The effect of strain-induced crystallization (SIC) on the physical properties of natural rubber (NR)

Abstract

The strain-induced crystallization (SIC) of vulcanized and un-vulcanized natural rubber (NR) has been considered a key element of the superiority of NR. Since filled NR compounds show SIC more than pure NR and un-vulcanized NR, the mechanical properties of NR and NR compounds at large strain - such as stress relaxation, stress-strain relation, tear resistance and green strength - are related to SIC. Both practical and academic interests have driven research on SIC in NR for about 90 years, but the contribution of SIC to mechanical properties still remains controversial. Recent synchrotron X-ray analysis makes it possible to analyze the time-resolved phenomena of SIC and mechanical properties. © 2014 Woodhead Publishing Limited All rights reserved.