Advances in Micronized Rubber Powder Technology

Previous publications by this author have described recommended methods of incorporation of micronized rubber powder, (MRP), into rubber compounds, including optimization of important physical properties.  This paper provides important advances in MRP compound technology – Micronized Rubber Powder at 10% loadings and Functionalized Micronized Rubber Powder (FMRP). Both advances enable higher loadings of MRP in premium, demanding rubber products to achieve cost savings, performance and higher sustainability content.

The first advancement discussed in this paper is a new understanding as to optimum MRP particle size distribution and surface area providing the ability to increase MRP loading levels to 10% while maintaining key properties, such as stress-strain, fuel economy and dry handling for tires, and improving others, namely fatigue to failure, crack growth resistance, and consistency.

The second advancement discussed is a new concept for the future of the sustainable rubber materials industry called functionalized micronized rubber powder (FMRP).  The results of technologies obtained from around the world were evaluated in Lehigh’s Application & Development Center and by outside labs.  Initial results show equivalent stress-strain, higher fatigue resistance, lower heat build-up and compression set vs. a control compound that help enable more durable end products for dynamic applications, e.g. tires, conveyor belts, and improvement in fuel economy, dry handling while maintaining wet traction for tire applications.