Mechanical Property Optimization of Recycled Rubber via Novel Devulcanization Techniques

Authors: Sasha Noble, Nicole VanKirk

Field of Study: Mechanical Engineering

Program Affiliation: Undergraduate Research Award

Faculty Mentors: John Swierk

Easel: 95

Timeslot: Midday

Abstract: This presentation discusses the global challenge of recycling vulcanized rubber, a material rendered durable yet intractable by cross-linked sulfur bonds during manufacturing. It highlights a new electrochemical devulcanization technique developed by the Swierk Group that utilizes electrons as a “clean reagent” to selectively break sulfur-based crosslinks while preserving the polymer backbone. This targeted approach offers a promising pathway for high-value rubber recycling. Further experimental work involves compounding and re-vulcanizing treated rubber to produce test sheets. The objective is to evaluate whether these recycled rubber products can achieve mechanical properties comparable to or exceeding those of virgin rubber, thereby assessing the practical viability of the electrochemical method.