Elastomeric Polyurea Nanocomposites

The effect of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT), nano-layered silicate (nanoclay), and trisilanolphenyl-functionalized polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) on the rheology and mechanical properties of an oligomeric polydiamine and the polyurea formed by its reaction with isocyanate were measured. The MWCNT and nanoclay increase the viscosity of the polydiamine and form a flocculated filler network at very low concentrations (< 1%). This network imparts a strong strain-dependence to the dynamic modulus. These effects are absent with POSS, which primarily affects the polyurea chemistry. The tensile modulus of the cured polyurea is higher for all three additives, and using POSS significantly tougher material can be obtained, provided adjustments to the stoichiometry are made.