HIGH-SULFUR SHALE OIL AS A COMPONENT OF RUBBER STOCKS

A plasticizer obtained from high-sulfur shale oil (S content 6.5%) was investigated as an additive for rubber compounds in quantities of 15 and 30% on medium-high acrylonitrile butadiene rubber, in comparison w ith dioctyl phtalate (DOP). The chemical composition of the shale ail additive was studied by chemical and spectral methods. The shale oil a dditive consisted mainly of compounds C-14-C-20. About 40% of the tota l product consisted of sulfur compounds, mainly heavy derivatives of t hiophene. The shale oil additive contained 45% polar aromatic and hete ro-element components. As opposed to DOP, the shale oil plasticizer do es not contain ester groups. However, high content of sulfur compounds and polar components result in chemical interaction and a satisfactor y compatibility of the additive with rubber. Rubber compounds containi ng shale oil had a lower hardness, tensile strength and tear resistanc e, as compared to compounds containing DOP, Regarding flexibility, res istance to low temperature, swelling in oil, fuel and wafer, both rubb er compounds had similar properties at 15% plasticizers. The propertie s of rubber compound containing 15% shale oil are promising.