Influence of micro crystalline cellulose on EPDM-based automotive sealing profile

Abstract

This study examined the effects of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) used in EPDM elastomer composites in replace of EPDM. For that purpose, the MCC was added in amounts of 1.75; 3.5, and 5.25 phr to investigate the chemical, thermal, rheological, mechanical, morphological, and dielectric properties of EPDM elastomers. At the end of the study, the MCC enabled increased tensile strength, and elongation while causing lower thermal stability and Mooney scorch. The MCC also facilitated the vulcanization process by providing faster production while mixing homogeneously in the matrix. In addition, it decreased dielectric lossyness as well as increased the electric charge storage capacity. However, E-Cel2, containing 3, 5 phr MCC, was found to be more suitable for high-K applications, whereas E-Cel3 was more suitable for low-loss applications. In conclusion, MCC can be also recommended to automotive industries to provide more biocompatible and enhanced properties as a substitute for EPDM.