Effect of Processing Conditions of Melt Mixing in Properties of PVC/NBR Nanocomposite

Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) of Poly (vinyl chloride)/ nitrile butadiene rubber (PVC/NBR) with 5%wt nanoclay were melt-mixed using a Brabender Plasticorder.Effect of processing variables such as temperature, rotor speed and mixing time as the governing factors on morphology and properties of polymer blends was investigated. Mixing process of the nanocomposites was studied by plastograms revealed when the blends homogenize. The structure of the blends was investigated by X-ray scattering (XRD). It is argued that at lower temperatures, high tensile properties and storage modulus were gained at longer mixing times and higher rotor speed, but shorter mixing times result in better Properties at higher temperatures. XRD pattern and swelling index of the nanocomposites also confirm the mentioned results.

Keywords:

Nanocomposites , Poly (vinyl chloride) , Nitrile butadiene rubber , Nanoclay , Melt mixing