This paper described a novel synthetic methodology towards epoxidized trans-1

4-poly isoprene (ETPI)

using a self-made oxidation reagent. Results showed that the addition of appropriate amount of ethyl acetate or chloroform to the reaction system could improve the degree of epoxidation. Epoxy degree as high as 32% in ethyl acetate

and 51% in chloroform could be obtained. Compared with the traditional method (using the peroxide or acetic acid as the oxidant)

the new synthetic method greatly suppressed the side reactions such as over oxidation

chain scission and furan ring formation

which in turn greatly improved the mechanical properties of the resulting ETPT. Mechanical tests shows that the raw ETPI prepared using this novel method shows a tensile strength over 20 MPa

almost 7 times stronger than ETPI prepared using traditional method. Improved wet-skid resistance was observed with the increase of epoxy degree for ETPI prepared using the new method

while rolling resistance changed little. Oil resistance tests showed that the oil resistance of ETPI was significantly increased when the epoxy degree was greater than 15%.