WO2024178277A1 - Recycled content thermoplastic articles exhibiting antimicrobial efficacy and high clarity - Google Patents

Abstract

A thermoplastic article includes: (a) recycled thermoplastic resin, (b) antimicrobial additive, and (c) acid scavenger. The thermoplastic article has: (i) an antimicrobial efficacy characterized by a percent reduction of greater than or equal to about 99% against both S. aureus (ATCC 6538P) and E. coli (ATCC 8739), as determined according to ISO 22196; and (ii) a percent clarity of greater than or equal to about 98%, as measured at 0.060 inch (1.524 mm) thickness and according to ASTM D1003.

Description

Avient File No.1202301-WO RECYCLED CONTENT THERMOPLASTIC ARTICLES EXHIBITING ANTIMICROBIAL EFFICACY AND HIGH CLARITY CLAIM OF PRIORITY [0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63/448,111 bearing Attorney Docket Number 1202301-US-F and filed on February 24, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD [0002] The present disclosure relates generally to recycled content thermoplastic articles, and, more particularly, to recycled content thermoplastic articles that include recycled content thermoplastic resin, antimicrobial additive, and acid scavenger, and exhibit both sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity and sufficient aesthetics. BACKGROUND [0003] Adding antimicrobial additives to thermoplastic articles may be desirable for a variety of applications across different industries. Likewise, thermoplastic articles which have certain aesthetic characteristics, such as relatively high clarity, may be desirable for different applications. Antimicrobials, however, are not typically used in applications requiring high clarity because the antimicrobials can cause opacity, especially if higher loading levels are required to achieve desired efficacy. These challenges may exist when using virgin resin or recycled resin. Although, the challenges often expand when using recycled resin. [0004] Accordingly, a need exists for recycled content thermoplastic articles having both sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity and sufficient aesthetics. SUMMARY [0005] Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to recycled content thermoplastic articles and related processes. [0006] Accordingly to some embodiments, a thermoplastic article is provided. The thermoplastic article includes (a) recycled thermoplastic resin; (b) antimicrobial additive; and (c) Avient File No.1202301-WO acid scavenger wherein the thermoplastic article has: (i) an antimicrobial efficacy characterized by a percent reduction of greater than or equal to about 99% against both S. aureus (ATCC 6538P) and E. coli (ATCC 8739), as determined according to ISO 22196; and (ii) a percent clarity of greater than or equal to about 98%, as measured at 0.060 inch (1.524 mm) thickness and according to ASTM D1003. [0007] According to other embodiments, a process of forming a thermoplastic article is provided. The process comprises forming the thermoplastic article disclosed herein, wherein the process includes the steps of providing a melt mixture of (A) a first masterbatch formulation including at least a portion of the antimicrobial additive, (B) a second masterbatch formulation including at least a portion of the acid scavenger for incorporation into the thermoplastic article, and (C) the recycled thermoplastic resin. [0008] Additional features and advantages of the embodiments described herein will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that description or recognized by practicing the embodiments described herein, including the detailed description, which follows and the claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0009] Reference is made hereinafter in detail to various embodiments of recycled content thermoplastic articles and related processes. [0010] The disclosure should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the subject matter to those skilled in the art. [0011] Definitions [0012] Unless otherwise expressly defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art. The terminology used in the disclosure herein is for describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. Avient File No.1202301-WO [0013] Unless otherwise expressly stated, it not intended that any method disclosed herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order, nor that any article set forth herein be construed as requiring specific orders or orientations to its individual components. [0014] Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is intended that any composition or mixture disclosed herein may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of the disclosed components. [0015] As used herein, the singular form of a term is intended to include the plural form of the term, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. [0016] As used herein, numerical values are not strictly limited to the exact numerical value recited. Instead, unless otherwise expressly stated, each numerical value is intended to mean both the exact numerical value and “about” the numerical value, which encompasses a functionally equivalent range surrounding that numerical value, such that either possibility is contemplated as an embodiment disclosed herein. [0017] As used herein, the term “recycled thermoplastic resin” refers to a thermoplastic resin material coming from a recycled source such as a post-industrial recycled (PIR) source and/or a post-consumer recycled (PCR) source. [0018] As used herein, the term “virgin thermoplastic resin” refers to a thermoplastic resin coming from a source other than a recycled source. [0019] As used herein, the term “antimicrobial activity” refers to the ability of a substance or material to inhibit the growth of microorganisms or kill them. It may be evaluated according to ISO 22196. [0020] As used herein, the term “log reduction” refers to a value of antimicrobial activity quantified as a logarithmic difference between number of viable microorganisms before treatment (e.g., in an untreated sample) and number of viable microorganisms after treatment (e.g., in a treated sample), as determined according to ISO 22196. The term “R value” also may be used to refer to the log reduction. [0021] As used herein, the term “percent reduction” refers to a value of antimicrobial activity quantified as a percentage difference between number of viable microorganisms before treatment Avient File No.1202301-WO (e.g., in an untreated sample) and number of viable microorganisms after treatment (e.g., in a treated sample), as determined according to ISO 22196. [0022] As used herein, the term “antimicrobial efficacy” refers to a percent reduction of greater than or equal to about 99% (which corresponds to a 2 log reduction) against both S. aureus (ATCC 6538P) and E. coli (ATCC 8739), as determined according to ISO 22196. The term “sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity” also may be used to refer to antimicrobial efficacy. [0023] As used herein, the term “percent clarity” refers to the percentage of optical transparency, as measured at 0.060 inch (1.524 mm) thickness and according to ASTM D1003 [0024] As used herein, the term “percent transmission” refers to the percentage of light that passes through a material, as measured at 0.060 inch (1.524 mm) thickness and according to ASTM D1003. [0025] As used herein, the term “percent haze” refers to the percentage of light that scatters in a material, as measured at 0.060 inch (1.524 mm) thickness and according to ASTM D1003. [0026] As used herein, the term “yellowness index” refers to the degree of yellowness of a material, as measured according to ASTM D1925. [0027] As used herein, the term “sufficient aesthetics” refers to a percent clarity of greater than or equal to about 98%, as measured at 0.060 inch (1.524 mm) thickness and according to ASTM D1003. In certain embodiments, additional aesthetic properties may be desirable, such as a relatively high percent transmission (e.g., greater than or equal to about 90%), a relatively low percent haze (e.g., less than or equal to about 5%), and/or a relatively low yellowness index (less than or equal to about 1.8). [0028] As used herein, the term “formed from” (including related terms such as “forming”) refers to, with respect to an article (or component of an article) and a thermoplastic material, that the article (or component of the article) is extruded, molded, shaped, pressed, or otherwise made, in whole or in part, from the thermoplastic material under sufficient heating to enable such forming. As such, the term “formed from” (including related terms such as “forming”) means, in some embodiments, the article (or component of an article) can comprise, consist essentially of, Avient File No.1202301-WO or consist of, the material; and, in other embodiments, the article (or component of an article) consists of the material because the article (or component of an article) is, for example, made by an extrusion process or a molding process. [0029] As used herein, the term “masterbatch formulation” refers to a thermoplastic composition that is a concentrated mixture of one or more additives dispersed in a carrier and may be used by blending it at a certain rate or proportion (i.e., let-down) into typically a relatively higher proportion of a neat thermoplastic polymer base resin during a process of forming a final thermoplastic article in order to impart one or more desired properties to the final thermoplastic article. In the fields of thermoplastic compounding and thermoplastic article manufacturing, an additive masterbatch formulation may also be referred to as an additive concentrate formulation. In a masterbatch formulation, the carrier may be the same as or different from the thermoplastic polymer as described herein below for use in the thermoplastic composition as disclosed herein (i.e., the major thermoplastic polymer used for forming a final thermoplastic article). A suitable carrier may be solid or liquid. The carrier may have a lower melt viscosity than that of the major thermoplastic polymer used for forming the final thermoplastic article in order to achieve a good dispersion of the functional additives present in the masterbatch formulation throughout the thermoplastic polymer matrix of the final thermoplastic article. As understood by one skilled in the art, when a masterbatch formulation is used in forming a thermoplastic article, the amount of each component from the masterbatch formulation as present in the thermoplastic article depends on the let-down ratio of the masterbatch formulation into the base resin. [0030] As used herein, the term “ready-for-forming formulation” refers to a thermoplastic composition that may be used as provided (i.e., without further blending with an additive masterbatch formulation or neat additives) to form a final thermoplastic article having one or more desired properties. In the fields of thermoplastic compounding and thermoplastic article manufacturing, a ready-for-forming formulation may also be referred to as a pre-compounded thermoplastic formulation, a thermoplastic molding or extrusion compound, or other names. As understood by one skilled in the art, the amount of each component as present in the ready-for- forming formulation is about equal to the amount of each component as present in a thermoplastic article formed from the ready-for-forming formulation. Accordingly, amounts and ranges provided Avient File No.1202301-WO herein with respect to the thermoplastic article would similarly apply to the ready-for-forming formulation, and vice-versa. [0031] As used herein, the term “melt flow rate” refers to a measure of ease of flow of a melted material through an orifice at a specified temperature and load, as measured according to ASTM D1238. The term “melt flow index” also may be used to refer to melt flow rate. [0032] Usefulness [0033] As discussed hereinabove, adding antimicrobial additives to thermoplastic articles may be desirable for a variety of applications across different industries. Likewise, thermoplastic articles which have certain aesthetic characteristics, such as high clarity, may be desirable for different applications. Potential applications include various household goods or consumer articles including, for example, protective cases for personal consumer electronics, or for any high touch point surfaces including, for example, protective films and wall partitions. [0034] Antimicrobials, however, are not typically used in applications requiring high clarity because the antimicrobials can cause opacity, especially if higher loading levels are required to achieve desired efficacy. These challenges may exist when using virgin resin or recycled resin. Although the challenges often expand when using recycled resin. [0035] Recycled content thermoplastic resin may contain residual substances, such as antioxidants, flame retardants, UV stabilizers, and the like. When added to recycled resin, the antimicrobials can interact with these residual substances, which may not be known with specificity and can vary depending on the source of the recycled resin. These interactions may lead to undesirable aesthetics (e.g., decreased clarity and increased yellowing). [0036] US Patent No. 6,187,456 to Lever discloses the use of acid scavengers, such as hydrotalcite, to inhibit undesirable discoloring of plastic articles including silver-based antimicrobials. Lever’s examples, involving plastic articles including homopolymer polypropylene or low density polyethylene (LDPE), report lower levels of yellowness for those examples including silver-based antimicrobial in combination with hydrotalcite relative to those examples including silver-based antimicrobial in combination with sodium stearate and not hydrotalcite. But, Lever is silent regarding the resulting antimicrobial activity and specifically Avient File No.1202301-WO whether the combination of silver-based antimicrobial with hydrotalcite negatively impacts antimicrobial activity. [0037] In fact, the present inventors have discovered that hydrotalcite can interact with silver- based antimicrobial such that it has a negative impact on antimicrobial activity. In other words, a potential approach for addressing the problem of undesirable aesthetics, which may occur when silver-based antimicrobial is added to recycled resin, actually can lead to a different problem of partly or wholly diminishing the antimicrobial activity of the silver-based antimicrobial. [0038] The thermoplastic articles disclosed herein address the aforementioned problems. In particular, the present inventors have found that thermoplastic articles made with recycled content thermoplastic resin and include a combination of at least antimicrobial additive and acid scavenger may achieve both sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity and sufficient aesthetics. These properties may be achieved when one or both of the following occurs: (1) the antimicrobial additive and the acid scavenger are introduced into the thermoplastic article in such a way that mitigates interaction of the acid scavenger with the antimicrobial additive; and/or (2) the antimicrobial additive and the acid scavenger are present within the thermoplastic article such that at least a portion of the acid scavenger is not interacting with at least a portion of the antimicrobial additive. More particularly, one way to mitigate interaction of the acid scavenger with the antimicrobial additive is to use a so-called dual masterbatch approach when forming the thermoplastic articles. With a dual masterbatch approach, the antimicrobial additive is incorporated into a first masterbatch formulation, the acid scavenger is incorporated into a second masterbatch formulation, and both the first masterbatch formulation and the second masterbatch formulation are combined only during the final forming process for making the thermoplastic articles. Advantageously, the dual masterbatch approach minimizes the number of heat histories for the melt mixture in which both the antimicrobial additive and the acid scavenger are present, thereby mitigating interaction therebetween and achieving both sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity and sufficient aesthetics. [0039] Accordingly, the thermoplastic articles as disclosed herein may be used in any recycled content thermoplastic article that requires both sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity and sufficient aesthetics. The thermoplastic articles as disclosed herein are especially useful for various Avient File No.1202301-WO household goods or consumer articles including, for example, protective cases for personal consumer electronics, or for any high touch point surfaces including, for example, protective films and wall partitions. [0040] The thermoplastic articles disclosed herein may generally be described as comprising: (a) recycled thermoplastic resin; (b) antimicrobial additive; and (c) acid scavenger. [0041] Recycled Thermoplastic Resin [0042] Thermoplastic articles disclosed herein comprise recycled thermoplastic resin. The recycled thermoplastic resin is included to improve the sustainability of the thermoplastic article. However, as discussed herein, recycled content thermoplastic resin may contain residual substances, which may react with antimicrobials and lead to undesirable aesthetics, such as decreased clarity and increased yellowing. Thus, as also discussed herein, to obtain a recycled content thermoplastic article having both sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity and sufficient aesthetics, the interaction between the antimicrobial additive and acid scavenger is mitigated in forming the thermoplastic articles disclosed herein. [0043] Suitable recycled thermoplastic resin may include conventional or commercially available recycled thermoplastic resin comprising at least one of polycarbonate (PC), polycarbonate / acrylonitrile butadiene styrene blends (PC/ABS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). [0044] In embodiments, the thermoplastic article may comprise, based on a total weight of the thermoplastic article, recycled thermoplastic resin in an amount from about 40 wt.% to about 99 wt.%. For example, in embodiments, the amount of the recycled thermoplastic resin in the thermoplastic article may be, based on a total weight of the thermoplastic article, greater than or equal to about 40 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 50 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 60 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 70 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 80 wt.%, or greater than or equal to about 90 wt.%; and less than or equal to about 99 wt.%, less than or equal to about 98 wt.%, or less than or equal to about 97 wt.%; further, in embodiments, from about 40 wt.% to about 99 wt.%, from about 50 wt.% to about 99 wt.%, from about 60 wt.% to about 99 wt.%, from about 70 wt.% to about 99 wt.%, from about 80 wt.% to about 99 wt.%, from about 90 wt.% to Avient File No.1202301-WO about 99 wt.%, from about 40 wt.% to about 98 wt.%, from about 50 wt.% to about 98 wt.%, from about 60 wt.% to about 98 wt.%, from about 70 wt.% to about 98 wt.%, from about 80 wt.% to about 98 wt.%, from about 90 wt.% to about 98 wt.%, from about 40 wt.% to about 97 wt.%, from about 50 wt.% to about 97 wt.%, about 60 wt.% to about 97 wt.%, about 70 wt.% to about 97 wt.%, about 80 wt.% to about 97 wt.%, or about 90 wt.% to about 97 wt.%, or any and all sub- ranges formed from any of these endpoints. [0045] In embodiments, the recycled thermoplastic resin may have a melt flow rate (300 °C /1.2 kg) from about 15 g/10 min to about 20 g/10 min to improve the flow of the ready-for-forming formulation used in forming the thermoplastic article during processing (e.g., molding). [0046] Suitable commercial embodiments of the recycled thermoplastic resin are available from Star Plastics, such as grades PCX1 and PCX3. [0047] Antimicrobial Additive [0048] Thermoplastic articles disclosed herein comprise antimicrobial additive. The antimicrobial additive is included to impart antimicrobial efficacy to the thermoplastic article. However, as discussed herein, antimicrobial additive may cause opacity, especially if higher loading levels are required to achieve desired efficacy. Moreover, antimicrobial additives may interact with residual substances in recycled content thermoplastic resin, leading to undesirable aesthetics (e.g., decreased clarity and increasing yellowing). In particular, the acid scavenger, when combined with antimicrobial additive during processing, may cause a pH shift that results in the antimicrobial additive being non-functional. Accordingly, as also discussed herein, a combination of antimicrobial additive and acid scavenger are included in the thermoplastic article and interaction therebetween is mitigated to achieve both sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity and sufficient aesthetics. [0049] Suitable antimicrobial additive may include conventional or commercially available antimicrobial additive comprising at least one of silver phosphate glass, silver nitrate, soluble glass containing silver (i.e., a glass altered in water and designed to retain silver metal ions and release the ions when exposed to water or moisture), silver and copper containing blends, and silver and zinc containing blends. Avient File No.1202301-WO [0050] The thermoplastic article may comprise a minimum amount of antimicrobial additive (e.g., greater than or equal to about 0.05 wt.%) to ensure sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity are achieved. The amount of the antimicrobial additive may be limited (e.g., less than or equal to about 5 wt.%) to ensure sufficient aesthetics are achieved. Accordingly, in embodiments, the thermoplastic article may comprise, based on a total weight of the thermoplastic article, antimicrobial additive in an amount from about 0.05 wt.% to about 5 wt.%. For example, in embodiments, the amount of the antimicrobial additive in the thermoplastic article may be, based on a total weight of the thermoplastic article, greater than or equal to about 0.05 wt.% or greater than or equal to about 0.1 wt.%; and less than or equal to about 5 wt.%, less than or equal to about 3 wt.%, less than or equal to about 1 wt.%, or less than or equal to about 0.5 wt.%; further, in embodiments, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 3 wt.%, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 3 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, or from about 0.1 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, or any and all sub-ranges formed from any of these endpoints. [0051] In embodiments for a masterbatch formulation used in forming the thermoplastic article, the amount of antimicrobial additive in the masterbatch formulation may be, based on a total weight of the masterbatch formulation, greater than or equal to about 0.25 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.5 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 1 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 3 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 5 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 7 wt.%, or greater than or equal to about 10 wt.%; and less than or equal to about 25 wt.%, less than or equal to about 20 wt.%, or less than or equal to about 15 wt.%; further, in embodiments, from about 0.25 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.25 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 0.25 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 3 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 3 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 3 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 5 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 5 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 5 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 7 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 7 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 7 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 10 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 10 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, or from about 10 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, or any and all sub-ranges formed from any of these endpoints. Avient File No.1202301-WO [0052] In embodiments, the antimicrobial additive may include at least 2 wt.% silver, based on a total weight of the antimicrobial additive, to help achieve sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity. [0053] Suitable commercial embodiments of the antimicrobial additive are available under the brand HeiQ HyProtecht from HeiQ/Life Materials, such as grade SPG. [0054] Acid Scavenger [0055] Thermoplastic articles disclosed herein comprise acid scavenger. The acid scavenger is included to impart sufficient aesthetics to the thermoplastic article, such as by advantageously interacting with residual substances such as antioxidants and/or UV additives which may be present in the recycled thermoplastic resin used to form the thermoplastic article. However, as discussed herein, the acid scavenger may also disadvantageously interact with the antimicrobial additive and have a negative impact on antimicrobial activity. Accordingly, as also discussed herein, interaction between the antimicrobial additive and the acid scavenger in the thermoplastic article is mitigated to achieve both sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity and sufficient aesthetics. [0056] Suitable acid scavenger may include conventional or commercially available acid scavenger comprising at least one of hydrotalcite (magnesium-aluminum hydroxycarbonate), calcium stearate, zinc stearate, and zinc oxide. [0057] The thermoplastic article may comprise a minimum amount of acid scavenger (e.g., greater than or equal to about 0.001 wt.%) to ensure sufficient aesthetics are achieved. The amount of the acid scavenger may be limited (e.g., less than or equal to about 5 wt.%) to ensure sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity are achieved. Accordingly, in embodiments, the thermoplastic article may comprise, based on a total weight of the thermoplastic article, acid scavenger in an amount from about 0.001 wt.% to about 5 wt.%. For examples, in embodiments, the amount of the acid scavenger in the thermoplastic article may be, based on a total weight of the thermoplastic article, greater than or equal to about 0.001 wt.% or greater than or equal to about 0.005 wt.%; and less than or equal to about 5 wt.%, less than or equal to about 3 wt.%, less than or equal to about 1 wt.%, less than or equal to about 0.5 wt.%, less than or equal to about 0.1 wt.%, less than or Avient File No.1202301-WO equal to about 0.05 wt.%, or less than or equal to about 0.01 wt.%; further, in embodiments, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 3 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 0.1 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 0.05 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 0.01 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 3 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 0.1 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 0.05 wt.%, or from about 0.005 wt.% to about 0.01 wt.%, or any and all sub-ranges formed from any of these endpoints. [0058] In embodiments for a masterbatch formulation used in forming the thermoplastic article, the amount of acid scavenger in the masterbatch formulation may be, based on a total weight of the masterbatch formulation, greater than or equal to about 0.1 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.25 wt.%, or greater than or equal to about 0.5 wt.%; and less than or equal to about 25 wt.%, less than or equal to about 15 wt.%, less than or equal to about 5 wt.%, less than or equal about 3 wt.%, or less than or equal to about 1 wt.%; further, in embodiments, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 3 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.25 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.25 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.25 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.25 wt.% to about 3 wt.%, from about 0.25 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 3 wt.%, or from about 0.5 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, or any and all sub-ranges formed from any of these endpoints. [0059] In embodiments, the acid scavenger may have an average particle size from about 1 µm to about 5 µm to help achieve sufficient aesthetics. [0060] Suitable commercial embodiments of the acid scavenger are available from Kisuma Chemicals B.V., such as grade DHT-4V. [0061] Thermoplastic Polymer Carrier Resin Avient File No.1202301-WO [0062] In embodiments in which at least one masterbatch formulation is used in forming the thermoplastic article, the thermoplastic article disclosed herein may further comprise thermoplastic polymer carrier resin from the masterbatch formulation. [0063] Suitable thermoplastic polymer carrier resin may include conventional or commercially available thermoplastic polymer carrier resin comprising at least one of polycarbonate (PC), polycarbonate / acrylonitrile butadiene styrene blends (PC/ABS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). [0064] In embodiments, the amount of the thermoplastic polymer carrier resin in the thermoplastic article may be, based on a total weight of the thermoplastic article, greater than or equal to about 0.001 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.1 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.5 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 1 wt.%, or greater than or equal to about 2 wt.%; and less than or equal to about 5 wt.%, less than or equal to about 4 wt.%, or less than or equal to about 3 wt.%; further, in embodiments, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 4 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 3 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 4 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 3 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 4 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 3 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 4 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 3 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 4 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 3 wt.%, from about 2 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 2 wt.% to about 4 wt.%, or from about 2 wt.% to about 3 wt.%, or any and all sub-ranges formed from any of these endpoints. [0065] In embodiments for a masterbatch formulation used in forming the thermoplastic article, the amount of thermoplastic polymer carrier resin in the masterbatch formulation may be, based on a total weight of the masterbatch formulation, greater than or equal to about 50 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 60 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 70 wt.%, or greater than or equal to about 80 wt.%; and less than or equal to about 99 wt.%, less than or equal to about 95 wt.%, or less than or equal to about 90 wt.%, further, in embodiments, from about 50 wt.% to about 99 wt.%, from about 50 wt.% to about 95 wt.%, from about 50 wt.% to about 90 wt.%, from about 60 wt.% to about 99 wt.%, from about 60 wt.% to about 95 wt.%, from about 60 wt.% to about 90 Avient File No.1202301-WO wt.%, from about 70 wt.% to about 99 wt.%, from about 70 wt.% to about 95 wt.%, from about 70 wt.% to about 90 wt.%, from about 80 wt.% to about 99 wt.%, from about 80 wt.% to about 95 wt.%, or from about 80 wt.% to about 90 wt.%, or any and all sub-ranges formed from any of these endpoints. [0066] In embodiments, the thermoplastic polymer carrier resin may have a melt flow rate (300 °C /1.2 kg) from about 8 g/10 min to about 20 g/10 min to improve the flow of the masterbatch formulation used in forming the thermoplastic article during processing. [0067] Suitable commercial embodiments of the thermoplastic polymer carrier resin are available under the MAKROLON brand from Covestro, such as grade 2658. [0068] Other Additives [0069] Thermoplastic article disclosed herein may further comprise one or more optional other additives. [0070] In embodiments, the thermoplastic article may comprise at least one of light stabilizer, optical brightener, thermal stabilizer, mold release agent, and tint. [0071] The thermoplastic article may comprise a minimum amount of light stabilizer, optical brightener, thermal stabilizer, mold release agent, and/or tint (e.g., greater than 0 wt.%) to obtain a desired processing or performance property for the thermoplastic article. Accordingly, in embodiments, the thermoplastic article may comprise, based on a total weight of the thermoplastic article, other additives in an amount from 0 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, wherein the other additives comprises at least one of light stabilizer, optical brightener, thermal stabilizer, mold release agent, and tint. In embodiments, the amount of the light stabilizer, optical brightener, thermal stabilizer, mold release agent, and/or tint in the thermoplastic article may be, based on a total weight of the thermoplastic article, greater than or equal to 0 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.001 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.005 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.05 wt.%, or greater than or equal to 0.1 wt.%; and less than or equal to about 25 wt.%, less than or equal to about 15 wt.%, less than or equal to about 5 wt.%, less than or equal to about 1 wt.%, or less than or equal to about 0.5 wt.%; further, in embodiments, from 0 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about Avient File No.1202301-WO 1 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, or from about 0.1 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, or any and all sub-ranges formed from any of these endpoints. [0072] In embodiments for a masterbatch formulation used in forming the thermoplastic article, the amount of the light stabilizer, optical brightener, thermal stabilizer, mold release agent, and/or tint in the masterbatch formulation may be, based on the total weight of the masterbatch formulation, greater than or equal to 0 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.1 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.5 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 1 wt.%, or greater than or equal to about 3 wt.%; and less than or equal to about 50 wt.%, less than or equal to about 25 wt.%, or less than or equal to about 10 wt.%; further, in embodiments, from 0 wt.% to about 50 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 50 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 50 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 50 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 3 wt.% to about 50 wt.%, from about 3 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, or from about 3 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, or any and all sub-ranges formed from any of these endpoints. [0073] Light Stabilizer [0074] Thermoplastic articles disclosed herein may comprise light stabilizer. The light stabilizer may be included to protect the thermoplastic article from degradation from long term exposure to UV radiation. The light stabilizer may, in combination with the acid scavenger, help Avient File No.1202301-WO achieve sufficient aesthetics. In particular, the light stabilizer may be basic and may help neutralize the pH to hinder discoloration. [0075] Suitable light stabilizer may include conventional or commercially available light stabilizer comprising at least one of tetramethyl piperidine derivative, benzotriazole derivative, benzophenone derivative, and oligomeric hindered derivative. [0076] In embodiments, the amount of the light stabilizer in the thermoplastic article may be, based on a total weight of the thermoplastic article, greater than or equal to 0 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.001 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.005 wt.%, or greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt.%; and less than or equal to about 25 wt.%, less than or equal to about 15 wt.%, less than or equal to about 5 wt.%, less than or equal to about 1 wt.%, or less than or equal to about 0.5 wt.%; further, in embodiments, from 0 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, or from about 0.01 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, or any and all sub-ranges formed from any of these endpoints. [0077] In embodiments for a masterbatch formulation used in forming the thermoplastic article, the amount of the light stabilizer in the masterbatch formulation may be, based on the total weight of the masterbatch formulation, greater than or equal to 0 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.1 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.5 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 1 wt.%, or greater than or equal to about 3 wt.%; and less than or equal to about 30 wt.%, less than or equal to about 20 wt.%, or less than or equal to about 10 wt.%; further, in embodiments, from 0 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, from Avient File No.1202301-WO about 1 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 3 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, from about 3 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, or from about 3 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, or any and all sub-ranges formed from any of these endpoints. [0078] Suitable commercial embodiments of the light stabilizer are available under the SABOSTAB brand from Sabo, such as grade UV77. [0079] Optical Brightener [0080] Thermoplastic articles disclosed herein may comprise optical brightener. The optical brightener may be included to absorb UV light and re-emit in the visible blue spectrum, which may, in combination with the acid scavenger, help achieve sufficient aesthetics. [0081] Suitable optical brightener may include conventional or commercially available optical brightener comprising 2,2’-(2,5-thiophenediyl)bis(5-tert-butylbenzoxazole). [0082] In embodiments, the amount of the optical brightener in the thermoplastic article may be, based on a total weight of the thermoplastic article, greater than or equal to 0 wt.% or greater than or equal to about 0.001 wt.%; and less than or equal to about 25 wt.%, less than or equal to about 15 wt.%, less than or equal to about 5 wt.%, less than or equal to about 1 wt.%, less than or equal to about 0.1 wt.%, or less than or equal to 0.01; further, in embodiments, from 0 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 0.1 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 0.01 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from 0.001 wt.% to about 0.1 wt.%, or from about 0.001 wt.% to about 0.01 wt.%, or any and all sub-ranges formed from any of these endpoints. [0083] In embodiments for a masterbatch formulation used in forming the thermoplastic article, the amount of the optical brightener in the masterbatch formulation may be, based on the total weight of the masterbatch formulation, greater than or equal to 0 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.05 wt.%, or greater than or equal to about 0.1 wt.%; and less than or equal to about 15 wt.%, less than or equal to about 10 wt.%; less than or equal to about 5 wt.%, or less than or equal to about 1 wt.%; further, in embodiments, from 0 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.05 wt.% to about Avient File No.1202301-WO 15 wt.%, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, or from about 0.1 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, or any and all sub-ranges formed from any of these endpoints. [0084] Suitable commercial embodiments of the optical brightener are available under the BENETEX brand from Mayzo, such as grade OB. [0085] Thermal Stabilizer [0086] Thermoplastic articles disclosed herein may comprise thermal stabilizer. The thermal stabilizer may be included to prevent degradation to the thermoplastic article by heat (e.g., during processing and/or use). [0087] Suitable thermal stabilizer may include conventional or commercially available thermal stabilizer comprising at least one of tetrakis[methylene(3,5-di-t-butyl-4- hydroxyhydrocinnamate)]methane, tris (2,4-di-tert-butylpenyl phosphite; and octadecyl 3-(3,5-di- tert-butyl4- hydroxyphenyl) propionate. [0088] In embodiments, the amount of the thermal stabilizer in the thermoplastic article may be, based on a total weight of the thermoplastic article, greater than or equal to 0 wt.% or greater than or equal to about 0.001 wt.%; and less than or equal to about 25 wt.%, less than or equal to about 15 wt.%, less than or equal to about 5 wt.%, less than or equal to about 1 wt.%, less than or equal to about 0.1 wt.%, or less than or equal to 0.01; further, in embodiments, from 0 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 0.1 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 0.01 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 0.1 wt.%, or from about 0.001 wt.% to about 0.01 wt.%, or any and all sub-ranges formed from any of these endpoints. [0089] In embodiments for a masterbatch formulation used in forming the thermoplastic article, the amount of the thermal stabilizer in the masterbatch formulation may be, based on the total weight of the masterbatch formulation, greater than or equal to 0 wt.%, greater than or equal to Avient File No.1202301-WO about 0.05 wt.%, or greater than or equal to about 0.1 wt.%; and less than or equal to about 15 wt.%, less than or equal to about 10 wt.%; less than or equal to about 5 wt.%, or less than or equal to about 1 wt.%; further, in embodiments, from 0 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, or from about 0.1 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, or any and all sub-ranges formed from any of these endpoints. [0090] Suitable commercial embodiments of the thermal stabilizer are available under the RIANOX brand from Rianlon Corporation, such as grade 1010. [0091] Mold Release Agent [0092] Thermoplastic articles disclosed herein may comprise mold release agent. The mold release agent may be included to help release the thermoplastic article from a mold used during processing. [0093] Suitable mold release agent may include conventional or commercially available mold release agent comprising at least one of organic fatty acids, esters, and amides. [0094] In embodiments, the amount of the mold release agent in the thermoplastic article may be, based on a total weight of the thermoplastic article, greater than or equal to 0 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.001 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.005 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt.%, or greater than or equal to about 0.05 wt.%; and less than or equal to about 25 wt.%, less than or equal to about 15 wt.%, less than or equal to about 5 wt.%, less than or equal to about 1 wt.%, or less than or equal to about 0.5 wt.%; further, in embodiments, from 0 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to Avient File No.1202301-WO about 25 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.05 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, or from about 0.05 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, or any and all sub-ranges formed from any of these endpoints. [0095] In embodiments for a masterbatch formulation used in forming the thermoplastic article, the amount of the mold release agent in the masterbatch formulation may be, based on the total weight of the masterbatch formulation, greater than or equal to 0 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.1 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.5 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 1 wt.%, or greater than or equal to about 3 wt.%; and less than or equal to about 15 wt.% or less than or equal to about 10 wt.%; further, in embodiments, from 0 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 0.5 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, from about 3 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, or from about 3 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, or any and all sub-ranges formed from any of these endpoints. [0096] Suitable commercial embodiments of the mold release agent are available from Axel Plastics Research Laboratories, Inc, such as grade INT-33UDK. [0097] Tint [0098] Thermoplastic articles disclosed herein may comprise tint. The tint may be included to impart color to the thermoplastic article. [0099] Suitable tint may include conventional or commercially available tint comprising at least one of 1-hydroxy-4-[(4-methylphenyl)amino]-9,10-anthracenedione and 1-hydroxy-4-(4- methylanilino)anthraquinone. [0100] In embodiments, the amount of the tint in the thermoplastic article may be, based on a total weight of the thermoplastic article, greater than or equal to 0 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.001 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.005 wt.%, or greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt.%; and less than or equal to about 1 wt.%, less than or equal to about 0.5 wt.%, or less than or equal to about 0.1 wt.%; further, in embodiments, from 0 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to Avient File No.1202301-WO about 0.5 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 0.1 wt.%., from about 0.001 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 0.1 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.005 wt.% to about 0.1 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, or from about 0.01 wt.% to about 0.1 wt.%, or any and all sub-ranges formed from any of these endpoints. [0101] In embodiments for a masterbatch formulation used in forming the thermoplastic article, the amount of the tint in the masterbatch formulation may be, based on the total weight of the masterbatch formulation, greater than or equal to 0 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.001 wt.%, greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt.%, or greater than or equal to about 0.1 wt.%; and less than or equal to about 5 wt.%, less than or equal to about 3 wt.%, less than or equal to about 1 wt.%, or less than or equal to about 0.5 wt.%; further, in embodiments, from 0 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 3 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from 0 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 3 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.001 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 3 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, from about 0.01 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 3 wt.%, from about 0.1 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, or from about 0.1 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, and any and all sub-ranges formed from any of these endpoints. [0102] Suitable commercial embodiments of the tint are available under the MACROLEX brand from Lanxess, such as grade Violet B. [0103] Additional Other Additives [0104] In addition to light stabilizer, optical brightener, thermal stabilizer, mold release agent, and tint, other additives may include conventional or commercially available plastics additives. Those skilled in the art of thermoplastics compounding, without undue experimentation, may select suitable additives from available references, for example, E.W. Flick, “Plastics Additives Database,” Plastics Design Library (Elsevier 2004). [0105] Such additional optional other additives may be used in any amount that is sufficient to obtain a desired processing or performance property for the material or component formed Avient File No.1202301-WO therefrom. The amount should not be wasteful of the additive nor detrimental to the processing or performance of the material or article formed therefrom. [0106] Non-limiting examples of additional optional other additives may include one or more of antioxidants; nucleating agents; colorants (e.g., pigments and/or dyes); inorganic mineral fillers; mineral oils, flame retardants; glass beads, glass flakes, and glass fibers; impact modifiers; micas; slip and anti-blocking agents; ultraviolet light absorbers; and waxes. [0107] Process for Making Thermoplastic Article [0108] As discussed herein, a combination of sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity and desirable aesthetics in thermoplastic articles which are made with recycled thermoplastic resin is achieved by introducing antimicrobial additive and acid scavenger in such a way that mitigates interaction of the acid scavenger with the antimicrobial additive. Otherwise, such interaction diminishes the antimicrobial activity. [0109] One way to accomplish this is to use a so-called dual masterbatch approach, whereby the antimicrobial additive is incorporated into a first masterbatch formulation, the acid scavenger is incorporated into a second masterbatch formulation, and both the first masterbatch formulation and the second masterbatch formulation are combined only during the final forming process for making the thermoplastic articles. Advantageously, the dual masterbatch approach minimizes the number of heat histories for the melt mixture in which both the antimicrobial additive and the acid scavenger are present. Moreover, the dual masterbatch approach may result in the antimicrobial additive and the acid scavenger being present within the thermoplastic article such that at least a portion of the acid scavenger is not interacting with at least a portion of the antimicrobial additive. [0110] To make a masterbatch formulation (e.g., a first masterbatch formulation or a second masterbatch formulation), components of the masterbatch formulation are intermixed thoroughly and extruded using a co-rotating twin-screw extruder (e.g., a 27 mm screw diameter, 40 length/screw diameter and moderate-shear screw design) and melt temperature between 270 °C to 310 °C. Each masterbatch formulation is immediately cooled down and pelletized after exiting the twin-screw extruder. Avient File No.1202301-WO [0111] In embodiments, a process for forming the thermoplastic article disclosed herein may comprise a step of providing a melt mixture of (A) a first masterbatch formulation comprising at least a portion of the antimicrobial additive, (B) a second masterbatch formulation comprising at least a portion of the acid scavenger for incorporation into the thermoplastic article, and (C) the recycled thermoplastic resin. In some embodiments, the first masterbatch formulation may comprise all of the antimicrobial additive for incorporation into the thermoplastic article and the second masterbatch formulation may comprise all of the acid scavenger for incorporation into the thermoplastic article. To mitigate the interaction of the antimicrobial additive and the acid scavenger as discussed herein, in embodiments, the first masterbatch formulation may be exclusive of the acid scavenger, or the second masterbatch formulation may be exclusive of the antimicrobial additive, or both. [0112] In embodiments, at least one of the first masterbatch formulation and the second masterbatch formulation may comprise thermoplastic polymer carrier resin. In embodiments, at least one of the first masterbatch formulation and the second masterbatch formulation may further comprise at least one of light stabilizer, optical brightener, thermal stabilizer, mold release agent, and tint. [0113] In embodiments, to provide the melt mixture, the first masterbatch formulation, and the second masterbatch formulation are premixed with (i.e., let-down into) the recycled thermoplastic resin to yield a ready-for-forming formulations. The ready-for-forming formulations may be fed into a machine (e.g., injection molder, compression molder, extruder, or thermoplastic pultrusion machine) and melt-mixed at a temperature greater than or equal to a melt temperature of the recycled thermoplastic resin. In embodiments, the ready-for-forming formulation may be melt- mixed at a temperature from about 260 °C to about 320 °C and for a time from about 20 seconds to about 40 seconds. [0114] In embodiments, the thermoplastic article may be formed by at least one of injection molding, compression molding, extrusion, and thermoplastic pultrusion. The thermoplastic article may be formed into any shape for further processing or for the intended end use. [0115] Thermoplastic Article Avient File No.1202301-WO [0116] The thermoplastic articles disclosed herein made with recycled content thermoplastic resin and include a combination of at least antimicrobial additive and acid scavenger may achieve both sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity and sufficient aesthetics. As discussed herein, sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity and sufficient aesthetics are achieved by mitigating the interaction between the antimicrobial additive and the acid scavenger. For example, in embodiments, the antimicrobial additive and the acid scavenger may be present within the thermoplastic article such that at least a portion of the acid scavenger is not interacting with at least a portion of the antimicrobial additive. The thermoplastic articles disclosed herein may be used in any recycled content thermoplastic article that requires both sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity and sufficient aesthetics. The thermoplastic articles as disclosed herein are especially useful for various household goods or consumer articles including, for example, protective cases for personal consumer electronics, or for any high touch point surfaces including, for example, protective films and wall partitions. [0117] The thermoplastic articles disclosed herein have sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity, or an antimicrobial efficacy characterized by a percent reduction of greater than or equal to about 99% against both S. aureus (ATCC 6538P) and E. coli (ATCC 8739), as determined according to ISO 22196. [0118] The thermoplastic articles disclosed herein have sufficient aesthetics, or a percent clarity of greater than or equal to about 98%, as measured at 0.060 inch (1.524 mm) thickness and according to ASTM D1003. In embodiments, the thermoplastic article may have a percent clarity of greater than or equal to about 98% or greater than or equal to 98.5 %, as measured at 0.060 inch (1.524 mm) thickness and according to ASTM D1003. [0119] As mention hereinabove, in certain embodiments, additional aesthetic properties may be desirable. For example, in embodiments, the thermoplastic article may have a percent transmission of greater than or equal to about 90%, greater than or equal to about 91%, or greater than or equal to about 92%, as measured at 0.060 inch (1.524 mm) thickness and according to ASTM D1003. In embodiments, the thermoplastic article may have a percent haze less than or equal to about 5%, less than or equal to about 4%, less than or equal to about 3%, or less than or equal to about 2%, as measured at 0.060 inch (1.524 mm) thickness and according to ASTM Avient File No.1202301-WO D1003. In embodiments, the thermoplastic article may have a yellowness index of less than or equal to 1.8, as measured according to ASTM D1925. EXAMPLES [0120] Non-limiting examples of various embodiments of the disclosed invention are provided. [0121] Table 1 shows sources of ingredients used to form Comparative Thermoplastic Articles C1-C9 and Example Thermoplastic Article E1. [0122] Table 1 Ingredients Chemical Description Brand and Source Recycled thermoplastic Grade s s ,

[0123] Tables 2 and 3 below shows the formulations of the masterbatch formulations (in wt.%, based on a total weight of the masterbatch formulation), the ready-to-mold formulations (in wt.%, based on a total weight of the ready-to-mold formulations), antimicrobial efficacy, and aesthetics of Comparative Thermoplastic Articles C1-C9 and Example Thermoplastic Article E1. Avient File No.1202301-WO [0124] Preparation of masterbatch formulations – For each of Example Thermoplastic Article E1 and Comparative Thermoplastic Articles C1-C9, a single masterbatch formulation or a dual masterbatch formulation (i.e., a first masterbatch formulation and a second masterbatch formulation) comprising the ingredients as listed in Tables 2 and 3 were intermixed thoroughly and extruded using a co-rotating twin-screw extruder with a 27 mm screw diameter, 40 length/screw diameter and moderate-shear screw design, and melt temperature between 270 °C to 310 °C. Each masterbatch formulation was immediately cooled down and pelletized after exiting the twin-screw extruder. [0125] Let-down of the masterbatch formulations to form ready-for-forming formulations and injection molding process – The masterbatch formulations were premixed with (i.e., let-down into) PCX3 (recycled thermoplastic resin) to yield ready-for-forming formulations having the ingredients present in the amounts shown in Table 2. The premix was fed into the injection molding machine, melted, and molded into flat plaques having dimensions of 100 mm x 100 mm x 1.524 mm and smooth surfaces on both sides of the plaque. The final amounts of the ingredients in the plaque form (thermoplastic article) were consistent with the ready-to-form formulation of each example as listed in Table 2. The melt temperature of the injection molding process was controlled between 260 °C to 310 °C for all the examples. The molded plaques were then cut into 100 mm long x 25 mm wide plaques of the same thickness as test specimen for haze, clarity, and percent transmission testing. In addition, yellowness index was also evaluated on the plaques.

Avient File No.1202301-WO [0126] Table 2 Examples C1 C2 C3 C4 Single Masterbatch Formulation

Avient File No.1202301-WO [0127] Table 2 (cont.) Examples C5 C6 C7 C8 Single Masterbatch Formulation

Avient File No.1202301-WO [0128] Table 3 Examples C9 E1 First Masterbatch Formulation

Avient File No.1202301-WO [0129] Referring to Tables 2 and 3, Comparative Thermoplastic Articles C2, C3, and C5, thermoplastic articles formed by a single masterbatch approach and including HeiQ HyProtecht SPG (antimicrobial additive) and DHT-4V (acid scavenger), had a percent reduction of 59.00%, 30.00%, and 57.00%, respectively against S. aureus (ATCC 6538P), a percent reduction of 94.00%, 95.00%, and 0.00%, respectively, against E. coli (ATCC 8739), and a percent clarity of 98.84%, 98.90%, and 98.34%, respectively. As such, Comparative Thermoplastic Articles C2, C3, and C5 achieved sufficient aesthetics, but lacked sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity. [0130] Comparative Thermoplastic Article C4, a thermoplastic article formed by a single masterbatch approach, including HeiQ HyProtecht SPG (antimicrobial additive), and lacking DHT-4V (acid scavenger), had percent reduction of 99.80% and 99.9997% against S. aureus (ATCC 6538P) and E. coli (ATCC 8739), respectively, and a percent clarity of 94.40%. As such, Comparative Thermoplastic Article C4 achieved sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity, but lack sufficient aesthetics. [0131] Comparative Thermoplastic Articles C6 and C7, thermoplastic articles formed by a single masterbatch approach and including HeiQ HyProtecht SPG (antimicrobial additive) and DHT-4V (acid scavenger), had a percent reduction of 65.00% and 19.80%, respectively against S. aureus (ATCC 6538P), a percent reduction of 0.00% and 27.90%, respectively, against E. coli (ATCC 8739), and a percent clarity of 97.32% and 93.40%, respectively. As such, Comparative Thermoplastic Articles C6 and C7 lacked both sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity and sufficient aesthetics. [0132] Comparative Thermoplastic Article C8, a thermoplastic article formed by a single masterbatch approach, including HeiQ HyProtecht SPG (antimicrobial additive), and lacking DHT-4V (acid scavenger), had percent reduction of 66.70% and 31.30% against S. aureus (ATCC 6538P) and E. coli (ATCC 8739), respectively, and a percent clarity of 94.90%. As such, Comparative Thermoplastic Article C8 lacked both sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity and sufficient aesthetics. [0133] Comparative Thermoplastic Article C9, a thermoplastic article formed by a dual masterbatch approach and including both HeiQ HyProtecht SPG (antimicrobial additive) and DHT-4V (acid scavenger) in the first masterbatch formulation, had percent reduction of 99.98% Avient File No.1202301-WO and 99.992% against S. aureus (ATCC 6538P) and E. coli (ATCC 8739), respectively, and a percent clarity of 94.21%. As such, Comparative Thermoplastic Article C9 achieved sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity, but lacked sufficient aesthetics. [0134] Example Thermoplastic Article E1, a thermoplastic article formed by a dual masterbatch approach including HeiQ HyProtecht SPG (antimicrobial additive) in a first masterbatch formulation and DHT-4V (acid scavenger) in a second masterbatch formulation, had percent reduction of 99.98% and 99.98% against S. aureus (ATCC 6538P) and E. coli (ATCC 8739), respectively, and a percent clarity of 98.94%. As such, Example Thermoplastic Article E1 achieved both sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity and sufficient aesthetics. [0135] As exemplified by Comparative Thermoplastic Articles C2-C9 and Example Thermoplastic Article E1, mitigating interaction between antimicrobial additive and acid scavenger during forming (e.g., a dual masterbatch approach) results in a thermoplastic article having both sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity and sufficient aesthetics. [0136] Example Thermoplastic Article E1, in addition to HeiQ HyProtecht SPG (antimicrobial) additive and DHT-4V (acid scavenger), included SABOSTAB UV77 (light stabilizer) and BENETEX OB (optical brightener). While not wishing to be bound by theory, while light stabilizer and optical brightener may further help improve aesthetic properties, a thermoplastic article similar to Example Thermoplastic Article E1 but lacking a light stabilizer and optical brightener would be expected to achieve sufficient aesthetics (see, e.g., Comparative Thermoplastic Article C5). [0137] Example Thermoplastic Article E1 also had a percent transmission of 92.35%, a percent haze of 1.69%, and a yellowness index of 1.75. As exemplified by Example Thermoplastic Article E1, mitigating interaction between antimicrobial additive and acid scavenger during forming (e.g., a dual masterbatch approach) results in a thermoplastic article having relatively high percent transmission, a relatively lower percent haze, and a relatively low yellowness index. While Comparative Thermoplastic Article C5 also had these three additional desirable aesthetic properties, Comparative Thermoplastic Article C5 lacked sufficient levels of antimicrobial activity. Avient File No.1202301-WO [0138] Every document cited herein is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety unless otherwise specified. The citation of any document is not to be construed as an admission that it is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed herein. To the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern. [0139] It will be apparent that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the disclosure defined in the appended claims. Although some aspects of the present disclosure are identified herein as preferred or particularly advantageous, it is contemplated that the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to these aspects.

Claims

Avient File No.1202301-WO CLAIMS 1. A thermoplastic article comprising: (a) recycled thermoplastic resin; (b) antimicrobial additive; and (c) acid scavenger; wherein the thermoplastic article has: (i) an antimicrobial efficacy characterized by a percent reduction of greater than or equal to about 99% against both S. aureus (ATCC 6538P) and E. coli (ATCC 8739), as determined according to ISO 22196; and (ii) a percent clarity of greater than or equal to about 98%, as measured at 0.060 inch (1.524 mm) thickness and according to ASTM D1003. 2. The thermoplastic article of claim 1, wherein the antimicrobial additive and the acid scavenger are present within the thermoplastic article such that at least a portion of the acid scavenger is not interacting with at least a portion of the antimicrobial additive. 3. The thermoplastic article of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the thermoplastic article has at least one of: (i) a percent transmission of greater than or equal to about 90%; and (ii) a percent haze of less than or equal to about 5%; each as measured at 0.060 inch (1.524 mm) thickness and according to ASTM D1003. 4. The thermoplastic article of any preceding claim, wherein the thermoplastic article has a yellowness index of less than or equal to about 1.8, as measured according to ASTM D1925. 5. The thermoplastic article of any preceding claim, wherein the recycled thermoplastic resin comprises at least one of polycarbonate (PC), polycarbonate / acrylonitrile butadiene styrene blends (PC/ABS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). Avient File No.1202301-WO 6. The thermoplastic article of any preceding claim, wherein the antimicrobial additive comprises at least one of silver phosphate glass, silver nitrate, soluble glass containing silver, silver and copper containing blends, and silver and zinc containing blends. 7. The thermoplastic article of any preceding claim, wherein the acid scavenger comprises at least one of hydrotalcite (magnesium-aluminum hydroxycarbonate), calcium stearate, zinc stearate, and zinc oxide. 8. The thermoplastic article of any preceding claim, further comprising other additives comprising at least one of light stabilizer, optical brightener, thermal stabilizer, mold release agent, and tint. 9. The thermoplastic article of claim 8, wherein: (a) the light stabilizer comprises at least one of tetramethyl piperidine derivative, benzotriazole derivative, benzophenone derivative, and oligomeric hindered derivative; (b) the optical brightener comprises 2,2’-(2,5-thiophenediyl)bis(5-tert- butylbenzoxazole); (c) the thermal stabilizer comprises at least one of tetrakis[methylene(3,5-di-t-butyl-4- hydroxyhydrocinnamate)]methane, tris (2,4-di-tert-butylpenyl phosphite; and octadecyl 3-(3,5-di- tert-butyl4- hydroxyphenyl) propionate; (d) the mold release agent comprises at least one of organic fatty acids, esters, and amides; and (e) the tint comprises at least one of 1-hydroxy-4-[(4-methylphenyl)amino]-9,10- anthracenedione and 1-hydroxy-4-(4-methylanilino)anthraquinone. 10. The thermoplastic article of any preceding claim, wherein the thermoplastic article comprises, based on a total weight of the thermoplastic article: (a) recycled thermoplastic resin in an amount from about 40 wt.% to about 99 wt.%; (b) antimicrobial additive in an amount from about 0.05 wt.% to about 5 wt.%; (c) acid scavenger in an amount from about 0.001 wt.% to about 5 wt.%; and Avient File No.1202301-WO (d) optionally, other additives in an amount from 0 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, wherein the other additives comprises at least one of light stabilizer, optical brightener, thermal stabilizer, mold release agent, and tint. 11. The thermoplastic article of any preceding claim, wherein the thermoplastic article is formed from a melt mixture of (A) a first masterbatch formulation comprising at least a portion of the antimicrobial additive, (B) a second masterbatch formulation comprising at least a portion of the acid scavenger for incorporation into the thermoplastic article, and (C) the recycled thermoplastic resin. 12. The thermoplastic article of claim 11, wherein the first masterbatch formulation excludes the acid scavenger, or the second masterbatch formulation excludes the antimicrobial additive, or both. 13. A process for forming the thermoplastic article of any one of claims 1 to 12, the process comprising a step of providing a melt mixture of (A) a first masterbatch formulation comprising at least a portion of the antimicrobial additive, (B) a second masterbatch formulation comprising at least a portion of the acid scavenger for incorporation into the thermoplastic article, and (C) the recycled thermoplastic resin. 14. The process of claim 13, wherein the first masterbatch formulation comprises all of the antimicrobial additive for incorporation into the thermoplastic article and the second masterbatch formulation comprises all of the acid scavenger for incorporation into the thermoplastic article. 15. The process of claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the first masterbatch formulation is exclusive of the acid scavenger, or the second masterbatch formulation is exclusive of the antimicrobial additive, or both. 16. The process of any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein at least one of the first masterbatch formulation and the second masterbatch formulation further comprises thermoplastic polymer carrier resin, the thermoplastic polymer carrier resin comprising at least one of polycarbonate (PC), Avient File No.1202301-WO polycarbonate / acrylonitrile butadiene styrene blends (PC/ABS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). 17. The process of any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein at least one of the first masterbatch formulation and the second masterbatch formulation further comprises at least one of light stabilizer, optical brightener, thermal stabilizer, mold release agent, and tint. 18. The process of any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein the step of providing comprises melt- mixing the recycled thermoplastic resin, the first masterbatch formulation, and the second masterbatch formulation at a temperature greater than or equal to a melt temperature of the recycled thermoplastic resin. 19. The process of any one of claims 13 to 18, further comprising forming the thermoplastic article by at least one of injection molding, compression molding, extrusion, and thermoplastic pultrusion.