Effect of gamma irradiation on ethylene propylene diene terpolymer rubber composites

Composites of ethylene propylene dine terpolymer rubber (EPDM), high density polyethylene (HDPE) and ground tire rubber powder (GTR) at different ratios were subjected to gamma irradiation at various doses up to 250 kGy. The physical, mechanical and thermal properties were investigated as a function of irradiation dose and blend composition. Gamma irradiation led to a significant improvement in the properties for all blend compositions. The results indicate that the improvement in properties is inversely proportional to the substituted ratio of GTR, attributed to the development of an interfacial adhesion between GTR and blend components. The results were confirmed by examining the fracture surfaces by scanning electron microscopy.