Preparation and properties of silica/styrene butadiene rubber masterbatches by latex co‐coagulating technology

Silica/styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) masterbatches were prepared by co‐coagulating SBR latex and silica aqueous suspension. The X‐ray diffraction patterns and scanning electron microscopy were employed to characterize the microstructure of the composite. The content and utilization of silica of silica/SBR masterbatches were also investigated. The highest content of silica was achieved when amount of silica is 50 g. Then the cure characteristics, swelling ratio, thermal stability, and mechanical properties of vulcanizates prepared from the masterbatches were compared with those prepared by a conventional direct mixing method. The results revealed that higher maximum torque, shorter cure time, and better swelling resistance of silica/SBR masterbatches were obtained than conventional silica filled composites. The mechanical properties of silica/SBR masterbatches exhibited greater tensile strength and hardness compared to the corresponding conventional mixes. Additionally, the silica/SBR masterbatches vulcanizates exhibited better abrasion resistance, rolling resistance and heat build‐up to those of the conventional composite. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:1212–1219, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers