Influence of Fillers on NR/SBR Blends Containing ENR-Organoclay Nanocomposites: Morphology and Wear

In this study the Epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) and Organoclay (Cloisite 20A) were prepared by solution mixing process. The obtained nanocomposites were incorporated in Natural rubber (NR) and Styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) blends in presence of varying types of carbon black as reinforcing fillers. Morphology, curing characteristics, mechanical and thermal properties were characterized and analyzed. Also, the wear characteristics of the nanocomposites against Du-Pont abrader, DIN abrader and different mining rock surfaces were determined and discussed. The morphology of the organoclay incorporated in ENR shows a highly intercalated structure. ISAF type of carbon black shows a significant effect on curing and mechanical properties by reacting at the interface between SBR and NR matrix. All the samples show only one melting peak at same temperature on the DSC curve. Blends containing ISAF N234 type of carbon black shows high abrasion resistant properties against Du-Pont abrader, DIN abrader and different mining rock. The rubber compound containing 70 wt% of NR, 30 wt% of SBR and 10 wt% of ENR/nanoclay with ISAF N231 are found to be the toughest rubber against all types of rock under the present study.