A Novel Approach for Simulation and Optimization of Rubber Vulcanization

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Polymer Science

Background:

• Rubber vulcanization is a critical process involving curing and reversion phenomena.
• Optimizing vulcanization parameters is essential for achieving high-quality rubber products.
• Existing simulation methods may not fully capture the complex thermal and chemical dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an advanced kinetic model for simulating the NR/SBR rubber vulcanization process.
• To optimize process parameters for homogeneous and high-quality rubber products.
• To enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of industrial rubber vulcanization.

Main Methods:

• Developed a kinetic model incorporating curing and reversion phenomena.
• Utilized the finite element method coupled with heat transfer equations.
• Simulated vulcanization for various geometries (spheres, rubber wheels) including post-vulcanization cooling.

Main Results:

• The model accurately simulated vulcanization, including heat generation and post-cooling crosslinking.
• Optimal process parameters were determined by minimizing the difference in vulcanization degrees.
• Achieved high homogeneity (max-min difference ≤ 0.0142) and improved product quality.

Conclusions:

• The proposed advanced simulation model effectively optimizes rubber vulcanization.
• The method ensures product homogeneity, quality, and process efficiency.
• This approach offers significant cost-effectiveness benefits for the rubber industry.