Low-Ammonia Preservation and Functional Reinforcement of Natural Rubber Latex Enabled by MXene-SiO2 Nanocomposites

Ammonia is commonly used as a preservative for natural rubber, but its high volatility and strong irritation to the human respiratory tract pose significant health risks. In this study, we utilized the layered two-dimensional nanomaterial Ti 3 C 2 T x (MXene) as an antimicrobial agent and synthesized MXene-SiO 2 nanocomposites by intercalating KH550-modified silica nanoparticles into MXene. This nanocomposite was then incorporated into a MXene-SiO 2 /low-ammonia preservation system. The results demonstrated that this novel system effectively preserved concentrated natural latex over a four-month period. Throughout this time, the volatile fatty acid (VFA) values remained below 0.1, the pH was stable at approximately 10, the mechanical stability time (MST) exceeded 700 s, and viscosity remained around 300 mPa·s—meeting the requirements for subsequent processing. The introduction of the MXene-SiO 2 nanocomposite into the preservation system had no adverse effects on the structure or performance of the dry film. The system exhibited excellent film-forming properties and promoted the formation of a cross-linked network in the vulcanized film. As a result, the tensile strength of the vulcanized film reached 22.87 MPa, a 64% increase compared to pure natural latex vulcanized film. this study provides an effective and environmentally friendly approach for preserving natural latex while simultaneously enhancing the mechanical properties of its vulcanized film.