Two different mixing methods, i.e., mechanical and solution mixing were used in preparation of halloysite
nanotubes/natural rubber (HNTs/NR) nanocomposites with various loading of HNTs. The result
showed that the addition of HNTs caused increment in scorch time, cure time and maximum torque
for both mixing methods. However, longer scorch and cure time of nanocomposites prepared via solution
mixing method than nanocomposites prepared via mechanical mixing method was observed. Nanocomposites
prepared by solution mixing method showed higher tensile strength, tensile modulus, fatigue life
and decomposition temperature at lower percentage of weight loss than mechanical mixing method.
Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images showed better dispersion of HNTs in nanocomposites prepared
via solution mixing method than mechanical mixing method.