesive composition may comprise one or more partially or not partially cross-linked resins such as, but not limited to, a poly (phenylene oxide), a polyamide-imide, a liquid crystal polymer, a polyether ketone ether. , a cyclic olefin copolymer, or combinations thereof. For example, poly (phenylene sulfide) may comprise, but are not limited to, Ryton® Vl, available from Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LLC of The Woodlands, TX, or Fortran® 0205P4

<img file="MX347452B_D0023.tif" />

IMPI

INSTITUTO MEXICANO, DE LA FHOPIEPaO INDUSTRIAL or Fortran® 0203P6, available from Tierna PranifnrK Germany. The poly (phenylene oxide) may comprise, but is not limited to, Sabio SA-102, available from SABIC of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The liquid crystal polymer may comprise Veectra® A950 VE3001, available from Ticona of Florence, KY. The polyether zebon ether may comprise Ketaspire® KT-851, available from Solvay SA of Brussels, Belgium. The cyclic olefin copolymer may comprise TOPAS® 5013L-10 from Topas Advanced Polymers.

The coupling agent can comprise a wide variety of one or more suitable coupling agents. In one embodiment, the coupling agent may comprise an epoxy, amino, or mercapto-silane functional resin. The silane group on the coupling agent may comprise an alkoxysilane, an oxime silane, an acetoxy silane. Alternatively, or in combination with the aforementioned silane coupling agent, the coupling agent may comprise a zirconate, titanate, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the coupling agent may comprise glycidoxypropyl trimethoxysilane, such as gamma-glycidoxypropyl trimethoxysilane silane. For example, coupling agents can comprise Silquest® A-187, Silquest® A-1100, available from Crompton Corp. from Middlebury, CT, or Ken-React®

<img file="MX347452B_D0024.tif" />

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL MOHEDAL

KR55, available from Kenrich Petroquí NJ.

The combination of a coupling agent 'and a partially cross-linked resin can produce a higher bond strength. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the coupling agent can provide a chemical coupling between the inorganic surface of the optical fiber and / or ferrule, and the polymeric matrix of the adhesive. After cooling, the partially crosslinked resin, which may not have functional groups that can react with inorganic surfaces, can be covalently attached to one or both of the optical fiber or ferrule by the coupling agent. The coupling agent can comprise functional groups specifically capable of covalently bonding to inorganic materials, and groups specifically capable of reacting with organic functional groups. The organic functional group on the coupling agent can comprise epoxy, amino, mercapto, acrylic ester or any other organic functional group. In one embodiment, the functional group on the coupling agent that reacts with inorganic materials is an alkoxysilane. Other possible groups include an oximetry or acetoxysilane. In addition to silane coupling agents, zirconates and titanates have also been shown to have such coupling abilities.

<img file="MX347452B_D0025.tif" />

IMPI Mexican Institute OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

The adhesive composition described herein may further comprise at least one thermosetting resin. A wide variety of thermosetting resin materials can be used as a component of the adhesive composition. As used herein, a thermosetting resin is a material that comprises at least one polymeric material that will undergo or has undergone a chemical reaction under the action of heat, catalysts, ultraviolet light, etc., resulting in a relatively infusible state. Examples of suitable thermosetting resins may include, but are not limited to, epoxy resins, such as epoxy based bisphenol A or epoxy novolaks. In one embodiment, there may be between about 1 to about 85 parts by weight of the thermosetting resin per 100 parts by weight of the partially cross-linked resin. In various embodiments, it can be about 1, about 5, about 10, about 30, about 50, about 70, about 80, or about 85 parts by weight of the thermosetting resin per 100 parts by weight of the partially cross-linked resin, or a range between any combination of the aforementioned weight ratios.

The combination of a thermosetting resin and a partially cross-linked resin can produce a higher bond strength. Without pretending to impose any theory,

<img file="MX347452B_D0026.tif" />

IMPI

MSTnUTO MIXICANL '

DE LA norWDM 'INDUSTRIAL believes that after curing at temperatures above 300 ° C, the adhesive can form a uniform system of thermoplastics and an interlocking lattice structures throughout the matrix. The reticular structure can be formed not only by the thermoset, but also between thermoplastics and thermosets. For example, the partially crosslinked thermoplastic resin could react with the thermosetting resin at elevated temperatures by a phenol group at the end of the polymer chain. The network structure formed can improve the integrity of fiber optic connectors and adhesives corresponding to resisting environmental aging and creep under shear stress and promote the bond strength of substrates.

In one embodiment, the adhesive composition may further comprise a curing agent. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the curing agent can aid in the curing of the thermoset resin, such as an epoxy resin, if the adhesive composition comprises a thermoset resin, and / or can aid in the curing of the coupling agent. . For example, the curing agent can react with the epoxy groups of a coupling agent and / or thermosetting resin. The curing agent may comprise one or more available curing agents, Lales such as, but not limited to, a curative anhydride, a curative amide, a

5

<img file="MX347452B_D0027.tif" />

aromatic curative amine, a dianhydride, a mono acid anhydride, a guanidine compound, a curative amine, or combinations thereof. For example, the curing agent may comprise a dicyandiamide, pyromellitic dianhydride, a dodecyl succinic anhydride, a uron, a urea, a melamine, a dicyandiamide, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the adhesive composition further comprises between about 0.2 to about 50 parts by weight of a curing agent per 100 parts by weight of the coupling agent. In various embodiments, it can be about 0.2, about 0.5, about 1, about 5, about 10, about 20, about 30, about 40, or about 50 parts by weight of curing agent for every 100 parts by weight of curing agent. coupling, or a range between any combination of the aforementioned weight ratios. In another embodiment, the adhesive composition further comprises between about 0.2 to about 50 parts by weight of a curing agent per 100 parts by weight of the thermosetting resin. In various embodiments, it can be about 0.2, about 0.5, about 1, about 5, about 10, about 20, about 30, about 40, or about 50 parts by weight of curing agent per 100 parts by weight of resin.

IMPI INSTITUTO MHJCANO OCIANORIUAD INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX347452B_D0028.tif" />

thermoset, or a range of any combination of the aforementioned weight ratios. In yet another embodiment, the adhesive composition further comprises between about 0.2 to about 100 parts by weight of a curing agent per 100 parts by weight of the sum of the weight of the thermosetting resin and the weight of the coupling agent. In various embodiments, it can be about 0.2, about 0.5, about 1, about 5, about 10, about 30, 10, about 50, about 70, about 90, or about 100 parts by weight of curing agent per 100 parts by weight. of the sum of the weight of the thermosetting resin and the weight of the coupling agent, or a range between any combination of the aforementioned weight ratios.

In one embodiment, the adhesive composition may further comprise one or more fillers. In one embodiment, the filler material is a mineral composition, such as at least one of a metal pyrophosphate. For example, the metal may comprise cobalt or magnesium, such that the filler material is magnesium pyrophosphate, cobalt pyrophosphate, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the adhesive composition further comprises between about 0.5 to about 85 parts by weight of a filler material per 100 parts by weight of the resin.

<img file="MX347452B_D0029.tif" />

IMPI 'wrm / m MEXICAN DE LA MOHEDAL) INDUSTRIAL PARTIALLY INTERLACE. In various τη ^ ι i dgdps, it can be&gt; W * tz of about 0.5, about 1, about 5, about 10, about 30, about 50, about 70, about 80, or about 85 parts by weight of the filler per 100 parts by weight of the thermosetting resin, or a range of any combination of the aforementioned weight ratios.

In one embodiment, the filler material may comprise a material with a negative coefficient of expansion. As used herein, a material with a negative coefficient of expansion refers to a material that passes through a phase inversion with the accompanying decrease in volume at a temperature close to, for example within about 50 ° C, about 30 ° C, about 20 ° C, or about 10 ° C, of ​​the glass transition temperature of the partially entangled resin. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the inclusion of a material with a negative coefficient of expansion 'can aid in maintaining the density, and therefore the volume, of the adhesive composition when heated, so that it does not expands such as applying excessive pressure to the splint, in some circumstances causing the splint to crack or break.

<img file="MX347452B_D0030.tif" />

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

I heard LAPEOHKMD industrial

It should be understood that the various forms of embodiment described in the present adhesive composition may be combined in any combination in any relationship described herein. Such components include various partially crosslinked resins, coupling agents, thermosetting resins, curing agents, and fillers. Furthermore, while the desirable properties of the adhesive composition can be caused by the combination of only two or more of the various components, any combination of the components is contemplated herein. In addition, it should be understood that where reference is made to a component of the adhesive composition, it may be an optional component in some forms of embodiment, and is not required to be in the adhesive composition in all forms.

For example, in a preferred embodiment, the adhesive composition may comprise a partially crosslinked resin, a coupling agent, curing agent, and partially crosslinked resin. The adhesive composition may comprise between about 0.1 to about 10 parts by weight of the coupling agent per 100 parts by weight of the partially crosslinked resin, between about 0.2 to about 5 parts by weight of a curing agent per 100 parts by weight of the partially interlaced resin, and between approximately 0.5 to

<img file="MX347452B_D0031.tif" />

IMPI INSTITUTO ÍIUJCANO r&gt; E LA ETORHMD INDUSTRIAL about 85 parts by weight of a filler material per 100 parts by weight of the partially interlaced resin.

In one embodiment, the adhesive composition is prepared as a solid powder. At least some of the various components of the adhesive composition may be solid, and may be ground into a powder, such as any or all of the partially crosslinked resin, thermosetting resin, curing agent, and / or bonding material. filling. Solid powders can be thoroughly mixed. In one embodiment, the coupling agent can be a liquid. However, the fraction of coupling agent in the mixture is relatively small so that the coupling agent can be combined with one of the solid components of the adhesive composition and the resulting mixture can be a free-flowing powder. For example, in one embodiment, the coupling agent may be to pre-react with the partially crosslinked resin powders in an organic solvent under refluxing conditions. After removing the solvent, the treated powder remains. Under the refluxing solvent conditions, some of the coupling agent may have permanently attached to the polymer.

In some embodiments, the adhesive composition may be in the form of a solid powder and may be packaged directly into the receiving fiber passage of the splint.

<img file="MX347452B_D0032.tif" />

IMPI

INSTITUTE MEUCANi 1

Industrial DELAHOR1OAD (shown in Figure 1 as the space octipuLlu pjin.U fiber optic terminal 14 inside ferrule 12). In some other embodiments, particularly when the adhesive composition does not comprise a thermoset resin, the adhesive composition may be extruded or injection molded into a solid material after an initial heating step. Adhesive compositions comprising a thermoset resin may not be capable of being extruded or injection molded into preforms because they may not be capable of being reheated while within the ferrule to receive and bond the fiber optic terminal. As such, a partially crosslinking resin can provide benefits from both thermosets and thermoplastic resins.

EXAMPLE

An adhesive composition was prepared with poly (phenylene sulfide) (Ryfon® Vi) and gamma-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane silane, an epoxy silane, using 1.5 parts by weight of gamma-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane silane per 100 parts by weight of poly (phenylene sulfide). The stockpiling agent was pre-reacted for 8 hours with the partially crosslinked resin powders in a mixture containing 99% organic solvent and 1% gamma31

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

OF THE INDUSTRIAL MOMDAD

<img file="MX347452B_D0033.tif" />

glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane silane under reflux conditions. A pyromellitic dianhydride filler material was also mixed into the adhesion composition at a weight ratio of 0.5 per 100 parts of poly (phenylene sulfide). The resulting adhesive composition was a free-flowing powder that was thereafter filled into the receiving fiber passage of a splint. The splint composition and adhesive were heated with a laser until the adhesive composition melted, and an optical fiber was inserted into the receiving fiber passageway. The splint and adhesive composition were then cooled through exposure to ambient conditions.

Bond strength was tested with a Chatillon tensile test set. The fiber is wrapped around a mandrel then pulled vertically until the fiber breaks or fails to join it. The peak voltage was recorded. The splint attached to the fiber optic was also tested under exposure for 2 days and 7 days at ambient conditions. A control group that was not exposed to environmental conditions was also used. The samples that were aged under the ambient conditions went through an environmental cyclical regime consisting of a 6-hour cycle consisting of 2 hours at approximately 22 ° C, 2 hours of temperature moving linearly from approximately 22 ° C to

<img file="MX347452B_D0034.tif" />

IMPI

INSTITUTE MBJUCANU DE LA PROPERTY INDUSTRIA !.

about -4 0 ° C, 2 hours to about 2 hours of linearly moving temperature from about -40 ° C to about 85 ° C, 2 hours to about 85 ° C and about 90% humidity, and 2 5 hours of temperature they move linearly from about 85 ° C to about 22 ° C. Environmental tests 2 days samples went through 8 cycles and environmental test samples 7 days went through 28 cycles. The adhesion force data for the adhesive composition described above, as well as various other comparative samples are shown below:

<img file="MX347452B_D0035.tif" />

IMPI

MUUCANO INSTITUTE

OF THE INDUSTRIAL PROMWAD

<td>Adhesive composition</td><td>Environmental cycle</td><td>Peak tensile strength (kgf)</td>

<td>100% cpoxy Locite</td><td>none</td><td> 1.8</td>

<td>100% poly (phenylene sulfide)</td><td>none</td><td> 1.4</td>

<td>100% poly (phenylene sulfide)</td><td>2 days</td><td> 1.13</td>

<td>poly (phenylene sulfide), gamma-silane Glycidoxypropyl trimethoxysilane, pyromellitic dianhydride (100: 1.5: 0.5)</td><td>none</td><td> 2.9</td>

<td>poly (phenylene sulfide), gamma-silane g 1 icidoxypropyl 11 rimethoxy 1 year, pyromellitic dianhydride (Weight ratio of 100: 1.5: 0.5)</td><td>2 days</td><td> 2.26</td>

<td>poly (phenylene sulfide), gamma-silane Glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane, pyromellitic dianhydride (Weight ratio of 100: 1.5: 0.5)</td><td>7 days</td><td> 2.0</td>

In one embodiment, the adhesive composition may generally comprise a partially cross-linked resin and a muicanti institute Jj

DE LA r «OMEOAl&gt; iNrxjrntiAi a thermosetting resin. In one embodiment, there may be between about 1 to about 85 parts by weight of the thermosetting resin per 100 parts by weight of the partially cross-linked resin. In various embodiments, it can be about 1, about 5, about 10, about 30, about 50, about 70, about 80, or about 85 parts by weight of the thermosetting resin per 100 parts by weight of the partially cross-linked resin, or a range between any combination of the aforementioned weight ratios.

A wide variety of thermoset resin materials can be used as a component of the adhesive composition. As used herein, a thermosetting resin is a material that comprises at least one polymeric material that will undergo or has undergone a chemical reaction under the action of heat, catalysts, ultraviolet light, etc., resulting in a relatively infusible state. Examples of suitable thermosetting resins can include, but are not limited to, epoxy resins, such as epoxy-based novolaks or bisphenol A epoxy.

The combination of a thermosetting resin and a partially cross-linked resin can produce a higher bond strength. Without pretending to impose any theory,

INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA NIOHEDAD INDumiAL * believes that after curing at temperatures above 300 ° C, the adhesive can form a uniform system of partially interlocking resins and an interlocking network structure throughout the matrix. The crosslinking structure can be formed not only of thermosetting resins, but also partially crosslinking and thermosetting resins. For example, the partially cross-linked resin could react with the thermosetting resin at elevated temperatures by a phenol group at the end of the polymer chain. The network structure formed can improve the integrity of the corresponding fiber optic connectors and adhesives to resist environmental aging and creep under shear stress and promote bond strength on substrates.

The adhesive composition described herein may further comprise at least one coupling agent. The coupling agent can comprise a wide variety of one or more suitable coupling agents. In one embodiment, the coupling agent may comprise an epoxy, amino, or mercapto-silane functional resin. The silane group on the coupling agent may comprise an alkoxysilane, an oxime silane, an acetoxy silane. Alternatively, or in combination with the aforementioned silane coupling agent, the coupling agent may comprise a zirconate, titanate, a

IMPI Msrnvro mkcanu DE LA ROHÍDAD INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX347452B_D0036.tif" />

silane with an epoxy ring on a pxt-rpmn and i-.rJm_ORi; ^ vL.gxup_andfunctional at the other end, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the coupling agent may comprise glycidoxypropyl trimethoxysilane, such as gamma-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane silane. For example, coupling agents can comprise Silquest® A-187, Silquest® A1100, available from Crompton Corp. of Middlebury, CT, or KenReact® KR55, available from Kenrich Petrochemical, Inc., of Bayonne, NJ. In some embodiments, it can be from about 0.1 to about 10 parts by weight of the coupling agent per 100 parts by weight of the partially cross-linked resin. In various embodiments, it can be about 0.1, about 0.5, about 1, about 2, about 4, about 6, about 8, or about 10 parts by weight of the coupling agent per 100 parts by weight of the partially entangled resin. or a range between any combination of the aforementioned weight ratios.

Some or all of the following may be identical or inherently described above and / or in the figures.

In one embodiment, the adhesive composition may comprise the partially crosslinked resin in an amount greater than or equal to about 30% by weight of the resin.

IMPIí ^ a ΐΝίττπποmexicano D £ LA r * WtU&gt; AD iNmrrwa.

adhesive composition. In other mnHa] idsdpq · the adhesive composition may comprise the partially crosslinked resin in an amount greater than or equal to about 40% by weight of the adhesive composition, greater than or equal to about 50% by weight of the adhesive composition, greater than or equal to approximately 60% by weight of the adhesive composition, greater than or equal to approximately 70% by weight, greater than or equal to approximately 80% by weight of the adhesive composition, greater than or equal to about 90% by weight of the adhesive composition, greater than or equal to about 95% by weight of the adhesive composition, or even greater than or equal to about 98% by weight of the adhesive composition.

In one embodiment, the partially cross-linked resin can comprise two or more chemical species. In one embodiment, the partially crosslinked resin can be a chemical species, such as, for example, a poly (phenylene oxide), a polyamide-imide, a liquid crystal polymer, a polyether ether ketone, a cyclic olefin copolymer, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the adhesive composition may comprise a chemical species that is a partially cross-linked resin in an amount greater than or equal to about 30% by weight of the adhesive composition. In other embodiments, the adhesive composition may comprise a chemical species that is a partially resin

<img file="MX347452B_D0037.tif" />

IMPI i NSTnvro MEXICANO DE LA ΡΧΟΠΕΟΑΓ.

INDOSTRIAt interlaced in an amount greater --—— Tgvrad ^^ - to approximately 40% by weight of the adhesive composition, greater than or equal to approximately 50% by weight of the adhesive composition, greater than or equal to approximately 60% by weight of the adhesive composition, greater than or equal to about 70% by weight of the adhesive composition, greater than or equal to about 80% by weight of the adhesive composition, greater than or equal to about 90% by weight of the adhesive composition, greater than or equal to about 95% by weight of the adhesive composition, or even greater than or equal to about 98% by weight of the adhesive composition.

In one embodiment, the partially cross-linked resin can comprise polyphenylene sulfide. In one embodiment, the adhesive composition can comprise poly (phenylene sulfide) in an amount greater than or equal to about 30% by weight of the adhesive composition. In other embodiments, the adhesive composition may comprise poly (phenylene sulfide) in an amount greater than or equal to about 40% by weight of the adhesive composition, greater than or equal to about 50% by weight of the adhesive composition, greater than or equal to about 60% by weight of the adhesive composition, greater than or equal to about 70% by weight of the adhesive composition, greater than or equal to about 80% by weight of the composition

IMPI

INSTITUTO Mexicano Df LA noíliCAD INVUTTUAL

<img file="MX347452B_D0038.tif" />

adhesive, greater than or equal to aprnxi mad ^ m ^ nt- a oni _Pn the adhesive composition, greater than or equal to about 95% by weight of the adhesive composition, or even greater than or equal to about 98% by weight of the adhesive composition.

In one embodiment, the adhesive composition may comprise the coupling agent in an amount of less than or equal to about 30% and greater than about 0.1% by weight of the adhesive composition. In other embodiments, the adhesive composition may comprise the coupling agent in an amount of less than or equal to about 20% and greater than about 0.1% by weight of the adhesive composition, less than or equal to about 10% by weight of the adhesive composition. adhesive composition, less than or equal to about 8% and greater than about 0.1% by weight of the adhesive composition, less than or equal to about 6% and greater than about 0.1% by weight of the adhesive composition, greater than or equal to about 4% and greater than about 0.1% by weight of the adhesive composition, less than or equal to about 2% by weight of the adhesive composition, less than or equal to about 1% and greater than about 0.1% by weight of the adhesive composition, or even less than or equal to about 0.5% and greater than about 0.1% by weight of the adhesive composition. In others

0

<img file="MX347452B_D0039.tif" />

IMPI twsTmrro ΜΛιαίΜΐ

OF THE PRIORITY industrial modalities, the adhesive composition may comprise ^ eT "'coupling agent in an amount between about 0.5% and about 20% by weight of the adhesive composition, between about 0.5% and about 10% by weight of the adhesive composition. , between about 6% and about 1% by weight of the adhesive composition, between about 4% and about 1% by weight of the adhesive composition, or between about 3% and about 1% by weight of the adhesive composition.

In one embodiment, the partially cross-linked resin can have a melting point of between about 200 ° C and about 350 ° C. In other embodiments, the partially entangled resin may have a melting point of between about 225 ° C and about 325 ° C, between about 250 ° C and about 300 ° C, between about 270^DC and about 295 ° C, or between about 275 ° C and 280 ° C. In one embodiment, the partially cross-linked resin can have a melting point of about 278 ° C.

In one embodiment, the partially crosslinked resin can be a polymer. In one embodiment, the coupling agent can provide chemical coupling between the polymer and at least one of the optical fiber and the ferrule. As used herein, chemical coupling refers to any chemical bond, including,

<img file="MX347452B_D0040.tif" />

IMPI

UTrttlTO HUXICAM ·

OF THE PBDHUMD fNDUSTMIAL but not limited to, one or more than one in 1 nova l.ente. ionic bonding, or inLermolecular bonding such as dipole-dipole interactions, hydrogen bonding, and London scattering bonding. In one embodiment, the partially crosslinked resin can be poly (phenylene sulfide). In one embodiment, the coupling agent may be a silane coupling agent, whereby the adhesive composition comprises from about 0.1 to about 10 parts by weight of the silane coupling agent per 100 parts of polyphenylene sulfide. In one embodiment, the partially cross-linked resin can be a chemical species. The one chemical species can be selected from the group consisting of a poly (phenylene sulfide), a poly (phenylene oxide), a polyamide-imide, a liquid crystal polymer, a polyether ether ketone, and an olefin copolymer. cyclical.

In one embodiment, an optical connector can be used to terminate an optical fiber. The optical connector may comprise a ferrule, wherein the ferrule comprises a fiber receiving passageway defining an interior surface. The optical connector can also comprise an optical fiber, which extends through the passage of the receiving fiber. The optical connector may also comprise an adhesive composition, wherein the adhesive composition may be disposed within the fiber receiving passage of the

2

IMPI iMSTrruro Mexicano pttAMOÉEDAD 'NDUyniLAl' «V --- splint and may be in contact with the inner surface of the splint and the optical fiber, in which the adhesive composition comprises an interlaced resin part, and in which the adhesive composition comprises the partially cross-linked resin in an amount greater than or equal to about 30% by weight of the adhesive composition.

In one embodiment, a ferrule adhesion system can be used in an optical connector for terminating an optical fiber. The splint adhesion system may comprise a splint comprising a receiving fiber passageway defining an interior surface; and the splint adherence system may comprise an adhesive composition. The adhesive composition may be disposed in the fiber receiving passageway of the splint and in contact with the interior surface of the splint. The adhesive composition may comprise a partially cross-linked resin in an amount greater than or equal to about 50% by weight of the adhesive composition. The adhesive composition can be a solid material without securing an optical fiber in the fiber receiving passage of the ferrule.

In one embodiment, an optical fiber can be secured to a ferrule. The method of fixation may comprise providing a splint adhesion system, the splint adhesion system comprising the splint, and an adhesive composition. The fixing method can also³

INSTHVTOMUUCANT 'vT ^ Lllftr' J. w tA riorCDAr ^ - jrLlíU INDUSTRIAL understand heating the adhesive composition to a temperature sufficient to melt the adhesive composition. The method of attachment may also comprise inserting the optical fiber into a fiber receiving conduit defining an interior surface of the splint and in contact with the adhesive composition. The fixing method may also comprise cooling the adhesive composition. The adhesive composition may be disposed within the splint and in contact with the interior surface of the splint. The adhesive composition may comprise a partially cross-linked resin prior to the heating step. The adhesive composition may comprise a partially cross-linked resin in an amount greater than or equal to about 50% by weight of the adhesive composition after the cooling step.

In one embodiment, an optical connector can be used to terminate an optical fiber. The optical connector may comprise a ferrule, wherein the ferrule may comprise a fiber receiving passageway defining an interior surface. The optical connector can also comprise an optical fiber, which extends through the receive fiber passage. The optical connector may also comprise an adhesive composition, wherein the adhesive composition may be disposed within the fiber receiving passage of the splint and may be in contact with the internal surface of the splint.

IMPI

INSTITUTO MllUCANO ot t &lt;A ** υτιιχ »Α · iMbumiAL

<img file="MX347452B_D0041.tif" />

the splint and fiber optics. The composition comprises a partially cross-linked resin that can be a polymer. The adhesive composition may also comprise a coupling agent that provides a chemical coupling between the polymer and at least one of the optical fiber and the splint, wherein the adhesive composition may comprise from about 0.1 to about 10 parts by weight of the bonding agent. coupling per 100 parts by weight of partially entangled resin. In one embodiment, the partially cross-linked resin can be a chemical species. In one embodiment, the one chemical species can be selected from the group consisting of a poly (phenylene sulfide), a poly (phenylene oxide), a polyamide-imide, a liquid crystal polymer, a zebon polyether ether, and a cyclic defined copolymer. In one embodiment, the partially crosslinked resin can be poly (phenylene sulfide). In one embodiment, the coupling agent can be a silane coupling agent, whereby the adhesive composition can comprise between about 0.1. at about 10 parts by weight of the silane coupling agent per 100 parts of poly (phenylene sulfide). '

In one embodiment, a splint bonding system can be used on an optical connector for terminating an optical fiber. The splint bonding system can

<img file="MX347452B_D0042.tif" />

5

IMPI

INSTITUTO MIXJCANO DE LA PNUNEDAD INDUSTRIAL comprising a splint comprising a fiber receptor passage defines an interior surface. The splint adhesion system may also comprise an adhesive composition. The adhesive composition may be disposed in the fiber receiving passageway of the splint and in contact with the interior surface of the splint. The adhesive composition can comprise a partially crosslinked resin, wherein the partially crosslinked resin can comprise poly (phenylene sulfide). The adhesive composition can be a solid powder material packed into the receiving fiber passageway of the splint.

In one embodiment, an optical fiber can be secured to a ferrule. The method of fixation may comprise providing a splint adhesion system, the splint adhesion system comprising the splint, and an adhesive composition. The fixing method may also comprise heating the adhesive composition to a temperature sufficient to melt the adhesive composition. The method of attachment may also comprise inserting the optical fiber into a fiber receiving conduit defining an interior surface of the splint and in contact with the adhesive composition. The fixing method may also comprise the. cooling the adhesive composition.

The adhesive composition may be disposed within the splint and in contact with the interior surface

<img file="MX347452B_D0043.tif" />

IMPI WSTTTUTO MEXICANO DE La MjOHEDAD industrial de la ferula. The adhesive composition may comprise a partially cross-linked resin prior to the heating step. The adhesive composition may comprise a partially cross-linked resin after the cooling step. The partially cross-linked resin can comprise poly (phenylene sulfide). The adhesive composition can be in a solid form prior to the heating step. The heating step can be performed by a laser of at least 100 W and takes less than seconds until the adhesive composition can melt. The cooling step takes less than 5 minutes for the adhesive composition to solidify and partially cross-links to secure the optical fiber. In one embodiment, the coupling agent can be a silane coupling agent, whereby the adhesive composition can comprise from about 0.1 to about 10 parts by weight of the silane coupling agent per 100 parts of poly (sulfide). phenylene).

For the purposes of describing and defining the present description it is noted that the term approximately is used herein to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that can be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measure or other representation. The term approximately is also used in this document to represent the degree by which a representation

7

<img file="MX347452B_D0044.tif" />

IMPI

INSTITUTO MEXICANO Dt LA FROFIEDAO INDUSTRIAL quantitative can vary from a ref ^ e ^ iü · · ίηό · ί · θΰάα ·&gt; oin resulting in a change in the basic function of the matter in question.

It should be noted that terms such as preferably, customarily, and normally, when used herein, are not used to limit the scope of the claims or to imply that certain characteristics are fundamental, essential, or even important to the structure or function of the claims. claims. Rather, these terms are merely intended to identify particular aspects of an embodiment of the present disclosure or to emphasize alternative or additional features that may or may not be used in a particular embodiment form of the present disclosure.

It is noted that one or more of the following claims uses the term wherein as a transition phrase. For the purposes of defining the present technology, it is noted that this term is introduced in the claims as an open-ended transitional phrase that is used to introduce a recitation of a number of features of the structure and should be interpreted in the same way as the most commonly used open-ended preamble term comprising.

<img file="MX347452B_D0045.tif" />

IMPI iusthvio Μβ'ζΛΝο OF THE industrial CURRENCY

It should be understood that which quantitative e »φ.ι.1 assigned to a property may constitute a range of that property, and all combinations of the intervals formed from all established quantitative values ​​of a given property are contemplated herein.

After describing the subject matter of this description in detail and with reference to specific modalities thereof, it is noted that the various details described in this document should not be taken to understand that these data refer to elements that are essential components. of the different forms of modality described in this document, even in cases where a particular element is illustrated in each of the drawings that accompany the present description. Rather, the appended claims are to be construed as the sole representation of the breadth of the present disclosure and the corresponding scope of the various embodiments described herein. Furthermore, it will be apparent that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the appended claims.