Crosslinked Blends of Polyolefin Elastomers with EPDM Rubber

Random, homogeneous ethylene-α-olefin copolymers, often referred to as polyolefin elastomers (POEs), share some common desirable attributes with ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer (EPDM) and copolymer (EPM) rubber.  These common attributes include low density, low temperature flexibility, high filler loading acceptance, and chemical inertness for excellent heat, weather and water resistance. 

Blends of polyolefin elastomers, at selected compositions and characteristics, can provide some useful features to extend and enhance EPDM rubber properties in crosslinked formulations.  Some examples are crosslinked blends of ENGAGE™ POEs with NORDEL™ IP Hydrocarbon Rubber (EPDM) polymers, in particular using peroxide cures. Dow’s POE and EPDM are derived from advanced INSITE™ catalyst and reactor technologies that provide excellent product consistency, clarity, ultra-low gel and cleanliness.  ENGAGE™ POE grades are available over a broad range of viscosities (melt indices) and ethylene content (densities) as ethylene-butene and ethylene-octene copolymer elastomers.