Enhancing natural rubber properties: a comprehensive study on the synergistic effects of wood sawdust and carbon black as fillers in rubber composites

Abstract

Rubber products, especially in the automotive industry, play a vital role in manufacturing. However, natural rubber initially has relatively low mechanical properties. To enhance these properties, various additives and fillers are incorporated, including inorganic and organic options. This study focused on investigating the mechanical and thermomechanical properties of natural rubber composites filled with wood sawdust and carbon black. Tests such as hardness, density, tensile strength, viscosity, tear resistance, rebound resilience, accelerated aging, rubber process analysis, and dispersion were conducted to assess the viability of using wood sawdust as a filler material. The results indicate that wood sawdust, in combination with carbon black, can effectively serve as a filler in natural rubber when the appropriate filling ratio and size are carefully selected to achieve the desired properties. These findings underscore the potential of utilizing wood sawdust as a sustainable and cost-effective filler option in the production of rubber materials, especially in the automotive industry. Further research and optimization efforts have the potential to contribute significantly to the development of high-performance rubber composites with enhanced mechanical characteristics.