• Paul, Donald R.
• Bosnyak, Clive P.
• Peddini, Sateesh K.
• Henderson, Nancy M.

Abstract

<p>Because of the exceptionally high modulus of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT), they can be used as reinforcing fillers in polymer and rubber nanocomposites. However, the commercial implementation of such nanocomposites has generally been met with very limited success owing to poor dispersion of the MWCNT in the polymer matrix. A strategy that overcomes many of these difficulties is described here with a view towards replacing a portion of the carbon black or silica with MWCNT for improved elastomer performance. Tire treads are very prone to experience micro-cracking at the edges, which eventually leads to overall failure. MWCNT can serve as good bridging elements to avoid the growth of micro-cracks if they are well dispersed and discreet in the rubber matrix. A concentrated, easy to process MWCNT-rubber masterbatch, with the freedom of diluting to various lower loadings, and feasibility of blending with different rubbers, would be of commercial benefit to the tire industry. Discreet oxidized MWCNTs were dispersed in an SBR matrix and the rheology, tube dispersion, dynamical mechanical, and electrical properties of these composites were examined. Morphology and mechanical properties of the cured nanocomposites were investigated and related to the effective aspect ratio of MWCNTs.</p>

Topics

• nanocomposite
• impedance spectroscopy
• dispersion
• surface
• Carbon
• nanotube
• crack
• rubber
• elastomer