A rubber blend combines selected polymers in a formulation intended to meet particular processing or service requirements. The properties of a blend must be evaluated; they are not simply the sum of the properties of its ingredients.
Compatibility, dispersion and cure behavior influence the result. Fillers and other additives also affect mechanical properties, aging and fluid resistance. A blend ratio used for a tire or belt should not be transferred to a grommet without validation.
When a blended compound is proposed, specify the required hardness, dimensions and service conditions, along with relevant tests. Assess representative molded samples against these criteria. Do not assume that blending always improves performance or reduces cost without data for the actual formulation and process.
