9339. Thiokol (Thiokol)

Nomenclature

Polysulfide rubber; thiorubber.

Description and references

Polysulfide polymers prepd from dihaloalkanes and sodium polysulfide. Reviews of prepn, chemistry and applications: Berenbaum in High Polymers, H. Mark et al., Eds., vol. 13 entitled Polyethers part 3, N. G. Gaylord, Ed. (Interscience, New York, 1962) pp 43-114; Panek, ibid. pp 115-224; Berenbaum in Encyclopedia of Polymer Science and Technology vol. 11 (Interscience, New York, 1969) pp 425-447.

Chemical structure

Derivative

Thiokol A.

Nomenclature

Ethanite; Perduren.

Properties

The first commercial polysulfide polymer, prepd from ethylene dichloride and sodium polysulfide. Sulfur content 84%; d about 1.6. Mixes with natural rubber. Cured polymer retains unpleasant odor; irritating fumes evolve during manuf. Stable to the usual organic solvents and dil mineral acids. Unstable to alkalies and oxidizing substances. Of low tensile strength and abrasion resistance. Not recommended where tropic or arctic climates prevail.

Derivative

Thiokol FA.

Properties

Prepd from ethylene dichloride, dichlorodiethyl formal and sodium polysulfide. Sulfur content 47%; d 1.34. No odor. Excellent solvent resistant characteristics but not as good as Thiokol A. Low temperature flexibility to 50°F.

Use

In rubber and resin manuf. As lining for flexible oil pipes and self-sealing gasoline tanks.