Filler Dispersion and Filler Networks

Abstract

Rubbers, as used in most technical applications and in tires, are filled elastomers. While inert fillers only contribute to the stiffness by their volume fraction, active fillers have a reinforcement effect on the mechanical properties of rubber due to the phenomenon of polymerfiller and filler-filler interactions. Two types of reinforcing fillers are widely used in rubber industry: carbon black and precipitated silica. Their dispersion into the elastomer matrix is not only interesting from the point of view of the efficient use of raw materials but decisive for the creation of the filler network that is the essential element in rubber reinforcement at high filler loadings. Filler dispersion is known to influence rubber properties like tensile strength and abrasion resistance. In contrast to carbon black, precipitated silica needs a silane coupling agent to deliver a considerable reinforcement effect.