NBR and EPDM differ in the number of double bonds and also in polarity, thus presenting different cure rates. Their blends frequently result in a maldistribution of crosslinks. In this work, sulfur-based systems varying in accelerator type and sulfur amount were investigated as vulcanizing systems for NBR/EPDM blends. The accelerator type and the sulfur concentration affected the curing characteristics of the blends. Some formulations were able to crosslink the EPDM phase to a larger extent and consequently displayed better mechanical and ageing properties.
Curing system; elastomer blends; NBR; EPDM
