Effect of silica filler on peroxide cured ethylene propylene diene terpolymer insulation for large rocket motors

Abstract

AbstractNon‐compatibility with double base propellant and nitrate ester plasticized polyether based propellant and poor aging resistance limit the overall life of sulfur cured EPDM insulation and warranted the development of peroxide cured EPDM insulation in order to reap the full benefits of EPDM insulation. This article describes the effect of silica filler on the physical, mechanical, thermal, and ablative properties of peroxide cured EPDM insulation, free from chlorosulphonated polyethylene and filled with conventional precipitated silica, which has been validated for the requirements of large composite rocket motor casing. Significant findings, which have been corroborated by instrumental techniques viz. DSC, TGA, FTIR, and SEM are presented in this article.