The first, former users of vulcanized natural rubber quickly became aware of the sensitivity of the material. Under various conditions, rubber began to deteriorate.
This can result, among other things, in a change to a sticky mass with general aging and the formation of cracks or hardening of the surface that can be observed after exposure to (sun) light.
Degradation in a rubber item is a chemical process that reduces its quality, leading to material defects. This degradation process is mainly initiated by external factors. Various factors that cause degradation are: oxygen, heat, light and weathering, effect(s) of metal ions, dynamic fatigue and ozone.
Dr. Ir. Kuno Dijkhuis of Elastomer Research Testing gives in his presentation an overview of all options available to carry out standardized (accelerated) aging tests and how this can contribute to the improvement of customer products.
Nederlands