Bonding of Rubber - Rubber Research at MERL

The bonding of low modulus elastomers to rigid substrates is an essential requirement in many engineered components: for example, automotive mounts and bushes, seismic isolation bearings, riser flexjoints and rail carriage couplings. The strength and durability of the bond, particularly in dynamic service where moisture and salts are present, is vital. MERL have been involved in the evaluation of rubber to metal bonds since 1986, primarily through a long-running (1995-2006+) consortium project managed by MERL, but also single client projects (component testing, fatigue, failure analysis). One outcome of this consortium project was a durability immersion test, now adopted as ASTM D429 Method G. MERL have also developed a novel rotary peel test, with a dual shear/peel failure mode, which is very sensitive to pre-bake.

MERL also has experience and specialist fixturing for rubber to brass plated steel cord bond testing.