Hybrid reinforcement of styrene‐butadiene rubber nanocomposites with carbon black, silica, and graphene

Abstract

The complex structure of tyres makes them hard to recycle economically; hence, it is crucial to minimize the generation of tyre waste. Nano‐reinforcement, such as graphene, has the potential to increase the abrasion resistance of rubber and thus their lifespan as well. In this research, hybrid styrene‐butadiene rubber‐based (SBR) nanocomposites reinforced with carbon black, silica and various amounts of graphene nanoplatelets are investigated with great emphasis on their combined effects on the mechanical properties of the rubber samples. Sixty‐five phr of precipitated silica can holistically improve the properties of SBR. However, further addition of carbon black and graphene nanoplatelets to silica‐containing samples do not benefit the properties of the samples. Further studies on the compatibilization of silica with carbon‐based reinforcement are necessary. On the other hand, graphene and carbon black constitute an effective hybrid reinforcement system. The tensile strength and elongation at break of SBR are improved by almost 100% with 10 phr of graphene nanoplatelets in combination with 10 phr of carbon black. However, the abrasion resistance of samples was negatively influenced by the addition of graphene nanoplatelets whenever it was added in combination with other fillers. Silica was particularly effective in increasing the abrasion resistance of rubber.

Graphene in rubber formulations: a comprehensive review and performance optimization insights

“…63,86,158 Recently, researchers have actively introduced graphene as a filler in the tire formulation to improve the life span, abrasion resistance, and heat buildup in the tire to reduce the unrecyclable tire waste that will pollute the environment. 65,69,135,159…”

“…The few-layer graphene interacts with multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and latex by π-π interaction and van der Waals forces when melt mixing at 60 rpm at 60 °C for 20 minutes. 55,65,66 Due to the co-dispersion of the MWCNT hybrid filler, the distance between few-layer graphene and MWCNTs is reduced, forming a conductive network, as shown in Fig. 1A.…”

The quantification of anisotropy in graphene/natural rubber nanocomposites: Evaluation of the aspect ratio, concentration, and crosslinking

“…Incorporating nanoparticles that is, solid particles with at least one dimension smaller than 100 nm, 1 in elastomers is a success story. [2][3][4][5][6][7] The reinforcing effect of the nanoparticles in the elastomer matrix is dependent on the type of nanoparticle, the matrix, the concentration and dispersion of nanoparticles in the matrix, and the interaction between the nanoparticles and the matrix polymer. Depending on the desired nanocomposite behavior, the nanoparticles used are electrically or thermally conductive, stiff, strong, flame retarding, stabilizing, or induce other improvements.…”

“…Incorporating nanoparticles that is, solid particles with at least one dimension smaller than 100 nm, 1 in elastomers is a success story 2–7 . The reinforcing effect of the nanoparticles in the elastomer matrix is dependent on the type of nanoparticle, the matrix, the concentration and dispersion of nanoparticles in the matrix, and the interaction between the nanoparticles and the matrix polymer.…”

The evaluation of the relationship between the microstructure and properties of the tire tread containing carbon black/silica hybrid nanoparticles

“…In this regard, silica, which has a high surface reactivity with the silane coupling agent, is utilized to deal with such phenomeno. 23,24 Thus, strong chemical bonds at the boundary of rubber and silica can be ensured. Further, the use of silica and its surface treatment promotes efficiency in mixing, curing, and reinforcing rubber compounds.…”