Mechanical enhancement of epoxidized natural rubber by flue gas desulfurization ash as the sole reinforcing filler

Flue gas desulfurization facilities produce flue gas desulfurization ash (FGDA), which has ecological and economic benefits. In this article, we explored the possibility and impact of using FGDA as the sole reinforcing filler to mechanically improve epoxidized natural rubber (ENR). The influence on the properties of the composites was examined. FGDA exhibits good interfacial interaction and compatibility with ENR, which improves the mechanical properties of ENR. When 15 phr FGDA was added, the tensile strength of the composites increased by approximately 41.4% compared with that of pure ENR. This work demonstrates the possibility of using FGDA as an effective and sole reinforcing material to enhance the properties of rubber materials. Highlights FGDA improves the mechanical properties of ENR as a sole reinforcing filler. FGDA reacts with ENR during vulcanization, enhancing compatibility. Adding 15 phr FGDA to ENR increases the tensile strength by 41.4%.