Low molecular weight fluids in EPDM

Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) is widely used in outdoor insulations. The electrical performance of the polymer material is influenced by the surface hydrophobicity which in turn is affected by the presence of low molecular weight (LMW) fluids on the surface and in the bulk. In the present paper, the LMW fluid is extracted using a solvent at an elevated temperature. Analytical hexane is used to completely remove the fluid from the EPDM. The specimens are then subjected to heat at different temperatures (50, 150, 240, and 380/spl deg/C) in order to investigate the loss and generation of LMW fluid. The contact angle is measured after various treatments with view to characterizing the surface property and correlate it with the presence of LMW fluid.