Preparation and mechanical properties of natural rubber composites reinforced by modified molybdenum disulfide

Abstract The filler‐rubber interaction and filler dispersion in natural rubber (NR) composites are important factors in determining mechanical properties. Herein, Molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2 ) and Al 2 O 3 ‐coated MoS 2 nanospheres are incorporated in NR/carbon black composites. The effects of MoS 2 and Al 2 O 3 ‐coated MoS 2 on the morphology, thermal and mechanical properties of the NR composites are investigated. The morphology analysis indicates that Al 2 O 3 ‐coated MoS 2 could greatly improve the dispersion of carbon black in NR composites. MoS 2 filler and carbon black show a synergetic effect on improving the properties of NR composites, leading to high abrasion resistance, tensile strength, elongation at break and expected dynamic mechanical properties. The thermal conductivity of NR composites increases with increasing the content of MoS 2 and Al 2 O 3 ‐coated MoS 2 . The thermal stability of the NR composites is also effectively improved by filling MoS 2 and Al 2 O 3 ‐coated MoS 2 . Furthermore, a small amount of Al 2 O 3 ‐coated MoS 2 significantly improves the abrasion resistance, wet grip and decreases rolling resistance of the composites. Al 2 O 3 ‐coated MoS 2 exhibits its potential application in green tires with good performance.