Enhancement of Mechanical Performance and Swelling Resistance in Silicone Rubber Through Reinforcement with γ-Methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane-Modified Halloysite Nanotubes

Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) were effectively surface-treated with γ-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (γ-MPS), promoting interactions with the aluminol and silanol groups present on the nanotubes’ edges and surfaces. The modified HNTs (mHNTs) were then utilized in the preparation of nanocomposites with silicone rubber vulcanizate. A comprehensive analysis was conducted to evaluate the impact of mHNTs loading on various aspects of the resulting rubber nanocomposites, covering parameters such as cure characteristics, compression set, swelling behavior, abrasion resistance, and mechanical properties. Precise measurements were carried out using the oscillating disc rheometer (ODR), solvent immersion technique, DIN abrader, and tensile testing. In summary, the incorporation of mHNTs significantly enhanced the characteristics and performance of the silicone rubber nanocomposites, improving the tensile modulus, tensile strength, and tear strength. Furthermore, the silicone rubber/mHNTs nanocomposites exhibited enhanced resistance to swelling due to interactions between the rubber matrix and mHNTs.