Effect of peroxide crosslinking on the dynamic modulus of silicone rubber

The effect of peroxide crosslinking on the dynamic modulus of a silica-reinforced silicone [poly(dimethylsiloxane)] elastomer was investigated. Three different peroxides (t-butyl peroxide, t-butyl perbenzoate, and benzoyl peroxide) were employed at various practical loadings and differences in the nonlinear behavior of the dynamic modulus were found. Results are discussed with respect to changes in crosslinking density and the identity of the peroxide.