| abstract |
The present invention is directed to a method of preparation involving the addition of a peroxide masterbatch to a molten mixture of fluorocarbon elastomer and thermoplastic. The peroxide masterbatch comprises at least about 5% by weight organic peroxide, further comprises a fluorocarbon elastomer, and generally comprises a crosslinker comprising at least two olefinically unsaturated sites. The fluorocarbon elastomers in the melt mixture and the peroxide masterbatch may be the same or different. After the peroxide masterbatch is added to the melt mixture, it is mixed at a time and temperature sufficient to cure the fluorocarbon elastomer. By using a masterbatch, pre-dispersion of the peroxide in the elastomer phase results in faster and more uniform decomposition of the peroxide curing agent, thereby producing molded articles with improved physical properties.n n n Peroxide, Curing, Fluorocarbon, Elastomer, Crosslinking, Masterbatch |