Effect of vinyltrimethoxy silane as a coupling agent on the mechanical and electrical properties of acrylic rubber

Abstract

When there is a need for enhancing the adhesion between a polymeric material and the filler, silane coupling agents are the best choice. In order to enhance the adhesion between acrylic rubber (ACM) and silica, vinyl trimethoxy silane (VTMS) can be used for this purpose. Acrylic rubber was prepared by emulsion polymerization. VTMS was added during the polymerization process to copolymerize with ACM. VTMS was added in different per cent; 0, 0.25, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 %. The effect of adding different percentages of VTMS on the mechanical, thermal and mechanical properties was monitored. Mechanical properties were significantly improved due to silane incorporation to the acrylic rubber matrix. The thermal stability of acrylic rubber increased due silane addition. Electrical measurements revealed that the volume resistivity, dielectric strength and breakdown voltage were also increased.