Factors in Processing Reclaimed Rubber
Abstract Production of reclaimed rubber of uniformly good physical and chemical properties is dependent first upon judicious classification and blending of raw materials. Grinding to a state in which no large particles are present, but without an excess of fines, allows a minimum devulcanizing time at a given temperature, decreases the tendency to depolymerize to an objectionable extent, and reduces the requirement for softeners. These conditions facilitate further processing to a smooth product of good quality with the desired plasticity and with optimum compounding, milling, calendering, and tubing characteristics. Devulcanization at high temperatures tends to reduce the tensile slightly and to increase the elongation as compared with treatment at lower temperatures. Alkali reclaims require efficient washing to remove residual caustic and the recovery of fines from the wash liquors involves problems of settling and filtration or screening. Drying of wet-processed reclaims at high temperatures or for an excessively long time results in tacky products, just as does over-devulcanization. A minimum amount of milling and refining at normal temperatures is desirable to preserve the quality, therefore previous processing should be thorough and uniform. Some comparisons of types of equipment are made and some desirable future developments are discussed.