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Submicron Scale Dispersion of Lignin Achieved by Green-Solvent Casting Blending Enables Carbon Black Level Reinforcement in SBR Composites

  • 0Institute For Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto, Japan.
Macromolecular Rapid Communications +

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December 18, 2025

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December 18, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Sustainable lignin fillers can replace carbon black in rubber using a green solvent method. This approach achieves nanoscale dispersion for enhanced mechanical properties in elastomers, crucial for eco-friendly materials.

Area Of Science

  • Materials Science
  • Polymer Chemistry
  • Sustainable Chemistry

Background

  • Replacing fossil-derived carbon black (CB) with sustainable alternatives is critical for elastomer design.
  • Achieving effective dispersion of bio-based fillers like lignin without chemical modification presents a significant challenge.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To develop a green-solvent processing method for dispersing lignin in styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR).
  • To investigate the impact of nanoscale lignin dispersion on the mechanical reinforcement of SBR composites.

Main Methods

  • Utilizing a green-solvent casting method with 2-methyltetrahydrofuran (2-MeTHF) for lignin dispersion in SBR.
  • Employing Atomic Force Microscopy-Infrared (AFM-IR) spectroscopy for chemical mapping and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for morphological analysis.
  • Conducting Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) to evaluate mechanical properties and filler network formation.

Main Results

  • Achieved submicron-scale (∼200 nm) dispersion of unmodified lignin within the SBR matrix.
  • AFM-IR confirmed homogeneous lignin domains and a fine filler network, unlike micron-scale agglomerates in conventional composites.
  • The 20 vol% lignin composite exhibited a storage modulus and Payne effect comparable to SBR/CB composites, indicating a percolated filler network.
  • Reduced tan δ at 60°C suggests lower hysteresis loss and potential for improved rolling resistance.

Conclusions

  • Processing-induced nanoscale dispersion, not chemical modification, is key to reinforcing efficiency of bio-based fillers.
  • The green-solvent method offers a scalable and environmentally benign route for utilizing lignin in high-performance elastomers.
  • This approach enables the development of sustainable elastomers for next-generation tire and flexible material applications.

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