Vulcanization process: a stochastic method for identification and control problem

This paper deals with the coupling of deterministic and stochastic methods in order to solve identification and control problems arising in the industrial process of vulcanization. Elastomers and rubber composite materials are used in many high technology industries and a severe control of their mechanical and thermal properties must be exerted. These properties are closely connected to the curing process, while an exothermal chemical reaction can occur, depending on the history of the temperature behaviour. This supplement of energy can, on the one hand, damage the material and, on the other hand, modify the final mechanical and thermal properties of the cured elastomer. A sharp control of this reaction is essential to avoid the destruction of the material and to assure good performances in practical utilisation. A stochastic method is presented in order to solve these inverse problems