Insights into structural, thermal, electrical and mechanical properties of copper alumina reinforced chlorinated natural rubber nanocomposites

Current research intended the fabrication of highly durable conducting rubber products of low cost and wide applicability in the field of electronics. Chlorinated natural rubber (Cl-NR) reinforced with copper alumina (Cu-Al2O3) nanocomposites were fabricated by a solvent-free and economically viable industrial compounding technique with special attention to structural, morphological, rheometric curing behaviour, flame retardancy, electrical conductivity, dielectric, thermal and mechanical properties. FT-IR spectra confirmed the presence of Cu-Al2O3 in Cl-NR. The XRD investigation showed the crystalline peaks of Cu-Al2O3 in Cl-NR nanocomposites. The SEM and TEM results indicated that the nanoparticles were uniformly dispersed into the chlorinated rubber in the nano regime. The DSC results indicated that the addition of nanoparticles into the rubber matrix increased the glass transition temperature of the composites. The conductive metal oxide particles in the rubber accelerate the vulcanization process, which could be more beneficial in the industrial sector. The AC conductivity, dielectric properties, tensile strength, modulus, tear strength, heat build-up and hardness of nanocomposites were greatly increased, whereas the elongation at break, abrasion loss and resilience were decreased with the addition of nanoparticles to the chlorinated natural rubber. These increased mechanical properties of rubber nanocomposites with improved processability, controlled morphology and electrical properties are important parameters in the designing of flexible flame retardant electronic devices, electromagnetic induction shielding and conducting adhesive materials.

Automated summary

This research aimed to fabricate low-cost and highly durable conducting rubber products by incorporating copper alumina nanocomposites into chlorinated natural rubber. The results showed that the addition of nanoparticles significantly improved the electrical conductivity and hardness, while reducing the elongation at break and resilience. These improvements are important for the design of flexible flame retardant electronic devices, electromagnetic induction shielding, and conducting adhesive materials.