Studies on the Effects of Bentonite (Nanoclay) on the Mechanical Properties of High-Density Polyethylene

Abstract

In this work, the effect of Bentonite (Nanoclay) on the mechanical and morphology properties of HDPE/Nanoclay composite pipe material was investigated. This led to the development of a composite material with improved mechanical properties. The HDPE/nanoclay composites were produced using an injection moulding machine at 200˚C and rotor speed of 50 rpm. The compatibilizer used in this study was Polyethylene-graft-Maleic Anhydride. Different compositions of nanoclay reinforcements were prepared and added to HDPE resin. A particle size of 425 μm was used in proportions of 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% on weight fraction basis. All the composites samples were characterized by Zwick Roell tensile testing machine and Scanning Election Microscopy (SEM). Experimental results obtained showed improvements in the tensile strength, and modulus at the expense of elongation. The maximum tensile strength and modulus was obtained at 10% filler composition. These enhanced properties are due to the homogenous dispersion of nanoclay in HDPE matrix, which is evident from the structure that was evaluated using SEM.