Characterization of Unvulcanized and Dynamically Vulcanized ENR-50/EVA Blends

Abstract

Blends of epoxidized natural rubber (ENR-50) and ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), with varying proportion of the components, were dynamically vulcanized using different cross-linking systems, namely, sulfur and dicumyl peroxide (DCP). Dynamic mechanical properties, tensile properties and morphology of unvulcanized and dynamically vulcanized ENR-50/EVA blends were investigated. Dynamic vulcanization has improved the tensile properties of the blends compared to unvulcanized blends. Dynamic vulcanization also found to improve the compatibility of the blends. Its properties revealed that the entire blends are compatible at all blend ratios. DCP cure system produced a more compatible blend compared to control and sulfur cure system.

Keywords:

• Cross-link agent
• Dynamic vulcanization
• ENR-50
• EVA
• TPE

Notes

*phr-part per hundred rubber.

*php-part per hundred polymer.