Microstructure–properties relationship in ethylene-propylene diene monomer (EPDM)/nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR)/halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) nanocomposites

Abstract Structure–properties relationship in complex rubber nanocomposites is a key for enlarging the performance window. Herein, halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) are added at variable content to ethylene-propylene diene monomer (EPDM)/nitrile butadiene (NBR) blends compatibilized with maleic anhydride grafted HNTs evaluate cure characteristics, along microstructure, and mechanical swelling behavior. The crosslinking rate increased by loading, but scorch time decreased. Moreover, 45% rise tensile strength was observed systems containing 10 wt% HNTs. SEM TEM micrographs revealed rough fracture surface proper dispersion of HNT within EPDM/NBR. modulus EPDM/NBR/HNTs theoretically estimated modified Kolarik model, demonstrating good agreement experimental value. Dynamic thermal analysis (DMTA) higher storage up 2.27 GPa introduction into EPDM/NBR compound. Correspondingly, lower solvent uptake (decreased 38%) reported. Thermogravimetric (TGA) stability highly-loaded systems.