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Mechanical characterization of a composite material of latex elastomeric matrix reinforced with recycled rubber granules to obtain floors

Abstract:

The present investigation deals with the analysis of the mechanical characteristics of different configurations of the composite material based on latex elastomer matrix (LA) reinforced with recycled rubber granules (RR), with the purpose of obtaining an alternative material with optimal mechanical characteristics for develop floors for high traffic. Different configurations were generated for said material, varying the size of the granulated reinforcement in three different dimensions (Type A, B, C); as well as, four different volumetric matrix and reinforcement compositions (1: 55% RR - 45% LA, 2: 50% RR - 50% LA, 3: 40% RR - 60% LA, 4: 30% RR - 70% LA). A DOE 3x4 experiment with 5 replicas was designed to subsequently prepare standardized test specimens for the experiment previously vulcanized in aluminum molds. The tests required for the mechanical characterization were based on the NTE INEN 1165 standards for traction, NTE INEN 889 for compression and NTE INEN 887 for impact tests. The results obtained by the tests were tabulated, averaged, analyzed and plotted to establish comparisons through the DOE and ANOVA analysis. It was determined that the material with optimal mechanical characteristics is Type A3; that is, it has a granule size of 0-0.841mm or Sieve # 20 and volumetric composition 60% matrix (latex) and 40% reinforcement (recycled rubber granule) with maximum tensile stress 5.252 MPa, lower residual compression 18.8% and Shore hardness 14.94. The ANOVA showed that the type of grain is the factor with the highest incidence in mechanical behavior. On the other hand, this potentially alternative material was subjected to a flammability test (ASTM D635 -14) to know its characteristics against fire (29.10 mm / min, 11% less than the maximum normative index). Finally the material was analyzed by the SEM technique; all this in order to make comparisons with a traditional market material used for the purpose. The final result showed that our alternative material has a better mechanical behavior and against fire than traditional materials.