Moisture-sorption properties and studies on the dilute solution behavior of epoxidized natural rubber ENR 50

Studies of the dilute solution capillary viscosity and moisture sorption of commercial samples of epoxidized natural rubber (ENR 50) were carried out. Dilute solution viscometry of ENR 50 solutions was conducted in xylene, te trahydrofuran, and methyl ethyl ketone solvents and the degradation due to shearing and oxidation for this rubber was followed. At average elevated te mperatures and high relative humidities, epoxidized natural rubber ENR 50 s hows high moisture sorption. Moisture sorption measurements at 100% RH and 34 degrees C followed by desorption show near equilibrium moisture intake o f 3.402-3.661 g H2O/100 g rubber, which agrees reasonably well with the est imated value of 4.108 g H2O/100 g ENR 50. (C) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.