Abstract
The dispersion of fillers in elastomers can be discriminated into two categories based on the dimensions of the filler clusters: macro- (2 to 100 μm) and micro- (smaller than 2 μm) dispersion. Both dispersion types are determining the final properties of the composite, but the micro-dispersion of fillers is crucial for good reinforcement of the rubber. Two basic dispersion mechanisms are proposed in literature for carbon black: agglomerate rupture and onion peel model. These filler dispersion mechanisms imply that micro-dispersion occurs only after agglomerate fragmentation of fillers, and that therefore these processes are strongly related. For silica fillers, Blume and Uhrlandt proposed a specific micro-dispersion mechanism: The polymer firstly penetrates into the voids of the agglomerates, followed by polymer chains pulling off fragments from the larger agglomerates under shearing conditions. This mechanism suggests that micro- and macro-dispersion of silica are independent.
In this study, the relation between micro- and macro-dispersion of silica in a rubber matrix was investigated. Different degrees of dispersion were achieved by variation of the mixing parameters (silanization temperature, time) and the amount of coupling agent. The degree of micro- and macro-dispersion was analyzed by measuring the Payne effect and using microscopic methods, respectively. No correlation was found between micro- and macro-dispersion. The results of this study confirm indeed that these filler dispersion processes happen simultaneously, but independently. Additionally, the factors affecting micro- and macro-dispersion will be discussed.
In this study, the relation between micro- and macro-dispersion of silica in a rubber matrix was investigated. Different degrees of dispersion were achieved by variation of the mixing parameters (silanization temperature, time) and the amount of coupling agent. The degree of micro- and macro-dispersion was analyzed by measuring the Payne effect and using microscopic methods, respectively. No correlation was found between micro- and macro-dispersion. The results of this study confirm indeed that these filler dispersion processes happen simultaneously, but independently. Additionally, the factors affecting micro- and macro-dispersion will be discussed.
Original language | English |
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Number of pages | 8 |
Publication status | Published - 5 Sep 2019 |
Event | International Rubber Conference, IRC 2019 - London, United Kingdom Duration: 3 Sep 2019 → 5 Sep 2019 http://www.irc2019.org/home |
Conference
Conference | International Rubber Conference, IRC 2019 |
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Abbreviated title | IRC |
Country | United Kingdom |
City | London |
Period | 3/09/19 → 5/09/19 |
Internet address |