Webinar: Devulcanization – Science & Methods

June 18, 2026; 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. ET

Webinar Overview: This webinar provides a solid foundation in the science of devulcanization and examines the current methods used to break sulfur crosslinks in cured rubber. Participants will gain an understanding of the principles behind each major approach, along with the performance characteristics and commercial considerations relevant to modern recycling efforts.

Webinar Content:

• The drivers behind devulcanization and its role in circular rubber technologies
• Chemical approaches and reaction mechanisms
• Mechanical processing methods and their effects on structure
• Thermal processes and operating conditions
• Hybrid techniques that combine multiple pathways
• Key properties of devulcanized materials
• Current applications and commercial activity

This webinar equips participants with a practical scientific overview that supports informed decision making in materials selection, processing strategies, and sustainability planning.

Price: Free for Members / $99 Non-members

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.

Instructor: Critt Ohlemacher, PhD, Smithers Senior Materials Scientist – Akron Labs

Bio: As the Senior Materials Scientist of the Smithers rubber and polymer testing laboratory in Akron, Ohio, Critt works with the chemical analysis and physical & mechanical properties testing teams on projects related to mixing and compounding, reconstruction and reverse engineering, and development of analytical techniques. Critt has over thirty years of experience in physical testing and chemical analysis of rubber and polymer materials. He has special expertise in reverse engineering of elastomers and plastics, bloom and inclusion identification, additive identification and quantitation, headspace analysis and compounding. Critt holds a bachelor’s degree in physics from Ohio University and a Doctor of Philosophy in polymer science from the University of Akron.