Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Natural Rubber/Organoclay/NanoCalcium Carbonate Ternary Nanocomposites: Effect of Mixing Sequence

Rubber nanocomposites containing one type of nanofiller are common, and are widely established in the research field. In combination with carbon blacks, silica reinforcement was attempted with the need for manufacturing articles having better tear resistance and reduced heat build-up properties. In this study, NR (RSS-1) based ternary nanocomposites containing both Calcium carbonate and organonoclay have been characterized on the basis of morphology, cure characteristics and physicomechanical behavior. The possible interactions between calcium carbonate particle, organoclay and the rubber matrix have been investigated. Natural Rubber (NR) nanocomposite samples containing modified layered silicates (Cloisite 15A) and also nano-carbonate calcium (Socal-312 CaCo3) were prepared using a laboratory internal mixer. Effect of the mixing sequence on the morphology and mechanical properties of the samples was investigated. Based on results of morphology and mechanical properties, the addition of nano silicate layers to the system, as the first added filler, leads to lower mechanical properties in comparison with other orders for mixing. Although, simultaneous addition of the two aforementioned types of nanoparticles to the NR compound would lead to better nanocomposite properties compared to other mixing sequences.

Keywords:

Nanocomposite , Organoclay , Nano-Calcium Carbonate , Mechanical Properties