ABSTRACT

　 Sulfur cross-linking and filler reinforcing are the most important factors that govern the mechanical properties of rubber vulcanizates. Lots of various studies have been carried out to gain better understanding of the two to produce high performance rubber materials. However, the vulcanization reaction and reinforcing effect of filler filling has not been clarified yet. Therefore, it is now necessary to more deeply research essential natures of the sulfur cross-linking and the reinforcement effect by filler filling in order to achieve a paradigm shift of rubber science and technology. In this study, roles of sulfur cross-linking reagents not only to cross-link rubber chains but also to control the network structure for reinforcing rubber are shown. Zinc oxide was found to play an important role in the formation of inhomogeneous network structure of the vulcanizates, especially the formation of network domains and their continuous structures. The network domain and its continuous phases in the vulcanizates showing a reinforcing effect of the vulcanizates are clarified. This novel insight will be a key for rubber material design in industry for sports.

DECENTE SPORTS SCIENCE Vol.43/The DESCENTE AND ISHIMOTO MEMORIAL FOUNDATION FOR THE PROMOTION SPORTS SCIENCE