Titanium dioxide does have a definite impact on the rubber vulcanization process, and its effect varies dynamically with factors such as addition amount and crystal form, rather than being a completely inert filler component.
Specific Effects on Rubber Vulcanization
Positive promotion effect: Properly added titanium dioxide can activate vulcanizing agents, catalyze the vulcanization reaction, increase the speed and degree of the vulcanization reaction. It can also reasonably control the vulcanization speed to match the mixing process, ensuring uniform and controllable vulcanization depth of the rubber compound.
Performance optimization effect: After the vulcanization reaction, titanium dioxide can significantly improve the heat resistance, weather resistance and aging resistance of rubber products. It also enhances physical and mechanical properties such as tensile strength and hardness of vulcanized rubber, extending the service life of outdoor rubber products.
No negative interference under proper conditions: Qualified rubber-grade titanium dioxide does not contain harmful impurities such as manganese, copper, cadmium and cobalt that will damage the vulcanization process. Normal use will not harm the vulcanization process, nor will it affect the tensile strength, elongation and bending performance of rubber products.
Key Factors Affecting Vulcanization Effect
Addition amount: Appropriate addition can optimize the vulcanization effect, while excessive addition will damage the physical properties of vulcanized rubber and lead to deterioration of product performance.
Crystal form selection: Rutile titanium dioxide has stronger stability and less interference to the vulcanization process, making it more suitable for rubber products that are used outdoors for a long time. Anatase titanium dioxide has stronger photochemical activity and is only suitable for light-colored rubber products with low weather resistance requirements.
Dispersion state: Surface-modified titanium dioxide is more uniformly dispersed in the rubber matrix, which can avoid uneven vulcanization caused by local agglomeration and ensure the synchronous progress of the vulcanization reaction.