Coir pith as low cost filler in microcellular soles based on natural rubber–high styrene resin

Abstract

The utilisation of coir pith (modified and unmodified) as filler in microcellular soles based on natural rubber–high styrene resin blends is presented. The cure characteristics and technical properties of microcellular soles have been evaluated. Coir pith can be used as a filler in amounts up to 50 phr without much reduction in properties. Optical micrographs of razor cut samples of microcellular sheets are presented; the sheets with modified coir pith show a more uniform cell structure.