The use of inverse vulcanised polysulfide as an intelligent interfacial modifier in rubber/carbon black composites

We reported the use of an inverse vulcanised polysulfide (SP) as an intelligent interfacial modifier in the NR/CB composites to remarkably decrease the hysteresis loss by enhancing the interfacial adhesion and improving CB dispersion. Specifically, SP synthesized by the bulk copolymerization of sulfur and styrene was grafted onto CB surface by trapping the sulfur radicals generated from SP, and the grafted polysulfides can participate in the crosslinking reaction with NR, which greatly improves CB dispersion and strengthens interfacial adhesion in the composites. As a consequence, the rolling resistance and heat build-up of the modified composites are remarkably decreased, showing great advantages in tire application in term of reducing fuel consumption and extending service life. [Display omitted] •Inverse vulcanised polysulfide (SP) is synthesized and covalently grafted onto CB surface.•A model study demonstrates that the chemical reaction between SP grafted on CB and nature rubber (NR).•The grafted polysulfides onto CB react with NR, leading to improved interfacial adhesion and CB dispersion in the composites.•The rolling resistance and heat build-up of the modified composites is remarkably decreased.