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

Jerome Anokwu

doi:10.4236/jmmce.2019.76029

Abstract

In this work, the effect of Bentonite (Nanoclay) on the mechanical and mor-phology properties of HDPE/Nanoclay composite pipe material was investi-gated. This led to the development of a composite material with improved me-chanical properties. The HDPE/nanoclay composites were produced using an injection moulding machine at 200?C and rotor speed of 50 rpm. The compati-bilizer 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.

Highlights

Polyethylene (PE) pipes have become increasingly useful in the Oil and Gas industry and beginning to replace the traditional steel and iron pipes
These enhanced properties are due to the homogenous dispersion of nanoclay in HDPE matrix, which is evident from the structure that was evaluated using Scanning Election Microscopy (SEM)
Tensile Test Result The result of the tensile test performed on the Zwick Roell 2.5 KN testing machine were recorded and tabulated as shown below for each with variations in nanoclay filler composition

Summary

Introduction

Polyethylene (PE) pipes have become increasingly useful in the Oil and Gas industry and beginning to replace the traditional steel and iron pipes. This is due to the fact that polyethylene pipes offer such desirable features as good strength to weight ratio, abrasive resistance, high impact resistance, superior flexibility and reduced transportation and handling costs [1]. Conventional steel pipes used in petroleum industries are characterized by high cost of maintenance, corrosion and lower life cycles. The use of composite pipe is expected to greatly reduce the economic losses (due to corrosion and high cost of maintenance) and provides new investment opportunities

Methods

Results

Conclusion