Methods for preparing elastomer composites with mixer ventilation

A method of preparing an elastomer composite, comprising:

• (a) charging a mixing chamber of a batch elastomer mixer with at least an elastomer and a filler through a ram enclosure;
• (b) mixing the elastomer and the filler in the mixing chamber, which includes:
• (i) rotating one or more rotors disposed in the mixing chamber,
• (ii) moving a ram through a ram space towards the mixing chamber to push the elastomer and the filler in the ram enclosure downwards into the mixing chamber, the ram space defined by the ram enclosure, and
• (iii) directing a flow of gas through the ram space from a vent inlet to a vent outlet disposed in the ram enclosure, the flow of gas passing through the ram space and entraining at least a portion of a vapor resulting from the mixing;
• and
• (c) discharging the elastomer composite from the mixing chamber.