Studies the effect of halloysite nanotubes on the mechanical and swelling resistance properties of NR/EPDM nanocomposites

Abstract

A nanocomposite utilizing natural rubber (NR)/ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) and halloysite nanotubes (HNTs), which are naturally occurring tube-like nanoparticles, is presented. Using a silane coupling agent known as diethoxydimethyl silane (DMS), these hydrophilic HNTs were modified to enable efficient dispersion in the hydrophobic NR/EPDM matrix. Surface functional groups of the HNTs were characterized through water immersion tests after the silane modification. This study's goal is to examine the compatibility of rubber and nanotubes as well as the strengthening impact of DMS-HNTs used as nanofillers in the NR/EPDM matrix. The analysis includes studying curing behaviors, mechanical properties, abrasion resistance, and mole percent uptake (swelling resistance). Additionally, extensive research was conducted to examine the mole percent uptake of organic solvents through membranes as influenced by DMS-HNTs content, solvent type, and size. The results demonstrate that DMS-HNTs significantly enhance the strength of NR/EPDM vulcanizates, reduce scorching, and optimum cure time. Moreover, mechanical characteristics and swelling resistance increase with higher DMS-HNTs loading. At 8 phr DMS-HNTs filler loading, cross-link density measurements indicate improved strengthening. The inclusion of high concentrations of DMS-HNTs nanotubes creates a localized nanofiller network within the NR/EPDM rubber, resulting in substantially enhanced mechanical properties of the composites.