Multi-walled carbon nanotubes/silicone rubber nanocomposites prepared by high shear mechanical mixing

• Published in: Journal of reinforced plastics and composites 2011-06, Vol.30 (12), p.1007-1014
• Main Authors: Katihabwa, Aloys, Wencai Wang, Yi Jiang, Xiuying Zhao, Yonglai Lu, Liqun Zhang
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Carbon nanotubes; Composites; Crystallization; Degree of crystallinity; Exact sciences and technology; Forms of application and semi-finished materials; Mechanical properties; Nanocomposites; Nanostructure; Polymer industry, paints, wood; Silicone rubber; Technology of polymers; Thermal conductivity
• ISSN: 0731-6844; 1530-7964
• DOI: 10.1177/0731684410394008

MWCNTs reinforced SiR nanocomposites were prepared through a high-shear mechanical mixing technique, using DCP as a curing agent. Under optimum conditions, the MWCNTs can be dispersed homogeneously in the SiR matrix to improve the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites. The mechanical properties of the nanocomposites such as tensile strength, elongation at break, and hardness were evaluated. In addition, the degree of crystallinity and the supercooling were calculated to characterize the crystallization behavior. From DSC study, it has been determined that the degree of crystallinity Xc and the super cooling ΔT, generally characterize the crystallization behavior of the nanocomposites. A decrease in Xc and ΔT indicate that the crystallization rate of the nanococomposites is increased. After pyrolysis, with the increase of CNT content, the decomposition rate or/and the weight loss of the nanocomposites decreased. The dispersion of carbon nanotubes in silicone rubber was characterized by using SEM. Finally, the effect of carbon nanotubes loading on electrical, thermal conductivity, and the Payne effect was also investigated.