Linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE)/zeolite microporous composite film

Abstract

The linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE)/zeolite composite using novel inorganic filler, zeolite, is prepared by a conventional compounding procedure using a twin-screw extruder. The observed scanning electron microscopic (SEM) morphology shows a good dispersion and adhesion of zeolite in the LLDPE matrix. The mechanical properties in terms of the Young’s modulus, the yield stress, the impact strength, and the elongation at break were enhanced with a successive increment of zeolite content up to 40 wt%. The X-ray diffraction measurement is of supportive for the improved mechanical properties and the complex melt viscosity is as well. Upon applying a certain level of strain on the composites, the dewetting, the air hole formation and its growth are characterized. The dewetting originates around the filler particles at low strain and induces elliptical micropores upon further stretching. The microporosity such as the aspect ratio, the number and the total area of the air holes is also characterized. Thus, the composites loaded 40 % zeolite and 300 % elongation may be applicable for breathable microporous films with improved modulus, impact and yield stress, elongation at break, microporosity and air hole properties.