Synergistic Effect of Clay Platelets and Carbon Nanotubes in Styrene-Butadiene Rubber Nanocomposites

Nanoscale materials have provided a big advantage for enhancing the performance of rubber composites through leading the synergy effects in the physical and chemical properties. Here, the authors prepare hybrid fillers using a simple solution-based method, based on electrostatic interactive assembly, of hydroxyl-functionalized exfoliated montmorillonite (FE-MMT) and cetyl trimethylammonium bromide-modified multiwall nanotube (MWNT). The driving force of hybridization is due to specific interaction between the positive charge on the MWNT and the negative charge of hydroxyl group on MMT. To improve their dispersion, the obtained hybrid fillers are then co-coagulated with styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) latex to prepare elastomeric composites. Homogenous dispersion of the hybrid nanofillers in the SBR matrix results in a remarkable improvement in mechanical properties such as modulus (0.31 MPa) and tensile strength (75 MPa) at low loadings. Moreover, the prepared composite of hybrid nanofillers and rubber in the SBR matrix exhibits outstanding thermal (0.3779 W m(-1) K-1) and electrical conductivities (15 k Omega) and gas barrier performance (9.16 x 10(-45) m(4) s(-1) N-1). The synergistic reinforcement of SBR achieved by the combined incorporation of MWNT and MMT makes it ideal for use in conscious tires. This research opens up a wealth of new opportunities to prepare high performance rubber composites for future engineering applications.