Ultrafine Recycled Rubber

Abstract

Abstract A technical advance in the size reduction of cured scrap rubber has been achieved by a new process. The performance of products whose particle dimensions are 90% under 20 µm in diameter has been described in this study. When small panicle size rubber made by this process is used to extend high quality compounds, the degree of retention of key properties of the extended compounds surpasses that of compounds extended with conventional recycled materials. Many unexpected product and process improvement characteristics have been reported. In most cases, the properties of the extended compound are close to those of the unextended compound, even at high loading levels. Initial trials using this unique paniculate rubber at up to 30% concentrations in bias-ply passenger tire treads have shown no performance deficiencies. The addition of RR does not require any special processing techniques, mixing cycles, or equipment. Substantial cost savings are possible by extending virgin rubber compounds with ultrafine recycled rubber.