Reinforcement of polyethylene pipes with modified carbon microfibers

Abstract

The surface properties of carbon microfibers (CMFs) are modified by chemical deposition of carbon nanofibers via the so-called ethylene processing. CMFs and the modified CMFs (MCMFs) are investigated as reinforcement additives to fabricate polyethylene (PE) composites with enhanced mechanical characteristics. The mechanical properties of the PE-MCMF composites are found to be better and favorable for applications under harsh climatic conditions such as those in Siberia. Improved adhesive interaction between MCMFs and PE is responsible for these enhanced mechanical properties.