Elastomeric matrix composites: effect of processing conditions on the physical, mechanical and viscoelastic properties

Purpose: The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of accelerator-vulcanizing agent system and the vulcanization temperature on the properties of vulcanizates based on Natural rubber/Polybutadiene rubber (NR/ BR) compounds. This preliminary study will allow optimizing the composition for improving the mechanical properties and understanding the damage behaviour. Design/methodology/approach: NR/BR based composites with different vulcanization temperatures and curing systems were characterized in respect of their curing characteristics (for 140°C and 160°C) and mechanical properties. The cure characteristics of the rubber compounds were studied by using the Monsanto MDR 2000 rheometer. The mechanical properties were investigated- tensile strength, elongation at break, tensile modulus at 100% (M100) and at 300% (M300) deformation. The hardness (Shore A) and molecular mass of the samples were also determined. Scanning electron microscopy was used to study the microstructure of the fracture surfaces. Findings: The processing, physical, mechanical and viscoelastic properties and chemical structure of the mixture of Natural rubber/Polybutadiene rubber (NR/BR) compounds have been evaluated in detail for the compounds of D1 and D2 (140/160). Research limitations/implications limitations/implications: Some critical point, control of the temperature during vulcanization in press, can introduce some restrictions; these measurements can play on the final vulcanizates and in the course of processing. Practical implications: In practical way, mechanical test results (tensile and shore A) give very useful information about the damage behaviour of the elastomeric matrix composites. Originality/valut: Natural rubber/Polybutadiene rubber (NR/BR) compounds were mixed by additions of some certain elements to improve physical, mechanical and viscoelastic properties and damage behaviours of these compounds produced under certain conditions.