Novel approaches of using of spirulina platensis in natural rubber based composites

Abstract

The aim of this work was to investigate the influence of Spirulina (Spirulina platensis) as a natural filler on the curing characterization, morphology and mechanical, thermomechanical and thermal properties of natural rubber (NR) based composites. Spirulina was introduced into NR mixture in amount of 0 phr, 10 phr and 30 phr. The vulcanization process was carried out at the determined process condition by using hydraulic press at optimum vulcanization time (t90). It was noticed that Spirulina affected on the reduction of t90, and scorch time (t2) of the NR mixtures. Obtained vulcanizates were subjected to the number of tests e.g. scanning electron microscopy analysis, mechanical dynamical analysis, tensile test, hardness, and thermogravimetry. Generally, it was found that Spirulina added in amount of 10 phr NR positively influenced on tensile strength (TSb), storage modulus and hardness of obtained composites.