Effect of Acrylated Microcrystalline Cellulose On the Properties of Silica-Filled Rubber Composites

Acrylated microcrystalline cellulose (A-MCC) as a partial replacement of fillers in rubber composites had been investigated in this study. Compared to only silica filler or dual fillers (silica and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC)), A-MCC lowered initial viscosity and Mooney viscosity, thus facilitating the process of the rubber composites. A-MCC improved the pre-vulcanization resistance, and scotch safety. Rubber composites containing A-MCC required a longer cure time than those containing silica only or those containing both silica and MCC. Rubber composites containing A-MCC were harder, more stretchable, and stronger than those containing silica only or those containing both silica and MCC. A-MCC enhanced the properties of aged rubber composites, improved tear strength of rubber composites, and did not have negative effect on tear strength of rubber composites at high temperature.