Hydroxyapatite-Filled Acrylonitrile-Butadiene Rubber Composites with Improved Cure Characteristics and Reduced...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Composite Materials

Background:

• Acrylonitrile-butadiene (NBR) rubber is widely used but requires modification for enhanced performance.
• Improving filler dispersion and cure characteristics is crucial for advanced NBR composites.
• Hydroxyapatite (HAP) offers potential for flame retardancy and improved mechanical properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop NBR-HAP composites with improved cure characteristics and burning resistance.
• To investigate the effects of silane, ionic liquid, and surfactant on NBR composite properties.
• To optimize the use of HAP and dispersants for enhanced material performance.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of NBR composites incorporating hydroxyapatite (HAP).
• Utilized silane, ionic liquid (1-decyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide), and surfactant (cetyltrimethylammonium bromide) as dispersants.
• Evaluated cure characteristics, crosslink density, physico-chemical properties, thermo-oxidative aging, and flammability.

Main Results:

• Ionic liquid and surfactant effectively improved HAP dispersion in the NBR matrix.
• Optimal vulcanization time was reduced, and onset temperature lowered by dispersants.
• Crosslink density and hardness increased with dispersants, while elasticity decreased.
• HAP significantly enhanced resistance to thermo-oxidative aging and reduced flammability.

Conclusions:

• NBR composites with HAP and specific dispersants show improved cure behavior and flame retardancy.
• Dispersants are key to achieving good HAP dispersion and optimizing vulcanization.
• The developed composites offer enhanced durability and safety for various applications.