Optimization of Nitrile Polymers and Nitrile Rubber Compounds to Obtain Maximum Heat Resistance

The effects of nonpolymer constituents and antioxidants on the aging behavior of nitrile rubber polymers are discussed. The paper covers experimental work carried out to develop a range of rubbers which are responsive to heat resistant curing systems, the optimization of these systems in terms of antioxidant protection, and the practical use of this type of nitrile rubber in compounding to meet critical specifications.

The authors conclude that nitrile rubber polymers produced according to the SP principle offer excellent heat resistance in a variety of curing systems. Furthermore, such polymers have an advantage over nitrile polymers produced with stabilizers which function as efficient antioxidants, since this latter type of polymer can detract from aging resistance, depending on the curing system used.