Effect of gamma irradiation on the properties of natural rubber/styrene butadiene rubber blends

Blends of natural rubber (NR) with styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) with varying ratios have been prepared. Vulcanization of the prepared blends has been induced by irradiation of gamma rays with varying doses up to 250 kGy. Mechanical properties, namely tensile strength, tensile modulus at 100% elongation, elongation at break have been followed up as a function of irradiation dose as well as blend composition. Physical properties, namely gel fraction and swelling number have been followed up using benzene as a solvent. Thermal measurements namely thermo-gravimetric analysis were carried out. The results indicated that the addition of NR has improved the properties of NR / SBR blends. Also NR/SBR blend is thermally stable than NR alone. (C) 2011 Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of King Saud University.