Rubber nanocomposites: a review of processing, thermo-mechanical properties, and industrial frontiers
摘要
Rubber nanocomposites offer unique advantages over conventional polymer nanocomposites due to their exceptional flexibility, resilience, and dynamic mechanical properties, making them ideal for applications that require elasticity, impact resistance, and energy dissipation. Unlike rigid thermoplastic-based nanocomposites, rubber matrices can deform significantly while maintaining strong interfacial interactions with nanofillers, leading to materials with enhanced thermal stability, mechanical strength, barrier properties, and multifunctionality. This review presents recent advancements in rubber nanocomposites, highlighting the synergistic effects between elastomeric matrices and various nanofillers including silica, nanoclay, carbon nanotubes, and bio-based materials. Key processing techniques, including direct mixing, solution mixing, and in-situ polymerization, are discussed in relation to their impact on filler dispersion and composite performance. Industrial applications in tire manufacturing, electronics, biomedical devices, separation membranes, sporting goods, and catalysis are explored to showcase the broad potential of these materials. Despite remarkable progress, challenges remain regarding nanofiller dispersion, cost-effective scalability, environmental concerns, and long-term durability. Future directions include using artificial intelligence for material design, circular economy approaches for sustainable sourcing, and developing hybrid nanofiller systems. This review highlights the critical role of rubber nanocomposites in creating high-performance, flexible, and multifunctional materials for next-generation industrial applications.