Thermal degradation of high nitrile barrier polymers

Effects of absorbed moisture on degradation behavior of high nitrile barrier polymers were monitored using thermogravimetric analysis techniques. Non‐modified and 10 percent rubber modified samples were heated isothermally at nitrile processing temperatures (200°C to 240°C) in air and nitrogen environments. Degradation was evaluated in terms of weight loss as a function of heating time and sample coloration. It was determined that complete removal of moisture, as well as high moisture concentration, contribute to increased degradation at the temperatures evaluated. Moisture levels in the range of 0.15 to 0.5 percent were found to minimize degradation. Heating environment, time, temperature, and rubber modification were also found to influence thermal stability.