A New Processing Additive for Natural Rubber from Agricultural Waste

Abstract

The leaves of the oil palm species Elaeis Guineensis were found to be a rich source of phenolic compounds. In an effort to dispose waste oil palm leaves usefully, our research team explored the antioxidant characteristics and tackifying ability of oil palm leaf extract (OPE) in a natural rubber-based formulation. After simulated ageing of the natural rubber (NR) compounds containing the OPE, the reduction in mechanical properties of the NR compounds was within acceptable limits. It was also observed that the OPE improves the tack strength of NR appreciably. The OPE could be a promising multifunctional additive in green polymer processing technology.