Antioxidant RD (also known as TMQ, or 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,2-dihydroquinoline polymer) is an efficient rubber antioxidant designed to protect rubber products from degradation. The aging of rubber is a complex process often initiated by oxygen, heat, light, ozone, mechanical stress, and metal ions, which can lead to the breakdown or cross-linking of rubber molecular chains, diminishing elasticity and mechanical properties.
The primary functions of Antioxidant RD include:
Oxidation Inhibition: It scavenges free radicals, preventing them from initiating further oxidation reactions in the rubber, thus slowing down aging caused by heat and oxygen.
Metal-Catalyzed Oxidation Resistance: It can inhibit the catalytic effect of metal ions (such as copper, manganese, etc.) on rubber oxidation, which are commonly present in rubber fillers or processing environments.
Maintenance of Rubber Properties: Antioxidant RD does not significantly impact the processing characteristics, vulcanization properties, or physical properties of vulcanized rubber, meaning it can be added to rubber compounds without altering the critical attributes of the final product.
Broad Application Range: It is suitable for natural rubber (NR) and various synthetic rubbers, including nitrile rubber (NBR), styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), and chloroprene rubber (CR).
Safety: Due to its low toxicity, Antioxidant RD can be used in the production of hygiene-grade rubber products such as medical supplies and food contact materials.
Aesthetic Preservation: With its pale yellow color, Antioxidant RD does not significantly affect the color of rubber products, making it suitable for applications sensitive to color.
However, Antioxidant RD provides less protection against flex cracking (fatigue damage caused by repeated bending). It is typically used in conjunction with other types of antioxidants (like Antioxidant AW or para-phenylenediamine-based antioxidants) to offer more comprehensive protection.
In the rubber industry, Antioxidant RD is a common additive used in the manufacture of tires, hoses, belts, electrical cables, and other rubber goods.
