Study on Modified EBIR With Improving Filler Dispersion and Mechanical Properties of Filler‐Rubber Composites

ABSTRACT Epoxidized butadiene‐isoprene rubber (EBIR) holds promising application prospects in high performance tires. However, there have been relatively few advancements in EBIR‐based composites so far, primarily due to challenges in fillers dispersion and rubber compatibility. A class of epoxidized butadiene‐isoprene rubber (EBIR) was developed through in situ epoxidation, and the application of the modified EBIR was also explored as a macromolecular compatilizer in the silica/BIR/BR composites system. The incorporation of highly epoxidized EBIR significantly increased the bound rubber content, improved interface interaction between silica and rubber, consequently lower Payne effect of the rubber composites, as observed with the rubber processing analyzer (RPA). Mechanical property characterization showed that the composites' tear strength and wear resistance were increased by 65.2% and 42.3% respectively when adding 9 phr EBIR, and the wet‐skid resistance was promoted by 27.3% by the dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA).