Mechanism Research of New tanδ Peak Observated Belong to High Polar Rosin Additive

Abstract

Rosin is a renewable resource derived from pine trees. We chemically modified rosin and finally developed a new rubber additive, named “high polar rosin”. When this high polar rosin was added to the rubber, dynamic mechanical analysis showed different results from the normal one. A new tanδ peak was shown at about room temperature, except the characteristic peak associated with the rubber’s glass transition temperature (Tg) still existed.

To elucidate the mechanism behind the emergence of this new tanδ peak, we performed microscopic observations of the rubber samples. Additionally, we prepared samples of different types of rubber and filler, then their physical properties were evaluated.

These results suggest that the new tanδ peak is caused by the silica aggregation occured inside of rubber and the energy loss associated with this aggregation.

This mechanism could easily change the properties of rubber, not affacted by polymer type. And also, it has the potential to develop the investigation of additive design.