Abstract

This study investigates the effects of curing agents on the damping and mechanical properties of composites made from ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) and isobutylene-isoprene rubber (IIR). In the rubber industry, EPDM is favored due to its excellent resistance to aging, ozone, UV radiation, and various chemicals. However, it has certain limitations, including high gas permeability and poor shock absorption. To address these shortcomings, EPDM is blended with IIR, which offers superior shock absorption and heat resistance in enhancing the overall properties of the composites. The study further examines the role of carbon black as a reinforcing filler for improving the mechanical and damping properties of the blends. Two curing agents, sulfur and peroxide, are used to cross-link the rubber composites, and their effects on the mechanical performance, crosslink density, thermal aging resistance, and damping characteristics are evaluated. The findings reveal that peroxide curing results in more stable crosslinks and better thermal stability than sulfur curing. By contrast, sulfurcured blends exhibit a higher tensile strength. An optimal balance between elasticity and anti-vibration properties is achieved with peroxide curing at a concentration of 0.5 phr. These findings can contribute to the development of rubber composites with enhanced mechanical and thermal properties for various industrial applications.

Keywords: rubber;elastomer;composite;isobutylene-isoprene rubber (IIR);ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM);carbon black;S(sulfur);peroxide;damping;aging