Sepiolite as reinforcing Filler for Rubber Composites: From the chemical Compatibilization to the commercial Exploitation

Chemically modified sepiolite was used as filler in silica based elastomeric composites. The sepiolite was modified through the reaction with silica (nano) particles from silanes such as TEOS and TESPD. Characterization of silica (nano) particles and sepiolite was performed by means of dynamic light scattering, thermogravimetric, elemental analysis, infrared spectroscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Prepared sulphur crosslinked rubber composites were characterized for vulcanization behavior and dynamic mechanical properties. Recently, it has been announced the commercial development of rubber compounds with sepiolite, whose chemical modification allowed the compatibilization, lower rolling resistance and better wet grip.