Study the synergistic effect of fumed silica and reduced graphene oxide insertion on the thermal, mechanical, tribological, and solvent transport properties of silicone rubber nanocomposites

This study explored the effects of hybrid nanofillers such as fumed silica (FSiO2) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) on the mechanical, thermal, solvent transport, and tribological properties of silicone rubber nanocomposite (QMSirGO). A pin-on-disc test system was used to investigate the friction and wear properties of QMSirGO nanocomposites, which were significantly influenced by the applied load, temperature, and rGO concentration. Study shows that better graphene oxide dispersion in the matrix paved the way for improved tensile and dynamic mechanical properties and lowered the coefficient of friction and specific wear rate (Ws) values. Compared to silicone rubber (QM), the friction coefficient of the QMSirGO1.5 composite was reduced by around 40%. The mechanism involves the formation of a lubricant layer, which smooths the material surface that comes into contact with the metal surface. In the solvent transport study, we investigated the effect of solvents' structure, molecular size, filler concentration, and the transport mechanism of composites, and the extent of reinforcement was evaluated using Kraus equations.

Automated summary

This study investigates the influence of hybrid nanofillers on the properties of silicone rubber nanocomposites. The results show that better dispersion of graphene oxide improves the mechanical properties and reduces the friction coefficient of the material. Additionally, graphene oxide can form a lubricant layer, leading to a smoother material surface. The study also explores the solvent transport and the factors affecting it, such as solvent structure and filler concentration.