Improvement in mineral-filled elastomer properties, including modulus, tensile and tear strength, heat buildup, abrasion resistance, resilience, compression set and cure time may be achieved with Silquest A-189 silane (gamma-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane). Silquest A-189 silane chemically bonds reinforcing minerals such as silica, clay, mica and talc to the polymer matrix. This silane is especially useful in sulfur-cured and metal oxide-cured elastomers. It can be used as a pretreatment on minerals or added at the time of compounding.

Potential Applications

Improved or equal performance in low-rolling resistance, silicareinforced tread compounds can be achieved at lower silane loading levels when Silquest A-189 silane is substituted for commonly used polysulfide-type silanes. Mineral-reinforced articles such as shoe soles, rubber rollers and wheels, white sidewalls, and wire and cable insulation also can be produced with lower silane loadings. Reductions in cure accelerator systems and increased sulfur-donor concentrations may be necessary when Silquest A-189 silane is substituted for slower cure-rate polysulfide-type silanes. Silquest A-189 silane is soluble in methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, mineral spirits, acetone, benzene, toluene, xylene, and in water when suitable hydrolysis procedures are followed.