Modeling and Optimization of Mechanical Properties of PA6/NBR/Graphene Nanocomposite Using Central Composite Design

Abstract

Thermoplastic elastomer of PA6/NBR reinforced by various nanoparticles have wide application in many industries. The properties of these materials depend on PA6, NBR, and nanoparticle amount and characteristics. In this study, the simultaneous effect of NBR and graphene nanoparticle content on mechanical, thermal properties, and morphology of PA6/NBR/Graphene nanocomposites investigated by Central Composite Design (CCD). Thermal properties and morphology of PA6/NBR/Graphene nanocomposites were investigated by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The results indicate that a small percentage of error between predicted values of mechanical properties and experimental values was achieved. An increase in graphene content have a positive impact on the tensile strength but increasing the NBR phase has the opposite effect. A maximum tensile strength of 35.3 MPa for PA6/NBR/Graphene nanocomposites was obtained at the NBR and graphene content of 20 %wt and 1.5 %wt, respectively. The thermal behavior of the PA6/NBR blend improved with addition graphene. With the addition of 1.5 % graphene content to PA6/NBR blend, the crystallization temperature and melting temperature increased from 192.1 to 196.2 °C and 221.1 to 223.4 °C, respectively.