This is a practical guide to cost-effective formulating of rubber compounds to achieve optimal processing and performance. It provides a thorough discussion of the principles of rubber compounding, rubber testing, and how various compound changes will effect different properties and test measurements.

Rubber compounding is discussed as a series of interdependent systems such as the elastomer system, the filler-oil system, the cure system, etc. A holistic approach is used to show how changes in these different systems will affect specific compound properties.

Much attention is given to trade-offs in properties and emphasis is placed on finding the best balance for compound cost, processing properties, and product performance.