Effect of Ground Tire Rubber on Mechanical Properties of Low Density Polyethylene

Abstract

This research explores the effect of ground tire rubber (GTR) on the mechanical properties of LDPE. This thermoplastic-elastomer blend sets the composition of ground tire rubber and low-density polyethylene (LDPE/GTR). The blend was prepared in different proportions and was processed in a compression molding machine. The optimum operating conditions of the blend set to be 220℃ temperature and pressure varied from 150-200 bars. Different parts per hundred rubber (phr) samples were obtained under these conditions, including 1 phr, 2 phr, 3 phr, 4 phr, and 5 phr. After that, the mechanical properties of the blend were examined concerning various compositions. Different testing methods were used to determine the mechanical properties of the thermoplastic-elastomer blend, which include tensile strength, flexural strength, and Izod impact. The results obtained from these tests show that tensile strength and modulus decreases by increasing the rubber content. However, impact strength and percentage elongation increase by increasing the rubber content. This enhancement in impact and percentage elongation may be suitable for the applications in gymnasium mat and automobile industry.