Effect of Polymer-Filler and Filler-Filler Interactions on Dynamic Properties of Filled Vulcanizates

Abstract In the past few years, an enormous amount of work has been reported on the progress in the application of conventional fillers and the development of new products to improve the reinforcement of rubber, dynamic properties in particular. While all agree that the filler as one of the main components of the filled-rubber composite, has a very important role in improving the dynamic performances of the rubber products; many new ideas, theories, practices, phenomena, and observations about how and especially why the filler alters the dynamic stress-strain response have been presented. This, of course, suggests that not only is the real world of the filled rubber complex and sophisticated but also multiple mechanisms may be involved. However, it must be admitted that the possibility exists for explaining the effect of all fillers on rubber properties ultimately in similar and relatively nonspecific terms, i.e., the phenomenon related to all filler parameters should follow a general rule or principle. I...