The addition of high-content crumb rubber(HCCR)in asphalt can effectively address waste tire pollution and provide sustainable environmental and economic advantages.However,the practical application of conventional ru...The addition of high-content crumb rubber(HCCR)in asphalt can effectively address waste tire pollution and provide sustainable environmental and economic advantages.However,the practical application of conventional rubberized binders is significantly limited by high viscosity and poor storage stability.To address these issues,researchers have pretreated crumb rubber(CR)with oil,but high-temperature performance remains insufficient.Therefore,this study aimed to optimize the viscosity,storage stability,and rheological properties of high-content crumb rubber-modified asphalt(HCCRMA)by varying the pretreatment levels of CR and incorporating various additives,including styrene-butadiene-styrene(SBS),deoiled asphalt(DA),or recycled low-density polyethylene(RLDPE).In addition,CR was pretreated with waste cooking oil(WCO)at various ratios,pre-swelling temperatures,and times.The results show that DA exhibits excellent storage stability and lower viscosity compared with other modifiers in HCCRMA,and the 4%RLDPE with pretreated HCCR has the greatest high-temperature rutting resistance.The inclusion of RLDPE increases the stiffness and elasticity of the modified asphalt,which results in greater high-temperature performance.Additionally,the fluorescence microscopy(FM)test confirms that SBS exhibits better dispersion than other modifiers and forms a more homogeneous phase separation in the HCCRMA.All in all,this research achieved an optimal balance of storage stability and rheological properties in asphalt modified with pretreated HCCR and 6%SBS,which provides a valuable reference for performance improvement of HCCR-modified binders.展开更多
The rapid growth of the automobile industry has substantially increased end-of-life tires(ELT)production with over 2300 million units manufactured in 2022.Despite known processes to recover materials and energy from E...The rapid growth of the automobile industry has substantially increased end-of-life tires(ELT)production with over 2300 million units manufactured in 2022.Despite known processes to recover materials and energy from ELT,a significant number of tires still end up in landfills,posing environmental problems.Pyrolysis offers a promising alternative to produce energy and marketable products like recovered carbon black(rCB).Incorpo-rating rCB into rubber matrices shows potential for partially replacing commercial carbon black,but more research is required to understand its reinforcing effects and recyclability through repeated pyrolysis cycles.Furthermore,tire composition variability affects rCB quality,challenging consistent production for market ap-plications.Post-treatments like activation and demineralization enhance rCB properties but pose challenges,with higher activation degrees improving pore structure but reducing carbon content while demineralization removes impurities but raises concerns about chemical use and equipment wear.Further research is needed to develop scalable and economically viable post-treatments along with their life cycle assessment.Here,a comprehensive literature review on rCB activation and demineralization is presented and,since the ultimate goal is to reuse rCB in the production of new tires,the rCB incorporation into rubber matrices is also reviewed.展开更多
Recycling of waste rubber(WR)is crucial for the sustainable development of the rubber industry.The enhancement of interfacial interactions is the main strategy for waste polymer recycling.However,there is a lack of me...Recycling of waste rubber(WR)is crucial for the sustainable development of the rubber industry.The enhancement of interfacial interactions is the main strategy for waste polymer recycling.However,there is a lack of methods for enhancing the interfacial interactions for WR recycling because WR contains abundant inert C―H bonds.Herein,we designed thioctic acid inverse vulcanization copolymers to endow recycled WR with dynamic disulfide interfacial interactions,significantly improving the mechanical properties of recycled WR.These disulfide interfacial interactions among the recycled WR tend to exchange,which dramatically increases the fractocohesive length and prevents stress concentration near the crack tips.When recycled WR is subjected to external stress,the loads are redistributed across a broad region of adjacent regions instead of being concentrated on a limited length scale,which resists crack propagation.This work effectively recycled WR,providing a strategy for solvent-free reaction-derived inverse vulcanization copolymers to improve the toughness of WR recycling.展开更多
This study investigates the potential of starch extracted from underutilized agro-industrial resources as non-food-competing raw materials for the development of flexible bioplastics for food packaging applications.St...This study investigates the potential of starch extracted from underutilized agro-industrial resources as non-food-competing raw materials for the development of flexible bioplastics for food packaging applications.Starch was extracted from three biomass sources:rubber cassava(Manihot glaziovii),banana stem,and banana peel from Ambonese banana(Musa acuminata L.).Rubber cassava starch(SRC)exhibited the highest starch yield(50.68±0.28%),significantly surpassing banana stem(SBS,14.20±0.25%)and banana peel(SBP,3.07±0.15%).The amylose contents of SRC,SBS,and SBP were 28.18%,52.80%,and 56.57%,respectively,while their amylopectin contents were 71.83%,47.20%,and 43.43%.FTIR spectra confirmed the absence of cyanogenic groups in SRC,indicating its safety for packaging applications.XRD analysis revealed that PSRC films were predominantly amorphous,while PSBS and PSBP showed higher crystallinity.The enhancement of mechanical properties,specifically PSBS,showed the highest tensile strength at 16.04±0.56 MPa,whereas PSRC demonstrated the highest elongation at break at 23.57±0.40%,which could be attributed to the inherent characteristics of the starch sources.Additionally,PSRC film exhibited the highest transparency at 60.2%,the greatest water solubility at 34.92%,and the lowest water contact angle at 41.58○,confirming its more hydrophilic nature compared to other films.This work highlights the potential of low-cost,sustainable,and non-food agro-industrial starch sources as promising candidates for the development of flexible,eco-friendly bioplastics.展开更多
To combine the high elasticity and good mechanical performance of isoprene rubber(IR)with excellent fatigue resistance and low heat build-up of Eucommia ulmoides gum(EUG),the present study employed a chemical method t...To combine the high elasticity and good mechanical performance of isoprene rubber(IR)with excellent fatigue resistance and low heat build-up of Eucommia ulmoides gum(EUG),the present study employed a chemical method to graft 4-amino pyridine(AP)onto epoxidized IR and EUG,thereby creating a chemical assembly rubber of amino-pyridine-grafted epoxidized IR(AP-EIR)and amino pyridine-grafted epoxidized EUG(AP-EEUG)via a dynamic hydrogen bonding network.The presence of hydrogen bonds between AP-EIR and AP-EEUG was confirmed by variable temperature infrared spectroscopy,whereas scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy revealed a uniform dispersion of zinc oxide and nano-fillers.Hydrogen bonds significantly facilitate strain-induced crystallization between the AP-EIR and AP-EEUG molecules,thereby strengthening their intermolecular interactions.During mechanical deformation,the material primarily dissipates energy through the breaking of hydrogen bonds,which effectively improves the mechanical strength of the material,and the introduction of amino groups in this chemical assembly rubber improves the uniform dispersion of nano-fillers,as well as the interface interaction between rubber and nano-fillers.Consequently,the chemically assembled rubber exhibited superior modulus,tensile strength,and tear strength compared to IR and its physical blend,while also demonstrating reduced heat build-up during dynamic loading.展开更多
The rapid increase in traffic loads and frequencies has rendered conventional asphalt pavement inadequate to maintain its durability under tropical climates.This challenge has necessitated the exploration of new sourc...The rapid increase in traffic loads and frequencies has rendered conventional asphalt pavement inadequate to maintain its durability under tropical climates.This challenge has necessitated the exploration of new sources of modified asphalt with enhanced stiffness and superior performance at high temperatures.Natural rubber(NR)is a renewable biopolymer that has received growing interest as a modifier for asphalt binders.Cup lump rubber(CLR),a type of NR,is used to enhance asphalt properties and improve the performance of road pavements.This study evaluates the influence of wax-based surfactants(WS)on CLR-modified asphalt binder(CMB).The assessment focuses on changes in chemical characteristics,rheological behaviour,activation energy,and morphology.Four concentrations of WS(0.1%,0.15%,0.2%,and 0.25%)were incorporated into CMB.Analysis of CMB chemical changes showed that viscosity increased due to higher sulfoxide,carbonyl,and aromatic bond indices.These chemical modifications contributed to improved resistance of the binder to heat-induced deterioration.In both unaged and aged CMB samples,the incorporation of WS reduced the sulfoxide index of the binder.Rheological analysis indicated that CMB improved rutting resistance and anti-ageing performance,while WS further enhanced fatigue resistance.Activation energy analysis suggested that the combination of CMB with 0.15%WS produced the most favourable enhancement.Micrograph results showed that WS improved binder homogeneity and interconnectivity.In conclusion,the findings indicated that incorporating 0.15%WS into CMB enhanced the performance and durability of the asphalt pavement.展开更多
Silica aerogels(SAs)impart low density and excellent thermal insulation to polymer systems,yet incorporating hydrophobic SAs into aqueous rubber latex systems remains challenging owing to their poor dispersibility and...Silica aerogels(SAs)impart low density and excellent thermal insulation to polymer systems,yet incorporating hydrophobic SAs into aqueous rubber latex systems remains challenging owing to their poor dispersibility and potential to destabilize the latex.Although previous studies have dispersed SAs in aqueous poly(vinyl alcohol)(PVA),the stability of such dispersions and their effectiveness as bridging media for latex integration have not been thoroughly evaluated,which limits their practical application in latex compounding.This study systematically examined how the surface chemistry governs hydrolytic stability,interfacial behavior,and latex compatibility in PVA-assisted aqueous processing.Two hydrophobic SAs were prepared:ethoxy-modified SA(E-SA)and methyl-modified SA(M-SA).Both initially formed a homogeneous PVA slurry,but E-SA rapidly hydrolyzed its surface—OCH_(2)CH_(3)groups,releasing ethanol,becoming hydrophilic,and undergoing irreversible nanopore collapse.In contrast,M-SA maintains its structural integrity and hydrophobicity because its—Si(CH_(3))_(3)groups are highly resistant to hydrolysis.This divergence dictates the behavior during latex blending.The ethanol released from E-SA disrupts electrostatic and steric stabilization,inducing latex coagulation,whereas M-SA/PVA dispersions preserve colloidal stability across diverse latex systems.As a practical demonstration,M-SA-reinforced chlorosulfonated polyethylene(CSM)rubber latex composites show more than a 50%reduction in thermal conductivity while maintaining chemical resistance,enabling high-performance insulating protective gloves and coatings.This work establishes a critical link between aerogel surface chemistry and aqueous processing stability,providing a mechanistic foundation for the rational design of water-based rubber/silica aerogel composites and next-generation thermal insulation materials.展开更多
Natural rubber(NR)latex is a renewable colloidal dispersion used in medical gloves,coatings,and flexible products.It is known for its excellent elasticity and film-forming ability but is limited by insufficient mechan...Natural rubber(NR)latex is a renewable colloidal dispersion used in medical gloves,coatings,and flexible products.It is known for its excellent elasticity and film-forming ability but is limited by insufficient mechanical robustness and chemical resistance.Incorporating nanofillers,such as graphene oxide(GO),is an effective approach to enhance its performance;however,achieving strong interfacial compatibility between hydrophilic GO and the nonpolar rubber matrix remains challenging.To overcome this issue,a multifunctional interfacial design inspired by mussel adhesion chemistry was developed to construct a hierarchical and cohesive GO network within the NR latex matrix.A tannic acid-based modifier(TM)bearing catechol and thiol groups was synthesized and anchored onto latex particles via hydrogen bonding with surface proteins and phospholipids,enabling subsequentπ-πinteractions and hydrogen bonding with GO nanosheets.This guided the selective self-assembly of GO into a continuous segregated network along the latex particle boundaries.Hierarchical interface reinforcement was achieved through Eu^(3+)ligand coordination.The incorporation of GO and enhancement of interfacial interactions promoted strain-induced crystallization,resulting in increased crystallinity and improved load transfer.The resulting composite film containing 0.5 part per hundred rubber GO and the bioinspired interface exhibited a tensile strength that was 107.8%higher than that of the pure NR latex film,while maintaining an elongation at break of 915%.Tear strength increased by 118.5%,toughness reached 61.7 MJ/m~3,nitrogen permeability decreased by 20.1%,and antibacterial efficiency against both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus reached 99.9%.The films also exhibited enhanced resistance to organic solvents,acids,and alkalis.This study provides a green and scalable strategy for fabricating high-performance NR latex-based products suitable for medical,protective,and engineering applications.展开更多
The glass transition temperature(T_(g))of styrene-butadiene rubber(SBR)is a key parameter determining its low-temperature flexibility and processing performance.Accurate prediction of T_(g)is crucial formaterial desig...The glass transition temperature(T_(g))of styrene-butadiene rubber(SBR)is a key parameter determining its low-temperature flexibility and processing performance.Accurate prediction of T_(g)is crucial formaterial design and application optimisation.Addressing the limitations of traditional experimental measurements and theoretical models in terms of efficiency,cost,and accuracy,this study proposes a machine learning prediction framework that integrates multi-model ensemble and Bayesian optimization by constructing a multi-component feature dataset and algorithm optimization strategy.Based on the constructed high-quality dataset containing 96 SBR samples,ninemachine learning models were employed to predict the T_(g)of SBR and compare their prediction performance.Ultimately,aGPR-XGBoost mixed model was constructed through model ensemble,achieving high-precision prediction with R^(2)values greater than 0.9 on both the training and test sets.Further feature attribution and local effect analysis were conducted using feature analysis methods such as SHAP and ALE,revealing the nonlinear influence patterns of various components on T_(g),providing a theoretical basis for SBR formulation design and T_(g)regulation.The machine learning prediction framework established in this study combines high-precision prediction with interpretability,significantly enhancing the prediction performance of the T_(g)of SBR.It offers an efficient tool for SBR molecular design and holds great potential for promotion and application.展开更多
Frugal innovation stands as an imperative cog in the wheel of sustainable development.In the pursuit of simplicity,cost-effectiveness,and environmental compatibility,waste tire rubber and polyurethane-coated rubber(PU...Frugal innovation stands as an imperative cog in the wheel of sustainable development.In the pursuit of simplicity,cost-effectiveness,and environmental compatibility,waste tire rubber and polyurethane-coated rubber(PUcR)emerge as pivotal components in sustainable practices.These materials are advocated for various purposes,including protecting utility tunnels,serving as railway subgrades,and enhancing structural resilience through geotechnical seismic isolation(GSI).Their inherent characteristics,such as modest shear modulus(G)and robust damping ratio(D),make them well-suited for such endeavors,contributing to sustainability goals by repurposing substantial quantities of non-biodegradable waste.For practicality,leveraging artificial intelligence(AI)-based modern computing techniques for recycled material applications is imperative.In this regard,gene expression programming(GEP)was utilized to develop models for predicting the G and D of rubber–soil mixtures(RSMs)and polyurethane-coated RSMs(PUcRSMs).Employing laboratory testing data from 63 samples across three soil types,the newly proposed models demonstrated exceptional accuracy,with correlation coefficient(R^(2))values of 0.91 and 0.97 for G-prediction of RSM and PUcRSM,and 0.9 and 0.86 for D-prediction,respectively.Using AI-based methods,such as GEP to predict mixtures’dynamic response can cut laboratory costs and optimize mix designs,thereby advancing sustainable material applications.展开更多
The flocculation behavior of carbon black (CB)-filled isoprene rubber (IR) nanocomposites was systematically investigated under both dynamic and static conditions to unravel the distinct mechanisms governing filler ne...The flocculation behavior of carbon black (CB)-filled isoprene rubber (IR) nanocomposites was systematically investigated under both dynamic and static conditions to unravel the distinct mechanisms governing filler network evolution.Under dynamic conditions,small oscillatory shear strains (0.1%) significantly enhanced filler particle motion,leading to pronounced agglomeration and a flocculation degree of about 4.3MPa at 145℃.In contrast,static flocculation exhibited a fundamentally different mechanism dominated by polymer chain dynamics,which is driven mainly by thermal activation.Radial distribution function (RDF) analysis of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images revealed a slight decrease (2 nm) in the interparticle distance peak after static annealing at 100℃ for 7 h,indicating localized motion of CB particles.However,the overall filler network remained stable,with no significant agglomeration observed.The increase in bound rubber content from about 23% to 28% with rising temperature further confirmed the dominant role of polymer chain adsorption and interfacial reinforcement in static flocculation.These findings highlight the critical influence of external strain on filler network formation and provide new insights into the polymer-dominated mechanism of static flocculation.The results offer practical guidance for optimizing the storage and processing of rubber nanocomposites,particularly in applications where static flocculation during prolonged storage is a concern.展开更多
Immunosuppressed patients have increased susceptibility to various infections,including opportunistic infections.The risk of infective complications in these patients is significantly higher,which can lead to more sev...Immunosuppressed patients have increased susceptibility to various infections,including opportunistic infections.The risk of infective complications in these patients is significantly higher,which can lead to more severe infections,prolonged illness course,and an increased likelihood of poor outcome,including sepsis,organ failure,and even death.Blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome(BRBNS)is a rare syndrome characterized by venous malformations primarily found in the skin and gastrointestinal(GI)tract.展开更多
Natural rubber(NR)is a crucial elastic material used for damping and sealing applications in the nuclear industry,but its mechanical stability under radiation remains inadequate.Current efforts to improve radiation re...Natural rubber(NR)is a crucial elastic material used for damping and sealing applications in the nuclear industry,but its mechanical stability under radiation remains inadequate.Current efforts to improve radiation resistance rely on the addition of antiradiation agents,however,the effects of the components and microstructures of NR itself on radiation resistance remain unclear.In this study,we compared the composition and structure differences of four typical commercially used NR materials and investigated their effects on gamma radiation resistance.Furthermore,we examined the impact of non-rubber components(NRC)in NR on radiation resistance using deproteinized and dephosphorylated NR model samples.Our results revealed that NRC,such as proteins and phospholipids can enhance the strength of natural rubber before radiation exposure.However,after the removal of NRC,the samples exhibited improved mechanical stability under irradiation.Additionally,the ash content in NR could also influence the radiation resistance,as metal ions may react with the active centers produced by radiation,thereby enhancing the radiation resistance of the rubber.This work identifies the effect of non-rubber components in NR on radiation resistance and may serve as a reference for screening and developing radiation-resistant NR materials.展开更多
Herein,cure characteristics,morphology,and mechanical properties of natural rubber filled with activated carbon-based materials were investigated.Carbon-based materials were prepared from bagasse,coffee grounds and pi...Herein,cure characteristics,morphology,and mechanical properties of natural rubber filled with activated carbon-based materials were investigated.Carbon-based materials were prepared from bagasse,coffee grounds and pineapple crowns by the pyrolysis method at temperatures in the range of 300℃.As-synthesized carbon materials were characterized by optical microscopy(OM),scanning electron microscopy(SEM),and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy(FTIR)to analyze size distribution,morphology,and functional groups,respectively.OM and SEM analysis revealed that particles,flakes,and a small quantity of fiber-like carbon were obtained using bagasse and pineapple crown as raw materials,while honeycomb-like carbon materials can be derived from coffee grounds.To investigate the mechanical properties,natural rubber was filled with carbon black and as-synthesized carbon materials by the internal mixing and compression molding process.Transmission electron microscopy(TEM)was utilized to characterize the dispersion of carbon materials in the rubber matrix.The results of tensile testing showed that the natural rubber mixed with as-synthesized carbon materials from pineapple crowns exhibited 54%and 74%improvement in the ultimate tensile strength and Young’s modulus,respectively,compared with natural rubber without filled carbon materials.The enhancement in mechanical properties by activated carbon materials derived from pineapple crowns can be attributed to the flake-and fiber-like structures and good dispersion of carbon materials in the rubber matrix.In addition,it is higher than that of rubber mixed with carbon black.The results demonstrated that as-synthesized carbon materials from pineapple crowns have the potential materials to substitute carbon black in the rubber compound industry.展开更多
Purpose–The brake pipe system was an essential braking component of the railway freight trains,but the existing E-type sealing rings had problems such as insufficient low-temperature resistance,poor heat stability an...Purpose–The brake pipe system was an essential braking component of the railway freight trains,but the existing E-type sealing rings had problems such as insufficient low-temperature resistance,poor heat stability and short service life.To address these issues,low-phenyl silicone rubber was prepared and tested,and the finite element analysis and experimental studies on the sealing performance of its sealing rings were carried out.Design/methodology/approach–The low-temperature resistance and thermal stability of the prepared lowphenyl silicone rubber were studied using low-temperature tensile testing,differential scanning calorimetry,dynamic thermomechanical analysis and thermogravimetric analysis.The sealing performance of the lowphenyl silicone rubber sealing ring was studied by using finite element analysis software abaqus and experiments.Findings–The prepared low-phenyl silicone rubber sealing ring possessed excellent low-temperature resistance and thermal stability.According to the finite element analysis results,the finish of the flange sealing surface and groove outer edge should be ensured,and extrusion damage should be avoided.The sealing rings were more susceptible to damage in high compression ratio and/or low-temperature environments.When the sealing effect was ensured,a small compression ratio should be selected,and rubbers with hardness and elasticity less affected by temperature should be selected.The prepared low-phenyl silicone rubber sealing ring had zero leakage at both room temperature(RT)and�508C.Originality/value–The innovation of this study is that it provides valuable data and experience for the future development of the sealing rings used in the brake pipe flange joints of the railway freight cars in China.展开更多
This review provides a comprehensive overview of natural rubber(NR)composites,focusing on their properties,compounding aspects,and renewable practices involving natural fibre reinforcement.The properties of NR are inf...This review provides a comprehensive overview of natural rubber(NR)composites,focusing on their properties,compounding aspects,and renewable practices involving natural fibre reinforcement.The properties of NR are influenced by the compounding process,which incorporates ingredients such as elastomers,vulcanizing agents,accelerators,activators,and fillers like carbon black and silica.While effective in enhancing properties,these fillers lack biodegradability,prompting the exploration of sustainable alternatives.The potential of natural fibres as renewable reinforcements in NR composites is thoroughly covered in this review,highlighting both their advan-tages,such as improved sustainability,and the challenges they present,such as compatibility with the rubber matrix.Surface treatment methods,including alkali and silane treatments,are also discussed as solutions to improve fibre-matrix adhesion and mitigate these challenges.Additionally,the review highlights the potential of oil palm empty fruit bunch(EFB)fibres as a natural fibre reinforcement.The abundance of EFB fibres and their alignment with sustainable practices make them promising substitutes for conventional fillers,contributing to valuable knowledge and supporting the broader move towards renewable reinforcement to improve sustain-ability without compromising the key properties of rubber composites.展开更多
Silicone rubber(SR)exhibits superior breathability and high-temperature resistance.However,SR is prone to degradation under extreme heat or combustion,limiting its effectiveness in mitigating secondary hazards.In this...Silicone rubber(SR)exhibits superior breathability and high-temperature resistance.However,SR is prone to degradation under extreme heat or combustion,limiting its effectiveness in mitigating secondary hazards.In this study,phosphate glass powder was used to calcinate zinc borate,lanthanum oxide,and cerium oxide.Methylphenyl polysiloxane was then grafted onto the surface of the glass powder,resulting in the modified pow-ders designated as Methylphenyl polysiloxane-grafted zinc borate-modified phosphate glass powder(GF-ZnBM),Methylphenyl polysiloxane-grafted lanthanum oxide-modified phosphate glass powder(GF-LaM),and Methylphenyl polysiloxane-grafted cerium oxide-modified phosphate glass powder(GF-CeM).The modified powders were sub-sequently incorporated into silicone rubber composites to enhance the ceramicization capability of silicone rubber at high temperatures.Specifically,GF-CeM and GF-LaM significantly increased the limiting oxygen index(LOI)to 33%and reduced the tendency for combustion propagation.Additionally,GF-CeM notably contributed to enhancing ceramicization strength.The presence of cerium oxide helps in the melting of the glass powder and enhances its adhesion to the silicone rubber matrix.SR/ZnB-GF exhibited the lowest activation energy among the tested composites,along with the best protective capability.The inclusion of modified glass powder has a minor impact on the rheological properties,indicating that the composite retains its ability to flow and deform under stress.This confirms that the material remains flexible under normal conditions and forms a ceramic structure when heated,thereby exhibiting self-supporting properties.This study provides a practical methodology for the targeted modification of glass powders,thereby further enhancing the fire safety of silicone-based composites.展开更多
Silicone rubber(SR)is a versatile material widely used across various advanced functional applications,such as soft actuators and robots,flexible electronics,and medical devices.However,most SR molding methods rely on...Silicone rubber(SR)is a versatile material widely used across various advanced functional applications,such as soft actuators and robots,flexible electronics,and medical devices.However,most SR molding methods rely on traditional thermal processing or direct ink writing three-dimensional(3D)printing.These methods are not conducive to manufacturing complex structures and present challenges such as time inefficiency,poor accuracy,and the necessity of multiple steps,significantly limiting SR applications.In this study,we developed an SR-based ink suitable for vat photopolymerization 3D printing using a multi-thiol monomer.This ink enables the one-step fabrication of complex architectures with high printing resolution at the micrometer scale,providing excellent mechanical strength and superior chemical stability.Specifically,the optimized 3D printing SR-20 exhibits a tensile stress of 1.96 MPa,an elongation at break of 487.9%,and an elastic modulus of 225.4 kPa.Additionally,the 3D-printed SR samples can withstand various solvents(acetone,toluene,and tetrahydrofuran)and endure temperatures ranging from-50℃ to 180℃,demonstrating superior stability.As a emonstration of the application,we successfully fabricated a series of SR-based soft pneumatic actuators and grippers in a single step with this technology,allowing for free assembly for the first time.This ultraviolet-curable SR,with high printing resolution and exceptional stability performance,has significant potential to enhance the capabilities of 3D printing for applications in soft actuators,robotics,flexible electronics,and medical devices.展开更多
The predictive model and design of heavy-duty metal rubber shock absorber for the powertrains of heavy-load mining vehicles were investigated.The microstructural characteristics of the wire mesh were elucidated using ...The predictive model and design of heavy-duty metal rubber shock absorber for the powertrains of heavy-load mining vehicles were investigated.The microstructural characteristics of the wire mesh were elucidated using fractal graphs.A numerical model based on virtual fabrication technique was established to propose a design scheme for the wire mesh component.Four sets of wire mesh shock absorbers with various relative densities were prepared and a predictive model based on these relative densities was established through mechanical testing.To further enhance the predictive accuracy,a variable transposition fitting method was proposed to refine the model.Residual analysis was employed to quantitatively validate the results against those obtained from an experimental control group.The results show that the improved model exhibits higher predictive accuracy than the original model,with the determination coefficient(R^(2))of 0.9624.This study provides theoretical support for designing wire mesh shock absorbers with reduced testing requirements and enhanced design efficiency.展开更多
Rubbery waste at the end of the cycle often constitutes a threat for the environment because of their encumbrance and low biodeterioration.The purpose of the research presented is to develop the rubber fine powder as ...Rubbery waste at the end of the cycle often constitutes a threat for the environment because of their encumbrance and low biodeterioration.The purpose of the research presented is to develop the rubber fine powder as a pavement.It is interested primarily in the behavior of two types of bitumen 40/50 modified by the addition of two varieties of rubber fine powders of different grading,resulting from the crushing of the rubbery products intended for the clothes industry of soles of shoes.The objective of the experimentation is to study the influence of the added polymer on the physical properties of the ordinary road bitumen with the incorporation of the fine powder.The experimental approach is carried out using the two tests of characterization of the bitumen i.e.the softening point test and the penetration test which remain the most used to define and classify the road bitumen.It will be noted however,that the experimental investigation which is based on several tests according to the type and the content of fine powders,leads on a whole of interesting correlations.展开更多
基金supported by the Transportation Science and Technology Program of Henan Province(grant number:2023-4-2)the Key Research and Development Program of Ningxia Science and Technology Department(grant number:2022BEG02008)+2 种基金China Communications Construction Group Co.,Ltd.Science and Technology R&D Project(grant number:2021KJW02)the Research and Development Program of Henan Transportation Investment Group Co.,Ltd.(grant number:HNJT2025-1-9)the Postdoctoral Fellowship Program of CPSF(grand number:GZC20251139).
文摘The addition of high-content crumb rubber(HCCR)in asphalt can effectively address waste tire pollution and provide sustainable environmental and economic advantages.However,the practical application of conventional rubberized binders is significantly limited by high viscosity and poor storage stability.To address these issues,researchers have pretreated crumb rubber(CR)with oil,but high-temperature performance remains insufficient.Therefore,this study aimed to optimize the viscosity,storage stability,and rheological properties of high-content crumb rubber-modified asphalt(HCCRMA)by varying the pretreatment levels of CR and incorporating various additives,including styrene-butadiene-styrene(SBS),deoiled asphalt(DA),or recycled low-density polyethylene(RLDPE).In addition,CR was pretreated with waste cooking oil(WCO)at various ratios,pre-swelling temperatures,and times.The results show that DA exhibits excellent storage stability and lower viscosity compared with other modifiers in HCCRMA,and the 4%RLDPE with pretreated HCCR has the greatest high-temperature rutting resistance.The inclusion of RLDPE increases the stiffness and elasticity of the modified asphalt,which results in greater high-temperature performance.Additionally,the fluorescence microscopy(FM)test confirms that SBS exhibits better dispersion than other modifiers and forms a more homogeneous phase separation in the HCCRMA.All in all,this research achieved an optimal balance of storage stability and rheological properties in asphalt modified with pretreated HCCR and 6%SBS,which provides a valuable reference for performance improvement of HCCR-modified binders.
基金financed by national funds through the FCT/MCTES(PIDDAC)the support of“H2 Driven Green Agenda”,nr.C644923817-00000037,investment project nr.50+1 种基金financed by the Recovery and Resilience Plan(PRR)by European Union-Next Generation EU.
文摘The rapid growth of the automobile industry has substantially increased end-of-life tires(ELT)production with over 2300 million units manufactured in 2022.Despite known processes to recover materials and energy from ELT,a significant number of tires still end up in landfills,posing environmental problems.Pyrolysis offers a promising alternative to produce energy and marketable products like recovered carbon black(rCB).Incorpo-rating rCB into rubber matrices shows potential for partially replacing commercial carbon black,but more research is required to understand its reinforcing effects and recyclability through repeated pyrolysis cycles.Furthermore,tire composition variability affects rCB quality,challenging consistent production for market ap-plications.Post-treatments like activation and demineralization enhance rCB properties but pose challenges,with higher activation degrees improving pore structure but reducing carbon content while demineralization removes impurities but raises concerns about chemical use and equipment wear.Further research is needed to develop scalable and economically viable post-treatments along with their life cycle assessment.Here,a comprehensive literature review on rCB activation and demineralization is presented and,since the ultimate goal is to reuse rCB in the production of new tires,the rCB incorporation into rubber matrices is also reviewed.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.52363007)。
文摘Recycling of waste rubber(WR)is crucial for the sustainable development of the rubber industry.The enhancement of interfacial interactions is the main strategy for waste polymer recycling.However,there is a lack of methods for enhancing the interfacial interactions for WR recycling because WR contains abundant inert C―H bonds.Herein,we designed thioctic acid inverse vulcanization copolymers to endow recycled WR with dynamic disulfide interfacial interactions,significantly improving the mechanical properties of recycled WR.These disulfide interfacial interactions among the recycled WR tend to exchange,which dramatically increases the fractocohesive length and prevents stress concentration near the crack tips.When recycled WR is subjected to external stress,the loads are redistributed across a broad region of adjacent regions instead of being concentrated on a limited length scale,which resists crack propagation.This work effectively recycled WR,providing a strategy for solvent-free reaction-derived inverse vulcanization copolymers to improve the toughness of WR recycling.
基金supported by the RIIM BRIN and LPDP Grants,grant number B-2880/II.7.5/KS.00/4/2025 dan B-7930/III.6/TK.01.03/4/2025 under the scheme BRIN-KONEKSI Joint Call for Proposalsthe theme“Indonesia's Bioeconomy:Maximising Sustainable Marine Biodiversity Utilisation 2024”No 6/II.7/HK/2025.
文摘This study investigates the potential of starch extracted from underutilized agro-industrial resources as non-food-competing raw materials for the development of flexible bioplastics for food packaging applications.Starch was extracted from three biomass sources:rubber cassava(Manihot glaziovii),banana stem,and banana peel from Ambonese banana(Musa acuminata L.).Rubber cassava starch(SRC)exhibited the highest starch yield(50.68±0.28%),significantly surpassing banana stem(SBS,14.20±0.25%)and banana peel(SBP,3.07±0.15%).The amylose contents of SRC,SBS,and SBP were 28.18%,52.80%,and 56.57%,respectively,while their amylopectin contents were 71.83%,47.20%,and 43.43%.FTIR spectra confirmed the absence of cyanogenic groups in SRC,indicating its safety for packaging applications.XRD analysis revealed that PSRC films were predominantly amorphous,while PSBS and PSBP showed higher crystallinity.The enhancement of mechanical properties,specifically PSBS,showed the highest tensile strength at 16.04±0.56 MPa,whereas PSRC demonstrated the highest elongation at break at 23.57±0.40%,which could be attributed to the inherent characteristics of the starch sources.Additionally,PSRC film exhibited the highest transparency at 60.2%,the greatest water solubility at 34.92%,and the lowest water contact angle at 41.58○,confirming its more hydrophilic nature compared to other films.This work highlights the potential of low-cost,sustainable,and non-food agro-industrial starch sources as promising candidates for the development of flexible,eco-friendly bioplastics.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.52341301)Liaoning Provincial Department of Education Basic Research Project,China(Nos.LJKZZ20220055 and JYTMS20231498)Shenyang Natural Science Foundation Special,China(No.23-503-6-06).
文摘To combine the high elasticity and good mechanical performance of isoprene rubber(IR)with excellent fatigue resistance and low heat build-up of Eucommia ulmoides gum(EUG),the present study employed a chemical method to graft 4-amino pyridine(AP)onto epoxidized IR and EUG,thereby creating a chemical assembly rubber of amino-pyridine-grafted epoxidized IR(AP-EIR)and amino pyridine-grafted epoxidized EUG(AP-EEUG)via a dynamic hydrogen bonding network.The presence of hydrogen bonds between AP-EIR and AP-EEUG was confirmed by variable temperature infrared spectroscopy,whereas scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy revealed a uniform dispersion of zinc oxide and nano-fillers.Hydrogen bonds significantly facilitate strain-induced crystallization between the AP-EIR and AP-EEUG molecules,thereby strengthening their intermolecular interactions.During mechanical deformation,the material primarily dissipates energy through the breaking of hydrogen bonds,which effectively improves the mechanical strength of the material,and the introduction of amino groups in this chemical assembly rubber improves the uniform dispersion of nano-fillers,as well as the interface interaction between rubber and nano-fillers.Consequently,the chemically assembled rubber exhibited superior modulus,tensile strength,and tear strength compared to IR and its physical blend,while also demonstrating reduced heat build-up during dynamic loading.
基金the financial support provided under the Fundamental Research Grant Scheme(FRGS),Project Code:FRGS/1/2021/TK01/USM/02/1,which made this research possible,The kind assistance and collaboration of all material suppliers were also gratefully acknowledged.Additional appreciation is extended to the Public Works Department Malaysia for the scholarship provided through the Hadiah Latihan Persekutuan programme for professional and managerial officers pursuing doctoral studies(JPA-1-840622086040)The APC was funded by Prof.Hui Yao from Beijing University of Technology.
文摘The rapid increase in traffic loads and frequencies has rendered conventional asphalt pavement inadequate to maintain its durability under tropical climates.This challenge has necessitated the exploration of new sources of modified asphalt with enhanced stiffness and superior performance at high temperatures.Natural rubber(NR)is a renewable biopolymer that has received growing interest as a modifier for asphalt binders.Cup lump rubber(CLR),a type of NR,is used to enhance asphalt properties and improve the performance of road pavements.This study evaluates the influence of wax-based surfactants(WS)on CLR-modified asphalt binder(CMB).The assessment focuses on changes in chemical characteristics,rheological behaviour,activation energy,and morphology.Four concentrations of WS(0.1%,0.15%,0.2%,and 0.25%)were incorporated into CMB.Analysis of CMB chemical changes showed that viscosity increased due to higher sulfoxide,carbonyl,and aromatic bond indices.These chemical modifications contributed to improved resistance of the binder to heat-induced deterioration.In both unaged and aged CMB samples,the incorporation of WS reduced the sulfoxide index of the binder.Rheological analysis indicated that CMB improved rutting resistance and anti-ageing performance,while WS further enhanced fatigue resistance.Activation energy analysis suggested that the combination of CMB with 0.15%WS produced the most favourable enhancement.Micrograph results showed that WS improved binder homogeneity and interconnectivity.In conclusion,the findings indicated that incorporating 0.15%WS into CMB enhanced the performance and durability of the asphalt pavement.
基金financially supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(Nos.2022YFC2603500,2022YFC2603502)the Guangzhou Science and Technology Project(No.2024A04J4280).All authors acknowledge the financial support.
文摘Silica aerogels(SAs)impart low density and excellent thermal insulation to polymer systems,yet incorporating hydrophobic SAs into aqueous rubber latex systems remains challenging owing to their poor dispersibility and potential to destabilize the latex.Although previous studies have dispersed SAs in aqueous poly(vinyl alcohol)(PVA),the stability of such dispersions and their effectiveness as bridging media for latex integration have not been thoroughly evaluated,which limits their practical application in latex compounding.This study systematically examined how the surface chemistry governs hydrolytic stability,interfacial behavior,and latex compatibility in PVA-assisted aqueous processing.Two hydrophobic SAs were prepared:ethoxy-modified SA(E-SA)and methyl-modified SA(M-SA).Both initially formed a homogeneous PVA slurry,but E-SA rapidly hydrolyzed its surface—OCH_(2)CH_(3)groups,releasing ethanol,becoming hydrophilic,and undergoing irreversible nanopore collapse.In contrast,M-SA maintains its structural integrity and hydrophobicity because its—Si(CH_(3))_(3)groups are highly resistant to hydrolysis.This divergence dictates the behavior during latex blending.The ethanol released from E-SA disrupts electrostatic and steric stabilization,inducing latex coagulation,whereas M-SA/PVA dispersions preserve colloidal stability across diverse latex systems.As a practical demonstration,M-SA-reinforced chlorosulfonated polyethylene(CSM)rubber latex composites show more than a 50%reduction in thermal conductivity while maintaining chemical resistance,enabling high-performance insulating protective gloves and coatings.This work establishes a critical link between aerogel surface chemistry and aqueous processing stability,providing a mechanistic foundation for the rational design of water-based rubber/silica aerogel composites and next-generation thermal insulation materials.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.52303063)。
文摘Natural rubber(NR)latex is a renewable colloidal dispersion used in medical gloves,coatings,and flexible products.It is known for its excellent elasticity and film-forming ability but is limited by insufficient mechanical robustness and chemical resistance.Incorporating nanofillers,such as graphene oxide(GO),is an effective approach to enhance its performance;however,achieving strong interfacial compatibility between hydrophilic GO and the nonpolar rubber matrix remains challenging.To overcome this issue,a multifunctional interfacial design inspired by mussel adhesion chemistry was developed to construct a hierarchical and cohesive GO network within the NR latex matrix.A tannic acid-based modifier(TM)bearing catechol and thiol groups was synthesized and anchored onto latex particles via hydrogen bonding with surface proteins and phospholipids,enabling subsequentπ-πinteractions and hydrogen bonding with GO nanosheets.This guided the selective self-assembly of GO into a continuous segregated network along the latex particle boundaries.Hierarchical interface reinforcement was achieved through Eu^(3+)ligand coordination.The incorporation of GO and enhancement of interfacial interactions promoted strain-induced crystallization,resulting in increased crystallinity and improved load transfer.The resulting composite film containing 0.5 part per hundred rubber GO and the bioinspired interface exhibited a tensile strength that was 107.8%higher than that of the pure NR latex film,while maintaining an elongation at break of 915%.Tear strength increased by 118.5%,toughness reached 61.7 MJ/m~3,nitrogen permeability decreased by 20.1%,and antibacterial efficiency against both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus reached 99.9%.The films also exhibited enhanced resistance to organic solvents,acids,and alkalis.This study provides a green and scalable strategy for fabricating high-performance NR latex-based products suitable for medical,protective,and engineering applications.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(grant numbers 52250357 and 52203003).
文摘The glass transition temperature(T_(g))of styrene-butadiene rubber(SBR)is a key parameter determining its low-temperature flexibility and processing performance.Accurate prediction of T_(g)is crucial formaterial design and application optimisation.Addressing the limitations of traditional experimental measurements and theoretical models in terms of efficiency,cost,and accuracy,this study proposes a machine learning prediction framework that integrates multi-model ensemble and Bayesian optimization by constructing a multi-component feature dataset and algorithm optimization strategy.Based on the constructed high-quality dataset containing 96 SBR samples,ninemachine learning models were employed to predict the T_(g)of SBR and compare their prediction performance.Ultimately,aGPR-XGBoost mixed model was constructed through model ensemble,achieving high-precision prediction with R^(2)values greater than 0.9 on both the training and test sets.Further feature attribution and local effect analysis were conducted using feature analysis methods such as SHAP and ALE,revealing the nonlinear influence patterns of various components on T_(g),providing a theoretical basis for SBR formulation design and T_(g)regulation.The machine learning prediction framework established in this study combines high-precision prediction with interpretability,significantly enhancing the prediction performance of the T_(g)of SBR.It offers an efficient tool for SBR molecular design and holds great potential for promotion and application.
文摘Frugal innovation stands as an imperative cog in the wheel of sustainable development.In the pursuit of simplicity,cost-effectiveness,and environmental compatibility,waste tire rubber and polyurethane-coated rubber(PUcR)emerge as pivotal components in sustainable practices.These materials are advocated for various purposes,including protecting utility tunnels,serving as railway subgrades,and enhancing structural resilience through geotechnical seismic isolation(GSI).Their inherent characteristics,such as modest shear modulus(G)and robust damping ratio(D),make them well-suited for such endeavors,contributing to sustainability goals by repurposing substantial quantities of non-biodegradable waste.For practicality,leveraging artificial intelligence(AI)-based modern computing techniques for recycled material applications is imperative.In this regard,gene expression programming(GEP)was utilized to develop models for predicting the G and D of rubber–soil mixtures(RSMs)and polyurethane-coated RSMs(PUcRSMs).Employing laboratory testing data from 63 samples across three soil types,the newly proposed models demonstrated exceptional accuracy,with correlation coefficient(R^(2))values of 0.91 and 0.97 for G-prediction of RSM and PUcRSM,and 0.9 and 0.86 for D-prediction,respectively.Using AI-based methods,such as GEP to predict mixtures’dynamic response can cut laboratory costs and optimize mix designs,thereby advancing sustainable material applications.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.52293471)National Key R&D Program of China(No.2022YFB3707303).
文摘The flocculation behavior of carbon black (CB)-filled isoprene rubber (IR) nanocomposites was systematically investigated under both dynamic and static conditions to unravel the distinct mechanisms governing filler network evolution.Under dynamic conditions,small oscillatory shear strains (0.1%) significantly enhanced filler particle motion,leading to pronounced agglomeration and a flocculation degree of about 4.3MPa at 145℃.In contrast,static flocculation exhibited a fundamentally different mechanism dominated by polymer chain dynamics,which is driven mainly by thermal activation.Radial distribution function (RDF) analysis of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images revealed a slight decrease (2 nm) in the interparticle distance peak after static annealing at 100℃ for 7 h,indicating localized motion of CB particles.However,the overall filler network remained stable,with no significant agglomeration observed.The increase in bound rubber content from about 23% to 28% with rising temperature further confirmed the dominant role of polymer chain adsorption and interfacial reinforcement in static flocculation.These findings highlight the critical influence of external strain on filler network formation and provide new insights into the polymer-dominated mechanism of static flocculation.The results offer practical guidance for optimizing the storage and processing of rubber nanocomposites,particularly in applications where static flocculation during prolonged storage is a concern.
基金funded by Tianjin Key Medical Discipline(Specialty)Construction Project(TJYXZDXK-007A).
文摘Immunosuppressed patients have increased susceptibility to various infections,including opportunistic infections.The risk of infective complications in these patients is significantly higher,which can lead to more severe infections,prolonged illness course,and an increased likelihood of poor outcome,including sepsis,organ failure,and even death.Blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome(BRBNS)is a rare syndrome characterized by venous malformations primarily found in the skin and gastrointestinal(GI)tract.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Sichuan Province(No.2024NSFSC0173)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.5240030820,52173058 and 52403072)National Key R&D Program of China(No.2022YFD2301202)。
文摘Natural rubber(NR)is a crucial elastic material used for damping and sealing applications in the nuclear industry,but its mechanical stability under radiation remains inadequate.Current efforts to improve radiation resistance rely on the addition of antiradiation agents,however,the effects of the components and microstructures of NR itself on radiation resistance remain unclear.In this study,we compared the composition and structure differences of four typical commercially used NR materials and investigated their effects on gamma radiation resistance.Furthermore,we examined the impact of non-rubber components(NRC)in NR on radiation resistance using deproteinized and dephosphorylated NR model samples.Our results revealed that NRC,such as proteins and phospholipids can enhance the strength of natural rubber before radiation exposure.However,after the removal of NRC,the samples exhibited improved mechanical stability under irradiation.Additionally,the ash content in NR could also influence the radiation resistance,as metal ions may react with the active centers produced by radiation,thereby enhancing the radiation resistance of the rubber.This work identifies the effect of non-rubber components in NR on radiation resistance and may serve as a reference for screening and developing radiation-resistant NR materials.
基金funded by Faculty of Engineering,Burapha University,grant number 003/2567.
文摘Herein,cure characteristics,morphology,and mechanical properties of natural rubber filled with activated carbon-based materials were investigated.Carbon-based materials were prepared from bagasse,coffee grounds and pineapple crowns by the pyrolysis method at temperatures in the range of 300℃.As-synthesized carbon materials were characterized by optical microscopy(OM),scanning electron microscopy(SEM),and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy(FTIR)to analyze size distribution,morphology,and functional groups,respectively.OM and SEM analysis revealed that particles,flakes,and a small quantity of fiber-like carbon were obtained using bagasse and pineapple crown as raw materials,while honeycomb-like carbon materials can be derived from coffee grounds.To investigate the mechanical properties,natural rubber was filled with carbon black and as-synthesized carbon materials by the internal mixing and compression molding process.Transmission electron microscopy(TEM)was utilized to characterize the dispersion of carbon materials in the rubber matrix.The results of tensile testing showed that the natural rubber mixed with as-synthesized carbon materials from pineapple crowns exhibited 54%and 74%improvement in the ultimate tensile strength and Young’s modulus,respectively,compared with natural rubber without filled carbon materials.The enhancement in mechanical properties by activated carbon materials derived from pineapple crowns can be attributed to the flake-and fiber-like structures and good dispersion of carbon materials in the rubber matrix.In addition,it is higher than that of rubber mixed with carbon black.The results demonstrated that as-synthesized carbon materials from pineapple crowns have the potential materials to substitute carbon black in the rubber compound industry.
基金supported by the Science and Technology Research and Development Plan of the China State Railway Group Company Limited(No.Q2023J012).
文摘Purpose–The brake pipe system was an essential braking component of the railway freight trains,but the existing E-type sealing rings had problems such as insufficient low-temperature resistance,poor heat stability and short service life.To address these issues,low-phenyl silicone rubber was prepared and tested,and the finite element analysis and experimental studies on the sealing performance of its sealing rings were carried out.Design/methodology/approach–The low-temperature resistance and thermal stability of the prepared lowphenyl silicone rubber were studied using low-temperature tensile testing,differential scanning calorimetry,dynamic thermomechanical analysis and thermogravimetric analysis.The sealing performance of the lowphenyl silicone rubber sealing ring was studied by using finite element analysis software abaqus and experiments.Findings–The prepared low-phenyl silicone rubber sealing ring possessed excellent low-temperature resistance and thermal stability.According to the finite element analysis results,the finish of the flange sealing surface and groove outer edge should be ensured,and extrusion damage should be avoided.The sealing rings were more susceptible to damage in high compression ratio and/or low-temperature environments.When the sealing effect was ensured,a small compression ratio should be selected,and rubbers with hardness and elasticity less affected by temperature should be selected.The prepared low-phenyl silicone rubber sealing ring had zero leakage at both room temperature(RT)and�508C.Originality/value–The innovation of this study is that it provides valuable data and experience for the future development of the sealing rings used in the brake pipe flange joints of the railway freight cars in China.
基金funded under the Collaborative Research Initiative Grant Scheme(C-RIGS),grant number C-RIGS24-016-0022 from IIUM.
文摘This review provides a comprehensive overview of natural rubber(NR)composites,focusing on their properties,compounding aspects,and renewable practices involving natural fibre reinforcement.The properties of NR are influenced by the compounding process,which incorporates ingredients such as elastomers,vulcanizing agents,accelerators,activators,and fillers like carbon black and silica.While effective in enhancing properties,these fillers lack biodegradability,prompting the exploration of sustainable alternatives.The potential of natural fibres as renewable reinforcements in NR composites is thoroughly covered in this review,highlighting both their advan-tages,such as improved sustainability,and the challenges they present,such as compatibility with the rubber matrix.Surface treatment methods,including alkali and silane treatments,are also discussed as solutions to improve fibre-matrix adhesion and mitigate these challenges.Additionally,the review highlights the potential of oil palm empty fruit bunch(EFB)fibres as a natural fibre reinforcement.The abundance of EFB fibres and their alignment with sustainable practices make them promising substitutes for conventional fillers,contributing to valuable knowledge and supporting the broader move towards renewable reinforcement to improve sustain-ability without compromising the key properties of rubber composites.
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(51991352 and 51874266).
文摘Silicone rubber(SR)exhibits superior breathability and high-temperature resistance.However,SR is prone to degradation under extreme heat or combustion,limiting its effectiveness in mitigating secondary hazards.In this study,phosphate glass powder was used to calcinate zinc borate,lanthanum oxide,and cerium oxide.Methylphenyl polysiloxane was then grafted onto the surface of the glass powder,resulting in the modified pow-ders designated as Methylphenyl polysiloxane-grafted zinc borate-modified phosphate glass powder(GF-ZnBM),Methylphenyl polysiloxane-grafted lanthanum oxide-modified phosphate glass powder(GF-LaM),and Methylphenyl polysiloxane-grafted cerium oxide-modified phosphate glass powder(GF-CeM).The modified powders were sub-sequently incorporated into silicone rubber composites to enhance the ceramicization capability of silicone rubber at high temperatures.Specifically,GF-CeM and GF-LaM significantly increased the limiting oxygen index(LOI)to 33%and reduced the tendency for combustion propagation.Additionally,GF-CeM notably contributed to enhancing ceramicization strength.The presence of cerium oxide helps in the melting of the glass powder and enhances its adhesion to the silicone rubber matrix.SR/ZnB-GF exhibited the lowest activation energy among the tested composites,along with the best protective capability.The inclusion of modified glass powder has a minor impact on the rheological properties,indicating that the composite retains its ability to flow and deform under stress.This confirms that the material remains flexible under normal conditions and forms a ceramic structure when heated,thereby exhibiting self-supporting properties.This study provides a practical methodology for the targeted modification of glass powders,thereby further enhancing the fire safety of silicone-based composites.
基金supported by the Strategic Priority Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(XDB0470303)the National Key R&D Program of China(2022YFB4600102and 2023YFE0209900)+4 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(52175201 and 51935012)the science and technology projects of Gansu province(22JR5RA093,24JRRA044,24YFFA014 and 24ZDGA014)the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Team Project of YEDA(2021TD007)the special supporting project for provincial leading talents of Yantaithe Taishan Scholars Program。
文摘Silicone rubber(SR)is a versatile material widely used across various advanced functional applications,such as soft actuators and robots,flexible electronics,and medical devices.However,most SR molding methods rely on traditional thermal processing or direct ink writing three-dimensional(3D)printing.These methods are not conducive to manufacturing complex structures and present challenges such as time inefficiency,poor accuracy,and the necessity of multiple steps,significantly limiting SR applications.In this study,we developed an SR-based ink suitable for vat photopolymerization 3D printing using a multi-thiol monomer.This ink enables the one-step fabrication of complex architectures with high printing resolution at the micrometer scale,providing excellent mechanical strength and superior chemical stability.Specifically,the optimized 3D printing SR-20 exhibits a tensile stress of 1.96 MPa,an elongation at break of 487.9%,and an elastic modulus of 225.4 kPa.Additionally,the 3D-printed SR samples can withstand various solvents(acetone,toluene,and tetrahydrofuran)and endure temperatures ranging from-50℃ to 180℃,demonstrating superior stability.As a emonstration of the application,we successfully fabricated a series of SR-based soft pneumatic actuators and grippers in a single step with this technology,allowing for free assembly for the first time.This ultraviolet-curable SR,with high printing resolution and exceptional stability performance,has significant potential to enhance the capabilities of 3D printing for applications in soft actuators,robotics,flexible electronics,and medical devices.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(12262028)Program for Young Talents of Science and Technology in Universities of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region(NJYT22085)Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Science and Technology Plan Project(2021GG0437)。
文摘The predictive model and design of heavy-duty metal rubber shock absorber for the powertrains of heavy-load mining vehicles were investigated.The microstructural characteristics of the wire mesh were elucidated using fractal graphs.A numerical model based on virtual fabrication technique was established to propose a design scheme for the wire mesh component.Four sets of wire mesh shock absorbers with various relative densities were prepared and a predictive model based on these relative densities was established through mechanical testing.To further enhance the predictive accuracy,a variable transposition fitting method was proposed to refine the model.Residual analysis was employed to quantitatively validate the results against those obtained from an experimental control group.The results show that the improved model exhibits higher predictive accuracy than the original model,with the determination coefficient(R^(2))of 0.9624.This study provides theoretical support for designing wire mesh shock absorbers with reduced testing requirements and enhanced design efficiency.
文摘Rubbery waste at the end of the cycle often constitutes a threat for the environment because of their encumbrance and low biodeterioration.The purpose of the research presented is to develop the rubber fine powder as a pavement.It is interested primarily in the behavior of two types of bitumen 40/50 modified by the addition of two varieties of rubber fine powders of different grading,resulting from the crushing of the rubbery products intended for the clothes industry of soles of shoes.The objective of the experimentation is to study the influence of the added polymer on the physical properties of the ordinary road bitumen with the incorporation of the fine powder.The experimental approach is carried out using the two tests of characterization of the bitumen i.e.the softening point test and the penetration test which remain the most used to define and classify the road bitumen.It will be noted however,that the experimental investigation which is based on several tests according to the type and the content of fine powders,leads on a whole of interesting correlations.
