Time effectiveness of the low-temperature plasma surface modification of ground tire rubber powder.

Recycling of waste tire has great practical significance. This paper reports results from studies carried out to determine the time effectiveness of the low-temperature plasma surface modification of ground tire rubber (GTR). Attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed that plasma treatment activated the powder surface. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis showed an increase in oxygen and carbon element ratio. Meanwhile, the scanning electron microscopy analysis indicated a slight increase in the surface roughness of the treated powder. Testing its hydrophilic property in water indicated that the GTR powder showed decreased dispersive capacity as the time lengthened. Mechanical tests showed that the strength and toughness of the cement stone reduced slightly as a result of increased storage time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]