2025 Spring Meeting Abstract Book

RUBBER DIVISION, ACS

207 th Technical Meeting - Abstract Book

SCHEDULE Tuesday, March 4

9 a.m. KEYNOTE ADDRESS

Dr. Rose Hernandez, International Space Station National Laboratory

The Science and Engineering of Advanced Materials and Manufacturing in the

International Space Station National Laboratory

10 a.m. Break & Table Top Exhibits

Advances in Rubber Ingredients & Additives

Chair: Critt Ohlemacher, Smithers

10:30 a.m. EPDM-based Smart Elastomers: All-In-One Approach for Triboelectric Current

Generation, Piezoresistive Strain Sensing and Solvent Vapor Identification - Arpita

Kundu, Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research

11 a.m. Sulphur-like Flexible but Strong Ionic Network in ENR - Amit Das, Leibniz Institute of Polymer

Research

11:30 a.m. Silane Functionalized Liquid Rubber for Electric Vehicle Tires - Erich Klein, Kuraray

America, Inc.

12 p.m. Lunch Break & Table Top Exhibits

Sustainable Raw Materials & Processes

Co-chairs: Peter Cameron, Tokai Carbon & Irene Yurovska, YI Global

1 p.m. Sustainable Advancements in Rubber Processing: The Role of Gear Pump Extruder

Technology in Enhancing Efficiency and Product Quality - Julia Uth, Uth GmbH

1:30 p.m. Milestones in Energy and Cost Reduction in the Continuous Vulcanization Process of

Rubber - Michael Drach, Gerlach Maschinenbau GmbH

2 p.m. Smart Devulcanization of End-of-Life Tire Enhanced Interface along with Mechanical

Properties in NR/SBR Compound - Marzieh Shabani, The University of Akron

2:30 p.m. Break & Table Top Exhibits

3 p.m. Recovery of Polymerous Material Following Devulcanization of Sulfur Cross-Linked

Tire Rubber - Michael LaRoche, Arduro

3:30 p.m. Features of Particle Networking in Particle Reinforced Elastomers – Quillan McGlynn,

Birla Carbon

Environmentally Friendly Rubber Process Aid - Marymol Johnson, Apollo Tyres originally

scheduled for 3:30 p.m. will be available online to registered attendees as a video only.


Wednesday, March 5

8:30 a.m. Science & Technology Awards Breakfast

9:30 a.m. Break & Table Top Exhibits

Science & Technology Awards Symposium

Chair: Dr. William V. Mars, Endurica LLC

10 a.m. The Charles Goodyear Medal Address – Dr. Gert Heinrich, Leibniz Institute of

Polymer Research

11 a.m. The Melvin Mooney Award Address – Dr. Sunny Jacob, ExxonMobil Chemical

11:30 a.m. The George Stafford Whitby Award Address – Dr. Robert Weiss, The University of

Connecticut

12 p.m. The Sparks Thomas Award Address - Titash Mondal, Indian Institute of Technology-

Kharagpur

12:30 p.m. Lunch Break & Table Top Exhibits

1:30 p.m. Chemistry of Thermoplastic Elastomers Award Address - Takeji Hashimoto, Kyoto

University

2 p.m. Fernley Banbury Award Address - Edward R. Terrill, Akron Rubber Development

Laboratory, Inc.

Green Energy/Alternative Energy Technology

Chair: Yusheng Chen, DuPont

2:30 p.m. Evaluation of Fluorine-containing Elastomer Seals in Several Sustainable Aviation

Fuels - Ronald Campbell, Greene, Tweed & Co Inc

Urethanes

Chair: Critt Ohlemacher, Smithers

3 p.m. Innovative Self-Bonding Rubber: A Sustainable Alternative to Neoprene and Other

Rubbers in Industrial Applications - Hanin Issa, AMS

Advances in Tire Materials & Processes

Chair: Chris Robertson, Polymer Technology Services LLC

3:30 p.m. Understanding the Mechanism of Void Formation and Fracture in Elastomeric

Nanocomposites at Large Strains - Harshad Bhapkar, University of South Florida

4 p.m. Tuning Polymer-Filler Interactions to Modulate Elastomeric Reinforcement - Pierre

Kawak, University of South Florida


Thursday, March 6

Combining Physics, Chemistry and Engineering of Rubber: A Symposium in Honor of

Charles Goodyear Medalist Gert Heinrich

Chair: Chris Robertson, Polymer Technology Services LLC

8:30 a.m. Elucidation of Wear Phenomena and Crack Propagation in Rubber by Advanced Insitu

X-ray Scattering at the Synchrotron - Gert Heinrich, Leibniz Institute of Polymer

Research

9 a.m. Influence of Strain Constraint on Stress Distribution at Crack Tips of Rubber

Vulcanizates - Toshio Tada, Sri R&D Ltd.

9:30 a.m. Dispersion Kinetics of Carbonaceous Particulates in Elastomer Mixing - Lewis

Tunnicliffe, Birla Carbon

10 a.m. Research and Development Applications of Dynamic Mechanical Analysis in the

Rubber Industry - Chris Robertson, Polymer Technology Services LLC

10:30 a.m. Networking Break

10:45 a.m. Integration of Smart Functionality to Commercial Rubbers - Amit Das, Leibniz Institute

of Polymer Research

Rubber Characterization & Analysis

Co-chairs: Ed Terrill, ARDL Inc. & Lewis Tunnicliffe, Birla Carbon

11:15 a.m. Vulcanization, Mechanical Properties and Strain Induced Crystallization, of Natural

Rubber - Seiichi Kawahara, Nagaoka University of Technology

11:45 a.m. Quantification of 6PPD and its Transformation Product (6PPD-Quinone) Concentration

Under the Influence of Ozone and Migration Kinetics Analysis Using Ultraviolet-Visible-

Near Infrared Spectrophotometer - Samara Islam Nishi, The University of Akron

12:15 p.m. Rubbery Rings: Rheological Response of Large Macrocyclic Polymers - Gregory B.

McKenna, North Carolina State University

12:45 p.m. Time Temperature Superposition of Rubber Crack Growth Experiments - Aaron M.

Duncan, Queen Mary University of London

ON DEMAND CONTENT

Attendees registered for the full 3-Day conference will have access to recorded presentations and

presentation slides (when authorized). Online content will be posted the day after each session via

the Zoom Events platform

Access instructions will be sent to all attendees after March 3


Abstracts

KEYNOTE ADDRESS

The Science and Engineering of Advanced Materials and

Manufacturing in the International Space Station National

Laboratory

Dr. Rose Hernandez, International Space Station National

Laboratory

ABSTRACT

Dr. Rose Hernandez is a Science Program Director for In-Space Production Applications at

the International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory. She is responsible for

championing R&D programs for a diverse research portfolio of applied science for advanced

materials and the manufacture of products in space to benefit life on Earth. Rose has

bachelor’s degree in chemistry and mathematics from the University of Puerto Rico and a Ph.D. in

materials sciences & engineering from Penn State University. Rose credits her growth and career

to STEM initiatives and its supporters and will forever be an advocate for STEM.

The International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory serves as a unique platform for

advancing the science and engineering of materials and manufacturing. In the microgravity

environment of the ISS, researchers can explore the fundamental properties of materials

without the interference of Earth's gravity. This allows for the development of unique atomic

and molecular arrangements that lead to advanced materials with enhanced properties, such

as improved strength, durability, and thermal resistance. Experiments conducted in the ISS

National Laboratory have led to breakthroughs in various fields, including metallurgy, polymer

science, and nanotechnology, paving the way for innovative applications in industries ranging

from aerospace to healthcare.

Moreover, the ISS National Laboratory provides an unparalleled opportunity for manufacturing

research. The absence of gravity enables the study of fluid dynamics, combustion, and other

processes in ways that are not possible on Earth. This has significant implications for the

production of high-quality materials and the development of new manufacturing techniques. By

leveraging the unique conditions of the ISS, researchers are driving technological

advancements to benefit humanity as a whole.


NOTES


Rubber Ingredients & Additives

EPDM-based Smart Elastomers: All-In-One Approach for

Triboelectric Current Generation, Piezoresistive Strain

Sensing and Solvent Vapor Identification

Arpita Kundu, Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research

ABSTRACT

Wearable electronics becomes a topic of interest due to miniaturization and multifunction

advancements, which could meet the development trend of the Internet of Things (IoT) and

wireless technology. These devices have compelling features of flexibility, conformability,

and user-friendliness. In this work, an elastomer-based multipurpose sensor has been

fabricated using ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) with nano-size conducting

carbon black (XE2B) as active fillers incorporated with ionic liquid (1-decyl-3-

methylimidazolium bromide). The developed sensor has high sensitivity towards strain and

solvent vapor. It can detect different physiological movements like elbow bending and

twitching as well as different solvents like ethanol and acetone. This can also be used for

mechanical energy harvesting and self-powered tactile sensing modules.

NOTES



Sulphur-like Flexible but Strong Ionic Network in ENR

Amit Das, Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research

ABSTRACT

This study presents an alternative crosslinking approach for epoxidized natural rubber. By

introducing imidazolium ions, the rubber's backbone undergoes a transformation, resulting

in the formation of ionic stickers as reversible cross-linking points. This process turns the

rubber into an ionomer with unique characteristics, such as self-healing and reprocessability.

Furthermore, it is also observed that the thermal stability of such rubber

composites is improved in a high extent. These reversible ionic bonds contribute to the

network structure's thermal stability, flexibility and dynamics. Various analyses, including

FTIR and impedance spectroscopy were conducted to characterize the chemical structure,

demonstrating the promising mechanical properties of the transformed ENR. These

unconventionally crosslinked rubbers, when combined with suitable fillers, can be

potentially incorporated in specific quantities for practical applications, including tire

sidewalls and non-tire heat resistance product applications. By introducing these materials,

the self-healing functionality and enhanced durability can be achieved in the specified

application.

NOTES



Silane Functionalized Liquid Rubber for Electric Vehicle

Tires

Erich Klein, Kuraray America, Inc.

ABSTRACT

Kuraray developed a series of liquid rubber grades with molecular weights ranging from a few

thousand to one hundred thousand. These polymers, which consist of isoprene, butadiene,

styrene and a new, bio-based farnesene, can be used by tire manufacturers to achieve

improvements in tire processing and tire performance. This presentation includes newly

developed liquid rubbers having reactive silane groups in the polymer chain which can interact

with silica in tire formulations. These liquid rubbers offer advantages in vehicle fuel economy

through a reduction in tire rolling resistance. Kuraray will present the latest results of a study

using silane functionalized liquid rubbers in model rubber formulations containing silica and will

discuss its applicability to tires for electric vehicles.

NOTES


Sustainable Materials & Additives

Sustainable Advancements in Rubber Processing: The

Role of Gear Pump Extruder Technology in Enhancing

Efficiency and Product Quality

Julia Uth, UTH GmbH

ABSTRACT

The rubber industry faces increasing pressure to adopt sustainable manufacturing practices

due to environmental regulations and consumer demand for eco-friendly products. This

lecture explores the sustainable advantages of gear pump technology in the rubber

processing industry, focusing on its role in improving process efficiency and product quality.

Gear pump extruders are particularly beneficial due to their volumetric transport

characteristics, making them ideal for precise extrusion, high-pressure operations, and

accurate dosing applications. By integrating gear pumps with various extruder technologies,

a modular system is created, allowing for tailored applications across different stages of

rubber processing. From today's perspective, gear pump technology has proven to positively

influence process optimization and enable the production of innovative, high-quality rubber

products that were previously unattainable. This material-friendly approach not only

enhances production reliability but also reduces material waste and energy consumption,

contributing to more sustainable manufacturing. Additionally, the modularity and precision of

gear pumps offer significant cost reductions, making rubber-based products more

competitive in the market. This lecture will provide an overview of the diverse applications of

gear pumps in mixing and extrusion lines and highlight their potential to further improve

sustainability in the rubber industry.

NOTES



Milestones in Energy and Cost Reduction in the

Continuous Vulcanization Process of Rubber

Michael Drach, Gerlach Maschinenbau GmbH

ABSTRACT

In the production of technical elastomer products, vulcanization poses significant energy

challenges due to the materials' substantial wall thicknesses and low thermal

conductivity. Rising energy costs, influenced by the location of production facilities,

threaten the competitiveness of elastomer processing companies. This study explores

energy-saving opportunities through the optimization of heating methods, specifically

comparing hot air, infrared, and microwave technologies. While traditional methods rely

on heat conduction, microwave radiation offers direct heating of the product's interior,

which can mitigate slow heat transfer, especially when combined with hot air for

temperature consistency. Process-related exhaust gases are usually cleaned via

catalytic or thermal processes. Gerlach has therefore developed a novel concept and

uses the waste heat from the integrated exhaust gas cleaning for the vulcanization

process. The cleaning process now represents the heart of the energy supply for both

the vulcanization and the cleaning. Only a small proportion of the cleaned air is

discharged from the process, with the residual energy also being used to preheat the

fresh air supply. In this way, 50 % energy savings can be achieved while maintaining the

same process conditions. Another advantage is that the surplus energy is used directly

for the process and does not have to be used in passive storage media or for heating of

buildings. If one would like to completely dispense with fossil fuels such as gas in the

sense of decarbonization, electrically heated hot-air systems in combination with

microwave or infrared systems can be considered.

NOTES



Smart Devulcanization of End-of-Life Tire Enhanced

Interface along with Mechanical Properties in NR/SBR

Compound

Marzieh Shabani, The University of Akron

ABSTRACT

Ground tire rubber (GTR) was devulcanized using sonication and plasma treatments at

varying times and temperatures, with chemical agents applied in specific cases. The

soluble content and cross-link density were analyzed, and Horikx’s model was used to

assess treatment selectivity. Both sonication and plasma-treated GTR achieved ~76%

devulcanization, although plasma treatment at higher temperatures resulted in reduced

selectivity and degradation. This study aimed to enhance the interface between

devulcanized GTR (DGTR) and virgin rubber (NR/SBR) to reduce crack propagation and

defects in the resulting blends. Adhesion energy measurements, performed on cured and

uncured rubber laminates, showed a threefold increase following devulcanization,

indicating a substantial improvement in interfacial adhesion. This enhancement is

attributed to selective cross-link cleavage, which increases molecular chain mobility and

promotes stronger interfacial bonding. Nanoindentation testing was conducted to evaluate

the modulus

NOTES



Recovery of Polymerous Material Following

Devulcanization of Sulfur Cross-Linked Tire Rubber

Michael LaRoche, Arduro

ABSTRACT

Recovering polymer from waste tires is crucial for achieving full circularity in the tire industry.

An ideal devulcanization process is one which selectively breaks the carbon-sulfur crosslinks

that bind the rubber matrix together without breaking the carbon-carbon bonds that

comprise the polymer backbone. Elevated temperatures and pressures of conventional

devulcanization processes result in a failure to achieve this selectivity. The degradation of

the polymer backbone results in an inferior product when recompounded. Hence, a more

efficient devulcanization process that operates under moderate conditions is desired.

Chloramine, a non-toxic, aqueous oxidant, is a promising devulcanizing agent for sulfur

cross-linked rubbers. The effectiveness of chloramine in selective cross-link scission of

ground tire rubber (GTR) was assessed using gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and

Horikx theory with cross-link density analysis via the Flory-Rehner theory of equilibrium

swelling. The findings indicate that the chloramine-based devulcanization process effectively

targets the sulfur-carbon cross-links while minimizing the scission of carbon-carbon bonds in

the polymer backbone. This results in a recovered polymer with a cross-link density and

molecular weight that may provide performance characteristics comparable to virgin rubber

when properly compounded.

NOTES



Features of Particle Networking in Particle Reinforced

Elastomers

Quillan McGlynn & Lewis Tunnicliffe, Birla Carbon

ABSTRACT

The effect of particle size and aggregate size distribution (ASD) of carbon black at constant

bulk structure, on the electrical conductivity and dynamic mechanical properties of rubber

compounds was explored over a range of different carbon black volume fractions in a

simple SBR formulation. The electrical conductivity and dynamic mechanical properties

were shown to trend with the particle size of carbon black. The electrical percolation

threshold, and the onset of dynamic mechanical percolation, also trended with particle size.

Manipulation of the aggregate size distribution was shown to affect dynamic mechanical

percolation relative to a standard ASD carbon black, while not significantly affecting the

critical volume fraction of electrical conductivity. In contrast to the loss and storage moduli,

tan(delta) and also rebound resilience data were found to be insensitive to dynamic

mechanical percolation.

NOTES

NOTE: Environmentally Friendly Rubber Process Aid - Marymol Johnson, Apollo Tyres

will be available as video recording only


Awards Symposium

The Charles Goodyear Medal

Dr. Gert Heinrich, Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research

Rubberiomics: A Holistic Approach to Elastomers and

Elastomer Products

ABSTRACT

The lecture describes that a profound and comprehensive understanding of the composition

and application behavior of elastomers in a product (e.g. tires) is only possible if one has an

overview of the structure-property relationships of polymer rubber networks from the

molecule to the finished product. The holistic approach, that is termed as Rubberiomics,

shows that the material science of rubber can benefit from numerous scientific disciplines

that have already been developed. Using the example of the development of a constitutive

and physically based description of hyperelastic rubber properties, it is shown how

disciplines such as statistical thermodynamics of polymers, quantum mechanics, canonical

mechanics and continuum mechanics interact. Even models from sociology help to better

understand filler influences and effects. Examples are given of how the constitutive material

law, developed by the author, can be used in tire development by integrating them into FE

codes.

NOTES


Awards Symposium

Melvin Mooney Award

Dr. Sunny Jacob, ExxonMobil

Innovations in Polyolefin-based Elastomers and

Thermosets

ABSTRACT

This presentation will focus on the complexities of innovative polymeric materials design, their

behavior, and cutting-edge applications with noteworthy examples in the field of thermoplastic

vulcanizates (TPV), polyolefin elastomers such as Vistamaxx performance polymers,

Vistalon EPDM rubber, butyl rubber, Exxpro specialty elastomers, and Proxxima

Thermoset Polyolefin systems that have demonstrated value for commercial use and several

intellectual property assets. Some technical aspects of end-of-life management of polymeric

materials will also be discussed.

NOTES


Awards Symposium

George Stafford Whitby Award

Dr. Robert Weiss, The University of Connecticut

High Performance Nano-Structured Polymer Networks

ABSTRACT

Ion-containing polymers, ionomers, with exceptional properties were developed in the

1960’s and in the intervening time, their microstructure and properties have been widely

investigated. Although there are not many commercial ionomers, polyolefin and polyester

ionomers are used in a wide variety of applications, either as neat resins or in blends and

additives. The unique properties of ionomers arise from a self-assembled nanostructure of

ionic nanodomains dispersed in a non-polar matrix phase. The ionic nanodomains provide a

reversible, three-dimensional, supramolecular network that greatly influences the

mechanical properties and rheology. Less well-known are nano-structured supramolecular

hydrogels, SMH, that have nearly an identical microstructure, except that the nanodomain

crosslinks are composed of a hydrophobic phase dispersed in a water-swollen polar matrix

phase. These recently developed hydrogels have exceptional tensile strength and fracture

toughness, and can be formed and shaped with conventional thermoplastic processes. In

addition to discussing the similarities of the microstructures of polyolefin ionomers and

SMHs based on alkyl-acrylamides, this lecture will describe some unusual and novel

properties of the two systems, including shape memory behavior of sulfonated EPDM

ionomers and freeze-thaw resistance and anti-freeze characteristics of SMHs.

NOTES


Awards Symposium

Sparks-Thomas Award

Titash Mondal, Indian Institute of Technology-Kharagpur

Elastomer Composite-Based Wearable and Self-

Powered Sensor for Extreme Point of Care Applications

ABSTRACT

An extreme point of care (xPOC) application refers to a healthcare or medical application that

provides immediate and highly specialized care or information at the patient's location. These

applications are designed to deliver critical medical support in scenarios where rapid and

precise interventions are necessary, such as in emergency situations, remote or austere

environments, or when medical professionals have limited access to resources. This talk will

focus on the development of elastomer composite-based sensors that can be utilized in

xPOC. The discussion will involve the usage of polyisoprene and their derivatives, TPU while

the nanofillers used are graphene, and carbon nanotubes. The developed sensors are

electrically resistive type and needs external power supply to work. Fabrication of such

sensors are done in a clean room free conditions by leveraging printing or compression

molding. Printing/compression molding supports the frugality of the process innovation and

can be leveraged effectively for mass production. We will also discuss about two important

case studies, namely, lungs profiling and early detection of cardiovascular diseases, and

show how these sensors can be implemented. The concept of self-powered sensor will be

also touch-based and will demonstrate how they are applied in human motion monitoring.

Herein, it will be also demonstrated that how finite element analysis can be effectively

leveraged for determining the power output for such self-powered elastomer composite-based

sensors.

NOTES


Awards Symposium

Chemistry of Thermoplastic Elastomers Award

Takeji Hashimoto, Kyoto University

A Path to Establishing Guayule as a Domestic Source of

Natural Rubber

ABSTRACT

There have been many attempts to develop guayule as a source of natural rubber (NR) in the

U.S since the early 1900’s. Government and private companies in the past have made efforts

that, although have added to the body of knowledge, have been unsuccessful. The challenges

have been: 1) lack of progress to improve rubber yield due to asexual-like (apomixis)

reproduction; 2) economical large-scale establishment of production fields; 3) construction

expense of an extraction facility; and 4) off-take agreements for coproducts. Bridgestone

Americas has heavily invested since 2012 and overcome or made significant progress on

these challenges and demonstrated a model of public and private partnerships to achieve the

goal of domestic production of NR. The ability to establish production fields with growers at a

low cost on hundreds of acres has been demonstrated and other agronomic practices

improved. A demonstration-scale rubber extraction facility has been operating in Arizona since

2014. A breeding strategy is implemented for rubber yield improvement. Samples of

coproducts are being distributed to interested partners. Research and Development has been

enhanced by University and USDA participation and Federal grants.

NOTES


Awards Symposium

Fernley Banbury Award

Edward R. Terrill, Akron Rubber Development Laboratory,

Inc.

Studies on the Mechanism of Abrasion

ABSTRACT

To try to better understand the mechanism of abrasion this work looked at key effects which

govern abrasion resistance. The abrasion testing was performed with an angle abrader at

four severities (2-degree, 6-degree, 12-degree and 16-degree slip angles). The key

variables for abrasion resistance were found to be (1) mechano-chemical degradation

resistance (the way the polymer handles free radicals), (2) polymer to filler interaction, (3)

modulus, and (4) tear/crack resistance. This study used compounding formulation changes

to determine the roles of these key variables. Polymer type and filler type were independent

variables as well as silane loading in silica formulations. In natural rubber compounds the

cure type was varied (conventional, semi-efficient and efficient). The strength of the

polymer/filler interactions were determined. The mechano-chemical degradation was

studied using crosslink type measurements as well as the distribution in molecular weight

between crosslinks (double quantum time domain NMR). The tear resistance was

measured by molded groove trouser tear. The crack growth resistance values were

measured by mini-DeMattia. These key effects [(1) mechano-chemical degradation

resistance, (2) polymer to filler interaction, (3) modulus, and (4) tear/crack resistance] were

severity dependent based on regression analysis. In addition, a brief description of the

testing techniques which were used during my career and how their applications were

expanded; in particular, modulus profiling, ultra-sensitive oxygen consumption and Diffusion

Limited Oxidation Model.

NOTES


Green Energy/Alternative Energy Technology

Evaluation of Fluorine-containing Elastomer Seals in Several

Sustainable Aviation Fuels

Ronald Campbell, Greene, Tweed & Co Inc

ABSTRACT

Five different fluorine-containing elastomeric seals were evaluated in three different ASTM

D7556 sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), a reference blend of 15% toluene and 85%

Isooctane plus 1 to 1 by volume blends of the SAF and reference blend. The 5 elastomer

compounds evaluated are: FKM 731, AMS 7276, Type 1 FKM with a TR10 of -14°C FFM

7287, AMS 7287 Type 3 FKM with TR10 of -30°C FKM 665, AMS 7410 special low temp

Type 3 FKM with a TR10 of -51°C Xyfluor(C) 870 low temperature fluorine -containing

elastomer with TR 10 of -51°C 409 black Fluorosilicone (FVQM) with TR10 of -61°C The

SAF we used in this evaluation include ASTM D7556 Annex A1 (FT-SPK), Annex A2

(HEFA-SPK) and Annex A5 (ATF-SPK). Our evaluation includes volume change, hardness

change and physical changes after aging one week at 120°C in straight SAF along with

blends of the reference fuel for Jet Fuel A and each of the three SAF. The effects of the

different SAF on each of the 5 GT compounds will reported for compression set, dry out

after the 1 week fuel aging and switching fuels. The aging studies were done at an

independent test lab, ARDL and the SAF were supplied by Sasol, World Energy and Gevo.

NOTES


Urethanes

Innovative Self-Bonding Rubber: A Sustainable Alternative

to Neoprene and Other Rubbers in Industrial Applications

Hanin Issa & Paul Chackery, AMS

ABSTRACT

This abstract introduces a novel self-bonding rubber designed to replace neoprene or other

rubbers by integrating elements from both sealant and adhesive technologies. The material

vulcanizes at room temperature, forming a robust protective layer without the need for

additional bonding agents or energy-intensive curing processes. It demonstrates excellent

adhesion, flexibility, and durability, making it particularly suited for harsh environments like

mineral processing and mining, where it is used in pipeline linings, chute liners, and

protective coatings. Unlike rigid two-component epoxy coatings, which often erode under

constant abrasion from mineral particles, this self-bonding rubber maintains its integrity,

significantly extending the service life of metal surfaces. This self-bonding rubber can be

tailored with properties such as bacterial resistance, color variation, adjustable elasticity,

and enhanced chemical resistance, broadening its applicability to diverse operating

conditions. While primarily developed for mining, it also has potential for other industries

reliant on neoprene or similar rubbers, including automotive, marine, and medical sectors,

where resistance to corrosion, erosion, and abrasion is essential. The global market for

neoprene and similar rubbers was valued at approximately $2 billion in 2022, with significant

growth projected due to rising demands in harsh industrial applications. This self-bonding

rubber offers a sustainable alternative, reducing material waste, minimizing resource

consumption, and improving overall efficiency. It represents a breakthrough in protective

materials, adapting to evolving industry needs.

NOTES


Tire Materials & Processes

Understanding the Mechanism of Void Formation and

Fracture in Elastomeric Nanocomposites at Large Strains

Harshad Bhapkar, University of South Florida

ABSTRACT

For over a century, nanoparticles have been used to enhance elastomer properties, e.g.,

carbon black in rubber tires. Despite years of research on the subject, the mechanisms for

property enhancement, void formation, and ultimate failure are not well understood. We

investigate these mechanisms using molecular dynamics simulations by examining

species-resolved stress responses for both polymer and filler components over a range of

filler structures and volume fractions at large strains up to 800%. Results reveal that at low

strains, a mismatch in the Poisson ratio leads to volume expansion, invoking the polymer's

bulk modulus in the composite’s tensile response. Beyond the linear regime, a feedback

loop between the polymer and filler to induce compression and expansion, respectively,

continues to reinforce the composite. Finally, our results reveal a crucial trade-off: while

higher filler structure and volume fraction enhance linear-regime performance, they

increase normal stress, leading to void formation at lower strains and ultimately causing

earlier material failure. These insights suggest new strategies for tuning elastomeric

composites for long-lasting, more durable rubber tires.

NOTES


Tire Materials & Processes

Tuning Polymer-Filler Interactions to Modulate Elastomeric

Reinforcement

Pierre Kawak, University of South Florida

ABSTRACT

Understanding the reinforcement mechanisms in rubbery materials filled with nanoparticles

is critical for advancing high-performance applications such as tires. Our recent molecular

simulations reveal that reinforcement arises from a contribution by the elastomer's bulk

modulus. This contribution is engendered by a mismatch in Poisson ratios between filler and

elastomer. We find that this filler-polymer competition reinforces the material to large strains

far beyond the Payne effect, due to direct filler-filler contacts' resistance to lateral

compression. In this work, we explore how varying polymer-filler interaction strength

modulates reinforcement in industrially relevant loading and temperatures. By systematically

modulating polymer-filler attraction, we explore the effect of interfacial polymer mobility -

essentially “bound rubber” effects - on mechanical performance. These insights identify

strategies for tuning rubber properties, paving the way for improved elastomer designs that

leverage enhanced reinforcement at the molecular level.

*This material is based upon work supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of

Science, Office of Basic Energy Sciences, under Award Number DE-SC0022329.

NOTES


Combining Physics, Chemistry and Engineering of Rubber: A Symposium in Honor of Gert

Heinrich

Elucidation of Wear Phenomena and Crack Propagation in

Rubber by Advanced In-situ X-ray Scattering at the

Synchrotron

Gert Heinrich, Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research

ABSTRACT

The development of cut and chip (CC) resistant rubber articles, composed of rubber blends,

requires a detailed understanding and a controlled estimation of the CC behaviour of each

separate rubber component of the blend in a wide range of severity conditions. We show

comparative CC investigations of NR, SBR and NR/SBR rubber blends using an

Instrumented Chip and Cut Analyzer (ICCA, Coesfeld GmbH, Germany) operating in a

broad range of loading conditions (applied normal forces: from 90 to 200 N during cyclic

impact damaging). In addition, the development of the temperature on the surface of the

damaged samples was measured and we found significant differences between the rubbers

used in terms of their CC damage parameters and their temperature development as a

function of the normal load. We have found for the first time that with increasing impact load

in the case of NR, the CC damage and temperature pass through a maximum at a critical

value of the acting normal load. This effect is (qualitatively) discussed in the context of the

appearance of strain induced crystallization (SIC) in the NR during cyclic impacts above a

critical level of the attack severity. The results also impressively explain the empirical

preference for NR or NR rubber blends in practice when it comes to minimizing CC wear.

The presentation shows how non-standard, highly equipped experimental basic research

opens up new research fields of application in elastomer technology. Such research

supports the development of wear-resistant tires. In particular, the results represent a

research contribution to the understanding, identification, quantification and reduction of the

frequency of tire abrasion particles in the environment.

NOTES


Combining Physics, Chemistry and Engineering of Rubber: A Symposium in Honor

of Gert Heinrich

Influence of Strain Constraint on Stress Distribution at Crack

Tips of Rubber Vulcanizates

Toshio Tada, Sri R&D Ltd.

ABSTRACT

Stress distribution is investigated under constrained tensile deformation in terms of. Thin-disc

shaped specimens, with various shape factor, which is a ratio of radius to thickness, were

used to vary the degree of constrained condition. Here, the degree of constraint becomes

higher with increasing shape factor. In general, higher constrained condition results in higher

stress triaxiality initiating a damage phenomenon called “cavitation”. It has already been

elucidated that cavity size distribution is strongly influenced by the shape factor of specimens

by using tensile tests equipped coupled with dilatometry or micro-X-ray tomography. Stressstrain

relation of rubber specimen also depended on the shape factor and yielding point can

be found indicating the onset of cavitation because of stress release by the formation of

cavities. Constrained strain is also present in the process zone of crack tips and, thus,

cavitation occurs there very locally as a precursor of macroscopic crack growth. In the

present study, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is employed on notched rubber specimens to

investigate the effect of strain constraint on the stress distribution at the crack tip. It was

found that stress concentration at the crack tip was mitigated by reducing Poisson’s ratio

leading to cavitation. The mechanisms on the formation of cavities in the rubber matrix will

be also discussed based on the FEA.

NOTES


Combining Physics, Chemistry and Engineering of Rubber: A Symposium in Honor of Gert

Heinrich

Dispersion Kinetics of Carbonaceous Particulates in

Elastomer Mixing

Lewis Tunnicliffe, Birla Carbon

ABSTRACT

Obtaining cost effective dispersion and distribution of reinforcing particles in elastomers is a

prerequisite for compound performance and, oftentimes, a limiting factor in material utility

and adoption. In this study a new procedure is developed to track, quantify and discriminate

the dispersion and distribution kinetics of reinforcing particulates during mixing with

elastomers in a typical internal mixer. The procedure allows for unambiguous discrimination

between different types of carbon blacks of various bulk colloidal properties. Moreover, the

procedure can be used to compare various other types of particulates of interest and

differentiate between incorporation kinetics versus particle size effects on the resulting

dispersion quality. Such studies provide insights to guide the adoption of sustainable

particulates and sustainable compound mixing.

NOTES


Combining Physics, Chemistry and Engineering of Rubber: A Symposium in Honor

of Gert Heinrich

Research and Development Applications of Dynamic

Mechanical Analysis in the Rubber Industry

Chris Robertson, Polymer Technology Services LLC

ABSTRACT

Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) is an important tool for characterizing and predicting

end-use performance of rubber compounds. Recent industrial applications of DMA will be

discussed, including evaluating filler reinforcement effects in phase-separated elastomer

blends used in hose compounds and characterizing low temperature crystallization behavior

of natural rubber. The presentation will also review important considerations for using DMA

to predict traction and other properties of tire treads.

NOTES


Combining Physics, Chemistry and Engineering of Rubber: A Symposium in Honor of

Gert Heinrich

Integration of Smart Functionality to Commercial Rubbers

Amit Das, Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research

ABSTRACT

In this talk, the future of rubber materials will be explored, covering topics from cuttingedge

applications like soft robotics to the development of durable, abrasion-resistant tires

aimed at supporting a greener environment. The use of bio-based fillers, reversible rubber

networks, and sensor technologies for advanced applications will be included. For

example, how bio-fillers like lignin can serve as highly reinforcing alternatives to traditional

fillers such as silica and carbon black will be discussed. Additionally, non-conventional

uses of rubber composites in energy harvesting, sensors, and actuators will be considered.

The talk will conclude by highlighting how reversible polymer networks can be further

utilized to address the challenges of wear and abrasion in tire components.

NOTES


Characterization & Analysis

Vulcanization, Mechanical Properties and Strain Induced

Crystallization, of Natural Rubber

Seiichi Kawahara, Nagaoka University of Technology

ABSTRACT

Vulcanized natural rubber with outstanding mechanical properties due to the rapid straininduced

crystallization was prepared by controlling stereoregularity, based on structural

analysis of the vulcanized rubbers. The vulcanized rubbers were prepared at 110, 130, 150

and 170 oC for t90 from natural rubber compounded with sulfur, ZnO, stearic acid and N-tertbutyl-2-benzothiazole

sulfenamide (TBBS). The vulcanized natural rubbers were

characterized by swelling method, rubber-state NMR spectroscopy, tensile test and XRD

measurement. Stereoregularity, i.e., contents of cis- and trans-1,4-isoprene units, and straininduced

crystallization depended on vulcanization temperature. The vulcanized natural rubber

prepared at 130 oC possessed the highest cis-1,4-isoprene unit content and the lowest trans-

1,4-isoprene unit content among the vulcanized rubbers, which resulted in the rapid straininduced

crystallization. The content of carbon linking to sulfur was also low for the vulcanized

natural rubber prepared at 130 oC. It was found that the vulcanized natural rubber prepared

at 130 oC was superior in tensile properties due to high stereoregularity after vulcanization.

NOTES



Quantification of 6PPD and its Transformation Product

(6PPD-Quinone) Concentration Under the Influence of

Ozone and Migration Kinetics Analysis Using Ultraviolet-

Visible-Near Infrared Spectrophotometer

Samara Islam Nishi, The University of Akron

ABSTRACT

Additives are widely used in rubber and plastic products to improve performance. In tires N-

(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N'-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine (6PPD) is an effective antidegradant for

ozone stabilization. The migration of 6PPD and its transformation quinone product (6-PPD-

Q) has been found to migrate in water and is toxic to living organisms like coho salmon,

zebrafish, medaka. Here we report migration kinetics of 6PPD and 6PPD-Q from different

rubber composites under specific ozone concentration, room temperature and dynamic

conditions using Ultraviolet-Visible-Near (UV-Vis-NIR) spectrophotometry. UV-Vis-NIR

spectrophotometry is a highly cost-effective and widely available analytical technique for

measuring dilute concentration of compounds in liquids and has benefits over currently

used mass spectroscopy for non-destructive kinetics studies, particularly for complex

rubber formulations used in car tires. We have studied migration of 6PPD and 6PPD-Q for

three concentrations of 6PPD in natural rubber tire formulations before and after

accelerated ozone exposure. The obtained results show that UV-Vis-NIR

spectrophotometry has the sensitivity to quantify the concentration and migration kinetics of

anti-degradants with high accuracy. This approach will provide a more simpler screening

technique as we develop environmentally friendly substitute for 6PPD to test migration of

these additives in water.

NOTES



Rubbery Rings: Rheological Response of Large Macrocyclic

Polymers

Gregory B. McKenna, North Carolina State University

ABSTRACT

An exciting new development in the field of macrocyclic polymers has resulted from the

synthesis of low glass transition temperature systems that have the potential to be used

as rubbers. Yet, the behavior of large and entangled polymer macrocycles remains an

elusive challenge. Here we provide results of a rheological investigation of poly(3,6-dioxa-

1,8-octanedithiol) (polyDODT) rings and their linear counterparts that are made by

Reversible Radical Recombination Polymerization (R3P). Dynamic moduli measurements

were performed on melts and on systems that had been diluted so that the entanglement

range ran from Z<1 to Z=300. We find that the viscosity remains “Rouse-like” in the regime

to approximately 3 to 4 times the critical molecular weight for entanglement coupling Mc of

the linear counterpart. This agrees with some literature data for cyclic polystyrenes having

Z-values up to approximately 13. In the case of the polyDODT, measurements could be

made to Z=300 and we find from approximately Z=15 to Z=300 the viscosity follows a

power law of approximately 5.8 in the entanglement number. Perhaps more importantly,

the rubbery plateau modulus for the entangled rings is similar to that of the linear

counterpart. For the most highly entangled rings we also find that the terminal relaxation

regime is characterized by a quasi-gel-like behavior in that the dynamics at low

frequencies roll off of the rubbery plateau to a very long relaxation reminiscent of glasslike

behavior.

NOTES



Time Temperature Superposition of Rubber Crack Growth

Experiments

Aaron M. Duncan, Queen Mary University of London

ABSTRACT

Time temperature superposition (TTS) of tearing energy experiments has multiple uses,

such as predicting tearing at speeds that are hard to achieve experimentally or predicting

tearing energies over a range of different temperatures. While TTS of dynamic mechanical

analysis (DMA) is well-studied and allows for the creation of a shift factor vs. temperature

curve in a single experiment, this is not the case for TTS of the tearing energy. Creating a

shift factor vs. temperature curve for tearing energy requires multiple tests at different

speeds and temperatures, negating the time-saving advantage. In addition, the different

regions of tearing energy - fast, slow, and the transition region - require varying amounts

of horizontal shifting, making the simulation of different tearing speeds complex. This

report demonstrates that the shift factors for slow crack growth tearing energy are

equivalent to viscoelastic factors measured at high strains. Also, the shift factors for the

fast and transition regions can be used to predict those using the slow crack growth

region. This can save significant time and material when characterising the tearing energy

over a wide range of conditions. The approach is shown to work on swollen and unswollen

samples of filled nitrile butadiene rubber.

NOTES


CALL FOR ABSTRACTS

The Global Polymer Summit will be the most valuable destination for attendees to expand their

network, learn from experts, and explore business opportunities. Our goal is to create an event

where all the best companies and programming will be together in one location. One week, one

event for the Rubber Industry.

We are Seeking presentations on groundbreaking research, material innovations, industry trends,

and sustainability initiatives within the rubber and tire industries. Share your insights and

expertise.

Abstracts are due May 16, 2025

https://gps2025.events.rubber.org/

SUBMIT HERE


NOTES


NOTES

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