Static and Dynamic Mechanical Characteristics of Ionic Liquid Modified MWCNT-SBR Composites: Theoretical Perspectives for the Nanoscale Reinforcement Mechanism

Abstract

Well-dispersed, robust, mechanicaly long-term stable functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotube (f-MWCNT)-styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) nanocomposites were fabricated via a melt mixing route with the assistance of ionic liquid as a dispersing agent. The mechanical properties of f-MWCNT/SBR vulcanizates were compared over a range of loadings, and it was found that the network morphology was highly favorable for mechanical performance with enlarged stiffness. A comparative investigation of composite models found that modified Kelly-Tyson theory gave an excellent fit to tensile strength data of the composites considering the effect of the interphase between polymer and f-MWCNT. Dynamic mechanical analysis highlighted the mechanical reinforcement due to the improved filler-polymer interactions which were the consequence of proper dispersion of the nanotubes in the SBR matrix. Effectiveness of filler, entanglement density, and adhesion factor were evaluated to get an in depth understanding of the reinforcing mechanism of modified MWCNT. The amount of polymer chains immobilized by the filler surface computed from dynamic mechanical analysis further supports a substantial boost up in mechanics. The Cole-Cole plot shows an imperfect semicircular curve representing the heterogeneity of the system and moderately worthy filler polymer bonding. The combined results of structural characterizatrion by Raman spectroscopy, cure characteristics, mechanical properties, and scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM, TEM) confirm the role of ionic liquid modified MWCNT as a reinforcing agent in the present system.

Transport and solvent sensing characteristics of styrene butadiene rubber nanocomposites containing imidazolium ionic liquid modified carbon nanotubes

“…Details regarding the functionalization and characterization of ionic liquid modified MWCNT are given in our previous reports. [2,6] All compounding ingredients were of analytical grade. The crosslinking agent used was sulfur supplied by Merck India Ltd, Mumbai, India.…”

“…[1] In our previous studies, we have explored the influence of ionic liquid modified MWCNT (f-MWCNT) on the mechanical, electrical, pervaporation, rheological, morphological, and electromagnetic interference shielding characteristics of styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) nanocomposites. [2][3][4][5][6] The influence of reinforcing agents on the solvent diffusion behavior of polymers has got tremendous attention among scientists. [7] Several studies have been reported on the diffusion of solvents through different varieties of polymers including elastomers, thermoplastics, blends, and interpenetrating networks.…”

Cure characteristics of nanocomposites containing imidazolium ionic liquid modified carbon nanotubes and styrene butadiene rubber

“…Vulcanisation kinetics study shows that cure reaction is an autocatalytic reaction. [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13]…”

Reutilization of waste printed circuit boards nonmetallic powders in elastomer composites: Significant improvements of curing and mechanical properties

“…Rubbers are recognized as strategically important elastic materials and have been extensively applied in many fields . Generally, almost all rubber matrix need to be reinforced with inorganic fillers to fulfill the ultimate practical applications due to their poor mechanical strength . In recent years, driven by the pressure from environmental issues, some industrial wastes and by‐products such as fly ash, marble waste powder, and agricultural waste have been utilized as the alternative of commercial fillers in rubber composites.…”