Tuning of thermo-mechanical performance: Modified multiwalled carbon nanotubes reinforced SBR/NBR/SR nanocomposites

Abstract

The present study aimed to identify the potential of modified nano-reinforcement (multiwalled carbon nanotubes; m-MWCNTs) to attenuate the thermal transport/decomposition/transition and mechanical aspects of three different polymeric matrices. In order to develop strong interfacial interaction between the host matrix and the incorporated nanotubes, 3-aminopropyletrimethoxy silane (APTMS) was used to m-MWCNTs. IR spectra confirmed the silane chemical moiety attachment on the upper surface of the MWCNTs. Conventional elastomeric mixing techniques were adopted to disperse m-MWCNTs within the three polymeric matrices (Acrylonitrile butadiene rubber, Silicone rubber, and Styrene Butadiene rubber) separately. SEM images assured the uniform dispersion of m-MWCNTs within the host polymeric matrices. Experimental evaluation of thermal conductivity revealed the reduction of thermal transport through the developed composite specimens by increasing the host polymer matrix to nano-filler concentration (m-MWCNTs). The utmost insulation effect was perceived in the F-MWCNTs incorporated silicone rubber nanocomposite comparatively. Glass transition/crystallization temperatures of the nanocomposites were lessened however melting temperatures were enhanced by impregnating nanotubes into the host polymeric matrices. Maximum thermal stability improvement due to the addition of m-MWCNTs was observed in the silicone elastomeric nanocomposite as compared to the other two systems. Proper dispersion and compatibility of m-MWCNTs with the polymeric matrices effectively enhanced the ultimate tensile strength (UTS)/elongation at break along hardness of rubber of the nanocomposites. The insulation character of m-MWCNTs/silicone rubber system was found best among the explored nanocomposite formulations.