Fuente: Journal of applied polymer Lugar: RESEARCH ARTICLE Proposed mechanisms of possible interactions of modified GTR with PBAT and starch molecules.

ABSTRACT
Exploring alternative ways to modify ground tire rubber (GTR) by-product to serve as a reinforcement filler in polymer-based materials could be a new approach for the circular economy model. Thus, the effect of acetone-modified ground tire (GTR) on the processing, structural, and functional features of polybutylene adipate-co-terephthalate (PBAT)/starch composites was investigated. TGA, FTIR, and wettability analysis confirmed the partial removal of additives (plasticizer, oils) and the alteration of elastomers (natural rubber and styrene-butadiene rubber) from GTR. During the melt mixing process, modified GTR interacted more strongly with the hydroxyl and carbonyl groups of PBAT and starch, thereby reducing GTR-GTR interactions and improving the tensile strength and % elongation (from 17.41 to 34.82). The results showed that treatments are one way to add value to tire residues and convert them into compatible raw materials with PBAT/starch composites, thereby reducing the cost of expensive degradable materials for the mobility and packaging industries.