Reactive grafting of hydroxyethyl acrylate in styrene butadiene rubber: Characterization and its effect on silica reinforced tire composites

Hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA) was grafted onto styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) macromolecular chain by melt grafting method. Grafted structure was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and H-1 spectra of nuclear magnetic resonance. In addition, the SBR-g-HEA/silica composites have been studied for their improved filler dispersion through hydrogen bonding interaction at the SBR/silica interface. SBR molecular chains and the silica interface was enhanced through coupling interaction at the hydroxyl modified SBR/silica, at the same time. scanning electron microscope image of the cryo fractured surface of different SBR/silica composites and reduced Payne effect of rubber compound confirmed the silica particles have an even dispersion throughout the SBR matrix. The dynamic curves indicated the highest efficacy for wet and dry traction performances of SBR-g-HEA/silica composites comparing to unmodified reference sample. Meanwhile, the preparation of the composite does not need to add silane coupling agent to increase the capacity, there will be no volatile organic compounds produced by silanization reaction. Owing to the good properties such reduced energy and increased fuel efficiency, the SBR-g-HEA is an ideal eco-friendly material for green tire tread.