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Harnessing Ni-PDC Coordination Chemistry to Achieve Robust Performance in Peroxide-Cured HNBR Elastomers
Suraj W Wajge1, Aniket T Takale1, Surabhi S Raut1
1Department of Chemistry, Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India.
Abstract:
This study investigates the effect of a nickel complex of 2,6-pyridinedicarboxylic acid (Ni-PDC) in modulating the properties of hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR) composites. The composites were prepared via dicumyl peroxide (DCP) crosslinking, with varying Ni-PDC loadings. Structural analyses via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirm successful integration of the Ni-PDC complex into the HNBR matrix. However, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) supports the presence of Ni2+ and validates Ni-PDC coordination within the HNBR matrix. Curing studies reveal a reduction in viscosity and an alternative in crosslink density. Mechanical testing reveals appreciable reinforcement, with a significant enhancement in tensile strength and elongation at break in comparison with unreinforced HNBR. Furthermore, the conduction of cyclic stress-strain study demonstrates a reduction in hysteresis losses, thereby signifying an enhancement in elastic recovery. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) reveals increased thermal stability, while differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) indicates a downward shift in glass transition temperature, consistent with enhanced segmental mobility imparted by dynamic coordination of Ni-PDC complex. The present study reports the combined effect of DCP curing and Ni-PDC incorporation in HNBR composites, with a view to enhancing their mechanical performance, flexibility (viscoelasticity) and thermal resistance.
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