Coming upFri 6 Nov 2026,
Methods for Quantifying and Enhancing Kraft Lignin Dispersion in Butadiene Rubber
A wood byproduct used in rubber, and how breaking up clumps can make tougher tyres that use fewer fossil materials.
The defense
From the Tampere University agenda
- When
- Fri 6 Nov 2026, 240 min
- Where
- Tampere University, FinlandFaculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences
- Jury
- Martin BellanderopponentTraton SE, Swedendblp
- Essi SarlinchairFaculty of Materials Science and Environmental Engineering, Tampere University
- Language
- English
- Stream
- on university player
Stream link
A doctoral defense is public: anyone may watch.
About the thesis
The thesis examined how kraft lignin, a renewable by-product from forestry, could be used more effectively as a filler in butadiene rubber. It found that rubber performance chiefly depends on getting rid of sizable lignin agglomerates, not on lowering the mean particle size. Heating during mixing was the most successful means of dispersing the lignin, and greater dispersal improved strength and wear resistance. Certain silane additives further enhanced bonding between rubber and filler. The results offer new ways to measure lignin dispersion and practical direction for making rubber products, such as tyres, that rely less on fossil-based reinforcing fillers.
Read the thesisUniversity announcement
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Listed from the Tampere University agenda.