The improvement of physical and mechanical properties of sealers based on nitrile-butadiene rubber and combination of nano-metal oxides

Abstract

The chemical interaction of disulphochloride aromatic compounds with nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) in the presence of combined nanosized powders of metal oxides (ZnO and Al2O3) was studied for the first time. Vulcanization of the prepared blends has been induced with two methods: by irradiation of gamma rays (D=300 kGy) and by pre-heating in the hydraulicpress and then subsequent irradiation (150 oC x 5', 300 kGy). In order to activate the crosslinking process, a combination of nano-oxides ZnO and Al2O3 were used. The surface of the nanocomposite was studied by using scanning electron microscopy. The mechanical properties of modified blends were studied and then compared with controlling sample (vulcanized with sulphur) and analyzed by the mechanical tests in aggressive environments after thermal aging. The study found that the use of 1,3-disulphochloride benzene with nano oxides produces cured materials with good resistance to aging and provides high service properties in air, seawater, and oil-bearing solution.