Efficient Nanocomposite formation of Acyrlo Nitrile Rubber by incorporation of Graphite and Graphene layers: Reduction in Friction and Wear Rate

Graphite (G) and its nano form Graphene (nG) are one of the most admirable fillers for incorporating multifunctional attributes in polymer/elastomer matrix. Use of such fillers in polymers/elastomers has enhanced their several properties and applicabilities. Acrylo Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR) is a workhorse of the several industrial applications especially for automotive rubber products and in hydraulic area. Enhanced tribological properties of NBR are one of the crucial requirements for sealing applications. In this field we are first to report the anti wear study on NBR filled with Graphite and graphene layers. Sliding wear test showed that the wear parameters of NBR nanocomposites have significantly improved. The incorporation of graphene in NBR has reduced coefficient of friction 2.3 times more than that of graphite incorporated NBR. The reason for the same is proposed that the homogeneous distribution of nano layers in the elastomer matrix, the enhanced self lubrication of graphene, the favourable interface stability of composite contributed together to the improved wear properties of NBR nanocomposites. Along with it we have also investigated the effect of applied load, revolution per minute i.e., sliding speed on wear properties. The incorporation of fillers (G &nG) in NBR has also improved the hardness and tensile properties other than tribological properties. Electrical conductivity of graphene filled NBR has also been reported in comparison to graphite filled NBR and pristine NBR. The prepared graphene and the nanocomposites have also been fully characterized by different sophisticated techniques viz HR-TEM, FEG-SEM, Micro Raman, FT-IR. Improvement in such properties of NBR will definitely widen its role in multiple applications. (C) 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.