Research Information System
7th International Conference of Engineering Against Failure (ICEAF), Greece, 21 - 23 June 2023
Zinc oxide is considered as the most widely used activator that influences curing reaction kinetics and promotes short sulphide crosslinks to achieve higher crosslink density in rubber compounds. Besides its effect on curing process, it has beneficial effects on the physical and mechanical properties of rubber as well. However, its level should be minimized in rubber compounds because of its toxicity for human health and environment, especially on aquatic wildlife. One of the potential routes for decreasing ZnO level is to use composite ZnO materials where ZnO particles are coated. In this study, composite ZnO materials having ZnO:CaCO3 ratio as 40:60, 60:40 and 90:10 are used in SBR/BR compounds and their effects on mechanical properties under ageing conditions are investigated and compared with the conventional white seal ZnO and active ZnO types. The findings have shown that all composite materials have no negative effect on mechanical properties under ageing conditions, thus they can be used as alternative materials to conventional activators.