Enhanced chemical resistance and mechanical properties of HNBR elastomers via ethylphenylsilylurea (EPSU) based crosslinking modification
摘要
This work investigates the enhancement of hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR) through modification with ethylphenylsilylurea (EPSU), a novel organosilicon crosslinking agent. EPSU was synthesized via the reaction of ethylphenyldichlorosilane with urea, yielding a multifunctional additive capable of reinforcing the rubber matrix. Incorporation of EPSU into HNBR significantly improved vulcanization kinetics, especially at 150 °C, where optimal crosslink density and curing efficiency were achieved. Mechanical testing revealed that EPSU-modified composites exhibit superior tensile strength, tear resistance, and Shore A hardness, with 1.5 phr EPSU providing the best performance. Resistance to aggressive environments—including oils, toluene, hydrochloric acid, and nitric acid—was enhanced by 30–50%, owing to the formation of a denser and chemically stable siloxane-urea crosslinked network. These results confirm the potential of EPSU as a high-performance reinforcing agent for HNBR-based elastomers intended for chemically and thermally demanding industrial applications.