Course: Antidegradant Chemistry, Testing & Aging
May 14, 2026; 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. ET
CEUs: 0.38 (To receive the CEUs, attendees must attend the course and promptly complete the survey evaluation after the course.)
Location: This course is available virtually only. It can be taken from the comfort of your home or office – remotely from any tablet, laptop or computer.
Course Overview: The course addresses antidegradant use, chemistry, testing and types of aging used in the rubber industry today. A review of the chemistry of oxidation, ozonolysis and UV exposure which applies to not only rubber but many engineering materials currently in use. The types of antidegradants used in rubber will be explored in relation to the different polymers available for thermosets. Most things have a shelf-life and rubber products are no different; a discussion of the persistence of antidegradants will assist in determining a rubber article’s service life. The course will finish with some antidegradant comparisons in various rubber formulas to see how these affect properties of the rubber compounds and their aging.
Topics covered will include:
- Aging of polymers and the test methods used in industry
- Oxidation, Ozonolysis chemistry
- Types of anti-degradants and their uses in polymer manufacturing
- Cure systems effect on aging
Price: $395 Members / $495 Non-members / $50 for Graduate Student Members / Free for Emeritus, Life & Undergraduate Student Members
Instructor: Paul Merda, Akron Rubber Development Laboratory
Bio: Paul Merda is the Education Coordinator & Technical Advisor at ARDL. He has previous experience as a Lab Technician, Polymer Adhesives Chemist & High School Science Teacher with 18 years in industry and 13 teaching.
About ARDL: Akron Rubber Development Laboratory, Inc. (ARDL) is an internationally recognized independent testing laboratory specializing in rubber, plastic, and latex materials. With over six decades of experience, ARDL offers comprehensive services including material testing, product development, process optimization, and failure analysis. Their state-of-the-art facilities and expert team provide solutions across various industries such as automotive, aerospace, medical, and industrial applications. ARDL is committed to advancing innovation and ensuring quality in polymer products, making them a trusted partner for companies seeking reliable and accurate testing services.