The effect of nanoclay on mechanical and swelling resistance properties of ternary rubber (NR/SBR/NBR) blends nanocomposites

Abstract

Abstract The production of a new class of plastics with improved properties can be achieved through polymer blends rather than using individual components. This study involved the preparation of nanocomposite ternary blends comprising natural rubber (NR), styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), and acrylonitrile rubber (NBR), incorporating nanoclay (NC) through a melt compounding process. Subsequently, the mechanical properties of these NR/SBR/NBR ternary blends nanocomposites were examined. Throughout the study, the NR/SBR/NBR content remained constant at 30/30/40 phr, and an ultrablend 4000 at 3 phr was used as a compatibilizer, while varying the fractions of nanoclay. The study's results demonstrated a notable enhancement in the stability of scorch time and the optimum cure time of the nanocomposites through the incorporation of nanofillers. Moreover, the nanoclay content was directly proportional to the increase in tensile properties (tensile strength, stress at 100% elongation and elongation at break %), abrasion resistance, and compression set of the nanocomposites. However, the mole percent uptake exhibited a noteworthy decrease as the nanoclay content increased. Further analysis using FESEM of the tensile fracture surfaces revealed that the inclusion of nanoclay in the nanocomposites led to better adhesion of NR/SBR/NBR rubber and enhanced tensile properties. This study demonstrates the potential of utilizing nanocomposites in polymer blends to enhance the overall performance of elastomers.