Studies on the effect of blend ratio and cure system on the degradation of natural rubber—ethylene-vinyl acetate rubber blends

Abstract

The effects of blend ratio and type of cross-link system on thermal ageing, γ-radiation and ozone resistance of blends of natural rubber and ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) rubber have been evaluated. The morphology of the blends is such that the EVA forms a continuous phase when its proportion in the blend is 40% or more. The resistance of the blends to thermal ageing, γ-radiation and ozone attack is better for those which contain a higher proportion of EVA. These properties are also highly dependent on the type of cure system used.