Failure Properties of Natural Rubber Double Networks

Abstract

Abstract When measured parallel to the curing deformation, double networks of natural rubber have a higher modulus than single networks of equal crosslink density. The difference is greater at higher strains. Despite the higher modulus, the mechanical fatigue lifetimes of double networks were found to be as much as a factor of ten higher than for conventionally crosslinked NR. The double network's tensile strength, on the other hand, was slightly lower. In contrast to these results, the modulus and tensile strength in the direction transverse to the curing strain are minimally affected by the presence of a composite network.