Comparative study on the natural rubber nanocomposites reinforced with carbon black nanoparticles and graphite oxide nanosheets

To achieve dramatic improvements in the performance of natural rubber (NR), the graphite oxide nanosheets (GON)‐reinforced NR nanocomposites have been prepared through solution mixing on the basis of pretreatment of graphite. The mechanical and thermal properties of GON/NR nanocomposites were characterized in contrast to the carbon black (CB)/NR nanocomposite. The mechanical properties of the GON‐reinforced NR showed a considerable increase compared to the neat NR and traditional CB/NR nanocomposite. The initial modulus of pure NR was increased for up to 53.6% when 7 wt% GON is incorporated. The modulus and strength of NR with GON appear to be superior to those of CB with the same filler content. The dispersion state of the nanofillers into NR was investigated by scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction, and the results indicated that nanofillers have been dispersed homogeneously in the NR matrix. Fourier transform infrared spectra showed possible interfacial interactions between fillers and NR matrix. Differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis showed that the T_g and thermal decomposition temperature of NR slightly increased with the addition of the fillers, especially for that of GON/NR nanocomposites. According to this study, application of the physical and mechanical properties of GON to NR can result in rubber products which have improved mechanical, physical, and thermal properties, compared with existing NR products reinforced with CB. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:1427–1437, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers