Effect of 1,3-bis(citraconimidomethyl) benzene on the aerobic and anaerobic ageing of diene rubber vulcanizates

The effect of 1,3-bis(citraconimidomethyl) benzene (Perkalink 900) has been investigated in diene rubber vulcanizates (truck-tyre tread-cap and tread-base compounds). Cure characteristics have been studied at 141 and 193 °C. Retention of physical properties after anaerobic (cured up to 2t90, 4t90 and 8t90) and aerobic ageing (aged for 1, 2, 3 and 4 weeks at 70 °C) has been found to be higher for the compounds with Perkalink 900. Heat build-up characteristics measured by Goodrich Flexometer and Martin's ball fatigue tester have been found to be lower for the Perkalink 900 compounds. Dynamic mechanical properties (tan δ) are reduced for the compounds containing Perkalink 900 even after extended cure. Fatigue to failure properties and abrasion resistance remain unaffected with the addition of Perkalink 900 in the compounds. The observed improvements in tyre-tread compound performance support the previously published mechanism of Perkalink 900. This revised version was published online in November 2006 with corrections to the Cover Date.