English Abstract

Various Advanced Properties and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes/Rubber Composites

Toru NOGUCHI *1
Hiroyuki UEKI *1
Shigeki INUKAI *1
Kenichi NIIHARA *1
Masaei ITO *2
Kenji TAKEUCHI *3
Morinobu ENDO *3
*1:Research Center for Exotic Nano Carbon Project, Shinshu University, Wakasato, Nagano-city, Nagano, Japan, Development Center Nagano, Nissin Kogyo Co., Ltd. , Toumi-city, Nagano, Japan.
*2: Schlumberger KK, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan.
*3: Institute of Carbon Science and Technology, Shinshu University, Nagano-city, Nagano, Japan
Nippon Gomu Kyokaishi,(2010),83(11),354-360 General Review in Japanese

Hydrocarbons such as oil and gas are critical resources for the functioning of human societies. Today, with the dearth of easy-to-reach reservoirs, the oil and gas industry is conducting more of its exploration and exploitation activities in difficult-to-reach and harsh environments. Key challenges in exploiting these new reservoirs include extremely high temperatures and pressures. The rubber composites obtained from the carbon nanotubes cellulation technology increases operational ratings from 175 and 140 MPa to 260 and 240 MPa for deeper, hotter conditions, and it is especially appropriate for deepwater reservoirs. We believe that our development of the sealing material to enhance oil recovery from deep, hot reservoirs may help double the R/P ratio. The cellulation technologies can be applied to various matrix composites such as metals, ceramics, and other polymers.

Keywords: Carbon Nanotubes, Rubber Matrix Composite, Cellulation, Filler