4. Characterization
4.1. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy
Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra of liquid natural rubber (LNR) was obtained using a Perkin Elmer system 4000 spectrophotometer. The LNR was coated onto zinc selenide (ZnSe) plate then the spectrum was recorded.
4. 2. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy
Nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H’NMR) spectrum was obtained using a Bruker Avance 400 spectrometer with deuterated chloroform as a solvent. Chemical shifts were reported in ppm relative to tetramethylsilan. 1H’NMR analysis was done to determine the chemical structures of LNR and to confirm the extent of epoxy groups in the structure of LNR. 1H’NMR analysis was also used to determine the percentages of epoxy groups in the LNR chain [21, 22].
4.3. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC)
DSC instrument (Perkin Elmer DSC-6 differential scanning calorimeter) was employed to determine the glass transition temperature (Tg) of both unmodified and liquid natural rubber modified EP. Samples of about 8-10 mg were heated at a rate 10 °C/ min in a nitrogen atmosphere was maintained for all the experiments in the temperature range 30-100 °C.
4.4. Mechanical tests
4.4.1. Tensile properties
Tensile tests were performed on rectangular shaped type V samples according to ASTM D-638. The rectangular shaped samples were cut from the moulded sheets. The ultimate tensile strength, Young’s modulus, tensile strain and energy at break were measured using a Instron machine, Model 3366 at room
temperature 26 °C. The crosshead speed was set at 2 mm/min. The quoted data is the average of the
results from five specimens
4.4.2. Flexural properties
The three points flexural testing was conducted on Instron machine, Model 3366 at room temperature 26 °C. Rectangular shaped specimens were obtained, with dimensions as specified in ASTM D790-02. The crosshead speed was employed of 5 mm/min. Flexural strength, and flexural modulus were calculated. The quoted data is the average of the results from five specimens.
4.4.3. Fracture toughness measurement
The fracture toughness (KIC) was measured in terms of critical stress intensity, KIC. Fracture values have been determined using pre-cracked (3.5-4 mm), single edge notched specimens in three points bending (SEN-B) with span of 64mm dimension. These tests were performed using a Instron machine, Model 3366 at crosshead speeds of 1, 100 and 500 mm/min at room temperature (26°C). KIC was determined according to ASTM E399-78 using the following relationship (1) [23]: