The use of rice husk ash as a potential filler in formulations of elastomeric compositions for rubber-metal vibration isolators

Abstract

This study focused on the use of rice husk ash obtained by carbonation in a pyrolysis furnace at a temperature of 550 °C–600 °C to develop a formulation of an elastomeric composition intended for the manufacture of a rubber-metal vibration isolator with reduced environmental impact and a satisfactory set of operational properties. Nine compositions were prepared, comprising different dosages of rice husk ash. These were used as partial and/or complete replacements for N772 carbon black (10, 20, 30 and 40 wt%) and as additional fillers (5, 10, 15 and 20 wt%). Our results show that fully replacing carbon black with rice husk ash improves the technological characteristics of rubber compounds, which can contribute to a reduction in the energy intensity of the manufacturing process of products derived from them. The strength, hardness, and tear resistance of rubbers when replacing N772 with ash in a dosage of up to 20 wt% permit the production of compositions with a satisfactory set of strength properties. An increase in the dosage of ash in excess of 10 wt% when combined with N772 results in a deterioration in the basic physical and mechanical properties of rubbers. As the loading of rice husk ash in place of carbon black is increased, the resistance of the studied compositions to ozone is enhanced, as is the elastic recovery after a given deformation. This will lead to an increase in the service life of the finished product.