Preparation and Characterization of Nano Composite Materials Based on Polyisoprene Added to Nano Ternary Silica

Polyisoprene (PI), whether naturally or synthetically produced, is used in rubber compounds for many applications, such as tires, belts, and shoes. The effect of Nano ternary silica (NTS) addition on the thermal and mechanical characteristics of PI was investigated in this research. According to the results, the addition of NTS enhances the hardness and mechanical strength of PI, improves thermal properties, reduces thermal deformations, and enhances the ability of the resulting composite materials to withstand high-temperature conditions and resist environmental deformations. The weight percentages for the added NTS in the prepared composite materials followed five models (2 %, 4 %, 6 %, 8 %, and 10 wt. %). The optimal percentage of polyisoprene nanocomposite was determined using X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). It was found that at 4 wt.% NTS with a d-spacing between layers of 4.1 nm, the best thermal stability and mechanical properties are obtained. These results suggested that the stability and properties of PI depend on the amount and particle size of the NTS distribution mixture.