Interfacial interaction, mechanisms of reinforcement and characterization

This chapter focuses on interfacial interaction, mechanism of reinforcement and characterization of several numbers of polymeric matrices in composites system including elastomeric matrices such as natural rubber, different synthetic rubbers especially nitrile butadiene rubber, epoxidized natural rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, polyvinyl chloride, and polyurethane. Most composite qualities, including delamination, impact damage, chemical resistance, water absorption, and high-temperature creep, are influenced by the type of polymer matrix. Furthermore, the reinforcement of these elastomer mediums with various fillers, with a particular emphasis on carbon black, silica, nanocellulose (NC), and carbon nanotubes has been addressed well corresponding to their reinforcement effect, interfacial interaction and mechanism. The interfacial reaction involves NC and elastomer materials derived from chemical (ionic and covalent bonds) or physical/nonbond interaction (interelectrostatic, hydrogen bonds and Van de Waals), which consequently affects the final reinforcement of the composite. The characterization of elastomer NC is carried out by several numbers of characterization techniques such as the spectroscopy technique of Fourier transform infrared, the morphological technique of field emission Scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscopy, thermal analysis of differential scanning calorimetry, crosslinking density, water uptake/swelling behavior, Rayne effect, universal mechanical testing and dynamic mechanical analysis to determine the good reinforcing effects. Finally, this chapter will provide a new pathway for the application of recent reinforcement agents and fillers for elastomers in several numbers of industries such as automotive, coating, aircraft, painting, type and rubbers.