Abstract

This research work represents the synergistic effect of nanopolystyrene (nPS) and viton rubber (VR) for the improvement in physico-mechanical properties of nPS-VR blends. The nPS were synthesized by a micro-emulsion process and then 0.5 to 2.5wt.% of nPS were reinforced into VR on a two roll mill followed by compression moulding. Physico-mechanical (tensile strength, elongation at break and young’s modulus, swelling index) properties of nPS-VR blends were studied. The extent of nPS dispersion in the VR matrix and their surface morphology were observed by scanning electron microscopy, while the crystallinity and curing rate were studied by X-ray diffractometer and mooney viscometer, respectively. Optimum amount (2.5wt%) of nPS in VR blend showed an increment of 30% in tensile strength, 89% in young’s modulus and 6% in hardness, decrement of 29% in elongation at break and 36% in swelling index as compared to pristine VR. The improvement in physico-mechanical properties was due to crosslinks of nPS in VR by curing agent, the uniform dispersion and incorporating network of nPS in the VR blend.

Keywords: Viton rubber; Nanopolystyrene; Blends; Swelling index; Mechanical properties