Characterization of Cross-Linked Elastomer Networks by Thermal Desorption/Pyrolysis Direct Analysis in Real-Time Mass...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Tires are complex composites of elastomers, fillers, and additives.
• Different tire components have distinct functions and material compositions.
• Characterizing these components is crucial for understanding tire performance and degradation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a rapid and sensitive method for characterizing tire components.
• To identify and differentiate the chemical constituents of various tire parts.
• To elucidate the polymer backbone composition of different tire sections.

Main Methods:

• Mild thermal desorption/pyrolysis (TDPy) coupled to direct analysis in real-time mass spectrometry (DART-MS).
• Analysis of five tire parts: tread, sidewall, inner liner, body plies, and bead chafer.
• Utilized tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) and ion mobility (IM) spectrometry for ion characterization.

Main Results:

• Identified plasticizers (e.g., hexadecyl octyl oxalate) at low TDPy temperatures.
• Detected antiozonants (C-PPD, 6-PPD), antioxidants, and processing aids at medium/high temperatures.
• Determined styrene butadiene oligomers as the main polymer in most parts, except for poly(isobutylene) in the inner liner.

Conclusions:

• TDPy-DART-MS is effective for rapid chemical profiling of tire components.
• Distinct chemical profiles and polymer backbones were observed across different tire parts.
• The method provides insights into tire material composition, crucial for quality control and research.