Influence of nanofluid in thermal and mechanical properties of NR alumina polymer nanocomposites

Abstract

Nanofluid has gained enormous attention in thermal and heat transfer applications, hence, the present investigation deals with the synthesis of polymer matrix nanocomposites using a two-step method with nano alumina (Al2O3) as a filler and for its mechanical and thermal characterization. Nanofluid was introduced as the primary step supported by the sonication process followed by the secondary step, mixing in latex form of NR with 50phr. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) was performed to reveal about dispersion of filler in matrix. Reinforcement interactions with matrix natural rubber polymeric chains were analyzed with FTIR analysis. Cure characteristics have been found using rheograph and optimum curing time for the vulcanization process. Thermo-gravimetric analysis test was carried out for thermal stability on all vulcanized samples with variable wt% of filler. Mechanical characterization was strengthened by Tensile, Tear, and Shore hardness were carried as per ASTM standards. Various factors were analyzed by varying loading conditions on different wt% of fillers. Nanofluid has a predominant effect on composite thermal and hardness values. The samples were also monitored for optimum filler loading with various wt% of alumina particles. Alumina particles have an adverse effect on the elongation at tensile load and compressive strength.

Keywords

• Natural rubber
• Polymer nanocomposites
• Nano alumina
• Thermal stability
• Two-step method
• Mechanical characterization