Enhancement of Mechanical Performance and Swelling Resistance in Silicone Rubber through Reinforcement with γ-Methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane-Modified Halloysite Nanotubes

Abstract The halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) underwent effective surface treatment using γ-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (γ-MPS), which facilitated interactions with the aluminol and silanol groups present on the edges and surfaces of the nanotubes. The treated HNTs (mHNTs) were utilized to prepare nanocomposites with silicone rubber vulcanizate. The application of γ-MPS modification aimed to enhance interactions between the surfaces and tubules. This enhancement resulted in a higher crosslinking density and improved dispersion of HNTs within the silicone rubber matrix. To assess the influence of mHNT loading on diverse facets of the resultant rubber nanocomposites, a comprehensive analysis was carried out, covering parameters such as cure characteristics, compression set, swelling behavior, abrasion resistance, and mechanical properties, with precise measurements conducted via the oscillating disc rheometer (ODR), solvent immersion technique, DIN abrader, and tensile testing. Overall, the addition of mHNTs significantly enhanced the characteristics and performance of the silicone rubber nanocomposites. This research underscores the effectiveness of mHNTs as reinforcing agents, opening new avenues for enhancing the qualities of silicone rubber-based materials across diverse applications. The incorporation of mHNTs led to improvements in the tensile modulus, strength, and tear strength of the nanocomposites. Additionally, the silicone rubber/mHNTs nanocomposites exhibited enhanced resistance to swelling due to their robust inter-tubular contacts. The results obtained were analyzed in the context of the samples' microstructure, as examined through FESEM analyses.