Mechanical/electrical properties and strain sensibility of epoxidized natural rubber nanocomposite filled with carbon nanotube: Effect of sodium alginate as a surfactant on latex technology process

Abstract

This study focused on the role of sodium alginate (Alg) as a surfactant in the mechanical/electrical properties and strain sensibility of carbon nanotube (CNT)-filled epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) nanocomposite. The preparation of ENR nanocomposite was carried out by a latex mixing process. CNTs were pre-treated with a dispersing agent and added to the ENR latex. To enhance the mechanical and electrical properties of nanocomposites for application as a strain sensor, we performed the homogenization of ENR/CNT suspension and fine dispersion of CNT in the ENR matrix. The effect of Alg on the properties of nanocomposites was estimated and compared with that of a common latex surfactant, that is, sodium dodecyl sulphate. The mechanical, electrical properties and strain sensitivity of ENR nanocomposites were improved with the use of Alg. In addition, the ENR nanocomposite films from latex technology mixing can be used in strain sensor applications, such as those with finger motion sensitivity.

Keywords

• nanocomposites
• rubber
• biopolymer
• carbon nanotube
• strain sensibility