Effect of network formation on the electrical, mechanical, and processability behaviors through the preferential distribution of carbon black in the incompatible polymer blend composite

Abstract

Four different methods of preferential addition of fixed amount of HAF carbon black have been done in two phases of an immiscible blend of NBR–EPDM (50/50 wt%). However, it is found that redistribution of carbon black occurs in blend phases during mixing even after preferential addition. This is revealed from the measurement of both dynamic mechanical, and mechanical properties. Carbon black redistribution in different phases of blends also affects the electrical properties, especially the frequency dependent AC‐conductivity to a great extent. The surface tension and viscosity of two components of the blend namely NBR and EPDM play an important role in the distribution of carbon black in respective phases. Carbon black distribution also affects hysteresis behavior of the blend and can be correlated with the variation in AC conductivity. The processability behavior of black filled compound is also affected by the preferential addition of carbon black in the elastomer blend. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:2620–2633, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers