Infrared Analysis of Isomerized, Vulcanized, and Oxidized Natural Rubber
Abstract This paper is a continuation of our study on the infrared spectra of natural rubber and its derivatives. It was found previously that, in certain reactions of rubber, the original double bond (I) is shifted to the side group (II) and that this leads to significant changes in the chemical and mechanical behavior of the polymer. Others have also reported the occurrence of groups (II) and (III) in rubber and certain rubber derivatives. Group (II) is also found in synthetic polyisoprenes as a result of 3,4-polymerization. We have now measured the intensities of the absorption bands of the rubber spectrum and changes produced by cyclization and isomerization. Certain statements on the formation of (II) and (III) during vulcanization were at variance with our experience, but a detailed investigation cleared up some misconceptions. Modifications brought about by oxidation are chemically related to those produced by sulfuration reactions. A classification of oxidation reactions, based on typical changes in the infrared spectrum, will be proposed in the discussion.