Filler Dispersion and Rheology of Polymers Doctoral Thesis Summary

Jakub Kadlčák

This monograph deals with the topic of carbon black behaviour in rubbers and aspects influencing this. The first part of the monograph is dedicated to the state of the art where theoretical background for the doctoral work is reviewed. At first, a brief introduction to rubber compounding is given and the most important ingredients in rubber compounds are described. One of the most important ingredients is carbon black thus its production, properties, its dispersion and general role in rubber compounds are described thoroughly. Methods for the evaluation of carbon black properties are introduced with the special focus on the carbon black structure evaluation. Furthermore, the topic of carbon black dispersion process is reviewed together with methods for the evaluation of filler dispersion quality. The filler dispersion quality is mainly given by the efficiency of mixing process. The mixing process and its stages are explained mentioning aspects influencing each stage. The special focus is given to post-mixing stages when dispersed filler due to ubiquitous physical forces tends to reagglomerate which can result in formation of filler network. This process has strong influence on the filler dispersion quality. Therefore, it is of high importance to monitor this process.