Vulcanized natural rubber (NR) compounds with cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) up to 5 wt % were prepared using dicumyl peroxide crosslinking. Tensile properties were investigated at low and high strain rates. Low-speed tests revealed an increase in the elastic modulus and a decrease in the crystallization onset strain with increasing CNC fraction. High-speed tests demonstrated the ability of CNCs to improve the elastocaloric properties of the NR matrix, with a 30% and 15% increase in the heating and cooling capacities, respectively, in the presence of about 3 wt % CNCs. These results were attributed to (i) an enhanced thermoelastic effect due to strain amplification in the NR matrix in the presence of CNCs, and (ii) a nucleating effect of CNCs on strain-induced crystallization. These materials represent a promising basis for the design of rubber compound replacements commonly used in tires.
Abstract Vulcanized natural rubber (NR) compounds with cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) up to 5 wt % were prepared using dicumyl peroxide crosslinking. Tensile properties were investigated [...]
Mechanical and strain induced crystallization properties of natural rubber reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals 
