Combined effect of VA content and pH level of filler on properties of EPDM/SmBO₃ and EPDM/ATO composites reinforced by three types of EVA

This study investigates the interaction of vinyl acetic (VA) content of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), pH level of Samarium borate (SmBO₃), and Sb-doped SnO₂ (ATO) on reinforcement of peroxide-cured ethylene- propylene-diene rubber (EPDM)/SmBO₃ and EPDM/ ATO composites. It was found that EVA could both reinforce mechanical properties of EPDM, and enhance fluidity of gum during processing. During vulcanization, the interaction of VA groups and pH value of filler particles can influence the crosslink density of EPDM composites. In alkaline EPDM/SmBO₃/EVA, VA groups could hydrolyze to produce polyvinyl alcohol and reduce pH level of medium by consuming OH^-. When dispersed in acidic EPDM/ATO/EVA, VA groups could generate polyunsaturated bonds and acetic acid during vulcanization. The double bonds could react with dicumyl peroxide (DCP) and then boost crosslink efficiency of EPDM composites. Moreover, acetic acid and reduction of pH value could make DCP decompose into ions, and lower crosslink density of EPDM composites. In addition to the contribution of crosslink density, EVA could crystallize in EPDM composites to reinforce EPDM composites. Electric properties of EPDM were also affected. Surface and volume resistivity of EPDM composites decreased with the rise of VA content. As for EPDM/SmBO₃/EVA composites, the growth of VA groups could boost dielectric constant and loss, decrease dielectric strength, due to the enhancement of polarity and reduction of crosslink density. In terms of EPDM/ATO/EVA composites, the EPDM/ ATO/EVA14 possesses the highest dielectric constant and loss, and the lowest dielectric strength, because of the competing effect of VA content and crosslink density.