Abstract: As a new type of reinforcing filler with environment friendliness,biodegradability,extensive sources and formability for various nanoparticle forms and properties,nanocellulose has been paid much attention to in the field of polymer.However,most studies on nanocellulose focus on its application to plastic rather than to rubber.In fact,nanocellulose in rubber can improve not only such mechanical properties as strength and modulus but also the processing properties.It also gives good biodegradability for rubber,thus reducing the environmental pollution caused by traditional fillers.At present,a large amount of researches have concentrated on the mechanical properties of nanocellulose-reinforced rubber instead of its hygroscopicity,barrier properties,electrical conductivity and dynamic mechanical properties.The hydrophilic nature and dispersion property in many non-polar matrixes of cellulose nanoparticles are the challenging obstacles in the fabrication of such nanocomposites.This paper summarizes the recent progress in the researches on nanocellulose-reinforced rubber at home and abroad,introduces the studies of the authors about the replacement of carbon black or silica with nanocellulose in rubber,and discusses the application prospects of nanocellulose-reinforced rubber to tires.

Key words: nanocellulose, reinforcement, rubber, application