THE EFFECT OF WOOD ASH ON THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF RUBBER COMPOUNDS

In this study, the effect of adding wood ash (oak tree) on the mechanical properties (tensile, abrasion, tearing, elongation %, etc.) of NR/SBR-type elastomer materials was investigated. Five different compounds were prepared by adding 16 %, 32 %, 48 % and 64 % wood ash to the filler and additive materials in the general composition (G). The mechanical test results and production costs of the new compounds composed were compared between themselves and with the G compound. The fracture surfaces of the compounds as well as the shape and morphological distribution of the fillers in the rubber matrix were examined using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). As a result of the experimental studies, it was found that the new compounds composed had an increased tensile and tearing strength. abrasion amounts, bending capability, unit elongation amounts and densities in comparison to the G compound. A decrease was observed in the hardness values and material costs (production cost) of the compounds.