Characterization techniques: Understanding the rubber compounds

This chapter offers a comprehensive review of techniques used to characterize rubber compounds, emphasizing their properties and behaviors essential for industrial applications and academic research. It systematically explores methods applied to raw and vulcanized rubbers, including mechanical, thermal, and dynamic analyses, microscopy, and chemical testing. The principles, practical applications, and relevance of each technique are discussed, with a focus on how they contribute to optimizing rubber formulations and maintaining high-quality standards. Additionally, the chapter addresses current challenges in rubber characterization and highlights advancements aimed at meeting industry demands, such as improved sustainability and performance. The chapter is the result of a collaborative effort involving researchers and institutions from the International Network on Rubber Technology under the Latin American Society of Rubber Technology. This joint work demonstrates the collective expertise and commitment of the network to advancing knowledge in rubber technology. The information provided is intended to support professionals and academics alike, bridging the gap between research and industrial practices.