Structure and properties of silicate nano-fiber/rubber composites

Based on the special structural properties of natural fibril silicate attapulgite, silicate nano-fiber/rubber composites were successfully prepared by mechanically compounding, combined with the in-situ modification method. The structure and properties of the composites were studied, and the reinforcing mechanism of AT was discussed as well. Upon shear force during mixing as well as in-situ modification with silane coupling agent, attapulgite micron particles are separated into numerous nano-fibers with the length/diameter ratio of 10-30 into the rubber matrix. AT/rubber composites possess stress-strain behavior and distinct anisotropy similar to those for short fiber reinforced rubber composites (SFRC), higher modulus at higher temperatures and good processing property, resulted from nano-dispersing of AT and good rubber-AT interfacial bonding.