Abstract
ABSTRACTThis paper compares the effects of different forms of vulcanized natural rubbers on the physical, mechanical, thermal, and electrical performances of filled epoxy systems. In this study, natural rubber (NR), liquid natural rubber (LNR), and recycled natural rubber (rNR) were introduced into filled epoxy systems. The results show that flexural strength, modulus, and toughness properties of filled epoxy system were enhanced with NR phases, as compared to those with LNR and rNR. Scanning electron micrograph revealed that the particle sizes of NR phases dispersed within epoxy matrix were smaller and more uniform, as compared to those with LNR and rNR phases. Incorporation of NR phases has improved the thermal stability of filled system, followed by LNR and rNR. This is attributed to more heat energy needed to overcome good interfacial bonding between epoxy matrix and small NR phases. X‐ray diffraction analysis result showed that filled epoxy/NR/GNP system has higher 2θ values, indicated that d‐spacing in between GNP nano‐fillers has the closer distance. Electrical bulk conductivity values of filled epoxy/NR/GNP system were the highest. Small NR phases acted as elastomer spacers, which provided better “GNP packing efficiency” and realigned the GNP nano‐fillers to form more effective conductive pathways for electrons hopping. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47188.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
