Dispersion and dynamic property in SBR/silica composites: Revisiting the utilization of benzyl chloride silane

Separating the effects of interfacial interaction on rubber performance from those of the dispersion state remains challenging, as an improvement in both properties is often observed upon addition of an interfacial modifier. In this work, 4‐(chloromethyl) phenyltrimethoxysilane, a silane‐bearing benzyl chloride, is used as the model substance to modify a SBR/silica composite. Although an improvement in dispersion, as indicated by morphological observations and rheological measurements, is achieved, the dynamic property indicated by the mechanical loss and heat build‐up, deteriorates. Such outcomes are attributed to the inferior interfacial interaction and decreased crosslink density. As a comparison, the counterpart modified by bis(triethoxysilylpropyl) tetrasulfide possesses a superior dynamic property which is attributed to the simultaneous improvements in the dispersion and interfacial interaction. This work provides new insights for the design of high performance rubbers used under dynamic circumstances. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:446–454, 2016. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers