Frequently a set of properties required for a given application cannot be accomplished by one elastomer only and, thus, mixtures of two or more polymers must be employed. In these cases, the other ingredients added are normally dispersed in a non homogeneous way, 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 properties of the final product. In this work, natural rubber (NR) was mixed with styrene-butadiene elastomer (SBR) in 75:25 and 50:50 w/w ratios. The compositions were prepared in a two-roll mill, by introducing the additives according to four different modes. The results of mechanical properties show that, although having been prepared following the same formulation, the properties of these mixtures are influenced by the preparation mode. For NR/SBR blends, the best properties are achieved when one favours the vulcanization of the rubber with inferior properties.
Natural rubber; rubber blends; mechanical properties
