A Correlation Between Micro and Macro Structure of High Cis-Polybutadiene and its Performance in Tyre Compound

Abstract High cis-polybutadiene from twelve different sources synthesised by using Ziegler Natta catalyst system based on four different metals viz. Co, Nd, Ni and Ti was studied. Raw polymers were characterised by measuring cis and trans content, vinyl content, branching index, molecular weight, molecular weight distribution, glass transition and melting temperatures, Mooney and delta Mooney values and Mooney relaxation behaviour. Performance of the polymer in compound was evaluated in truck and light truck tyre tread and sidewall compounds as well as in ASTM formulation. Extrusion characteristics of the truck tread compound were determined by Brabender Plasticorder. Stress-strain properties (unaged & aged), dynamic mechanical properties, abrasion loss, resilience and heat build up characteristics were measured. A correlation between micro and macro structure and optimum performance of polybutadiene was established.