The effect of cryogenically ground rubber on some mechanical properties of an unsaturated polyester resin

Abstract

Abstract The effect of Cryogenically Ground Rubber (CGR) from old tires on some mechanical properties of an unsaturated polyester resin is presented. A delay in the free radical cure reaction of the unsaturated polyester resin was observed upon the addition of ground rubber. This delay in the cure reaction could be overcome with the further addition of the free radical initiator. The particle size, surface chemistry, and the chemical composition of the rubber had an effect on the cure and on the final properties of the rubber‐filled composites. It was also found that the rubber particles decreased the tensile, flexural, and storage shear modulus of the unsaturated polyester. Composites made from silane‐treated ground rubber showed better mechanical properties than composites made from untreated CGR. Finally, the particle size of the ground rubber was apparently too large to produce a toughening effect on the filled materials.