Influence of chromium oxide nanoparticles and fiber fillers on silicone rubber nanocomposite

The development of polymer composites, considering the environmental issues, is aimed for minimizing the industrial content. New environmental-friendly nanocomposites, based on silicone rubber matrix and different concentrations of natural fiber/chromium oxide fillers, are prepared for the first time. The microstructural analysis confirms the successful obtaining of microfibers after treatment and chromium oxide nanoparticles and the formation of the final composite. The nanocomposites achieved improved physical and mechanical properties due to the dual effect of both fillers and attachment to the matrix. The 1% optimized nanocomposite achieved the highest modulus, dielectric properties, hydrophobicity, and surface stability. The effect of exposure to weathering conditions was studied. The characterization sentence asserts the preparation of a novel silicone rubber nanocomposite with improved properties, along with the environmental impact, regarding the dual effect of natural fiber waste and chromium oxide nanoparticles.