Scanning electron microscopy, heat-aged

Scanning electron microscopy micrographs taken in the normal mode do not always permit effective observation of features on fiber surfaces. Display modes such as deflection or Y modulation and imaging modes such as back-scattered electron imaging (BEI) can provide clearer contrast, as shown in Figs 5.5 and 5.6. Heat aging of polymer fibers can cause cyclic trimers and oligomers to diffuse to the fiber... 

The effect is examined of tetramethyl thiuram disulphide (TMTD) on the heat ageing and oxidation of clay-filled NR, with reference to the plasticity retention index of NR, using thermal analysis and scanning electron microscopy test methods. The results showed that heat and oxygen resistant properties could be obtained when the clay-filled natural rubber compound was cured by semi-effective or effective curing systems, with 1.5 phr or 3.0 phr of TMTD. 3 refs. 

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