Effect of Nanoclay on EPDM composites under gamma irradiation

Abstract EN

The polymers used for the insulation and jacket materials for electric cables are susceptible to degradation mechanisms caused by exposure to many of the stressors encountered in nuclear power plant service environments.

Ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM) is the most common type of polymer used in cables insulations used in NPP.

In order to improve the EPDM insulation rubber performance, many additives can be added to the EPDM compounds.

Nanoclay is selected to improve the resistance of EPDM rubber against gamma irradiation up to 600KGy.

The effect of different concentration of nanoclay on the mechanical and physical properties of the EPDM rubber is investigated.

The physical and mechanical properties of the EPDM rubber compounds were evaluated by measuring swelling ratio, crosslinking density, tensile strength, elongation at break and hardness.

The results of the present study show that the addition of Nanoclay as an additive improves the physical and mechanical performance of EPDM.