Abstract
This paper describes the advantageous cross-fertilization of solution-masterbatch technology and powdered-rubber processing. A nonlatex method has been developed for the preparation of free-flowing solution-SBR powders. The factors affecting powder particle size and morphology have been identified. Optimization of the preparative variables has resulted in dry-blendable solution-SBR powders. As a consequence of a low shear history, the solution-SBR powder blends show distinctive rubber-filler, rheological, and physical properties. For example, unvulcanized solution-SBR powder compounds evince higher molecular weights and lower bound-rubber contents than conventional mixes. Yet, the microscopic filler dispersion of these two types of compounds appears similar. Uncured solution-SBR powder blends also exhibit stiffer rheological behavior than conventional mixes. Furthermore, this stiffness tends to persist in the vuleanizates derived from these powdered compounds. Vulcanizate excellence depends primarily upon fineness of the powder particles and absence of free filler. Conditions have been found which permit the direct ribbon extrusion of tire tread, without prior compacting or milling. Conventional single-screw ribbon- tread extruders are sufficient to produce treads of high quality.
