Chemical evaluation of composites natural rubber/carbon black/leather tannery projected to antistatic flooring

Abstract

In this study the composites which are commonly called NR/CB/Leather were developed in order to apply them as antistatic flooring and coating. They were developed using vulcanized natural rubber, carbon black to add an electric conduction property and industrial leather waste. The leather industrial waste was micronized and added to the rubber matrix in proportions of 60 and 80 phr using an opened mixing cylinder according to ASTM D 3182 standard. The composites were exposed to the sanitizing agents, (i) bleach and (ii) disinfectant, aiming to simulate a real cleaning context, and to meet the health standards of the Brazilian Ministry of health. Physical-chemical and microbiological evaluations were carried out to determine the structural and chemical stabilities of the composites. After this, low water absorption level (<1.5%), immobilization and low chromium oxide level (<1.5), pH within the neutrality rate and an excellent resistance to microbiological contamination were identified for the composites. Thus, from a physical-chemical perspective, the composites NR/CB/Leather displayed suitable properties and potential for application as antistatic flooring and coatings. Besides using leather industrial waste in their production, their manufacture can boost this industrial sector economically and, consequently, promote a reduction in environmental impact.