Unveiling the impact of particle size on the physio-mechanical properties of eco-friendly polymer composites

This study delves into the influence of particle-size variation on the physio-mechanical properties of rubber crumb-reinforced sustainable polymer composites, a burgeoning area of research driven by the increasing demand for eco-friendly materials across industries. Sustainable polymer composites, renowned for their environmental benefits, are poised for widespread adoption owing to their versatility in diverse applications. The integration of rubber crumb, derived from recycled tires, not only enhances sustainability but also augments the performance of these composites. However, the impact of rubber crumb particle size on composite properties remains relatively unexplored. Through systematic experimentation, polymer composites with varying rubber-crumb particle sizes were fabricated, followed by comprehensive mechanical characterization encompassing tensile, flexural, and impact testing. Morphologic analysis via scanning electron microscopy provided crucial insights into the microstructure of the composites. The results indicate that the density and hardness of composite with 60 wt.% of rubber crumbs and particle size of 850 μm reduced by 10.95% and 25.73%, respectively, compared to composite with 20-wt.% rubber crumb and 212-μm particle size. The tensile, flexural and impact strength of composite with 40 wt.% of rubber crumbs and particle size of 212 μm are found to be 83.49%, 65.85% and 79.82% higher, respectively, compared to the composite with the lowest strengths. These findings unravel the intricate interplay between particle size and composite behavior, offering invaluable guidance for optimizing material design and manufacturing processes in the realm of sustainable composite development. Such advancements hold promise for revolutionizing industries including automotive, construction, and consumer goods, driving forward environmental sustainability and resource efficiency initiatives.