EVALUATION OF THE PROPERTIES OF OILS USED IN RUBBER COMPOUNDS PRODUCTION FOR REDUCING FUME EMISSIONS

Abstract

The emission of flammable vapors derived from oil-based additives is a recurring risk in the production of rubber products. In addition, there is also the risk related to the health of workers. However, some oils can be replaced once their properties have been evaluated and the quality of the final product has been maintained. In this study, we evaluated the change in the flash point of the process oil applied in the rubber production at Titan Pneus do Brasil, seeking to reduce smoke emissions as well as improving occupational safety and process performance. Two oils of different flash points were analyzed. The study included oil characterization, manufacture of compounds using the two options of oils, testing to evaluate physical and rheological properties. The results showed that switching to oil with a higher flash point increased process safety, reducing the risk of vapor ignition without compromising the properties of the final compound, while remaining within the required quality standards. However, although the expected reduction in smoke emissions was not observed, emissions remained within the safety limits established by international occupational exposure standards.