Relationship between structural and mechanical properties of polyethylene matrix nanocomposites

Abstract

This study examined the impact of incorporating graphene nanoplatelets (GnP) into high-density polyethylene (PE) to create nanocomposites, with and without a compatibiliser. We specifically focused on the impact of structural crystallinity on the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites. These nanocomposites exhibited a much higher Young's modulus compared with pure PE. Specifically, the Young’s modulus increased exponentially with the addition of a compatibiliser and linearly without it. One explanation for this exponential rise in Young's modulus is that the crystal's compacted polymer chain structure improved its stiffness, facilitating effective load transfer. Additionally, a poor distribution of GnP in the nanocomposites with a filler content of 0.5 and 1 wt.%, both with and without a compatibiliser, led to a decreased stress and strain at break. However, at higher filler contents, well-distributed GnP play a key role in enhancing stress and strain at break.