The Effect of Crosslinking Density and Carbon Black Content on the Performance of EPDM for CO2 Transport Applications

The escalating demand for efficient and sustainable carbon capture and storage technologies requires robust materials capable of withstanding the challenging temperature and pressure conditions encountered in CO₂ transport systems. To address this need, this research investigates the suitability of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) elastomers as potential materials for carbon dioxide (CO₂) transport systems, such as seals and gaskets. This research presents a detailed characterization of the effect of varying degrees of crosslink density and carbon black content. Insights into CO₂ uptake and reduction in glass transition temperature (Tg) following exposure to liquid carbon dioxide (LCO2) are presented. The work also focuses on the investigation of CO₂ permeability, diffusivity, and solubility in EPDM using a constant volume and variable pressure method at different temperature and pressure conditions. The work extends to the extraction of EPDM using various solvents that are liquid at ambient conditions, examining their subsequent changes in thermal, mechanical, and CO₂ transport properties.