thermodynamical evaluation of the reinforcing mechanism in graphene oxide/ acrylonitrile butadiene rubber composites

Two gardes of nbr with various acrylonitrile (acn) contents were reinforced by graphene oxide (go). thermodynamic predictors envolving the filler state of dispersion, degree of segmental restriction, and also the interface strength were evaluated upon the experimental mechanical properties of the prepared composites. results indicated the stiffening effect of graphene oxide besides its negative act as a solid lubricant at higher loadings which causes reagglomeration and formation of graphite-like structures. the nbr with higher acn contents revealed a higher potential to be reinforced with graphene oxide thus the decline in mechanical properties is less at higher loadings. consistent with the experimental findings, more promising reinforcement including better quality of dispersion, interface strength as well as a remarkably higher level of segmental immobilization was anticipated for the high acrylonitrile nbr.