Inelastic Neutron Scattering from Filled Elastomers

Inelastic neutron scattering experiments are powerful techniques for evaluating local molecular dynamics. These methods are especially sensitive to hydrogen atoms containing motions. An overview of these experimental techniques is presented. Neutron filter analyzer and time-of-flight spectroscopy methods are used to characterize the local dynamics of polymers in the presence and absence of fillers. Of particular interest is the comparison between bound rubber attached to the filler surface and the pure, unbound rubber. A commercial synthetic polyisoprene containing approximately 100% cis-1,4 isomers was compounded with three different carbon blacks: N299, G299 (graphitized N299), and N762. Soxhlet extraction on each of the samples was performed so that corresponding samples containing purely bound rubber with filler were obtained. The filter analyzer and time-of flight spectra show distinct differences between the bound and pure rubber as well as differences based on carbon black type. Correlation of the spectral differences to the type of carbon black and initial concentration of carbon black are discussed.