Zinc oxide has several significant roles in rubber compounds:
Improvement of Mechanical Properties:
- It increases the modulus and hardness of rubber, making it more rigid and less deformable.
- Enhances the tensile strength, enabling the rubber to withstand greater forces without breaking.
Vulcanization Catalyst:
- Facilitates the vulcanization process, promoting the formation of cross-links between rubber molecules.
- This leads to improved elasticity and resilience of the rubber.
Enhanced Weather Resistance:
- Helps the rubber compound resist degradation due to exposure to sunlight, heat, and moisture.
Thermal Conductivity:
- Improves the heat transfer within the rubber, which can be important in applications where heat dissipation is necessary.
Examples of its use in rubber compounds include:
- In the production of automotive rubber parts like engine mounts and suspension bushings, zinc oxide is added to ensure durability and performance.
- For industrial rubber hoses, it contributes to their strength and ability to handle various fluids and pressures.
However, as with any additive, its usage needs to be balanced to achieve the desired properties while minimizing any potential negative impacts. Research is ongoing to optimize the use of zinc oxide and to explore alternative materials that can provide similar benefits with fewer drawbacks.
