Effect of matrix type on the mechanical and magnetic properties of ferrite based natural and nitrile rubber nanocomposites

Copper doped nickel ferrite particles were prepared using co-precipitation method. The prepared particles were analysed using FTIR, XRD and SEM to confirm the formation of spinel ferrite structures, particle size and distribution. These ferrite nanoparticles are then embedded in natural and nitrile rubber at different loadings to compare the effect of matrix type on the mechanical and magnetic properties of composite samples. Nitrile rubber (NBR) composites show excellent magnetic properties than natural rubber (NR) composites. Saturation magnetisation, magnetic coercivity and magnetic retentivity values of NBR composites are superior to NR composites. In contrast mechanical properties are found to be inferior for NBR composites. (paper)