In many industrial applications, additives that simultaneously reduce production costs and improve the mechanical properties of materials are becoming increasingly important. One such solution is Elitex™, used both as a filler and as dispersed reinforcement.

Origin and composition

Elitex™ is produced through the mechanical processing of high-strength textile cords used in tire manufacturing. The result is a mixture of polyester, polyamide, and polypropylene fibers with preserved structure and length, which is critical for their performance within the composite.

Properties

From a technological perspective, the fibers’ properties are key. They feature high mechanical strength, dimensional stability, and resistance to temperature, chemicals, and ageing processes. This allows them to function in various polymer systems without significant degradation of performance.

Application and performance in rubber compounds

In rubber compounds, Elitex™ serves a dual role. It acts as an affordable filler, enabling optimization of raw material costs, and provides dispersed reinforcement, improving the mechanical strength of the final product. In practice, this translates to enhanced resistance to stretching and mechanical damage, while also allowing control over compound hardness.

A similar effect is observed in elastomers and thermoplastic materials. The presence of fibers reduces flow, improves stability during processing, and contributes to the final stiffness of the composite. In bituminous systems, this additive can reduce deformations and enhance resistance to operational loads, provided the fiber length is maintained.

Key considerations for effective use

The effectiveness of Elitex™ depends on the method of incorporation. The material can be fed directly into screw extruders and standard mixing equipment used in the rubber industry, such as Banbury mixers, kneaders, tandem systems, or open mills. For bituminous applications, pre-grinding (e.g., in a hammer mill) is recommended.

High-shear equipment, such as high-shear mixers or colloid mills, is not recommended, as excessive shear shortens the fibers, reducing the reinforcement effect and overall effectiveness of the additive.

Packaging

Elitex™ is available in two fiber lengths, 4 mm and 6 mm, allowing adaptation to specific applications and processing conditions. Standard packaging includes 500 kg big bags and 20 kg bags, facilitating both large-scale production and smaller batch dosing.

Practical benefits

In practice, Elitex™ helps manufacturers balance cost and functional performance. As an affordable filler in rubber compounds that also provides dispersed reinforcement, it enables precise tuning of composite properties without the need for more expensive reinforcing additives.

For any questions about the available products, please get in touch with us.

Alternative Materials Department
tel. +48 694 450 354
tel. +48 517 294 761
tel. +48 694 450 383
e-mail: alternative@konimpex.com.pl