Application of Modified Calcium Sulfate Whisker in Methyl Vinyl Silicone Rubber Composites

Novel methyl vinyl silicone rubber (MVQ)/calcium sulfate whisker (CSW) composites had been prepared. Two types of modification agents, hydrogen silicone oil and silane coupling agent, were used in the preparation of modified calcium sulfate whiskers (MCSW). The morphology and properties of MCSW were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Then, the two types of MCSW were applied in the preparation of MVQ composites. Properties such as cure characteristics, tensile strength, elongation at break, permanent distortion and thermal stability were analysed and compared. Results showed that addition of MCSW could improve the tensile and thermal properties of the silicone rubber composites. A combination of SEM studies was used to characterize the structure and reinforcing mechanism of MCSW.