Effect of nanosized calcium carbonate on the mechanical properties of latex films

Abstract An acrylic dispersed nanosized calcium carbonate filler was added to a prevulcanized latex compound in different amounts. The effect of filler content on the curing time, modulus, tensile strength, elongation at break (Eb) before and after ageing, and the morphology of the films was investigated. Results showed that the curing time decreased with filler loading because of the increased interaction between the filler and rubber matrix, as reflected by the decrease in the apparent swelling index. Modulus at 100% elongation and modulus at 300% elongation increased with filler loading. Tensile strength and Eb increased up to 10 phr of filler loading and then decreased again. Aged films showed improved mechanical properties compared to those of unaged films. Micrographs showed that agglomeration occurred as the filler content was increased. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 96: 1550–1556, 2005