Kinetics of Crosslinking and Network Changes in Natural Rubber Vulcanizates with a Dithiodimorpholine Based Accelerator System

Abstract

Abstract Kinetics of crosslinking and network changes in unfilled and filled natural rubber vulcanizates with a dithiodimorpholine based accelerator system have been studied at 150° and 180°C. Results show that addition of HAF black enhances the polysulfidic crosslinks as well as the total crosslinks. This has been explained with the help of Coran's model wherein HAK black increases the rate constants. It is likely that the filler surface prevents desulfuration and undesirable side reactions involving the crosslink precursors. Increase of curing temperature by 30°C lowers the total crosslink density and increases the sulfur inefficiency.