Multiwalled carbon nanotubes-magnetite reinforced thermoplastic polypropylene-natural rubber blends

Abstract

The effect of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)-magnetite (Fe 3 O 4 ) hybrid content on the magnetic and dynamic mechanical properties of thermoplastic polypropylene-natural rubber (TPNR) nanocomposites was evaluated. The effect of acid treatment of MWCNTs on the properties of nanocomposites has also been examined. TPNR/fillers nanocomposites were prepared via a Thermo Haake internal mixer using melt blending method with ball-milling technique as a pre-mixed process. The acid treatment successfully shortened the lengths and disentangled the crowds of MWCNTs. The improved dispersion of acid-treated MWCNTs-Fe 3 O 4 in TPNR matrix and the enhanced interfacial adhesion between acid-treated MWCNTs-Fe 3 O 4 and TPNR matrix increased the magnetic and dynamic mechanical properties. Acid-treated MWCNTs-Fe 3 O 4 filled TPNR shows 10% improvement in storage modulus over neat TPNR due to the fine dispersion of MWCNTs in the TPNR matrix.