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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Sulfur and Peroxide Cure?

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The main difference between sulfur and peroxide cures lies in their properties, applications, and curing processes. Here is a comparison of the two:

Sulfur Cure:

  • Lower temperature resistance: Sulfur-cured EPDM can resist temperatures up to 250°F (120°C).
  • Higher tensile strength and tear strength: Sulfur-cured EPDM has greater strength in these areas compared to peroxide-cured EPDM.
  • Allows for a wider range of fillers: Sulfur curing permits the use of a more diverse range of fillers in the rubber compound.

Peroxide Cure:

  • Higher temperature resistance: Peroxide-cured EPDM can withstand temperatures up to 300°F (150°C).
  • Good resistance to aging: Peroxide-cured EPDM has better resistance to aging compared to sulfur-cured EPDM.
  • Lower compression set and improved resistance to chemicals and oils: Peroxide-cured EPDM has a lower compression set and better resistance to various chemicals and oils.
  • Will not stain metals or PVC: Peroxide-cured EPDM does not cause staining on metals or PVC materials.

The choice of curing method depends on the specific end-use and application of the rubber compound. For example, peroxide-cured EPDM is more suitable for applications requiring higher temperature resistance and better resistance to chemicals and oils, while sulfur-cured EPDM is more appropriate for applications that need higher tensile strength, tear strength, and the ability to use a wider range of fillers.

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  • What is the Difference Between Sulfur and Peroxide Cure?
  • Comparative Table: Sulfur vs Peroxide Cure

    • Comparative Table: Sulfur vs Peroxide Cure

    The difference between sulfur and peroxide cure lies in their temperature resistance, strength, and chemical properties. Here is a table summarizing the differences between sulfur-cured and peroxide-cured EPDM:

    Property Sulfur-Cured EPDM Peroxide-Cured EPDM
    Tensile Strength Higher Lower
    Tear Strength Higher Lower
    Temperature Resistance Lower (up to 250°F / 120°C) Higher (up to 300°F / 150°C)
    Compression Set Higher Lower
    Aging Resistance Lower Better
    Color and Appearance May yellow or discolor Better, less likely to bloom or discolor
    Chemical Resistance Lower Better, less likely to stain metals or PVC
    Filler Compatibility Permits use of a wider range of fillers Limited range of fillers

    Sulfur-cured EPDM has higher tensile strength, tear strength, and permits the use of a wider range of fillers. However, it has lower temperature resistance and inferior aging, color, and chemical resistance compared to peroxide-cured EPDM.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.