Harmful Chemicals Commonly Used in the Polymer Industry
This handbook contains a summary on the toxic effects of the chief chemicals used in the polymer industry along with their major properties.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Harmful Chemicals Commonly Used in the Polymer Industry
Chapter 3: Vulcanizing Agents
One of the chief requirements of a large variety of polymers is that the molecular structure should be lightly cross linked. This cross-linking process is called vulcanization. This is achieved by a nonreversible chemical reaction, ordinarily performed at elevated temperatures. The chemicals used for this process are called vulcanizing agents.
Unvulcanized polymers are soft and tacky. They also have poor resistance to abrasion. Vulcanization improves these properties and enhances the modulus of elasticity, tensile strength, and resistance to degradation by oxidation.
N-Oxydiethylenebenzothiazole-2-Sulfenamide
This chemical belongs to the Sulfenamide family of chemicals and is popularly known as Amax in the polymer industry.
Fire and Explosion Hazards
The exposure of containers of Amax to fire results in rapid product decomposition, container pressure buildup, and failure, followed by vigorous burning with flare effect. Clean-up activities should not be attempted until all the product has cooled completely. The dust of this chemical may mix up with air and form a flammable mixture.
To fight fires in spaces containing Amax, you need to remember the following points:
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Use water to keep fire-exposed containers cool.
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Use self-contained breathing apparatus to avoid inhaling toxic vapors.
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If the fire is large, evacuate the area and fight the fire from a safe distance.
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Cool the surrounding area with water.
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Toxic fumes of Sulfur and Nitrogen oxides are formed at decomposition temperatures. Therefore, care should be taken to use appropriate respirator during rescue/escape from Amax fires.
Carcinogenity
This chemical is not listed as a carcinogen by NTP, not regulated...
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