Polymeric compounds based on thermoplastic elastomer styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymers and siliconic rubber powder

This paper presents the obtaining and characterization of polymeric composites based on thermoplastic elastomer type styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymers and vulcanized rubber powder. The rubber powder used was obtained as waste in the technological processes in the rubber industry. It was analyzed by determining the acetonic extract, ash and FTIR analysis and it was observed that the base elastomer in the rubber waste is silicone rubber, and the amounts of inorganic fillers, plasticizers, antioxidants, lubricants etc. existing in the rubber powder are lower than 19%. The samples were obtained by mixing technique, on Brabender Plasti-Corder internal mixer type. The test specimens necessary to determine the characteristics were obtained on a laboratory electrical press at 170°C, applying a force of 300 kN, and moulding time 6 min. The characteristics of the obtained samples show that the addition of rubber powder improved the hardness and elasticity, and by the applying compatibility method, namely crosslinking and grafting in melt, in dynamic regime, there was a significant increase in hardness, elasticity, modulus 100%, tensile strength, and the material obtained is more compact. The new composites have physical and mechanical properties suitable for producing a wide range of rubber consumer goods.