Simulation of β-dextranase from raw natural rubber to investigate structure and properties of natural rubber/halloysite composites

The effects of crude beta-dextranase in raw natural rubber (NR) on the structure and properties of NR/halloysite nanotube (HNT) composites are investigated by introducing external biological beta-dextranase. Results of curing tests as well as mechanical and dynamic mechanical analyses show that the curing time of the composite increases with beta-dextranase concentration and then plateaus at 6 wt%, at which the maximum values of the elastic modulus, tensile strength, and crosslink density are achieved and the lowest hysteresis loss factor at 0-80 degrees C is observed. Morphological investigations show that the addition of beta-dextranase improves the dispersion of HNTs and enhances interfacial adhesion in the composites owing to hydrogen bonds between beta-dextranase and HNTs, as revealed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses. We envision the use of beta-dextranase in NR as a novel interfacial modifier in NR composites.

Automated summary

The addition of crude beta-dextranase in raw natural rubber/halloysite nanotube composites can improve curing time, elastic modulus, and tensile strength, resulting in minimal hysteresis loss at high temperatures. The findings suggest beta-dextranase as a potential novel interfacial modifier in NR composites.