Correlation of Filler Loading and Silane Coupling Agent on the Physical Characteristics of Epoxidized Natural Rubber-Alumina Nanoparticles Composites

Studies were conducted on the effects of filler loading and 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (SCA) on the physical characteristics of epoxidized natural rubber (ENR)-alumina nanoparticles composites (ENRAN). The filler loading varied from 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 phr in the absence and presence of 2 phr SCA in every formulation. The alumina nanoparticles have a positive interaction with the ENR matrix since they increase the glass transition temperature of the composites [Mohamad, N., Muchtar, A., Ghazali, M.J., Dahlan, H.M. and Azhari, C.H. (2008). The Effect of Filler on Epoxidized Natural Rubber-Alumina Nanoparticles Composites, Eur. J. Sci. Res., 24: 538—547]. The addition of SCA decreased the maximum torque (MH) and the torque difference (MH-ML) of ENRANs compound as well as causing the curing process to occur at a very fast rate. The spherical alumina particles were dispersed in ENR matrix and a uniform particle distribution was observed under scanning electron microscope enabling the increase of the torque values in the composites.