Influence of Matrix Polarity on the Properties of Ethylene Vinyl Acetate–Carbon Nanofiller Nanocomposites

Jinu Jacob George,Anil K Bhowmick

doi:10.1007/s11671-009-9296-8

Jinu Jacob George, Anil K Bhowmick

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1007/s11671-009-9296-8

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Abstract

A series of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) nanocomposites using four kinds of EVA with 40, 50, 60, and 70 wt% vinyl acetate (VA) contents and three different carbon-based nanofillers—expanded graphite (EG), multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT), and carbon nanofiber (CNF) have been prepared via solution blending. The influence of the matrix polarity and the nature of nanofillers on the morphology and properties of EVA nanocomposites have been investigated. It is observed that the sample with lowest vinyl acetate content exhibits highest mechanical properties. However, the enhancement in mechanical properties with the incorporation of various nanofillers is the highest for EVA with high VA content. This trend has been followed in both dynamic mechanical properties and thermal conductivity of the nanocomposites. EVA copolymer undergoes a transition from partial to complete amorphousness between 40 and 50 wt% VA content, and this changes the dispersion of the nanofillers. The high VA-containing polymers show more affinity toward fillers due to the large free volume available and allow easy dispersion of nanofillers in the amorphous rubbery phase, as confirmed from the morphological studies. The thermal stability of the nanocomposites is also influenced by the type of nanofiller.

Highlights

Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) is one of the important organic polymers, extensively used for electrical insulation, cable jacketing and repair, component encapsulation and water proofing, corrosion protection, and packaging of components
Studies have been reported on the effect of electron beam irradiation on the mechanical properties and thermal stability of the EVA elastomer [1, 2]
Costache et al [6] have worked on the thermal degradation behavior of EVA–clay nanocomposites

Summary

Introduction

Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) is one of the important organic polymers, extensively used for electrical insulation, cable jacketing and repair, component encapsulation and water proofing, corrosion protection, and packaging of components. Studies have been reported on the effect of electron beam irradiation on the mechanical properties and thermal stability of the EVA elastomer [1, 2]. Effect of vinyl acetate (VA) content on the mechanical and thermal properties of EVA/MgAllayered double hydroxide nanocomposites has been studied by various groups [9, 10].

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