Latex based adhesive for EPDM rubber

Manufacturer: We're looking for a suitable water-based natural rubber adhesive for bonding EPDM (Ethylene Propylene terpolymer) rubber sheets to polyester fabric. Acrylic and PU based adhesives had worked to some extent but we're under pressure to use an NR based material which must also be solvent free. Please give your recommendation.

JohnWoon: Your best bet is to start with graft copolymer of natural rubber with MMA (Methy methacrylate) or commonly known as MG latex. The surface of the EPDM rubber sheet must first be treated to remove any dirt and oil contamination. This is best done by cleaning with detergent followed by abrasion rubbing and solvent wipe.

MG latex with and without a tackifier is applied to both the surfaces of the rubber sheet and fabric. The two surfaces could then be brought together with some pressure and dried at about 70C to 80C. MG latex with about 50% of MMA is available from Revertex Malaysia. Depending on the stiffness required, this can be blended with latex concentrate or Prevulcanised latex.

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