Radiation vulcanization of thermoplastic low-density polyethylene/bromobutyl rubber blends

Abstract

Blends of thermoplastic low-density polyethylene (LDPE) with bromobutyl rubber (BIIR) with varying ratios have been prepared. Vulcanization of prepared blends has been induced by gamma ionizing radiation of varying doses of up to 250 kGy. Physical properties, namely gel fraction percentage, and mechanical properties, namely tensile strength, tensile modulus at 50% elongation, percentage elongation at break, hardness and permanent set have been followed up as a function of irradiation dose and blend compositions. Moreover, measurements of thermogravimetric analysis and heat shrinking properties have been carried out. The results indicated that blending with LDPE has improved the properties of BIIR rubber. Moreover, the presence of BIIR enhances the heat shrinking properties of the obtained blends.