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Effect of Modified and Unmodified Oak Bark (Quercus Cortex) on the Cross-Linking Process and Mechanical, Anti-Aging, and Hydrophobic Properties of Biocomposites Produced from Natural Rubber (NR)
- Source :
- Materials, Vol 17, Iss 9, p 1968 (2024)
- Publication Year :
- 2024
- Publisher :
- MDPI AG, 2024.
-
Abstract
- The study explores the novel use of oak bark (Quercus cortex) as a bio-filler in elastomeric composites, aligning with the global trend of plant-based biocomposites. Both modified and unmodified oak bark were investigated for their impact on the physicochemical properties of natural rubber (NR) composites. The bio-filler modified with n-octadecyltrimethoxysilane exhibited enhanced dispersion and reduced aggregates in the elastomeric matrix. NR composites containing more than 20 phr of unmodified and modified oak bark demonstrated an increased degree of cross-linking (αc > 0.21). Mechanical properties were optimal at 10–15 phr of oak bark and the sample with modified bio-filler (10 phr) achieved the highest tensile strength (15.8 MPa). Silanization and the addition of the bio-filler increased the hardness of vulcanizates. The incorporation of oak bark improved aging resistance at least two-fold due to phenolic derivatives with antioxidant properties. Hydrophobicity decreased with added bark, but silanization reversed the trend, making samples with a high content of oak bark the most hydrophobic (contact angle: 129°). Overall, oak bark shows promise as an eco-friendly, anti-aging filler in elastomeric composites, with modification enhancing compatibility and hydrophobicity.
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 19961944
- Volume :
- 17
- Issue :
- 9
- Database :
- Directory of Open Access Journals
- Journal :
- Materials
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- edsdoj.6f2a450064ca4b89b116b905a70a2cd8
- Document Type :
- article
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17091968