Online characterization of the effect of mixing parameters on carbon black dispersion in rubber compounds using electrical conductivity

The influences of mixing parameters on the carbon black dispersion can be characterized using the electrical conductivity online measured from internal mixer. As a measure for monitoring the development of carbon black dispersion, a normalized conductivity with regard to the conductivity measured at the BIT (black incorporation time) has been suggested. It is observed that in spite of different mixing parameters, the mixtures possessing the same normalized conductivity factor K/K-BIT deliver the same carbon black dispersion and the same mechanical properties. Based on normalized conductivity, a deeper insight into the mixing kinetics can be provided to find an optimal mixing regime.