Comparison of cure characteristics and mechanical properties of nano and micro silica-filled CSM elastomers

In this study, the effect of micro and nano silica and their combination on mechanical and thermal properties of Chloro-sulfonated Polyethylene compounds were investigated. Cure characteristics were studied using a Monsanto Moving Die Rheometer at 155 degrees C. Incorporation of nano silica accelerated the vulcanization whereas the micro silica particles decelerated the curing process. Both micro and nano silica increased the crosslink density as evidenced by swelling test. However, this value has been more improved in CSM/nano silica composites. The physico-mechanical properties of CSM/nano silica are superior compared to CSM/micro silica. Nano silica provided reinforcing efficiency which is not only because of higher specific surface area but also because of various interactions and especially physical interactions which are discussed in the text. Nano silica particles also improved the thermal properties more efficiently. Incorporation of 15 phr (part per hundred) nano and 5 phr micro silica to polymer improved the initial decomposition temperature for about 51 degrees C and 16 degrees C, respectively, using a TGA. The combination of micro and nano silica, showed that by coupling nano and micro fillers, the loading of fillers can be minimized. In other words, the hybrid samples with a lower filler loading behave as efficient as their separate counterpart with higher loading. (C) 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.