Effect of Nanoclay/Nanosilica on the Mechanical Properties, Abrasion and Swelling Resistance of EPDM/SBR Composites

Abstract

In this research work, ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM)/styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) hybrid composites reinforced with nanoclay (NC) and nanosilica (NS) were prepared and investigated. The synergistic effect of NC and NS on the mechanical properties of the EPDM/SBR hybrid composites was examined. Three different crosslinking systems were used, namely: sulphur, dicumyl peroxide and the mixed system consisting of sulphur and peroxide in this research work. The tensile strength, elongation at break, 100% modulus, tear strength, hardness, rebound resilience, abrasion resistance, compression set, swelling resistance and microstructure of the EPDM/SBR hybrid composites were evaluated. The concentration nanosilica along with nanoclay plays a most vital role in the micro-structural, mechanical and other properties of the nanocomposites. From the study, it was clear that the nanocomposites containing 7.5 parts per hundred rubber (phr) of nanoclay and 4 phr of nanosilica shows a maximum mechanical properties along with its abrasion and swelling resistance characteristics. In particular, the sulphur cured EPDM/SBR hybrid composites containing nanoclay and nanosilica results in best mechanical properties and abrasion resistance.