Preparation, characterization and properties of polymeric nanocomposites based on natural rubber and polybutadiene rubber blend

Abstract

Nanocomposites based on natural rubber and polybutadiene rubber blend were prepared by employing different amounts of modified layered silicate. X-ray diffraction was used to determine the structure of prepared nanocomposites. The effects of incorporation of organically modified clays on vulcanization reactions of the rubber blend were analyzed by using oscillating disk rheometer. High reduction in scorch time and optimum cure time was observed when organoclay was added and this was attributed to the amine groups of the organic modifier. Tensile strength, modulus, abrasion resistance and tear strength improved significantly on adding organoclay and there was a good correlation between abrasion resistance and tear strength of the nanocomposites. Elongation at break decreased by using organoclay and increase in loading of organoclay up to 10 phr and further led to decrease in the rate of variation of tensile properties. Thermal stability of the blend was improved by using 5 phr organoclay.