USE OF WET GROUND MICA IN RUBBER

Wet ground mica as rubber filler :

The main application for mica in rubber is as dusting and releasing agent in the production of rubber tyres for cars, cycles and aeroplanes.

Mica is placed between the inner tubing and casing of the tyre.

In this application mica prevents the inside of tyres from sticking to the mould during vulcanisation (the heating process), and prevents the movement of sulphur, while permitting air bubbles to escape.

Wet ground mica as dusting & releasing agent in the tire industry :

• As a rubber filler, mica improves the resilience and appearance of rubber products.
• Mica fillers increase the hardness, tensile strength and tear resistance of rubber articles.
• The strength imparted to rubber increases with fillers of small particle size and large surface area.
• Mica is suitable for use both in natural and specially coloured rubber articles.
• As a compounding ingredient in mechanical rubber goods, mica powder presents massing and reduces gas penetration.
• Mica also acts as an anti-friction and anti-sticking agent in moulds, vulcanised and un-vulcanized compounds.
• Mica is also used in electric cable insulation, and in latex and foam rubber.