Aging of ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) in artificial weathering environment

Ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) containing ENB as diene was exposed to artificial weathering environment for different periods of time. The changes of appearance, morphology, mechanical properties and chemical structures were monitored by spectrophotometer, glossmeter, microscope, computer-controlled tensile testing, hardness measurements and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Crosslink density of EPDM specimens was measured by the solvent swell method. The results showed that the surface of EPDM became redder, yellower and lighter in the first stage of aging and then remained almost unchanged. The specular gloss reached a maximum when the sample was exposed for 18 days and then decreased. The aging process proceeded predominantly via crosslinking. The tensile strength increased with increase in crosslink density up to an optimum value and thereafter decreased with further increase in crosslink density. FTIR spectra confirmed the formation of carbonyl groups in an artificial weathering environment.