Natural rubber-graphite composites (0, 1, 2, 3, 4 pphr graphite) were prepared on a laboratory
two-roll mill. Swelling measurements were used to evaluate the impacts of graphite on the properties of
natural rubber.
Swelling results showed that the volume fraction of natural rubber in the swollen gel, the
interaction parameter, and the cross-link density decreased by increasing graphite loadings, while the
average molecular weight of natural rubber between cross-links increased.
Vulcanization results showed that only scorch time parameter increased with increasing graphite
loadings, while other parameters (Max. torque, Min. torque, cure rate and cure rate index) decreased.
Both thermal and AC conductivities increased.