Dual cross-linking of XNBR latex with epoxy-functional calcium silicate particles for the production of accelerator-free medical gloves
Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › Research › peer-review
Authors
Organisational units
External Organisational units
- Polymer Competence Center Leoben GmbH
- Semperit Technische Produkte GmbH, Wimpassing
Abstract
In this work, an innovative dual cross-linking strategy for carboxylated nitrile butadiene rubber (XNBR) latex using epoxy-modified calcium silicate particles is presented. In their role as dual cross-linker, the particles are able to form covalent bonds (nucleophilic ring opening of epoxy moieties) as well as ionic cross-links (calcium ions of the inorganic core) across the carboxylic acid groups of the rubber. To characterize the curing efficiency, thin elastomer films are prepared by using a conventional coagulant dipping process and their cross-link densities, curing kinetics, and tensile properties are investigated as a function of the concentration of the cross-linker and curing time. The results show that latex films containing 5 phr of epoxy-functional particles give the highest tensile strength, which is further improved by pre-vulcanizing the liquid latex compound at 60°C for 30 min. The latex formulations are stable over 3 days and the pre-cured films exhibit a high resistance against gamma sterilization and subsequent accelerated aging. Moreover, sterile films do not cause any skin irritation or skin sensitization reactions, showing the high potential of epoxy-functional particles in the production of accelerator-free hypoallergenic gloves.
Details
Original language | English |
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Article number | e55498 |
Number of pages | 12 |
Journal | Journal of applied polymer science |
Volume | 141.2024 |
Issue number | 24 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 20 Jun 2024 |