Abstract
AbstractThe recycling of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber remains a challenge, as its cross‐linked structure cannot be broken down reversibly. Devulcanization may offer a breakthrough; however, a 100% decrease in cross‐link density (CLD) with no chain degradation has never been reported. In this research, sulfur‐ and peroxide‐cured EPDM rubbers of known compositions were devulcanized on a two‐roll mill and in an internal mixer. The CLD of both rubber samples decreased by around 85%, while the sol content of the peroxidic devulcanizate was considerably higher than that of the sulfuric devulcanizate (23% vs. 3%). Horikx's theory revealed that sulfur‐cured samples showed excellent selectivity for cross‐link scission, while peroxide‐cured samples suffered degradation. Uncured, cured, and devulcanized rubber samples were mixed into high‐density polyethylene at various compositions. Large EPDM rubber contents impaired the mechanical properties of the blends, indicating insufficient adhesion between the two phases. Compounds containing originally uncured rubber mixtures had the most beneficial mechanical properties.
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