Effect of thermally exfoliated graphite on the performance characteristics of epoxidized natural rubber compatibilized natural rubber/polybutadiene tyre tread formulations.

V, Bijina; K, Abhitha; John, Honey

The tyre industries are now thriving towards the concept of sustainability in every aspect of their product realization to prevent the harmful effects of greenhouse gas emissions. This initiated the urge for a global decarbonization movement and the researchers have explored a plethora of filler materials for a sustainable circular economy. In this perspective, the prime objective of the present work is focused on the optimization of natural rubber/polybutadiene (NR/BR) blend composition for the successful incorporation of thermally exfoliated graphite (EG). The preparation of the polymer blend of NR with BR improved the processability as well as abrasion resistance of the overall tyre tread compounds. Optimization of the NR/BR blend ratio at 60/40 synergistically improved the overall output properties in terms of rheological, mechanical as well and tribological characteristics. Partial replacement of BR with epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) offers dual functions to the composite such as both compatibilizer and matrix material. The low rolling resistance (0.040) and mechanical performances were balanced through the partial replacement of carbon black with thermally exfoliated graphite which in turn effectively transferred the stress between the filler material and the polymer matrix. Incorporation of 10phr of thermally exfoliated graphite into the NR/BR blend also lowers the Payne effect to a minimum level indicating excellent filler–polymer interaction in the composite.

GREENHOUSE gases; FILLER materials; ROLLING friction; CIRCULAR economy; SUSTAINABLE engineering; RUBBER

Journal of Polymer Research, 2024, Vol 31, Issue 12, p1

1022-9760

Academic Journal

10.1007/s10965-024-04201-2