Articles
Preparation of Liquid NR via microwave irradiation as performance improving agent in tyre carcass compounds
Authors:
S. D. R. P. Samararathna,
University of Sri Jayawardenepura, Gangodawila, Nugegoda, LK
About S. D. R. P.
Postgraduate student
Susantha Siriwardena
Rubber Research Institute of Sri Lanka, Telewala Road, Ratmalana, LK
Abstract
In this research, a new process for preparation of liquid natural rubber (LNR) by means of microwave irradiation heating was investigated. Natural rubber (NR) obtained in the form of crepe rubber was first subjected to mastication in the presence of a peptizing agent. Peptizing agent used was pepton 4040 and its optimum concentration was first established as 3 phr. Micro wave irradiation heating was carried out for 10 minutes to heat the per-masticated NR incorporated with optimum concentration of peptizing agent in the presence of different loading of the micro wave absorber, Polyethylene glycol (PEG). According to the results, optimum microwave absorber loading was 4 phr. LNR prepared was characterized by means of Fourier Transmission Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). LNR was also characterized for its viscosity and molecular weight. Significant reduction in molecular weight confirmed the effectiveness of the process employed. Based on the results, the combination of 3phr pepton and 4phr PEG is suggested for microwave assisted LNR preparation within 10 min heating period. LNR prepared was then incorporated in a tyre carcass rubber compound. The compound was cured and the physical properties of the tyre carcass was evaluated. Addition of LNR improved the processeability of the compounds. Results also suggest that incorporation of LNR prepared following the new method could be used to improve the rubber to metal adhesion, tear strength and tensile strength of tyre carcass compounds.
How to Cite:
Samararathna, S.D.R.P. and Siriwardena, S., 2021. Preparation of Liquid NR via microwave irradiation as performance improving agent in tyre carcass compounds. Journal of the Rubber Research Institute of Sri Lanka, 101, pp.49–64. DOI: http://doi.org/10.4038/jrrisl.v101i0.1905
Published on
30 Dec 2021.
Peer Reviewed
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