Torrefied agro-industrial residue as filler in natural rubber compounds

This study explored the feasibility of using torrefied biomass as a reinforcing filler in natural rubber compounds. Carbon black was then replaced with the torrefied biomass in elastomer formulations for concentrations varying from 0% to 100% (60 parts per hundred rubber or phr total). Their influence on the curing process, dynamic properties, and mechanical properties was investigated. Results were compared with the properties of vulcanizates containing solely carbon black fillers. Time to cure (t(90)) for compounds with torrefied biomass fillers increased, while filler-filler interactions (Delta G') decreased, compared to carbon black controls. At low strains, the tan delta values of the torrefied fillers vulcanizates were similar to the controls. Incorporation of torrefied biomass into natural rubber decreased compound tensile strength and modulus but increased elongation. Replacement with torrefied fillers resulted in a weaker filler network in the matrix. Still, results showed that moderate substitution concentrations (similar to 20 phr) could be feasible for some natural rubber applications.

Automated summary

This study explored the feasibility of using torrefied biomass as a reinforcing filler in natural rubber compounds, with results showing that moderate substitution concentrations (around 20 phr) could be applicable for some natural rubber applications.