Solid Phase Oxidation of Vulcanized Rubbers with Hydrogen Peroxide and Formic Acid

Abstract

We have investigated the oxidation decomposition of vulcanized rubber using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)/carboxylic acids such as formic acid (HCOOH), acetic acid, acetic acid anhydride and propanoic acid. The optimum conditions were H2O2 5.0 mL, HCOOH 10 mL, 60°C, and 6 hours against a 0.5 g sample. Suitable results were obtained for residue portions of 0.15 g and product portions of 0.25 g. The product portion was found to be soluble in DMF or DMSO.