Vulcanization Process Research Articles

Evaluation of the Antioxidant Properties of Black Acacia (Acacia mearnsii) Tannin in Vulcanized Natural Rubber Using Different Vulcanization Systems

Given the growing interest of the rubber industry in seeking alternatives that contribute to environmental sustainability, this work aims to present a study of the mechanical, thermal, and structural properties of natural rubber composites using tannin extracted from Acacia mearnsii as an antioxidant agent. Tannin is a natural and biodegradable product, rich in polyphenols and known for its antioxidant properties. The analyses assessed the effectiveness of incorporating tannins (0, 1, 1.5, and 2 parts per hundred rubber) into sulfur-crosslinked natural rubber composites using a binary accelerator system across three distinct vulcanization schemes: conventional, semi-efficient, and efficient. Initially, tannin characterization tests were conducted, revealing characteristic polyphenol bands of proanthocyanidin catechins, a high total phenolic content, and a substantial reduction in antioxidant activity. These findings highlight the significant antioxidant potential of tannins, particularly for industrial and biological applications. The analyses of the characteristics of natural rubber composites with tannin incorporation indicated that the type of vulcanization process directly affects the antioxidant action of the plant tannin, with the tannins being most effective in the efficient system due to the formation of monosulfidic and disulfidic bonds. Furthermore, the incorporation of tannin did not compromise the physical and chemical properties of the materials, highlighting it as a viable additive for the rubber industry.

Improvement of Photocatalytic and Photodegradable ZnSe Nanorods by a Vulcanization Strategy.

Photocatalysts composed of ZnSe nanorods were prepared by using a glancing angle deposition technique facilitated by electron beam evaporation equipment. To enhance the photocatalytic efficiency of ZnSe, a vulcanization process was introduced. The impact of various parameters, including curing temperature, duration, and nanorod length, on the photocatalytic performance was systematically examined. Comprehensive analysis using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and photocurrent density-potential curves identified optimal vulcanization conditions at 300 °C for 45 min for 170 nm ZnSe nanorods. Under these conditions, the photocurrent reached 44.53 μA/cm2, approximately 7-fold greater than that of untreated ZnSe nanorods. Furthermore, the degradation efficiency of Rhodamine B increased by 50%. Detailed analysis of the photocatalytic mechanism revealed that sulfurization not only enhances light absorption but also facilitates the separation of photogenerated carriers through the formation of ZnS.

Bi2S3/Eu‐Bi12O17CL2 Nanosheets for Photocatalytic Reduction of CO2 to CO

ABSTRACTTwo‐dimensional (2D) Eu‐Bi12O17Cl2 nanosheet binary composites modified by Bi2S3 nanocrystals were constructed at room temperature using a simple in situ anion‐exchange strategy with pure carbon disulfide as a direct sulfur source. The method is simple to prepare, energy efficient, and easy to handle compared to conventional treatments. These biphasic composites were thoroughly characterized by a batch of analytical techniques. XRD, FT‐IR, Raman, TEM, and XPS spectroscopies verified the coexistence of the two components in the composites, with Bi2S3 uniformly distributed in irregularly shaped nanocrystals of Eu‐Bi12O17Cl2 nanosheets to form intimate interfacial contacts in the heterojunction domain. In addition, oxygen vacancies can be created during the vulcanization process. The synthesized Bi2S3/Eu‐Bi12O17Cl2 composites exhibit high photocatalytic efficiency for CO2 as well as high selectivity for CO under visible‐light irradiation. A feasible photocatalytic mechanism was also proposed and tested for reusability. This study reveals the construction of robust Bi2S3‐containing composites with sufficient oxygen vacancies and enhanced photocatalytic capabilities under moderate conditions.

Influence of Kazakhstan's Shungites on the Physical-Mechanical Properties of Nitrile Butadiene Rubber Composites.

This study presents data on the use of shungite ore (the Bakyrchik deposit, Kazakhstan) and its concentrate as fillers in elastomer composites based on nitrile butadiene rubber. In addition to carbon, these shungite materials contain oxides of Si, Fe, K, Ca, Ti, Mn, and Al. The shungite concentrate was obtained through a flotation process involving five stages. The chemical composition analysis of these natural fillers revealed that during flotation, the carbon content increased 3.5 times (from 11.0 wt% to 39.0 wt%), while the silicon oxide content decreased threefold (from 49.4 wt% to 13.6 wt%). The contents of oxides of K, Ca, Ti, Mn, and Al decreased by less than 1%, and iron oxide content increased by 40% (from 6.7 wt% to 9.4 wt%). The study explored the impact of partial or full replacement of carbon black (CB) of P 324 grade with the shungite ore (ShO) and the shungite concentrate (ShC) on the vulcanization process and the physical-mechanical properties of the rubber. It was found that replacing CB with ShO and ShC reduces Mooney viscosity ML (1 + 4) 100 °C of the rubber compounds by up to 29% compared to the standard CB-filled sample. The use of the shungite fillers also increased scorch time (ts) by up to 36% and cure time (t90) by up to 35%. The carbon content in the shungite fillers had little influence on these parameters. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that replacing 5-10 wt% of CB with ShO or ShC improves the tensile strength of the rubber. The results of the flotation enrichment process enable the assessment of how these shungite fillers affect the properties of the composites for producing rubbers with specific characteristics. It was also found that substituting CB with ShO or ShC does not significantly affect the rubber's resistance to standard oil-based media. The findings indicate that Kazakhstan's shungite materials can be used as fillers in rubber to partially replace CB.

First evidence of benzothiazoles in arctic aerosols: Seasonal trend and sources attribution

Benzothiazoles are a class of compounds with wide-ranging applications, particularly in industrial chemistry. They are used as accelerators in the vulcanization process in the rubber industry, and have applications in pharmaceuticals, due to their antimicrobial, antifungal, and anticancer properties. This class of compounds can be considered emerging contaminants due to their persistence in the environment, and some of them may pose toxicological risks to aquatic life and potentially to human health. The transport mechanisms and environmental fate of these compounds are poorly investigated, particularly in aquatic compartments such as wastewater, and research has been limited to urban areas.For the first time, eight benzothiazoles were found in Arctic atmospheric aerosol over an entire sampling year, from February 2022 to March 2023. A comparison of the seasonal trends of benzothiazoles with specific markers (i.e., major ions, methanesulfonic acid (MSA), levoglucosan, and arabitol) and the employment of a chemometric approach allowed us to identify three key findings: i) two benzothiazoles (BTH-OH and BTH-NH2) can be linked to a local natural source; ii) soil resuspension is another possible source of two other species (BTH-SH and BTH-MeS); and iii) long-range atmospheric transport sources are associated with BTH and BTH-SO3H. The species present in the Arctic aerosol have different abundances compared to urban areas, confirming the necessity to improve research in different environments to better understand their transport mechanisms and environmental fate.

Effective natural rubber vulcanization using electron beam irradiation and DFT driven cross-linking agents

This study explores an eco-friendly and efficient method for vulcanizing natural rubber latex using electron beam irradiation, enhanced by cross-linking agents. Unlike conventional sulfur vulcanization, electron beam vulcanization can occur at room temperature, reducing the need for chemical additives and eliminating toxic waste. Both experimental and theoretical studies were performed to evaluate vulcanization efficiency, utilizing ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EDMA) and 1,6-hexanediol diacrylate (HDDA) as cross-linking agents. Electron beam irradiation is an effective method for generating reactive radical species via homolytic cleavage of covalent bonds in natural rubber. Quantum mechanical calculations, including density functional theory (DFT) and transition state searches using linear and quadratic synchronous transit methods, were employed to examine molecular structures, energies, and reaction pathways in the vulcanization process. The findings reveal that HDDA demonstrates superior cross-linking performance compared to EDMA, making it the preferred choice for enhancing vulcanization efficiency. These results offer valuable insights for optimizing rubber manufacturing processes, potentially improving the quality and efficiency of industrial rubber production.

Effect of deep eutectic solvents on vulcanization kinetics and strain-softening behavior of natural rubber/styrene-butadiene rubber

Natural rubber/styrene-butadiene rubber (NR/SBR) blends are widely used as tyre sidewall compounds; however, discrepancies in vulcanization rates and the selective distribution of vulcanization additives in SBR and NR contribute to suboptimal dynamic properties. In this study, we propose a straightforward strategy to modulate the multi-scale structure in NR/SBR blends by incorporating an ionic liquid-like deep eutectic solvent (DES) as a novel reactive vulcanization agent. The addition of DES substantially enhances the dispersion of ZnO within NR/SBR blends, accelerates the vulcanization process of SBR and the NR/SBR blend and increases their crosslinking densities. Furthermore, DES interacts with the non-rubber components of NR, facilitating the vulcanization of NR. The impact of DES on the linear and non-linear rheological behavior of NR, SBR and NR/SBR vulcanizates is minimal, except for an enhancement in weak strain overshooting. The distribution of DES within NR/SBR blends can be manipulated by varying the mixing sequence of DES with NR and SBR, while selectively positioning DES within the SBR phase may synchronise the vulcanization rates of the NR/SBR blend, thereby improving tensile strength and reducing mechanical hysteresis. This approach may provide a viable method for producing NR/SBR blend products characterised by high strength and low hysteresis energy.

The Effect of Synthetic Zeolite on the Curing Process and the Properties of the Natural Rubber-Based Composites.

Zeolites, known for their unique structural and catalytic properties, are added to the natural rubber matrix to investigate their influence on the vulcanization process and the resultant properties of composites. The natural rubber-based composites were masticated with 4A synthetic zeolite (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 30 phr). The curing of the rubber compounds was monitored on a moving die rheometer at 150 °C. The isothermal DSC method was also used to study the curing process at 150 °C, 160 °C, and 170 °C. Based on the obtained results, it is assumed that there is an interaction between the components of the curing system and the surface of the zeolite particle, and that is why the vulcanization reaction starts earlier with an increase in zeolite in the rubber mixture. This underscores the significant role of zeolite in accelerating the curing reaction of natural rubber-based compounds. The composites were vulcanized in a press at 150 °C for 15 min. The chemical structure was analyzed using FTIR, and the sample morphology was examined using SEM. The degree of swelling in toluene and distilled water was determined. The tensile strength values, modulus of elasticity at 100% and 300% elongation, and elongation at break were measured using a universal testing machine. Hardness was assessed according to the Shore A scale. With a small addition of zeolite (up to 10 phr), there is no significant change in the tensile strength values. However, adding a considerable amount of zeolite to a natural rubber matrix results in a deterioration of the tested mechanical properties. It can be assumed that with large proportions of zeolite 4A MS in the composites, the mechanical properties deteriorated due to increased porosity. The amount of added zeolite affects the initial stages of thermal decomposition of the examined samples and the rest after the analysis at a temperature of 500 °C.

Effect of Proteins on the Vulcanized Natural Rubber Crosslinking Network Structure and Mechanical Properties.

Proteins are important factors affecting the properties of natural rubber. Therefore, investigating the effect of free and bonded proteins on the structure and mechanical properties of the vulcanized crosslinking network of natural rubber would provide a theoretical basis for the production of high mechanical resistance natural rubber. Herein, natural rubbers with different protein contents and types were prepared by high-speed centrifugation. And, the effects on their network structure, vulcanization, tensile strength, tearing strength and dynamic mechanical properties were investigated. The results showed that the reduction in protein content led to the decrement in the entanglement networks, crosslinking density and tensile and tear strengths of the vulcanized natural rubber. Moreover, the bonded proteins had an obvious influence on the vulcanization process, while free proteins played an important role in the crosslink densities. These results reveal that both bonded and free proteins are involved in the vulcanization process and the construction of the vulcanized crosslinking network structure of natural rubber, which enhances the mechanical properties such as the modulus and tensile strength of vulcanized natural rubber.

CONTROL SYSTEM OF CATENARY CONTINOUS VULCANIZATION LINE FOR RUBBER CABLES

The paper presents the control system of a continuous vulcanization line for the production of cables and conductors with rubber insulation, where the vulcanization process takes place in water and steam (vapour) atmosphere. The control, monitoring and recording of relevant parameters of the whole technological process was carried out with help of PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) and HMI (Human Machine Interface) and KepwareEx server. The control system is used to generate control signals for the regulation of speed, tension force, extruder temperature, water level and steam pressure in the vulcanization tube according to the technological parameters of the line. The monitoring system enables visualization of all technological units of the line via the HMI screens. The parts and entirety of the line are represented by conveniently drawn symbols that change colour depending on the current state and display the variables relevant to the operation of this object. Through the use of the KepwareEx server and database, the values of the variables important for the operation of the plant are recorded in real time. The developed supervisory and control system allows easy operation and monitoring of all important parameters of the plant.

Analysis of effect on temperature field of tire curing process by initial temperatures and condensate discharging

To improve the heat transfer efficiency and temperature distribution uniformity of steam-heating vulcanization processes, a 3D simulation model was established by Solidworks and transient simulation studies were carried out by Fluent 2021 R1. The effects of four initial tire temperatures and five condensate discharging schemes on the heat transfer efficiency and temperature distribution uniformity were investigated. The study finds that: (1) At the end of the stage of filling the capsule with high-temperature and high-pressure steam, the temperature of the lower mold sidewall is 152.08 °C which is significantly higher than that of the lower mold bead with 128.03 °C, the lower mold shoulder with 115.00 °C, and the lower mold crown with 109.57 °C. (2) With the initial tire temperature increasing from 25 °C to 55 °C, the final temperatures at the lower mold crown and the upper mold sidewall are increased by 12.00 °C and 2.27 °C, respectively, indicating that the increase in the initial temperature helps to raise the temperature at difficult vulcanization locations of the tire. (3) It is recommended to carry out condensate discharging when the volume fraction of condensate at the lower mold sidewall is 0.2 %∼0.3 %, which improves the temperature uniformity in the steam-heating vulcanization process.

Thermomechanical-chemical devulcanization of ground tire rubber

Abstract We developed a thermomechanical devulcanization process of ground tire rubber (GTR) by incorporating chemicals to achieve better devulcanization. The samples were devulcanized in a twin-screw extruder with the help of three types of chemicals that aid devulcanization: N-(cyclohexylthio) phthalimide (PVI), dibenzamid diphenyl disulfide (DBD) and dialkyl-pentasulfide (DPS, commercialized as Aktiplast 79). We characterized the resulting devulcanizates by Soxhlet-extraction, and produced vulcanized sheets, which we characterized mechanically and examined the vulcanization process. We found that all chemicals facilitated better devulcanization and the devulcanizate had a more rubber-like behavior during mixing. Vulcanization was also slightly improved and reversion was reduced. When revulcanized, the rubber had improved strain at break and tear strength.

Inside Back Cover

The serious dissolution of polysulfides restricted the practical application of Room‐temperature sodium‐sulfur (RT‐Na/S) batteries which displayed attractive potential in large‐scale energy‐storage. Utilizing the double‐helix structure of carrageenan‐metal hydrogels as precursors, in‐situ metal sulfide (MxSy) nanostructure/3D carbon aerogels (3D CAs) can be successfully constructed. Importantly, with the assistance of the vulcanization process, 3D carbon architecture was maintained in the composites and acted as a skeleton to optimize Storage environment of sulfur element. More details are discussed in the article by Yang et al. on page 2370—2380.image

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING OF SYNTHETIC RUBBER INK WITH HIGH SOLID CONTENT REINFORCED BY NETWORKED SILICA

ABSTRACT Silica is a reinforcing filler commonly used in the production of environmentally friendly tires, because tires reinforced with silica have lower rolling resistance that translates into reduced energy consumption and improved fuel economy. However, achieving the optimal dispersion of silica within the rubber matrix is crucial for maximizing its reinforcing effects. In this study, a three-dimensionally networked silica (NS) was introduced in various amounts to rubber inks to improve their tensile strength and increase miscibility to enable their use in additive manufacturing. The results show that synthetic rubber ink with a high content of SBR (90%) and reinforced by NS possesses adequate viscosity for use in the direct ink write (DIW) process. NS was confirmed to have an impact on the rheological properties and printability of the rubber ink as well as improve the tensile strength of the printed parts. Different formulations were tested to study and facilitate the vulcanization process and identify the optimal curing conditions as well as the print parameters to use in DIW printing. The successful printing and vulcanization of various printed structures demonstrate the potential for using the developed printable ink in additive manufacturing. This study opens up new possibilities for creating rubber products (such as tire treads) with adequate flexibility and high tensile strength.

The effect of nano-zinc oxide on the mechanical properties of the cured ethylene-propylene-diene monomer rubber with a semi-efficient vulcanisation system

The present investigation is dedicated to the impact of replacing conventional zinc oxide (ZnO) with nano-zinc oxide (nZnO) in ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) rubber compounds. Multiple rubber compounds were prepared utilising conventional and nano-zinc oxides, followed by vulcanisation employing a semi-efficient vulcanisation system (SEV). Results indicate that nZnO promotes a more uniform dispersion within the rubber matrix compared to ZnO. Moreover, the incorporation of nZnO enhances the vulcanisation process, yielding a notable 27% increase in crosslink density. Nevertheless, the mechanical properties of the cured rubber, encompassing tear strength, hardness, tensile strength and elongation at break, remained either unaffected or exhibited slight deterioration. This observed discrepancy is ascribed to the inherent tendency of nZnO particles to self-aggregate, thereby disrupting the homogeneous distribution of the activator within the rubber matrix and fostering the formation of localised crosslink networks around the nano-particles. To overcome this challenge, the study proposes potential strategies, including nano-particle surface modification, optimisation of mixing parameters, and integration of compatibilisers, aiming to enhance the interaction between nZnO and rubber chains, mitigate agglomeration and facilitate a more even dispersion. The study suggests the potential of nZnO in augmenting the crosslinking efficiency of rubber compounds while emphasising the imperative need to address nano-particle agglomeration to optimise overall mechanical properties.

Nano-sulfur decorated graphene oxide to improve the mechanical properties of natural rubber by interfacial participate in the vulcanization reaction

As a new material with excellent comprehensive properties, graphene is an excellent reinforcing agent for natural rubber (NR). However, how to improve the interface performance between graphene and NR, and at the same time be practical, is still a great challenge. In this study, nano-sulfur decorated graphene oxide materials (GO-S) were prepared by in-situ loading nano-sulfur on the surface of graphene oxide (GO). Nano-surface cross-link with NR in the vulcanization process, acts as a bridge to anchor GO and NR molecular chains and improve the interface bonding strength of GO and NR. The AFM results show that the interfacial phase thickness of NR-GO-S composites increased from 135 ± 18 nm to 245 ± 28 nm after in-situ loading modification. The tensile strength and tear property of NR-GO-S composites modified by sulfur loading reach 30.3 MPa and 40.0 kN⋅m−1, respectively, which are 31.1 % and 12.8 % higher than those of NR-GO composite. Nano-sulfur form O–S and C–S covalent bonds with GO, and form more efficient covalent crosslinking networks with NR molecules in the vulcanization process, thus improving the interfacial compatibility between GO and NR and making the load transfer in rubber matrix more effective. This work provides a new idea and method to improve the interface property between rubber and inorganic nanomaterials.

Enhancing novel electrode of MnCo2O4 nanowire/Ni2.5Mo6S6.7 nanosheet arrays for hybrid capacitor

Rationally synthesizing promising electrode material with nano-morphologies for excellent practical hybrid capacitor application lingers as a challenge. To complete the assignment, we design MnCo2O4@Ni2.5Mo6S4.7 electrode via facial hydrothermal approach assisted with calcination and vulcanization processes in which the nano-structured material anchors on the nickel substrate. An ultrahigh specific capacitance of 3164 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 is delivered by the cathode electrode material. The specific capacitance of MnCo2O4@Ni2.5Mo6S6.7 remains 97.2 % even after 8000 cycles. The as-fabricated hybrid capacitor (HC) produces 75.2 Wh kg−1 energy density at 2700 W kg−1 power density. The device shows high stability rate (87.5 % at 8 A g−1 of its original capacitance throughout 8000 cycles. The outcome of MnCo2O4@Ni2.5Mo6S6.7 structure design demonstrates its potential utilizations in future smart micro/nano energy storage device.

Building Chemical Interface Layers in Functionalized Graphene Oxide/Rubber Composites to Achieve Enhanced Mechanical Properties and Thermal Control Capability of Tires.

With the rapid development of the transport industry, there is a higher demand for environmental friendliness, durability, and stability of tires. Rubber composites with excellent mechanical properties, abrasion resistance, and low heat generation are very important for the preparation of green tires. In this study, the all-aqueous phase process was initially employed to prepare 2-Amino-5-mercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazole (AZT) functionalized graphene oxide (AGO). Subsequently, modified graphene oxide/silica/natural rubber (AGO/SiO2/NR) composites were obtained through latex blending and hot press vulcanization processes. This method was environmentally friendly and exhibited high modification efficiency. Benefiting from the good dispersion of AGO in the latex and the cross-linking reaction between AGO and NR, AGO/SiO2/NR composites with good dispersion and enhanced interfacial interaction were finally obtained. AGO/SiO2/NR composites showed significantly improved overall performance. Compared to GO/SiO2/NR composites, the tensile strength (28.1 MPa) and tear strength (75.3 N/mm) of the AGO/SiO2/NR composites were significantly increased, while the heat build-up value (10.4 °C) and DIN abrasion volume (74.9 mm3) were significantly reduced. In addition, the steady-state temperature field distribution inside the tire was visualized by ANSYS finite element simulation. The maximum temperature of the prepared AGO/SiO2/NR was reduced by 18.2% compared to that of the GO/SiO2/NR tires. This strategy is expected to provide a new approach for the development of low energy consumption, environmentally friendly, and long-life rubber for tires.

Thermoplastic Vulcanizates with an Integration of High Wear-Resistant and Anti-Slip Properties Based on Styrene Ethylene Propylene Styrene Block Copolymer/Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene Block Copolymer/Solution-Polymerization Styrene-Butadiene Rubber.

Distinguished from traditional vulcanized rubber, which is not reusable, thermoplastic elastomer (TPV) is a material that possesses both the excellent resilience of traditional vulcanized rubber and the recyclability of thermoplastic, and TPVs have been widely studied in both academia and industry because of their outstanding green properties. In this study, new thermoplastic elastomers based on solution polymerized styrene butadiene rubber (SSBR) and thermoplastic elastomers (SEPSs/SEBSs) were prepared by the first dynamic vulcanization process. The high slip resistance and abrasion resistance of SSBR are utilized to improve the poor slip resistance of SEPSs/SEBSs, which provides a direction for the recycling of shoe sole materials. In this paper, the effects of different ratios of the rubber/plastic phase (R/P) on the mechanical properties, rheological properties, micro-morphology, wear resistance, and anti-slip properties of SSBR/TPE TPVs are investigated. The results show that the SSBR/TPE TPVs have good mechanical properties. The tensile strength, tear strength, hardness, and resilience of the TPVs decrease slightly with an increasing R/P ratio. Still, TPVs have a tensile strength of 18.1 MPa when the ratio of R/P is 40/100, and this reaches the performance of the vulcanized rubber sole materials commonly used in the market. In addition, combined with microscopic morphology analysis (SEM), it was found that, with the increase in the R/P ratio, the size of the rubber particles gradually increased, forming a stronger crosslinking network, but the rheological properties of TPVs gradually decreased; crosslinking network enhancement led to the increase in the size of the rubber particles, and the increase in the size of rubber particles made the material in the abrasion of rubber particles fall easily, thus increasing its abrasion volume. Through dynamic mechanical analysis and anti-slip tests, when the R/P ratio was 40/100, the tan δ of TPVs at 0 °C was 0.35, which represents an ordinary vulcanized rubber sole material in the market. The viscoelasticity of TPVs increased with the increase in the R/P ratio, which improved the anti-slip performance of TPVs. SSBR/TPE TPVs are expected to be used in footwear and automotive fields due to their excellent abrasion resistance and anti-slip performance.

Evaluation of acrylonitrile rubber containing zinc oxide as safety products

AbstractThe goal of this research is to find the ideal formulation with the best antimicrobial performance in terms of rheological, physicomechanical, and lowest toxic properties to produce safety rubber for the children toy's and other industrial products. In order to accomplish this, a number of formulations containing ZnO as activator for vulcanization process as well as an antimicrobial agent at concentrations ranging from 1.5 to 40 phr in the presence of 40 phr of different fillers were prepared. The rheological characteristics of prepared compounded rubber samples were assessed and the cure rate was calculated. The overall rheological test results indicate a raise in minimum and maximum torque along with a fall in scorch and optimum cure time. The compounded NBR was vulcanized as estimated curing time. The results illustrated that the NBR vulcanizates containing various amounts of ZnO and 40 phr talc have the best physicomechanical properties. Also, the scanning electron micrographs indicated surface homogeneity and good dispersion of the NBR components. The cytotoxicity test of the investigated vulcanizates on normal retina cell line gave no cytotoxic effect which assessed their safety. These findings offer useful information for antimicrobial NBR vulcanizates for kid's toys and other safety products.Highlights Synthesis of antimicrobial NBR rubber vulcanizates for safety applications. The antimicrobial agent used was ZnO. ZnO nanoparticles and other ingredients were incorporated with NBR on the ordinary rubber mixer. Rheological, physicomechanical properties and antimicrobial activity of NBR rubber were tested. The products have better mechanical and antimicrobial safety properties.