Surface modification of nano-sized carbon black for reinforcement of rubber

The standard sample IRB7# of nano-sized carbon black was reated by different methods, including washing by alcohol, toluene, water, the emulsion of toluene and water, and heating. Surface activity of the obtained nanoparticles was measured using inverse gas chromatography. The results showed that the dispersion free energy could be significantly increased after heating. The surface activity of three kinds of industrial carbon black was studied after heat treatment at different temperature. The results indicated that surface activity, iodine adsorption number and nitrogen surface area values of carbon black nanoparticles increased with the increase of temperature. However, the dibutyl phthalate adsorption value maintained nearly constant. The performance test of rubber showed that with the increasing heat treatment temperature of carbon black, 300% modulus of rubber increased before 450 degrees C and decreased after 450 degrees C.