Mechanical performance and swelling resistance of silicone rubber reinforced with γ- methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane modified halloysite nanotubes

Abstract

AbstractThe halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) experienced a satisfactory surface treatment with γ-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (γ-MPS), which facilitated interaction with the aluminol and silanol groups found on the edges and surfaces of the nanotubes. The modified HNTs (mHNTs) were used to create silicone rubber vulcanizate nanocomposites. The modification of -MPS was used to improve the interactions between surfaces and tubules. This improvement led to a higher crosslinking density and better HNT dispersion inside the silicone rubber matrix. To assess the effect of mHNTs loading on various features of the resultant rubber nanocomposites, a comprehensive analysis was carried out. The following parameters were studied: cure characteristics, compression set, swelling behavior, abrasion resistance, and mechanical properties. To accomplish this, the oscillating disc rheometer (ODR), solvent immersion technique, DIN abrader, and tensile testing were employed for precise measurements. Overall, the characteristics and performance of the silicone rubber nanocomposites were significantly enhanced by the addition of mHNTs. This study demonstrates the efficacy of mHNTs as reinforcing agents and creates new avenues for strengthening silicone rubber-based material qualities in a variety of applications. The nanocomposites' tensile modulus, strength, and rip strength were all improved by the addition of mHNTs. Furthermore, the silicone rubber/mHNTs nanocomposites exhibit enhanced swelling resistance as a result of the powerful inter-tubular contact they possess. The obtained results were analyzed in relation to the microstructure of the samples, as examined through FESEM analyses.