Dynamic mechanical analysis of nylon 6 fiber-reinforced acrylonitrile butadiene rubber composites

Dynamic mechanical properties of polymeric materials are of direct relevance to a range of unique polymer applications. The aim of the study is to investigate the dynamic mechanical properties of composites of short nylon 6 fiber with acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR). The storage modulus (G ^′ ), loss modulus (G ^″ ), and the damping factor (tan δ) have been analyzed with reference to the effects of fiber loading, curing systems, and bonding agents over a range of temperature and at varying frequencies. The storage modulus increases with increment in fiber loading, whereas loss modulus and damping factor decrease. The glass transition temperature shifts to higher temperature upon increment in fiber loading. Dicumyl peroxide (DCP)–cured composites show higher storage modulus and lower damping than the corresponding sulfur-cured one. The addition of hexa-resorcinol and phthalic anhydride as bonding agents enhances the dynamic mechanical properties of the composites. The experimental results have been evaluated by comparing with Einstein, Guth, and Nielsen models.