Cleaning of aged EPDM rubber roofing membrane material for patching:

Abstract

Proper seam formation is a critical parameter associated with the long-term performance of ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer (EPDM) roofing systems. As time passes and the membrane weathers in service, patches and splices to an EPDM surface may be needed. A concern raised regarding the performance of EPDM roofing is whether weathering alters the rubber's surface characteristics such that successful bonding of the aged material becomes more difficult than with unaged rubber. This report describes the results of the preliminary phase of a study to investigate surface analysis techniques for ascertaining whether the surface of aged EPDM rubber is properly cleaned before patches are bonded to it. The intent of the investigations was to develop experimental procedures applicable to EPDM rubber based on existing analytical methods. The surface analytical techniques investigated were:1) scanning electron microscopy, 2) electron probe microanalysis, 3) Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and 4) contact angle (wettability) measurement.