Abstract. The photo-oxidation of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM)/ layered double hydroxide (LDH) composites as well as EPDM/LDH with stabilizers is studied under accelerated UV irradiation (λ ≥ 290 nm) at 60°C for different time intervals. The development of functional groups during oxidation was monitored by FT-IR spectroscopy. The photodegradation of the pristine polymer and composites take place and the increase in hydroxyl and carbonyl groups with irradiation times, was estimated. EPDM filled LDH showed higher degradation rate than pristine EPDM, while in acidic medium EPDM/LDH showed almost equal degradation as in isolated conditions. These results show the advantages of LDHs as a filler as well as an acid killer. The effect of stabilizers is very less because of their concentration in comparison of LDH.

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A polymeric hindered amine light stabilizer (HALS), where HALS moiety was attached at the terminal end of the polypropylene chain via end-functionalized vinylidine PP through simple organic reactions, was synthesized. It comprises the synthesis of vinylidine-terminated polypropylene by using Cp 2 ZrCl 2 /MAO as catalyst system and epoxidation of vinylidene polypropylene. The final product was synthesized by carrying out the reaction between epoxy end functionalized polypropylene and 4-amino-2,2,6,6-tetrametyl piperidine. The final product was characterized by using 1 H NMR, 13C NMR, and FT-IR spectra. Functionality was calculated by using vapor phase osmometry and 1 H NMR. The solubility and diffusion coefficient of the product were calculated and also its stabilization performance was checked.

The degradability of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) nanocomposites, prepared from organically modified montmorillonite (OMMT), is studied under accelerated UV irradiation (290 nm) for different time intervals. The development of functional groups during degradation is monitored by FT-IR spectroscopy whereas, surface changes are studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The effect of clay modifier and clay concentration on the degradability are studied. The degradation of neat polymer and composites taking place traditionally and an increase in carbonyl and hydroxyl groups are observed with irradiation time. Neat EPDM is found to be less degradable than nanocomposites. Degradation products, as seen by FT-IR in nanocomposites are found to be the same as in neat polymer but are generated at a faster rate. According to the experimental results, one can define that both ammonium ion and neat montmorillonite (MMT) accelerate the photo-oxidation of EPDM.

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