Analysis of extrudate swell behaviour of rubber compounds using laser scan detector

Summary Classical extrudate swell measurements such as the gravimetric or the shrinkage techniques, are difficult, complex and time consuming methods. Using laser scan detector, new instruments have been recently developed which allow the extrudate swell behaviour of rubber compounds to be analysed in a quick and reliable manner.This paper discusses the requirements for suitable analysis of the extrudate swell of rubber compounds. Due to the specific elastic response of rubbers, these requirements differ from those for thermoplastics. Recent results obtained using typical industrial formulations, such as natural rubber/polybutadiene blends, are presented and their practical significance is discussed.Paper presented at the VIIIth International Congress on Rheology, Naples, Sept. 1–5, 1980.With 3 figures