Evaluation of Automotive Sponge Compounds with the Cone-Rheometer

A new curemeter, called Cone-Rheometer, has been developed. This instrument simultaneously determines changes in pressure and stiffness in elastomeric compounds during the course of vulcanization. The use of the Cone-Rheometer to evaluate extruded, continuously vulcanized, neoprene and EPDM sponge stocks is described. The effects of changes in blowing agent level, blowing agent type, and test temperature are observed and discussed.