The Role of Functional Polymers in Ground Rubber Tire-Polyethylene Composite

Abstract

The impact energies of different polyethylene-ground rubber tire (GRT) composites were investigated. All the thermoplastic composites were prepared on a Haake Buchler batch mixer and injection molded test specimens were tested on Rheometrics drop weight instrumented impact tester. Addition of small amounts of functional polymers increases the impact energy of the polyethylene-GRT composite as much as 60%. The percent improvement in the impact energy for linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) and the composites prepared from them is greater than for the corresponding high density polyethylene (HDPE) composites. Precoating of GRT particles with ethylene-acrylic acid (EAA) copolymers improves the impact energy of the composite, whereas precoating with the other functional polymers does not. An attempt has been made to identify the role of the functional polymers as to whether they act as toughening agents for the polyethylene matrix or coupling agent at the polyethylene-GRT interface. The results show the increase in impact energy resulting from the addition of styrene block copolymers is due to toughening of the polyethylene matrix while the reactive ethylene copolymers increase the impact energy by a coupling action with GRT.

Reinforced material from reclaimed rubber/natural rubber, using electron beam and thermal treatment

“…Baker and coworkers [11][12][13] reported that the use of several compatibilizers of ground rubber tires to improve the adhesion between ground rubber tires and thermoplastic matrices. One drawback of such blends is a comparatively weaker matrix.…”

Performance characterization of composite materials based on recycled high‐density polyethylene and ground tire rubber reinforced with short glass fibers for structural applications

“…Generally, GTR can be used as either treated [11][12][13][14] or untreated. 15 Treated GTR can provide promoted interfacial adhesion, which may lead to better mechanical performance, but its large-scale utilization is normally hindered by the high cost.…”

Eco-Friendly Redemption of Butyl Rubber in Cost Efficient Ablative Composites for Aerospace Applications

“…1 Effective recycling technology persists be a matter of interest in rubber waste recycling, pyrolysis and landfills result in ecological complications. [2][3][4][5] The trapped air by the void areas, in case of tubular rubber products like hoses, pipes, and tubes cause the land filled products to rise to surface in no time. 6 Moreover, due to the confined purview of space and available landfill sites and due to the corresponding cost explosion 7 this process of waste rubber disposal is no longer feasible.…”