Enhancing Mechanical and Gamma Shielding Properties of Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer Rubber Filled With Recycled Nano‐Tungsten Oxide

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Abstract
This study investigates the incorporation of recycled nano‐tungsten oxide (WO 3 ) into ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber to enhance its mechanical properties and gamma shielding capabilities. Utilizing a conventional two‐roll mill, EPDM composites filled with varying WO 3 concentrations (0–20 parts per hundred rubber, phr) were prepared and analyzed. The mechanical test results revealed significant improvements in tensile strength, elongation at break, and hardness, with optimal performance observed at 15 phr WO 3 . Gamma attenuation properties were assessed through theoretical and experimental methods, demonstrating enhanced shielding performance proportional to WO 3 content, particularly at low to medium energy levels. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed a uniform dispersion of WO 3 at 15 phr, while rheometric analysis highlighted improvements in curing behavior and crosslinking density at this concentration. These findings underscore the potential of recycled nano‐WO 3 as a sustainable filler, providing a lead‐free alternative for applications requiring enhanced mechanical and radiation shielding properties. Future work will explore the long‐term durability and application‐specific performance of these composites.

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