SEDL / STP / STP1335-EB / STP38244S

Long-Term Serviceability of Elastomers in Modern Engine Coolants

Bussem, H
Chief chemist, Seals Eastern Inc., Red Bank, NJ

Farinella, AC
Quality control engineer, Seals Eastern Inc., Red Bank, NJ

Hertz, DL
President and technical director, Seals Eastern Inc., Red Bank, NJ

Pages: 26    Published: Jan 1999

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Abstract

The aging of elastomers in engine coolants after extended periods of service can be both a physical process (stress/strain relaxation) and/or a chemical change. Engine coolants are essentially aqueous and non-aqueous electrolytes coupled with inorganic inhibitor systems, as well as new organic acid systems. The long-term effects of this environment are reviewed. Chemical and functional tests are utilized to model these aging processes. This review will offer a better understanding of the long-term suitability of typical candidate elastomers.