Effect of gamma and UV radiation on properties of EPDM/GTR/HDPE blends

Ethylene propylene dine monomer (EPDM) was blended with both ground tire rubber (GTR) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) prepared at different ratios and then exposed to gamma and ultraviolet radiations. The mechanical, physical, and thermal properties were investigated with respect to the kind of irradiation and blend compositions. A scanning electron microscope was also used to examine the morphology of the irradiated blends. The blend of ratios (75/25/50) exhibited the best mechanical and physical properties after gamma irradiation, so this blend was taken as an example to be exposed to the UV radiation. The results indicated an improvement in the mechanical and physical properties for the blends exposed to gamma irradiation, but the mechanical and physical properties examined after UV irradiation were slightly affected. Scanning electron microscope measurements indicated the improvement in the homogeneity and the compatibility after irradiation, particularly in case of gamma radiation.