Abstract: Disclosed is a process for the preparation of a graft copolymer comprising a PVC backbone and graft branches formed from cationically polymerizable monomers such as styrene, isoprene, butadiene and in particular, isobutylene. The process includes the steps of irradiating the PVC resin to form reactive sites thereon, dissolving the irradiated resin in a suitable solvent, adding a monomeric charge of isobutylene and a catalytic amount of an alkylaluminum compound to polymerize a plurality of polyisobutylene branches from the reactive sites, subsequently terminating the reaction and separating the graft copolymer.

Abstract: Synthetic rubber compositions and method of radiation curing such compositions at low average radiation dose wherein the compositions are characterized by defined distribution of radiation rate enhancing and inhibiting monomers.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to a laminate of several layers of rubber compounds. The laminate may be in sheet or strip form with various cross-sectional shapes. The layers in the laminate comprise rubber compounds, some of which contain agents which either assist or retard cure by irradiation so that the layers will have different physical characteristics during the manufacture of end products containing the laminate. The laminate may be cured by any known method, either irradiation or thermal, after its assembly into the final product.

Abstract: Disclosed is a process for the uniform cure of polyurethane elastomers including the steps of mixing polyurethane prepolymers, having free isocyanate groups, with a stable curing agent complex to form a blend, thereafter transferring it to a suitable mold and subjecting it to a predetermined amount of microwave energy until it is substantially cured.