Effect of size reduction and eco-friendly coupling agent on tensile and morphological properties of bentonite filled acrylonitrile butadiene rubber composites

To achieve positive reinforcement in the rubber composites, the incorporation of filler into rubber composites has constantly been studied and improved. However, the results of a simple mix-up between rubber and filler does not impressive. Thus, the effect of size reduction (planetary ball mill) and addition of eco-friendly coupling agent (EFCA) on tensile and morphological properties of bentonite (Bt) filled acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) composites were studied. After the size reduction and addition of EFCA, the tensile strength and the elongation at break increased but decreased the modulus at 100% (M100) and 300% elongation (M300). Scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the tensile fractured surface of NBR/Bt (with filler size reduction and EFCA addition) composites showed a better filler-rubber interaction compared to NBR/Bt composites without treatment.