Rheological and Mechanical Properties of Natural Rubber Compounds Filled with Carbonized Palm Kernel Husk and Carbon Black (N330)

Abstract

Palm kernel husk carbon obtained from agricultural waste, were incorporated into natural rubber using a laboratory size two-roll mixing mill. For comparison purposes, commercial reinforcing filler, carbon black (N330) was also used. The effect of these fillers on cure characteristic and physico –mechanical properties of natural rubber materials at various filler loading, ranging from 0-80hpr, was investigated. Curing using a semi-efficient vulcanization was chosen and cure studies were carried out on a Monsanto Rheometer. The results indicated that carbonized palm kernel husk filler caused lower Mooney viscosity, shorter cure time, improved hardness, higher compression set values, but decreased tensile strength and tear strength, but show no significant change in abrasion resistance in comparison with the natural rubber materials. Overall results showed that palm kernel husk carbon can be used as cheaper filler for natural rubber materials where improved physical-mechanical properties are not critical. Keywords: