RUBBER-TO-STEEL BONDING STUDIES USING A RUBBER COMPOUND STRIP ADHESIVE SYSTEM

An efficient adhesive system consisting of a primer and a solid rubber compound strip was developed for bonding rubbers to steel. The effect s of carbon black and phenol formaldehyde (PF) resin contents in the s trip compound on the peel strength were determined. The optimum thickn ess of the rubber strip to attain maximum bond strength was determined . A comparative evaluation of this strip adhesive system with a commer cial solution adhesive was done. The effect of bonding temperature an the peel strength, ageing resistance, and salt water resistance of the bonded system was also investigated. The strip compound with optimum properties gives comparable strength when bonded and gives a better st orage life than the solution adhesive. This bonding system also uses a smaller amount of solvents and thus should cause less pollution.