Multifunctional multi-walled carbon nanotube reinforced natural rubber nanocomposites

The versatility of natural rubber (NR) as an elastomer is of considerable importance in the current scenario. In order to improve the characteristic properties of the elastomer, reinforcing it with nanofillers that possess multifunctional attributes are of great importance. In the present study, multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) reinforced natural rubber nanocomposites were prepared by two-roll mixing as a function of filler loading. The dispersion of nanotubes in the matrix was confirmed by Transmission Electron Microscopy and Raman analysis. Thermal, mechanical, dynamic mechanical, and transport properties of the nanocomposites were extensively studied. Nanocomposite with 3.5 phr of filler content showed 55% improvement in tensile strength. The thermal stability of the nanocomposites was evaluated with the aid of TGA and DSC analysis. Conductive properties of the nanocomposites were also studied. As the filler loading reaches the value of 3.5 phr, a percolation transition is observed which is accompanied by an increase in dielectric permittivity value of about 1.6 units. The solvent permeability of the composites was considerably reduced due to its reinforcement with nanotubes, following a mechanism that is very close to Fickian.