Abstract
Magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) are categorized as part of the smart materials class whose rheological properties can be altered under the influence of a magnetic field. MREs are fabricated by embedding soft magnetic particles such as carbonyl iron particles (CIPs) in a rubber matrix such as silicone and natural rubber. In this project, epoxidized natural rubber (ENR-50) is used as a base material with carbonyl iron particles. Sucrose Acetate Isobutyrate (SAIB) ester is added to the formulation to improve the viscosity and enhance the MRE properties. The isotropic MRE is fabricated using two roll mill and a compression mould. Various tests comprise mechanical, morphology, thermal and magnetic tests were conducted for MRE characterization purpose. The results showed that the addition of SAIB on the MRE had reduced 53% of viscosity in the rubber matrix compared to non-ester based MRE. Dispersion of magnetic particles is improved by the addition of ester as observed through Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM). Additionally, the thermal stability was also improved. Tensile strength of MRE consisting SAIB ester achieved maximum strength of 12.3 MPa and an elongation of 620% compared to non-ester based MRE. Â
Highlights
The potential of Magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) using epoxidized natural rubber (ENR-50) as a base matrix has not really been explored by researchers [1]
The non-phthalates ester plasticizer i.e. sucrose acetate isobutyrate (SAIB) ester was incorporated into ENR-50 to reduce the viscosity of the matrix and increase the mobility of magnetic particles in a matrix enhancing the relative MR effect
SAIB ester decreases the strength and enhances the flexibility by reducing the rubber viscosity, which is consistent with the general expectation for a plasticized polymer [7]
Summary
The potential of MRE using epoxidized natural rubber (ENR-50) as a base matrix has not really been explored by researchers [1]. ENR-50 possesses some unique properties beyond the normal characteristic of natural rubber, for instance oil resistant, low rolling resistance, gas tight and high wet skid resistance [2]. These properties are suitable for use in load bearing, automotive application and mechanical field [2]. SAIB ester was chosen because of its strong polar ester [3] and compatibility with ENR-50 which is another strong polar rubber [4]. Both components are environmentally friendly materials generated from natural resources [2,5]. The influence of SAIB ester on the microstructure and other properties of ENR-50 based MREs are experimentally observed and analysed in details
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
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 call
