Effect of devulcanized rubber on the rheological and mechanical properties of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) and natural rubber (NR) mixture

The aim of this thesis study is to examine the effect of using devulcanized waste rubber in paste mixtures consisting of natural rubber and ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber on rheological and mechanical properties. Samples were obtained by adding devulcanized waste rubber, natural rubber, and ethylene propylene diene monomer to rubber mixtures at certain rates. Natural rubber and ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber blends are available in six different compositions (100% NR, 80% NR-20% EPDM, 60% NR-40% EPDM, 40% NR-60% EPDM, 20% NR-80% EPDM and % 100 EPDM) were prepared. Devulcanized rubber was added to each prepared rubber mixture at 19 phr, 38 phr, and 57 phr ratios. A sample without devulcanized rubber was prepared as a control group for each blend. The effects of the use of devulcanized rubber on the rheological and mechanical properties were investigated by analyzing the final products obtained. Changes in the mechanical properties of rubber samples were determined by analyzes such as hardness, tensile strength, elongation at break, tear strength, compression set, and ash content. As a result of these analyses, it has been seen that devulcanized waste rubber plays a role as a filler when used in rubber mixtures and improves some mechanical properties. It is understood that the use of devulcanized rubber in rubber mixtures is not only economically beneficial but also more sustainable for the environment and a useful approach in terms of efficient use of limited resources.