Methods of Test for Surface Ozone Cracking

1. Scope
This test method covers the estimation of the resistance of vulcanized rubber to cracking when
exposed to an atmosphere containing ozone. The rubber specimens are kept under a surface tensile
strain, and the ozone content or partial pressure in the test chamber is maintained at a fixed value.
In service, rubbers must resist the deterioration that ozone cracking produces. This test method
provides methods for estimating this performance feature of rubbers.

2. Apparatus
To conduct this tests used a Chamber as per ASTM D 1149, ozone test chamber are sufficient air-
ozone throughput rate, sufficient internal circulation, and sufficient internal volume. Secondary
requirement is that of controlling the temperature within acceptable limits. A means for generating
and controlling an air-ozone stream shall be provided. The generating source shall be located
outside of the chamber. Circulation of Ozonized Air must be controlled. Dumb-bell Shape used as
test Specimen.

3. Definitions
A. Ozone Cracking: the Deterioration or cracks can be formed in many different elastomers
by ozone attack, and the characteristic form of attack of vulnerable rubbers is known as ozone
cracking. Ozone cracks form in products under tension, but the critical strain is very small.

4. Test Process
Procedure for Ozone Test: – Adjust ozone chamber to conditions for exposure, maintain the ozone
concentration level and pressure as agreed with customer. Must Check the Specimen Surface before
place in OZONE Chamber, No Cracks should allowed on Specimen. Place the extend specimens to the
prescribed elongation and fasten them to holders inert to ozone at Specified Temperature & Time.
After Completion of Time as agreed with customer, take out the Sample from Chamber, and free
from stress. Condition the specimens for 1 h in an ozone-free atmosphere at the temperature at
which they are to be exposed. Use the suitable Magnifying glass for observation of pieces. When
comparisons are being made with a standard reference material, exposures may be made for a fixed
time. Evaluate the degree of cracking using an agreed upon scale.

5. Results
From the above Test process we get the Ozone Resistance properties of Vulcanized Rubber which
ensure the Ability of Rubber to withstand there Application Area at Outer Environment for longer
Period of Time.