Thermoplastic elastomer blends based on waste rubber and low-density polyethylene

Abstract

Materials based on waste rubber from discarded tires and low-density polyethylene (PE-LD) have been studied. The blends were prepared via compounding of molten PE-LD with ground rubber (average particle size 0.4 mm) in an internal mixer. The products behaved like thermoplastic elastomers. To improve mechanical properties of the blends, various compatibilisers (dicumyl peroxide, sulfur system) were added. The best materials had tensile strength 8.6 MPa and elongation at break 260 %.