Effect of gamma radiation on the properties of ethylene propylene diene monomer/styrene butadiene rubber/waste polyethylene/clay nanocomposites

Composite of ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber/styrene butadiene rubber/waste high density polyethylene (50/50/30) filled with different content of organo-montmorillonite clay 2–10 phr (parts per hundred part of rubber) were subjected to gamma irradiation at various doses up to 250 kGy. The physical, mechanical and thermal properties were investigated as a function of irradiation dose and nano clay content. Gamma irradiation led to a significant improvement in the properties for all composites. The mechanical and physical properties were improved by the incorporation of nano clay and increase of irradiation dose. Thermogravimetric analysis studies showed improvement in thermal stability.