Investigation of NR-EPDM blends for improving Ozone resistance of tyre side wall

Abstract

In this project, attempts have been made to improve the properties of Natural rubber (NR) tyre sidewall compound, especially the ozone resistance by blending the rubber with Ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM). In view of this, various rubber compounds, containing the blends of NR and EPDM in the different proportions have been prepared, vulcanized and tested for their physical strength and ozone resistance. The results of this investigation reveals that the blends containing NR:EPDM in the range of ratios from 70:30 to 80:20 are most suitable for the production of tyre sidewalls with high strength and ozone resistance.