Incorporation and characterization of celullose nanowhiskers in natural rubber aiming nanocomposite materials

Abstract

Elastomers almost never are used without the reinforcing fillers. Being materials that usually require high technical performance, the elastomeric compound designed for a specific application may not have the necessary requirements for other applications, even when dealing with the same base polymer. One can thus say that the fillers are incorporated into the elastomer together with a number of other additives to obtain a formulation that aims to serve a particular purpose. The constant search for reinforcing fillers for elastomers from renewable sources is a challenge, since many traditional fillers are obtained by chemical processes (eg precipitated silica) or burning of fuels (in the case of carbon black). In this context that the present project is presented. The intention is to study the incorporation of cellulose nanowhiskers to natural rubber in order to improve the mechanical properties thereof and, accordingly, its performance through the use of a filler of natural origin.