Development and characterization of Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) rubber reinforced by green material lignin

Effects of lignin on the rheological, mechanical, chemical and aging properties of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber used in the production of sealing profiles were investigated. It is reinforced with carbon black to provide the necessary conditions in all automotive vehicles. However, all automotive manufacturers have started to research biodegradable materials instead of petroleum-based products in vehicles due to environmental problems and human health threats. Therefore, the possibility of using lignin instead of carbon black was investigated. EPDM plate samples were prepared by adding different amounts of commercial lignin, lignin black solution and maleic anhydride modified forms. The effects of lignin as a filler were analyzed rheologically, mechanically and chemically. Also surfaces were checked by scanning electron microscope after ageing. Commercial lignin made EPDM more resistant to ultraviolet and weathering, while unmodified black solution made it less resistant than carbon black. Adding commercial lignin and its modified form instead of carbon black provided the best mechanical properties. Additionally, it was determined that the addition of lignin as a filler did not cause any chemical degradation in the EPDM matrix.