Mechanical, rheological, and swelling behavior of natural rubber/montmorillonite aerogels prepared by freeze-drying

• Published in: Applied clay science 2010-10, Vol.50 (2), p.271-279
• Main Authors: Pojanavaraphan, Tassawuth, Schiraldi, David A., Magaraphan, Rathanawan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aerogel; Aerogels; Density; Earth sciences; Earth, ocean, space; Exact sciences and technology; Mechanical property; Mineralogy; Montmorillonite; Nanocomposite; Natural rubber; Particulate composites; Polymer matrix composites; Rheological properties; Rheology; Silicates; Swelling
• ISSN: 0169-1317; 1872-9053
• DOI: 10.1016/j.clay.2010.08.020

Montmorillonite (Na +-MMT) aerogel/prevulcanized natural rubber (PNR) composites were produced by freezing–drying. The composites exhibited densities in the range of 0.36–0.51 g cm − 3 , which was in good agreement with the content of polymer in the aqueous solutions. The dispersion of the Na +-MMT particles and the microstructure of the composites were investigated by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microcopy. The influence of the Na +-MMT particles on the mechanical, rheological and swelling properties of the composites was investigated. A composite made from 7 parts per hundred of rubber (phr) of Na +-MMT showed the greatest improvement in material properties. Such Na +-MMT aerogel/polymer composites will be candidates for structural and insulation applications. [Display omitted] ►The layered superstructure promotes the load transfer under the applied stress. ►The great reinforcing efficiency is observed above the glass transition temperature. ►The aerogel materials adsorb the solvent almost rapidly through the capillary action.