Physico-Chemistry of interfaces in elastomers (internal/external)

The physico-chemical nature of the interface between filler particles and polymer matrix is an important, often underestimated parameter on the processability and the material properties of elastomeric materials.

The critical factors here are the surface energy and polarity; to achieve a good dispersion of the filler particles in the elastomer matrix and to obtain a good adhesion between polymer and filler, this interfacial properties of polymer and filler must be well tuned to each other.

The measurement of the surface energies of nanoscale powders can be determined at a fixed particle layer by wetting measurements with test liquid of different surface tension and polarity.

Physico-chemical interfacial interactions are also an important factor for the tribology of elastomers. By observing a thin aqueous wetting film in the dynamic friction test conclusion for dynamic wet friction of elastomers can be drawn.