Frequently a set of properties required for a given application cannot be accomplished by only one elastomer and, thus, mixtures of two or more polymers must be employed. In these cases, the other ingredients normally added are dispersed differently, depending on their affinity to each polymer. The degree of dispersion each additive experiences in each elastomeric phase will influence the rate and the degree of vulcanization and will certainly have consequences on the performance of the final product. In this work, natural rubber (NR) was mixed to butadiene-styrene elastomer (SBR) in a 50:50 w/w ratio. The compositions were prepared in a two-roll mill, according to ASTM D3182, introducing the additives in four different modes. After vulcanization, the mixes were investigated as for their mechanical (stress and tear strengths and hardness), dynamic mechanical thermal and morphological analysis. Mechanical properties were evaluated according to ASTM procedures, specific for each test. The results show that, although having been prepared following the same formulation, the properties of these mixtures are influenced by the preparation mode, which could be detected by mechanical and morphological analysis and evidenced through more sensitive methods as DMTA. For NR/SBR blends, the best properties are achieved when one favours the vulcanization of the rubber with inferior properties, that is, SBR.
Elastomer blends; mechanical properties; dynamic mechanical thermal analysis
