Filling a gap in the rubber industry
 |
Sri Lanka recorded rubber products exports worth US$ 855M in 2017. The annual gross turnover of the Sri Lankan rubber industry is estimated at approximately US$ 1 billion. Our world-acclaimed natural rubber (NR) products include solid tires and surgical gloves. |
 Prof: S.Walpolage |
|
The unique mechanical properties of NR can be modified by vulcanizing and addition of fillers as per the requirement for a specific application. Carbon black is a widely used reinforcing filler. The appearance of black color in the product, and environmental pollution are its main limitations. Hence, Jayaraj investigated inexpensive and environment-friendly alternatives. The introduction of such a filler would bring significant economic advantages to the dry rubber industry in Sri Lanka. He identified clay (Montmorillonite) as a suitable reinforcing filler, and carried out experimental investigations on preparation of the NR-clay nanocomposite and the resulting mechanical properties. Jayaraj found that this material is an excellent reinforcing filler at low loadings. |
 Dr. (Ms) S. Egodage |
|
|
He identified clay (Montmorillonite) as a suitable reinforcing filler, and carried out experimental investigations on preparation of the NR-clay nanocomposite and the resulting mechanical properties. Jayaraj found that this material is an excellent reinforcing filler at low loadings. An Initiative by MoraMinds
|
||
