Self-adhesion behavior of high-density polyethylene-filled natural rubber vulcanizates

The self-adhesion behavior of high-density polyethylene (HDPE)-filled natural rubber vulcanizates has been studied with respect to variation in HDPE content and contact time. The peel adhesion strength increased with the HDPE concentration and contact time. The introduction of a thin film (0.06 mm) of HDPE between the contacting surfaces decreased significantly the peel adhesion strength and the failure became interfacial instead of cohesive. Buffing of the contacting surfaces enhanced the self-adhesion characteristics of the vulcanizates. It was also observed that the self-adhesion strength of HDPE-filled natural rubber vulcanizates was higher than that of the corresponding high abrasion furnace (HAF) black-filled natural rubber vulcanizates.