Nanocomposites of NBR with Multi-wall Carbon Nanotubes

For high temperature applications, such as oil field, there is a need to improve the performance of elastomers in harsh environments. This work investigates the use of multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) in nitrile rubber nanocomposites for improved properties. Sulfur-cured nitrile rubber compounds containing MWCNT’s, either partially or completely replacing carbon black, were mixed in a batch mixer. The mechanical properties of vulcanized NBR rubber with differing percentages of MWCNT were compared to NBR reinforced with N330. The effect of sulfur and accelerator levels was also investigated. Stress-strain tests and dynamic mechanical analysis were used to compare the property changes for each formulation. Properties were similar at room temperature, but the highly loaded MWCNT formulations were found to have better mechanical properties at elevated temperatures (121°C). The use of MWCNTs offers potential for improved high performan ce applications.