Biodegradable polymer composite based on NBR rubber and protein waste

Abstract

The aim of this work is to characterize a biodegradable polymer composite based on butadiene-co-acrylonitrile rubber (NBR) and protein waste (ground leather). The biodegradable polymer composite was obtained by the mixing technique on a Brabender Plasti-Corder mixer and then on an electric roller (without heating), between its rollers, with sulfur vulcanization activators and Th accelerator, relative to 100 parts plasticized elastomer, obtaining 3-4 mm thick sheets, with strict observance of the technological recipe, but also of the established mode of operation. The obtained mixtures are then subjected to rheological characterization to determine the vulcanization time using the Monsanto rheometer (to determine the optimum temperature and vulcanization times in the laboratory electric press in specific molds for obtaining specimens to be subjected to subsequent characterization). Biodegradable polymeric composites based on butadiene-co-acrylonitrile rubber (NBR) and protein waste (leather waste from the footwear and leather goods industry) were made at optimal working parameters, and the characterization was performed on equipment specific to elastomers and according to standards in force for the footwear and consumer goods industry such as: plates for general purpose footwear soles as well as for water and mud environments, but also for the food industry, car mats, gaskets and components used under normal working conditions, technical plates, insoles, etc.