Kinetic analysis of the sulfur-driven curing and cross-linking behavior of chlorosulfonated polyethylene rubber
摘要
The present research investigated the influence of the sulfur concentration on the curing behavior of chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSM) rubber, highlighting its critical role in optimizing the cross-linking efficiency and curing kinetics. The results demonstrated that the formulation containing 2.5 phr of sulfur presented the highest cross-link density (1.56 × 10⁻4 mol/cm3) and curing enthalpy (10.9 J/g). However, specific properties were superior for the compound with 2 phr sulfur. With the lowest activation energy (91.48 kJ/mol), the highest reaction rate constant at 150, 160, and 170 °C (0.45, 0.83, and 1.45 min⁻1), the lowest cross-link density (1.24 × 10⁻5 mol/cm3), and the lowest curing enthalpy 3.16 J/g, the sulfur-free sample stood out. Additionally, a strong correlation was detected between the cross-link network, which was determined by swelling tests and rheological measurements. These findings offer valuable insights into the design of sulfur curing systems, enabling the optimal selection of the sulfur concentration in CSM rubber formulations, with significant implications for advanced material applications.