Structure optimization of pyrolysis carbon black from waste tire and its application in natural rubber composites

With the development of the rubber industry and the raising of environmental awareness, the pyrolysis carbon black (CBp) from waste tires has received more and more attention. However, CBp's application is limited because of its poor surface activity. Thus, the modification of the CBp's surface has become an urgent research topic. In this work, a clean and high-efficient plasma modification technology with Ar, NH3 and H2O atmospheres is applied to treat the CBp's surface. With this method, the CBp's surface can be not only significantly etched, but also effectively activated. It can be noticed that the mechanical properties of m-CBp filled natural rubber (NR) composites have been improved with different levels depending on the plasma atmospheres. The enhanced mechanical property is attributed to weak/strong filler-polymer interaction, which is promoted by etching effect and/or the active components on m-CBp surface produced during plasma modification process. This work not only provides a simple and eco-friendly method for CBp modification, but also addresses the commercialization challenges of CBp-based technology. It makes the CBp had a great potential application with high-value in rubber composites.