| Summary: | Flexible polymer composites have been the focus of demanding interest in classical studies of neutron radiation shielding applications. The influence of varied loading of carbon black on the morphology, mechanical and neutron shielding properties of Ethylene Diene Monomer Rubber/High-Density Polyethylene (100/30) blends are observed through this experimental work. EPDM and HDPE were blended in a Brabender type internal mixer and other functional additives were dispersed using two roll mill and later cured using a compression molding, on determining the cure time on rubber rheometer. The carbon black addition enhanced HDPE dispersion in the EPDM matrix, as evidenced through morphological and mechanical analysis. The improvement in the tensile parameters indicates the reinforcing efficiency of the carbon black in EPDM/HDPE blends. Lower tear resistance suggests a weak interface within the EPDM / HDPE blend at low black carbon concentration. Carbon black filled EPDM/HDPE composites displayed a total neutron macroscopic cross-section of 0.28 cm-1 for 2 MeV energy neutrons. © Published under licence by IOP Publishing Ltd.
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