• In 2010 the SafeRubber project received EC funding under the FP7 framework to develop a new, safe, multifunctional accelerator curative molecule which can replace thiourea-based accelerators e.g.ETU in the vulcanisation process of polychloroprene.
• After 3 years of work the The SafeRubber consortium now informs that they have achieved to identify a safer accelerator molecule.

Norner contribution

Norner’s main contribution in the project has been work within Health, Safety and Environment and especially work related to REACH (European Community Regulation on chemicals and their safe use) and testing for REACH registration, says Principal Researcher Svein Jamtvedt.

Project goals have been reached and deliverables are

• An IP protectable method for producing polychloroprene rubber, with a safer accelerator than ETU – protecting SMEs (small and medium Enterprises) from the current dominance of large enterprises.
• A significant reduction in the quantities of MgO and ZnO required during vulcanisation, achieved through using a multi-functional accelerator – allowing the SME members compete on cost with Far Eastern suppliers.
• Reduced environmental impact through reduced feedstock (of MgO and ZnO) and effluent hazards associated with the process – further reducing hazards and costs.

About Norner

• Norner has more than 35 years of experience in performing product and material testing, product quality improvement and control of production technologies. 
• We have established a wide range of methods for testing products and sample specimens at specific conditions and environments. 
• Norner intends to continue the development of methods for testing and investigations of materials and products to the plastic industry.
• Norner is approved according to ISO 9001:2008.

For more information contact

• Market Manager Ole Jan Myhre
• Principal Researcher Svein Jamtvedt