Processable rubber compositions contain a vulcanized fluorocarbon elastomer
dispersed in a matrix of a non-fluorine containing thermoplastic polymeric material.
In one embodiment the matrix forms a continuous phase and the vulcanized elastomeric
material is in the form of particles forming a non-continuous phase. The compositions
are made by combining a curative, an uncured fluorocarbon elastomer, and a thermoplastic
material, and heating the mixture at a temperature and for a time sufficient to
effect vulcanization of the elastomeric material, while mechanical energy is applied
to mix the mixture during the heating step. Shaped articles such as seals, gaskets,
O-rings, and hoses may be readily formed from the rubber compositions according
to conventional thermoplastic processes such as blow molding, injection molding,
and extrusion.