A Study on Epoxidised Natural Rubber and Cis 1,4-Polybutadiene Blend

Abstract

Much published literature on the way in which phase morphology and filler distribution affect blend properties is contractor or confusing The blending of two or more polymers by physical or chemical means may improve a variety of physical and chemical properties of the constituent polymers. The effect of different modes of filler addition on dispersion and viscosity of Epoxidisd Natural Rubber (ENR) and cis 1,4 –polybutadiene rubber (BR) has been studied. Experiments were carried out to elucidate the relationship and to determine whether the use of special mixing technique and compatabilizers might have a beneficial effect on Epoxidised Natural Rubber: Butadiene Rubber (ENR:BR) blend properties. The findings indicated blending times for combining Silica, BR and ENR was rather difficult even a close viscosity of each rubber was applied. Results indicated a high degree of compatibility with fine structured blends being quickly and easily produced with compound containing compatibilizer than compound with any. Hence, a high viscosity and poor filler dispersion was obtained with all mixing techniques applied except with the one with the coupling agent.