The role of laboratory testing and sampling in ensuring material compliance and controlling the rubber production process

Laboratory testing plays a key role in ensuring the quality of the rubber production process. Quality has a direct impact on the efficiency and innovation of industrial enterprises. Control of the chemical structure of rubber at individual stages of production, carried out using advanced analytical methods such as FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), DSC (Differential Scanning Calorimetry) and GPC (Gel Permeation Chromatography), enables the detection of any non-compliance. FTIR enables an early assessment of structural changes in the material, which is the foundation for further research. DSC is used to study the stability of polymers. Its main purpose is to analyse changes in the mechanical, physical and physicochemical properties of polymers with a controlled increase or decrease in temperature. The technological process of rubber production also depends on the molecular weight of the sample at a given stage of the process. The analysis was performed using the GPC method. By using the selected testing techniques, the rubber production process can be corrected promptly, minimising waste and improving the quality of the final product. Regular testing, including the identification of moisture content, eliminates problems that can prevent precise measurements and the ultimate functionality of the rubber. Based on the results of the tests, changes were made to the rubber production technology, introducing an additional drying stage which enabled not only the elimination of the observed problems but also the optimisation of the process and improvement of the quality of the final product. Such measures make it possible not only to enhance productivity but also to meet the growing demands of customers and remain competitive in a dynamic market.