For application in elastomer compounds - decreasing viscosity with Silica!
SIDISTAR® R 300
Description
SIDISTAR® R 300 is a spherically-shaped amorphous non-reinforcing silicon dioxide with an average primary particle size of 150 nm. The optimal particle size distribution guarantees easy dispersion in an elastomer matrix.
It has significant effects as a viscosity modifier due to its spherical particle shape. This leads to improved dispersion of all compound ingredients and a better flow, allowing higher extrusion / injections speeds.
SIDISTAR® R 300 is dark-coloured due to a low carbon content and will bring a small pigmenting effect to the compound. The material is supplied in a densified non-dusting form for easy handling.
Application
SIDISTAR® R 300 can be used in a broad range of elastomers, varying from non-polar to very polar systems. In all cases it was found that the processing could be improved significantly due to reduced viscosity. In dependence on the application areas of the final compounds, properties such as compression set, heat build-up, flame retardancy, electric resistivity, and oil resistance could be improved. When used in combination with precipitated silica, SIDISTAR lowers the compound viscosity, and at the same time it improves the mechanical performance of the vulcanisate due to its compatibility with the precipitated silica. In some cases a reduction of the loading of reinforcing fillers is possible.
Mixing technology
Due to its spherical shape and nature of the agglomerates, optimal dispersion is assured. The required mixing energy is accordingly reduced. SIDISTAR reduces the filler to filler interaction in rubber compounds, and increases the filler – polymer matrix interaction. It is important to work with a sufficient ratio of reinforcing filler to SIDISTAR. A too-low loading would result in non-measurable effects.
One should take into account that SIDISTAR® R 300 does not, due to its nature, require additional coupling agent. Because of its neutral pH, SIDISTAR has no significant influence on the vulcanisation time of the original compound.
Property values given in this data sheet are not to be taken as a basis for a specification for the material. We recommend evaluating the suitability of our product in every single case. It is the responsibility of the user to check that the final article is in accordance to product specifications and regulations.
* For information, on latest news, please contact: rubber@sidistar.com
Last modified: 2007-05-31
One of the largest problems in the development and manufacturing of rubber articles is the relation between the physical properties of the vulcanisate and the processing of the compound. The performance requirements on the final article like for example tensile and tear strength, fire retardency, dynamic properties or maximum service temperature often require high filler loadings. However, the manufacturing and processing of these compounds is very difficult due to their high viscosity. Traditional process aids or plasticisers cannot be used or only in low concentrations due to their detrimental effect on the physical properties of the vulcanisate. The compound recipe is therefore always a compromise between the desired properties and the processing requirements.
It is therefore highly desirable to develop an additive that allows high filler loadings at reduced viscosity but has no negative influence on the performance criteria of the rubber article.
The new viscosity modifier SIDISTAR offers the opportunity to increase the dosage level of reinforcing fillers, like precipitated silica or carbon black, without sacrificing the compound processibility and the physical properties of the finished elastomeric article.
The nano-size inorganic additive with spherical primary particles of an average diameter of 150 nm, lowers the compound viscosity but improves at the same time the mechanical performance of the vulcanisate. This can be explained by its ability to be dispersed as primary particles in the elastomeric matrix thus reducing internal friction and filler-filler interaction. Properties like for instance heat built-up and abrasion resistance are improved. The required mixing energy is significantly reduced.
The examples presented illustrate the effect of the additive in compounds for high performance applications. New combinations of compound properties become available opening new or extending existing application areas for rubber articles.