The impact of synergistic interaction between CBp and GO during the mixing process on metal friction and wear

Abstract

Internal mixers play a critical role as blending equipment in the rubber industry, operating for extended hours under high intensity. Investigating the wear patterns of internal mixers holds paramount importance in curbing dust leakage and prolonging their operational lifespan during the mixing process. Thermal cracked carbon black (CBp), an economically viable material derived from waste rubber, stands as a potential substitute for other carbon blacks in specific applications. This substitution aids in waste rubber recycling, thereby promoting ecological sustainability.This study centers on the amalgamation of CBp and graphene oxide (GO) in varying proportions, incorporated into the rubber matrix via mechanical blending. The objective is to produce composite materials, namely CBp/GO/NR, and comprehend the synergistic mechanisms between CBp and GO. Furthermore, the study analyzes the impacts of different CBp/GO ratios on metal friction and wear at the internal mixer's end faces.Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations divulge a collaborative behavior between GO and CBp particles within the rubber matrix, culminating in a spatial “honeycomb” network structure. On one hand, GO's two-dimensional planar network structure aids in CBp particle dispersion. Conversely, this planar network restricts the overflow of aromatic oils in CBp particles, influencing oil film formation on the rubber surface. Simultaneously, the planar network of GO creates a physical isolation layer between the rubber and the metal components. The inclusion of GO in the rubber matrix introduces notable alterations in CBp particle dispersion, friction coefficient, metal surface roughness, and metal wear.In summary, the optimum interaction between GO and CBp particles is achieved when the GO content in the composite material reaches 4 phr. This interaction leads to superior CBp particle dispersion and minimal metal wear in the composite material.