Step 1: Understanding the Question:
SBR stands for Styrene-Butadiene Rubber. Vulcanization is the process of heating rubber with an element to form crosslinks between polymer chains, improving strength and elasticity.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
Traditional vulcanization uses sulfur (S) to create disulfide bridges between the unsaturated chains of the rubber.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
- (A) Phosphorus (P): Not used for rubber vulcanization.
- (B) Oxygen (O): Can cause degradation, not crosslinking.
- (C) Sulfur (S): Correct – sulfur crosslinks are formed at the double bonds of butadiene units.
- (D) Nitrogen (N): Not used.
Thus, sulfur is the vulcanizing agent.
Step 4: Final Answer:
Option (C) is correct.