With the continuous progress of science and technology and the growing industrial demand, the material research and innovation of EPDM seals are also continuing to deepen. Through the modification of EPDM materials and the introduction of new technologies, researchers are committed to improving its performance, reducing costs, and enhancing sustainability to meet the needs of a wider range of applications. This paper will discuss the main direction and latest progress of EPDM seal material research and innovation.
First, material modification research
1. Copolymer optimization
The properties of EPDM can be significantly improved by adjusting the types and proportions of copolymers (such as non-conjugated diolefins) in EPDM materials. For example, the introduction of monomers with special functional groups can enhance the heat, oil and chemical resistance of EPDM.
2. Filler optimization
The use of fillers can significantly improve the mechanical properties and wear resistance of EPDM materials. Commonly used fillers include carbon black, white carbon black and kaolin. It was found that the surface modification of the filler, such as silane coupling agent treatment, can improve the compatibility between the filler and the rubber matrix, and further enhance the properties of EPDM materials.
3. Optimization of crosslinking system
The vulcanization process has great influence on the properties of EPDM materials. Although the traditional sulfur vulcanization system is mature, the vulcanization reversion may occur after high temperature and long time use, resulting in reduced performance. Researchers are exploring new crosslinking systems, such as peroxide vulcanization and silane crosslinking systems, to improve the heat resistance and resistance to retrogression of EPDM materials.
Second, new materials and composite materials research
1. Nano-composite materials
The development of nanotechnology provides a new way for the modification of EPDM materials. By introducing nanoparticles (such as nano-alumina, nano-silica) into EPDM matrix, the mechanical strength, wear resistance and heat resistance of EPDM can be significantly improved. The nanocomposites can also improve the anti-ultraviolet and anti-ozone properties of EPDM.
2. Bio-based EPDM
With the improvement of environmental protection awareness, the research of bio-based materials has been paid more and more attention. Researchers are exploring the use of biobased monomers (such as biobased ethylene, biobased propylene) to replace some of the petrochemical monomers to prepare biobased EPDM materials. This material not only has comparable performance to conventional EPDM, but also is more sustainable and has a lower carbon footprint.
3. Self-repair EPDM
Self-healing materials are an emerging class of smart materials that can repair themselves after damage. Researchers are developing EPDM materials containing microcapsules and restorants, which can be triggered by temperature or pressure to break the microcapsules and release the restorants to achieve self-healing of the surface and extend the service life of the seals.
Third, manufacturing process innovation
1. 3D printing technology
3D printing technology offers new possibilities for the manufacture of EPDM seals. Through 3D printing, precision manufacturing of complex shape seals can be achieved, shortening the production cycle and reducing costs. Researchers are developing 3D printing processes and materials suitable for EPDM materials to improve printing accuracy and material properties.
2.Continuous vulcanization technology
The traditional vulcanization process usually needs to be carried out in a vulcanization tank or a vulcanization furnace, which consumes a lot of time and energy. Continuous vulcanization technology Through continuous vulcanization on the production line can significantly improve production efficiency and reduce energy consumption. Researchers are optimizing the continuous vulcanization process to improve vulcanization uniformity and product performance.
3. Supercritical fluid foaming technology
Supercritical fluid foaming technology is a new lightweight manufacturing technology. By introducing supercritical carbon dioxide into EPDM material and foaming it under high temperature and pressure, light EPDM material with microporous structure can be prepared. This material not only has excellent sealing properties, but also has lower density and better thermal insulation.
4. Application development and performance evaluation
1. Aerospace
With the progress of aerospace technology, the requirements for sealing materials are getting higher and higher. Because of its excellent weather resistance, high temperature resistance and chemical resistance, EPDM materials are gradually applied in the aerospace field. Researchers are developing high-performance EPDM seals to meet the high temperature and high pressure sealing needs of aeroengines and spacecraft.
2. New energy vehicles
The rapid development of new energy vehicles has posed new challenges to sealing materials. Because of its excellent weather resistance and chemical resistance, EPDM materials show excellent performance in the battery pack sealing, motor sealing and cooling system sealing of new energy vehicles. Researchers are developing low VOC emission, high weather resistance EPDM seals for new energy vehicles to meet stringent environmental requirements.
3. Medical and food industries
In the medical and food industries, the hygiene and safety requirements for sealing materials are extremely high. EPDM material is widely used in the sealing of medical devices and food processing equipment because of its non-toxic and harmless and good biocompatibility. The researchers are developing FDA - and EU-compliant EPDM seals to meet stringent hygiene requirements.
V. Summary
The material research and innovation of ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM) seals is developing towards high performance, sustainability and intelligence. Through material modification, new material development, manufacturing process innovation and application expansion, researchers are committed to improving the overall performance of EPDM seals to meet the diverse needs of different industries. In the future, with the continuous progress of science and technology and the continuous expansion of industrial applications, the research and innovation of EPDM sealing materials will continue to make new breakthroughs, and provide more excellent sealing solutions for all walks of life.