This review report describes the curing process, and then reviews the theory and implementaion of a wide range of measuring techniques. Physical property measurements evaluated include modulus, hardness, viscosity and swelling, as well as dielectric and ultrasonic techniques. Methods which measure chemical changes include IR and NMR spectroscopy, gas chromatography, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and `wet' analytical techniques.

From the Introduction: “...This report is an attempt to critically evaluate cure assessment techniques covering both physical and chemical monitoring methods. The approach to making meaningful comparisons amongst such a diversity of techniques has been to set out to define what is being measured and what is its relevance to cure...”

Rapra Review Reports contain a brief overview of the topic, followed by extensive references, with abstracts, from the Rapra database. They serve as condensed, valuable research tools for scientists, technologists, and other researchers working with rubber or plastics materials.

Table of Contents:

Introduction

State of Cure

Physical Property Measurements

Chemical Property Measurements

Conclusion

Additional References

References from the Rapra Abstracts Database

Subject Index