Silica dispersion in styrene butadiene rubber composites studied by synchrotron tomography

► 3-d analysis of silica-filled rubber achieved by means of Synchrotron tomography. ► Analysis reveals silica micro- and nano-dispersion in the rubber matrix. ► A percolated network is witnessed in 3-d images, yet invisible in 2-d analyses. ► Nanodispersion is best at the lowest and highest filler volume fractions. ► This is rationalized by a cluster breakdown due to mechanical stresses.