Effect of Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes on the Properties of EPDM/NBR Dissimilar Elastomer Blends

Abstract

In the presence of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT), polar nitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) and nonpolar ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM) blends were prepared following a melt mixing method. For the preparation of MWCNT filled EPDM/NBR blends, two mixing methods were used: direct mixing and the masterbatch dilution method. Various physical, mechanical, and morphological properties are explored to elucidate the dispersion behavior of MWCNTs. It was concluded that the preparation method influences the dispersion of the nanotubes in different rubber phases and the properties of these blends are controlled by the degree of dispersion of the nanotubes in the two phases.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Keywords:

• Compatibilization
• Co-vulcanization
• Elastomer blends
• Mechanical properties
• MWCNT