Composições elastoméricas reforçadas com fibras para o revestimento de superfícies metálicas

Abstract

The usage of elastomeric materials for pipeline coating realizes a technic to protect the metallic materials, mainly against abrasion wear. The rubber layer must be sufficiently resistant to friction caused by the passage of materials through the pipeline, such as ores. Also, it is necessary to have good adhesion with rubber metal. The incorporation of fiber materials into the polymeric matrix is considered a reinforcing element, forming a composite. Thus, several synthetic and natural fibers, in many proportions, and some of that with treatment have been incorporated into compounds with natural rubber and sulfur vulcanized. First, fibers have been characterized by thermogravimetry (TGA), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (MEV), which confirmed a typical structure and the appearance of bands indicating each fiber. A formulation without fiber was used as a standard sample and from it, other mixtures were made with aim of evaluating the capacity of fiber dispersion into the polymeric matrix, the possible interference in the mechanical properties, and the adhesion. The compositions were processed in a closed mixer and the homogenization was performed in a cylinder. The occurring properties were evaluated on an oscillatory disk rheometer, and by a Mooney viscometer. The physical-mechanical properties were evaluated through the tests of hardness, tensile strength, and tear and adhesion (peel-test). The behavior of abrasion wear with two and three bodies has been evaluated as well. Glass and polyamide synthetic fiber, basalt mineral fiber, and jute natural fiber showed mechanical properties similar to the standard sample, not contributing enough to the expected reinforcing properties. However, the jute fiber with chemical treatment has shown satisfactory results in resistance to applied forces and loads, rubber-to-metal adhesion, and the tribological characteristics and properties of abrasion wear. Therefore, in addition to contributing to the reinforcement system, the treated jute fiber also increased the useful life of the composite formed and contributed to a sustainable chain. [resumo fornecido pelo autor]