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This study investigates the profound impact of vulcanization methods on ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) composites, with a particular focus on elucidating significant findings and achievements. Exploring eight composites, including sulfur and peroxide-cured variations, we conducted an indepth evaluation of the crucial physico-mechanical properties of the composites. The study extends to encompass the effects of vulcanization on heat aging parameters, providing a comprehensive understanding of the materials' resilience. Utilizing thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, our research delves into the processes, revealing critical insights into the thermal behavior and composition of the composites. Paint compatibility, a pivotal aspect in automotive applications, was rigorously examined through four different test methods. Surface morphology, investigated through scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy, yielded valuable findings on the role of vulcanization in shaping surface roughness and enhancing paint compatibility. Additionally, the quantitative measurement of surface energy using the sessile drop method provided a deeper understanding of the adhesion properties. The findings distinctly underscore the superiority of peroxide-cured composites, marking a significant stride toward their potential to revolutionize automotive applications. This research not only contributes to the knowledge base but also sets a foundation for advancements in EPDM composite materials, positioning them as key players in driving innovation within the automotive industry. Highlights * Developed a peroxide-cured EPDM rubber composite with a rough surface. * A rough surface is more paint-compatible than a smooth surface. * The roughness of peroxide-cured EPDM is greater than that of sulfur-cured one. * Peroxide curing introduces more polar functional groups and cross-links. * Peroxide-cured EPDM has higher thermal stability than sulfur-cured EPDM. KEYWORDS contact angle, EPDM, interfaces, stain resistance, surface roughness, 1 | INTRODUCTION The development of rubber composites for automobile applications represents a highly demanding and critical research field, primarily driven by the need for strict compatibility with the surrounding [...]

Thermo-resistant nanoalloys are a new class of materials that combine high-temperature refractory compounds (such as carbides, nitrides, borides, and oxides) with nanoscale particles of metals, ceramics, or carbon. These composites exhibit remarkable thermal stability and anti-ablation/oxidation properties, making them highly attractive for various high-temperature applications in aerospace, energy, and high-temperature manufacturing. Despite their potential, the fabrication of these materials is challenging due to their complex synthesis and processing. Many researchers have summarized the challenges and suggested solutions to produce high-density, superior physicochemical properties of nano refractory materials for specific applications. Thus, in view of these perspectives, the present review provides an overview of the production criteria, processing, and synthetic routes for producing high-temperature nano refractory material composites with exceptional thermal and anti-ablation/oxidation properties. The review also highlights the challenges encountered by researchers and their solutions for fabricating these materials. Potential applications of high temperature refractory materials are found in various industries, such as refractory ceramics, high-temperature components in wear resistant, neutron shielding, and high power-density microelectronics manufacturing to name a few.

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is a critical issue in the automobile industry. ESD can occur due to the rubbing of dissimilar materials, potentially damaging sensitive components. Automakers must use ESD protection to safeguard the reliability of the components. In this scenario, the automotive industries demand for suitable materials to address this problem. The present study focuses on the development of EPDM rubber composites with low-volume resistivity and optimized physico-mechanical properties, which are the vital parameters to be addressed in electrostatic discharge for automotive applications. EPDM rubber composites were cured by sulfur and peroxide with a special-grade conductive carbon black (CB). These composites were analyzed by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA), and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). The dispersion of conductive CB in the polymer matrix was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The BET adsorption technique was employed to investigate the specific surface area and porosity of CB. The ESD behavior of the composites was evaluated by measuring the volume resistivity(ASTM D257). The Studies reveal that the developed material has moderate physico-mechanical properties and consistent thermal stability. Above all, the conductivity offered by the composite is adequate for ESD applications. Highlights • Developed sulfur-cured EPDM rubber composite with low-volume resistivity. • Peroxide cured EPDM rubber has higher thermal stability than sulfur-cured one. • Carbon black (CB) with a high surface area can easily form a conductive network. • A good conductive network is formed at the percolation zone. • The hardness of the EPDM composite increases with the loading of CB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An image processing technique was used to model the internal structure of aluminum foam in finite element analysis in order to predict the compressive behavior of the material. Finite element analysis and experimental tests were performed on aluminum foam with densities of 0.2, 0.25, and 0.3 g/cm3. It was found that although the compressive strength predicted from the finite element analysis was higher than that determined experimentally, the predicted compressive stress-strain curves exhibited a tendency similar to those determined from experiments for both densities. However, the behavior of the predicted compressive stress-strain curves was different from the experimental one as the applied strain increased. The difference between predicted and experimental stress-strain curves in a high strain range was due to contact between broken aluminum foam walls by the large deformation.