Measuring the Effects of Filler Variations on Compound Viscoelastic Properties As Measured By the Capillary Rheometer and the RPA

The die swell and other viscoelastic characteristics imparted to a rubber compound by different elastomers and reinforcing fillers are very relevant to compound performance in extrusion, calendering, molding, and other factory operations.

In this study, an ARC 2020 capillary rheometer was used to measure the die swell and other rheological behavior at different shear rates.  Model rubber compounds were prepared and tested.  Processability characteristics were also measured for these mixed stocks using the RPA 2000 with EDR.  Comparisons were made of the performance behavior for these compounds.