Characterization, morphology, thermal and mechanical properties of conductive polyaniline-functionalized EPDM elastomers obtained by casting

Conductive elastomeric blends based on ethylene–propylene–5‐ethylidene–2‐norbornene terpolymer (EPDM) and polyaniline doped with 4‐dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid [PAni(DBSA)] were cast from organic solvents. Functionalization of the elastomer was promoted by grafting with maleic anhydride. Vulcanization conditions were optimized with an oscillating disk rheometer. The conductivity, morphology, thermal stability, compatibility, and mechanical behavior of the obtained mixtures were analyzed by in situ direct current conductivity measurements, atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, wide‐angle X‐ray scattering, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, stress–strain and hysteresis tests. The vulcanization process was affected by temperature, the PAni content, and maleic anhydride. A reinforcement effect was promoted by the vulcanizing agent. The formation of links between the high‐molar‐mass phases and oligomers of PAni(DBSA) in the elastomeric matrix enhanced the thermal stability and ultimate properties of the blends. By the appropriate control of the polymer blends' composition, it was possible to produce elastomeric materials with conductivities in the range of 10−5–10−4 S · cm−1 and excellent mechanical properties. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 42: 1767–1782, 2004