Silica dispersion in styrene butadiene rubber composites studied by synchrotron tomography

• Published in: Journal of non-crystalline solids 2012-02, Vol.358 (3), p.557-563
• Main Authors: Nusser, K., Mosbauer, T., Schneider, G.J., Brandt, K., Weidemann, G., Goebbels, J., Riesemeier, H., Göritz, D.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Composites; Dispersion; Exact sciences and technology; Forms of application and semi-finished materials; Polymer industry, paints, wood; Silica; Styrene butadiene rubber; Technology of polymers; X-ray tomography
• ISSN: 0022-3093; 1873-4812
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jnoncrysol.2011.10.009

By means of synchrotron X-ray computed tomography, model composites consisting of silica and styrene–butadiene rubber were studied with a very high spatial resolution. By our analysis technique we were able to determine the nano- and micro dispersion from the experimental results by our numerical analysis. These results are discussed with respect to crucial advantages of the generically 3-dimensional tomography technique as compared to 2-dimensional methods. Our quantitative analysis of the 3d images demonstrates that in the case of our model composites the filler dispersion is good, independent on the filler concentration. Our new 3-dimensional results evidence that considering only 2-d pictures may lead to ambiguities that can lead to wrong conclusions. ► 3-d analysis of silica-filled rubber achieved by means of Synchrotron tomography. ► Analysis reveals silica micro- and nano-dispersion in the rubber matrix. ► A percolated network is witnessed in 3-d images, yet invisible in 2-d analyses. ► Nanodispersion is best at the lowest and highest filler volume fractions. ► This is rationalized by a cluster breakdown due to mechanical stresses.