This overview addresses particulate filler production and use. It outlines the principal filler types, including carbon black, natural mineral fillers, synthetic mineral fillers, as well as the use of clay in nanocomposites. Filler characteristics are addressed, with discussion of particle size (and its distribution), shape, surface chemistry, specific surface area, costs, and more. Filler loading, practical aspects of filler grading, filler surface modification, and the interactions of fillers and polymer types are all described.

From the Introduction: “...The term functional filler is often used to describe materials that do more than provide cost reduction. Examples of functional fillers include carbon black and precipitated silica reinforcements in tyre treads, aluminum and magnesium hydroxide flame retardant additives for many polymer types, and calcined clay and wollastonite reinforcement of some thermoplastics...It is the aim of this review to provide an introduction to this fascinating area, including the latest views on the main scientific principles and current trends in filler technology and applications...”

Rapra Review Reports contain a brief overview of the topic, followed by extensive references, with abstracts, from the Rapra database. They serve as condensed, valuable research tools for scientists, technologists, and other researchers working with rubber or plastics materials.

Target Audience: Professionals in industry and academia who are concerned with the use of particulate fillers in polymers.

Table of Contents:

Introduction

Filler Characteristics

Principal Filler Types

Filler Surface Modification

The Use of Fillers in Polymers

Use of Fillers in Different Polymer Types

Nanocomposites

Additional References

Abbreviations

References from the Rapra Abstracts Database

Subject Index