This is an overview of particulate filler production and use. Each filler type has different properties and these in turn are influenced by the particle size, shape and surface chemistry. Filler characteristics are discussed from costs to particle morphology. Practical aspects of filler grading are described and the principal filler types are outlined. Filler surface modification is an important topic. The main types of modifying agent and their uses are described, from fatty acids to functionalised polymers. An additional indexed section containing several hundred abstracts from the Rapra Polymer Library database gives useful references for further reading.

This report takes a broad overview of the rubber industry and highlights the key concerns over safety that are currently being raised. The statistics on the incidence of accidents are reviewed. The rubber industry has been highlighted as having a higher rate of accidents than other similar industries. Measures that can be taken to avoid injury from machinery are discussed, including advice from the International Labour Organization on mill safety. The review is accompanied by around 400 abstracts from the Rapra Polymer Library database, to facilitate further reading on this subject.