Improving the crosslink density and the mechanical properties after vulcanization for an iron oxide layer (scale) and SBR/rubber masterbatch

Abstract

In this study iron oxide layers (IOLs) formed on the surfaces of ingots during a rolling process were supplemented into stiren-butadiene rubber (SBR) based on a referenced rubber-back composition of 5-10-15-20 %, and accordingly five different samples were prepared. After vulcanization, the hardness, density, abrasion loss, tensile strength, percentage elongation, tearing strength and crosslink densities were measured. In addition to that, the effects of the crosslink density on the mechanical properties are discussed. The properties of the generated new compounds are comparatively discussed, both with respect to themselves and with those of the referenced rubber. It was observed that the iron oxide layer significantly reduces the cost of compound, and increases the wearing resistance with the increasing of the crosslink density, and provides an advantage for the properties of hardness, tensile strength, tearing strength and percentage elongation. In order to explain the changes in the mechanical properties, the fracture surfaces were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy-Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). When the SEM images are examined, it is seen that the filler dispersion in the rubber matrix is adversely affected by its increasing amount. The improved materials are discussed in terms of their usability in outsole applications.