Optimization on the mechanical properties of epoxidized natural rubber (ENR25 & ENR50) B Bisphenol A/amine-based compounds for the development of new ENR-Adhesive Systems

Epoxidized natural rubber (ENR25 & ENR50) bisphenol A/amine-based compounds were prepared through a compounding process by using a two-roll mill and compression moulding machine. Two different amines systems (Hexamethylenediamine and p-phenylenediamine) were used for the optimization process at varying ratios of the ENR: Amines and ENR:BPA from 1:1, 1:2, 1:4, 1:6 and 1:8 corresponding 5,10,15,20,25 phr of the BPA and Amines. The produced ENR-BPA/Amine systems were compared with those of the convensional ENR-Sulphur cured systems. The evaluation of some mechanical properties were carried out on the compounds such as tensile strength, abrasion resistant, hardness tests. Results obtained gave optimal values for tensile strength, modulus, abrasion resistance and hardness at 15 phr loadings for both amines (HMDA and PPD) used, The optimum results obtained were then used to develop a standard formulation and produced a new ENR-amine based adhesive system.