Effects of γ-ray radiation on the properties of fluorosilicone rubber

The effects of gamma-ray radiation on the properties of fluorosilicone rubber (FSR) were studied. The surface morphology, nuclear magnetic resonance spin-spin relaxation, as well as mechanical and dynamic mechanical properties of FSR were examined before and after gamma-ray irradiation. The results showed that the crosslinking density and hardness increased after irradiation. The tensile strength, tear strength, and elongation at break decreased with increased radiation dose. The effects of the radiation on the properties of FSR were ascribed to the occurrence of degradation and crosslinking reactions. Overall, the results proved that the degradation reaction dominated over the crosslinking reaction during gamma-ray irradiation. Crown Copyright (C) 2012 Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.