Assessment of rubber hybrid composites

Abstract

High density polyethylene (HDPE) impact property is improved using waste tire rubber particles by forming a novel composite of such good impact strength and also the mechanical properties of the composite are examined. Sulphuric acid (H2So4) is used to improve the adhesion between the rubber particles and HDPE matrix. The effect of this treatment on the mechanical properties of the composite is studied. The effect of waste tire rubber particles on the mechanical properties of the composites was examined at different rubber particles weight percentage of 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40% and 50% and using different rubber particle sizes of 3-5mm, 1-3mm, 0.84mm and 0.42mm. The addition of marble dust particles to rubber-polymer mixture results in obtaining hybrid composite of higher compressive strength. Other properties of the hybrid composites were tested. Fracture surfaces were examined using SEM to evaluate the interface between waste tire particles, marble dust and HDPE in composite material. Keywords: waste tire rubber particles, HDPE, Marble dust, Hybrid composite, Chemical treatment for rubber particles, Recycling of tires, Impact strength, SEM.