Poly(alkylene Oxide) Rubbers

Abstract A high grade rubber was made by vulcanizing copolymers of propylene oxide and allyl glycidyl ether. The crude polymer contained both crystalline and amorphous fractions. The total polymer could be sulfur cured without fractionation or removing the catalyst—a partly hydrolized ferric alkoxide, resulting from the reaction of FeCl3 with propylene oxide. Variables in the vulcanization recipe were studied, and a tensile strength of 1980 psi with 560% elongation was obtained. Improved tear and oil resistance were observed as compared with SBR rubber. Other physical properties compared favorably with commencal rubbers, except for compression set.