Novel Reinforcing Filler: Application to Natural Rubber (NR) System

The application of a novel kaoline in the natural rubber (NR) system is studied. First, the cure properties are tested; second, the mechanical properties of the novel kaoline-filled system are studied; third, its replacement of carbon black in NR system is compared; meanwhile, the application of the novel kaoline into white rubber overshoes system is researched; last, the mechanism for its excellent reinforcing property is investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and chemical analysis. Results show that fineness, chemical structure, and surface modification are the most important factors that can influence the reinforcing ability of the novel kaoline.