Electron beam processing of nylon 6 and hydrogenated nitrile rubber (HNBR) blends: 1. Development of high strength heat- and oil-resistant thermoplastic elastomers

The effects of electron beam irradiation on the morphology, mechanical properties and heat and hot oil resistance of a thermoplastic elastomeric blend of 50/50 nylon 6 and HNBR rubber were investigated. The morphology of the blend was studied by scanning electron microscopy, with special reference to the effects of processing via injection moulding and the radiation dose. Irradiation of extruded pellets at low doses and subsequent injection moulding improved the blend morphology, thereby enhancing the mechanical properties. The tensile strength of the blend increased with radiation dose. The irradiated blends had excellent hot oil resistance and the tensile strength of the blends did not change much after ageing at 150 degrees C for 72 h. Incorporation of 10 phr SRF black to the blend greatly improved the tension set property. (c) 2005 Society of Chemical Industry.