Swelling of Elastomers in Solutions of TiO2 Nanoparticles

Abstract

Elastomers used in protective gloves can be sensitive to the action of solvents used to disperse commercial solutions of nanoparticles. These effects may include the swelling of the polymer, leading to a modification of its mechanical and chemical properties. Modifications to the properties of the polymer will impact the protection provided by the protective gloves. The goal of this work was therefore to study the swelling of several elastomers when exposed to commercial solutions of nanoparticles. The study involved four elastomers and three commercial solutions of colloidal titanium dioxide (TiO2). Swelling was assessed by measurements of mass gain and length change. Tests were also performed with technical and ultrapure solvents corresponding to the liquid carriers. The solutions had a significant effect on the swelling of nitrile rubber, latex, and neoprene. A large mass gain was recorded for short immersion times, indicating a possible penetration of the nanoparticle liquid carrier into these elastomers. Length change measurements revealed a swelling anisotropy effect with nitrile rubber and latex in the solutions of colloidal TiO2. No effect was measured with butyl rubber. The results show that great care must be taken when selecting protective gloves for the handling of nanoparticle dispersions.