The rubber crumbs produced by the explosive circular destruction of worn-out automobile tires were studied. The crumbs showed high hydrophilicity. Their surface was analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. C, O, S, Zn, and Si were detected on the surface, and their chemical states were determined. The same chemical composition in the rubber crumb surface prepared by the explosive grinding of tires, as well as nanoglobules covering the crumb surface, was revealed. The appearance of polar groups on the crumb surface explains its high hydrophilicity and good compatibility with polymer matrices.
Keywords: XPS; circulating explosive destruction; disintegration; grinding; nanoglobule; rubber.