Mechanical characterisation of novel polyethylene nanocomposites by nanoindentation

Abstract

Ultra-high Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) is a high performance polymer which is currently used in lightweight body armour and total joint replacement applications because of its high toughness and wear resistance, respectively. However, the high molecular weight also makes processing difficult and expensive, which has led to research to find alternative materials with similar performance but better processability. The aim of this work is to investigate the mechanical properties of novel polyethylene nanocomposites by means of nanoindentation. The localized mechanical properties were used to evaluate the dispersion of the nanoparticle into the polymer matrix. Scratch, creep and wear resistance of the polyethylene nanocomposites were also studied. Nanoindentation tests provided information about the dispersion quality of the nanoparticles, which can be used to develop processing methods. The addition of the nanoparticles was found to improve the scratch, creep and wear resistance of the polyethylene. © 2013 WIT Press.