(58a) Effect of Different Melt Mixing Methods on the Thermomechanical and Rheological Properties of LLDPE/HNT Nanocomposite

In polymer nanocomposite production good mixing is always desired to attain good material properties. Beside the interactive chemistry of constituents in the mixture, the condition of interface between components and the degree of dispersion strongly influence the performance of final nanocomposite.

Polymeric nanocomposites prepared with halloysite nanotube (HNT) nanofillers have gained strong interest in recent years. HNT is a natural nanotube which is abundantly available at a low price. Compared to other nanoparticles, it has better dispersion due to less inter-tubular contact and its unique geometry.

This experimental research focuses on fabricating nanocomposite with linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) and HNT with different amounts of HNT loading and using different melt mixing methods. The melt mixing method among all other available techniques is the most compatible with the current industrial compounding and processing technology which has environmentally friendly nature. In this study the effects of different melt mixing methods on the thermomechanical and rheological properties of prepared LLDPE/HNT nanocomposites will be elucidated.