High-density Polyethylene Research Articles

Root causes of post-consumer high-density polyethylene failing in new bottles

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is widely used in products such as bottles for cleaning products, in which Environmental Stress Cracking Resistance (ESCR) is required. This property is typically inferior in post-consumer recycled plastics (PCR), thus limiting their uptake in the rigid packaging industry. This study evaluated two PCR HDPE grades and the root causes of their low ESCR. Effects of sourcing the waste from detergent bottles (BPE) or milk bottles (UPE), Polypropylene (PP) contamination from bottle caps, and multiple recycling steps were all investigated. The findings revealed that ESCR is reduced by adding UPE, PP, and consecutive extrusion cycles. Unexpectedly, the presence of a high content of milk bottle grades in a given PCR hinders their uptake in detergent bottle production much more than the presence of PP caps, inferring that sorting based on bottle types instead of separating bottles and caps should be prioritized.

Holistic palak cultivation: standardizing media, nutrients in vertical A-frames for extended shelf life efficiency

The cultivation of green leafy vegetables is crucial for improving our nation’s nutritional security. Challenges like limited arable land and excessive fertilizer use have become significant concerns on cultivating in open field. To address these issues, vertical farming technology, with a focus on space optimization and hydroponic integration to manage fertilizer use, is gaining attention. This experiment aims to determine the best growing media and nutrient solutions for palak in an A-framed vertical unit. Three growing media were tested: coir pith (M0), Rockwool (M1), and a 1:1 mix of coir pith and vermiculite (M2). Various combinations of water-soluble fertilizers [Ca (NO3)2, MAP, and SOP] were used for each crop’s nutrient recipe preparation. Optimal yields were achieved when palak were grown in a coir pith and vermiculite mix with nutrient concentrations of 60:50:60 ppm. Despite high yields, green leafy vegetables face rapid spoilage and storage challenges. The study examined factors affecting post-harvest quality, including storage conditions (ambient at 35 ± 5°C, refrigerated at 5 ± 5°C), packing substrates (low-density polyethylene, high-density polyethylene covers), and gas compositions with modified atmosphere packaging. Results showed that refrigerated storage with low-density polyethylene packing and a gas composition of 6% O2, 5% CO2, and 89% N2 (G2) resulted in the least deterioration in physiological attributes and overall visual quality. This study highlights the potential of vertical farming technology, precise nutrient management, and advanced post-harvest techniques for sustainable production and preservation of green leafy vegetables to meet our nation’s nutritional security needs.

Elevating Recycling Standards: Global Requirements for Plastic Traceability and Quality Testing

Globally, we produced 489 million tonnes of plastic in 2023 and we recycled only 8.17%. This study navigates the landscape of recycling practices, highlighting the imperative to reevaluate and upgrade industry-standard protocols. The central focus of this study is on integrating more robust traceability criteria and advanced quality testing methodologies to improve recycled plastics with intrinsic value, particularly in anticipation of future market applications. The investigation examines the prevailing industry standard traceability and quality framework. It then assesses the applicability of those standards using technical datasheets for recycled high-density polyethylene resin grades. This study proposes a paradigm shift toward a more sophisticated analytical approach. This comprehensive framework aims to transcend traditional quality and traceability evaluation. This paper employs a mixed methodological approach, including a thematic analysis of relevant industry standard regulations and an in-depth literature review, to address the need for an operational framework for recycling quality. This study highlights that recycling quality depends on technical attributes determining functionality and application suitability. While some properties are measured, the conventional framework does not address the degradation level of recycled plastic. This study concludes with broader considerations, emphasising the need for a traceability model to disclose material history and composition. This study advocates an industry-wide upgrade in recycling standards, prioritising traceability and quality testing. The proposed enhancements in testing grids and the improved understanding of recycling quality collectively contribute to a holistic framework, unlocking the intrinsic value of recycled plastics for future market applications.

Microstructural design characteristics of high-density polyethylene for thick-walled pressure pipe applications

Advancements in process technology and structure-property relationship-based design of high-density polyethylene has led to development of high-performance bimodal polyethylene grades suitable for large diameter thick-walled pressure pipe applications. These high-density bimodal products have enhanced design life, high pressure rating and sag resistance for fabrication of large diameter thick-walled pipe. Achieving optimal balance of these performance properties require controlled microstructural characteristics. The design characteristics are intricately influenced by catalyst type and process technology employed in resin manufacturing. In this study, we systematically establish correlations between microstructural characteristics of seven commercially available bimodal PE resins, produced using dual slurry or gas phase reactors, and their most relevant performance properties. We conducted comprehensive microstructural characterization of all samples using GPC-IR (high-temperature gel permeation chromatography coupled with an infrared composition detector), 13C NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance), TREF (temperature rising elution fractionation) and DSC (differential scanning calorimetry) techniques. Additionally, we measured mechanical, thermal, and rheological properties, focusing on crystallization kinetics, density, slow crack growth resistance (PENT and strain hardening modulus SHM) and low-frequency shear rheology of these products. Comparisons were made between key properties of interest, including slow crack growth resistance and low-frequency rheology (relevant for sag resistance), and microstructural characteristics. Theoretical and empirical correlations based on phenomenological models were employed for this analysis. The detailed study contributes to determining the critical levels of short and long chain branching, as well as molecular weight distribution characteristics essential to produce bimodal PE-4710 certifiable high-density polyethylene resins with low sag resistance. These design principles may serve as a foundation for the efficient design of reactor recipes and post-reactor modification processes, contributing to the evolution of pressure pipe polyethylene resin development and paving the way for design of next-generation pressure pipe grades.

Vertical distribution of microplastics in urban farmland soils. A case of Mabibo Bonde la Mchicha farm, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

The rise of microplastics (MPs) is a global concern jeopardizing environmental safety. Initial studies have extensively concentrated on aquatic ecosystems, leaving their presence in terrestrial environments unknown. Thus, this study was carried out to investigate the vertical distribution of MPs in farmland soils of Mabibo Bonde la Mchicha Farm (MBMF), Dar es Salaam. 39 soil samples collected from MBMF were investigated using a Stereomicroscope and QATR-S FTIR. Results herein showed that MPs were found in all soil samples in different depths up to 15 cm deep, ranging from 4.8 to 82.2 items g-1 dry weight (DW). There was a statistically significant difference in MP abundance in depths between 0–5, 5–10 and 10–15 cm layers (P = 0.033) at ὰ = 0.05. The observations were revealed by the observed colors, in which white (36.5 %) was the most frequently observed, followed by blue (21.4 %), brown (20.2 %), black (12.8 %) and red (9 %). Fibers (49.7 %), fragments (32.9 %) and films (17.3 %) were the dominant shapes. Polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) were the dominant polymers observed constituting 33 % each, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) 11 %, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) 8 %, polyester (PES) 7 %, polyamide (PA) 7 % and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) 1 %. It can be inferred that PE and PP exhibited greater vertical mobility. However, PA and PVC were only observed in the topsoil layer. This study reveals MPs' occurrence and vertical transfer in urban farmland soils of MBMF in Dar es Salaam.

The Application of Geosynthetics in Tailings Storage Facilities: A General Review

This paper is a summary of many of the key findings on the application of geosynthetics in tailings storage facilities. Topics include the compressibility and permeability of tailings, the equations predicting leakage through circular and non-circular geomembrane holes, the effect of the subgrade permeability, and the effect of a lateral drainage system within tailings on leakage predictions. Two commonly encountered engineering problems relating to the piping through circular geomembrane holes and the opening width of non-circular defective geomembrane seams are given to demonstrate the potential application of leakage prediction equations. Meanwhile, issues related to the subgrade imperfection and the long-term performance of both high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and bituminous geomembranes in tailings storage applications are addressed. The research highlights that an appropriate HDPE geomembrane liner can be expected to perform very well for an extremely long time, limiting leakage and contaminant migration from the facility into the surrounding environment if the liner is well constructed on a suitable subgrade.

Co-pyrolysis of animal manure and plastic waste study using TG-FTIR analysis

In this paper, the co-pyrolysis of blends of animal manure (AM) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) waste was investigated using micro-thermal analysis techniques. Thermogravimetry coupled with Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy was used to study the process kinetics and potential synergistic effects during co-pyrolysis. Dynamic co-pyrolysis experiments of animal manure (AM) and polyethylene (PE) blends in proportions of (90:10 %) and (80:20 %) were conducted at heating rates of 5, 10, 15, and 20 °C/min under an N2 atmosphere. The process was analyzed and compared to the results obtained in the pyrolysis of pure components. AM and PE co-pyrolysis exhibited a synergic effect on the pyrolysis process, leading to a favorable change in the CPI pyrolysis initiation index. This was observed in the FTIR, shifting maximum devolatilization peaks by 14 °C towards lower temperatures and a lower activation energy of the main pyrolysis stage, with a decrease from 341.49±4.65 kJ/mol to 273.04±6.93 kJ/mol after the addition of 20 wt% PE to the blend. During co-pyrolysis, the main compounds observed in the FTIR absorption spectra were CO2, CO, CH4, NH3, and aromatic hydrocarbons from AM pyrolysis. Additionally, there was an increase in CH4 and short-chain hydrocarbons due to the PE pyrolysis.

Analysis of the Boss Structure of Type Ⅳ Composite Vessel for a High-Pressure Hydrogen Tube Trailer

Currently, large-volume type IV composite vessel tube trailers garner significant attention and development within the hydrogen energy storage and transportation industry due to their cost-effectiveness and practicality. This study aims to assess the static strength and sealing performance of the boss structure in order to optimize its design. Firstly, a model of the mouth structure of type IV vessels was constructed to analyze the stress distributions in the boss and liner. Subsequently, innovative boss and liner structures were developed based on the primary mouth structure to investigate the impact of geometric dimensions through finite element analysis. This study revealed that changes in geometrical dimensions led to significant alterations in the stresses of the plastic liner in comparison to metallic bosses. Building upon these findings, the structural safety and sealing performance of the boss and liner structure were further validated through finite element analysis. The outcomes of this research can serve as a reference for guiding the structural design of bosses and aiding in the development of hydrogen storage vessels.

Optimization Course of Titanium Nitride Nanofiller Loading in High-Density Polyethylene: Interpretation of Reinforcement Effects and Performance in Material Extrusion 3D Printing.

In this study, titanium nitride (TiN) was selected as an additive to a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) matrix material, and four different nanocomposites were created with TiN loadings of 2.0-8.0 wt. % and a 2 wt. % increase step between them. The mixtures were made, followed by the fabrication of the respective filaments (through a thermomechanical extrusion process) and 3D-printed specimens (using the material extrusion (MEX) technique). The manufactured specimens were subjected to mechanical, thermal, rheological, structural, and morphological testing. Their results were compared with those obtained after conducting the same assessments on unfilled HDPE samples, which were used as the control samples. The mechanical response of the samples improved when correlated with that of the unfilled HDPE. The tensile strength improved by 24.3%, and the flexural strength improved by 26.5% (composite with 6.0 wt. % TiN content). The dimensional deviation and porosity of the samples were assessed with micro-computed tomography and indicated great results for porosity improvement, achieved with 6.0 wt. % TiN content in the composite. TiN has proven to be an effective filler for HDPE polymers, enabling the manufacture of parts with improved mechanical properties and quality.

Design and Construction of an Anaerobic Digester for the Ingestion of Waste from the Cocoa Industry in Nigeria

The Anaerobic Digester designed and constructed for waste ingestion from the Nigerian cocoa industry aims to harness abundant renewable energy from crop residues like cocoa rinds and groundnuts. This study evaluates the biogas potential of these sources in contributing to the country's overall energy needs, emphasizing the imperative for environmental sustainability. Focusing on reducing fossil energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and minimizing environmental impact, the project advocates for a shift towards biogas for day-to-day energy requirements, presenting direct cost savings. The utilization of fossil fuel-derived energy is known to contribute to temperature increase, greenhouse gas emissions, noise pollution, and ground-level air pollution, all of which can be mitigated through biogas utilization. This initiative involves the design and construction of a 0.24m<sup>3</sup> pilot plastic fossil plant for biogas generation, aiming to "green" various applications, including domestic and industrial usage as well as transportation. The digester, constructed from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic, demonstrates leak-free operation, further supporting its potential for long-term sustainability. Results from a 28-day retention period show a cumulative biogas yield, with a daily assessment indicating a gas yield of 0.0496 m<sup>3</sup> on the 12th day. The study highlights the positive and negative influences of temperature inequality gradients ≥34°C≤38°C on biogas production. This comprehensive research contributes valuable insights for the sustainable management of waste and the utilization of biogas as a viable alternative energy source.

Microplastic pollution in beach sediments in the Dapoli coast, Maharashtra, the western peninsular region of India

In coastal ecosystems, microplastics (<5 mm plastic particles) are a common occurrence, presenting a pressing global concern, especially on beaches where increased human activity and inadequate waste management exacerbate the issue of plastic pollution. This research investigates the abundance and characteristics of microplastics at six tourist beaches along the western coast of Dapoli, Maharashtra. The sediment samples were collected and subjected to density separation, followed by microscopic observation and shape, size, color, and polymer characterization. The results revealed that microplastic particles ranged in size from 200 to 3000 µm (n=200 particles). The abundance was observed highest in Murud beach with 153 ± 26.8 items kg−1 dw, possibly attributed to increased tourist activity, whereas the lowest abundance of 91.1 ± 16.8 items kg−1 dw was observed in Kelshi beach, likely due to its lower visitor traffic and population density. The predominant shapes observed were fragments and transparent, black, and blue as the dominant colors. Additionally, most samples exhibited spectra resembling High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene, and Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). This baseline study urges awareness for reducing plastic waste and protecting coastal environments from microplastic pollution. Further research is needed to identify specific sources and understand the toxic effects on marine life, contributing to our knowledge of environmental threats posed by microplastics.

Impact testing of high-density polyethylene structure

High strain-rate testing of high-density polyethylene is the focus of the present work. This testing is accomplished by two types of experimental testing: uniaxial tensile testing using standard testing technique, and impact testing of a 3D structure with non-trivial geometry. Both the uniaxial tests and the impact tests were evaluated using a material model suited for rate-dependent inelasticity of polymers that has been developed. In the uniaxial tensile tests, a maximum strain-rate of about 28/s was attained. In the impact tests, strain-rates of the order of 100/s and beyond were predicted in the analyses. The impact tests were simulated and analysed by use of finite element simulations. Coupled Eulerian-Lagrangian (CEL) analyses were employed for some of the tests where there was an interaction between the compressed structure and air trapped inside it. Overall, the simulations were able to reproduce the outcome from the experiments well. In particular, the deformation scenarios in the impact tests for different loading situations could be reproduced.

Evaluation of cracking susceptibility of asphalt binders modified with recycled high-density polyethylene and polypropylene microplastics

The use of recycled plastics as modifiers for asphalt binder have gained attention in recent years. Studies have confirmed the enhancement in the rutting resistance of asphalt binder with the addition of these types of plastics, however there are controversies with regards to their long-term cracking performance. The long-term cracking performance of asphalt binder is directly influenced by their rheological properties. This study evaluated the fatigue performance of recycled High-Density Polyethylene (rHDPE) and recycled Polypropylene (rPP) modified asphalt binders using several rheological indices including the Superpave intermediate-temperature PG (G*sin δ), fatigue life (Nf), complex modulus (G*), phase angle (δ), the Glover-Rowe (G-R) parameter, the crossover temperature (Tδ=45°), the rheological index (R-value), the peak shear stress, failure strain and the yield energy, as well as a newly developed monotonic cracking index (MCI). Additionally, the influence of the process of mixing plastic with asphalt at high temperatures and shear rate on the cracking performance was also investigated. Results indicated that long term cracking performance were not consistent across all rheological indices. While Nf indicated improved overall cracking performance with the addition of rHDPE and rPP, G*sin δ, G-R parameter, R-value, Tδ=45°, and MCI indicated susceptibility to cracking with the addition of these recycled plastics.

Navigating a Microplastic Sea: How the Pacific Cupped Oyster (Magallana gigas) Respond to Microplastic Pollution in Lagoons.

Microplastic pollution poses an escalating concern, particularly in coastal lagoons rich in biodiversity. This study delved into the occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in Magallana gigas (formerly Crassostrea gigas) from the Orbetello and Varano coastal lagoons (Italy), also investigating the response of these filter-feeding organisms to various colors (P = pink; B = blue; W = white) of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) MP fragments. Oysters were exposed for 7 days under controlled conditions. Subsequently, the oysters underwent analysis for both MP presence and biochemical markers of oxidative stress. Diverse ingestion rates of HDPE were noted among oysters from the two lagoons, eliciting antioxidant responses and modifying baseline activity. The two-way ANOVA revealed the significant effects of treatment (control; HDPE_B; HDPE_P; HDPE_W), site, and the interaction between treatment and site on all biomarkers. Non-metric multidimensional scaling showed a divergent effect of HDPE color on biomarkers. Further investigation is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the influence of MP color, dose-dependent effects, and the long-term impacts of exposure. Comprehending these intricacies is imperative for devising effective strategies to mitigate plastic pollution and safeguard marine health.

The effects of methylparaben exposure on biofilm tolerance to chlorine disinfection

Parabens are emerging contaminants that have been detected in drinking water. Their presence in DW distribution systems (DWDS) can alter bacterial behaviour, characteristics, and structure, which may compromise DW disinfection. This work provides insights into the impact of methylparaben (MP) on the tolerance to chlorine disinfection and antibiotics from dual-species biofilms formed by Acinetobacter calcoaceticus and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia isolated from DW and grown on high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polypropylene (PPL). Results showed that dual-species biofilms grown on PPL were more tolerant to chlorine disinfection, expressing a decrease of over 50 % in logarithmic reduction values of culturable cells in relation to non-exposed biofilms. However, bacterial tolerance to antibiotics was not affected by MP presence. Although MP-exposed dual-species biofilms grown on HDPE and PPL were metabolically more active than non-exposed counterparts, HDPE seems to be the material with lower impact on DW risk management and disinfection, if MP is present. Overall, results suggest that MP presence in DW may compromise chlorine disinfection, and consequently affect DW quality and stability, raising potential public health issues.

Axial compression test on strengthening concrete cylinders by Fe-SMA/FRP-HDPE tube and rubber concrete cladding layer

This paper proposed a new method to strengthen and repair concrete columns, which combined active and passive confinement. The method involved the use of iron-based shape memory alloy (Fe-SMA) strips to quickly exert active confinement to these columns, followed by the use of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) tubes as external passive confinement to improve the load-bearing capacity, durability, and ductility of concrete columns. Rubber concrete that performs high energy consumption and certain strength was used as the cladding layer to improve the impact resistance of the concrete column. This paper explored the effect of this method on the bearing capacity performance of concrete columns through axial compression tests and set three test variables, including different net-spacing of Fe-SMA, different FRP wrapping forms, and different FRP layers. The test outcomes showed that all three test variables obviously improved the load-bearing capacity and ductility of concrete columns, peculiarly when applying active confinement. Eventually, this paper proposed a theoretical model to predict the peak compressive strength of the specimen, which can provide a reference for designing this active-passive confinement strengthening method.

Effects of incorporating cellulose fibers from Yucca treculeana L. on the thermal characteristics of green composites based on high-density poly-ethylene: An eco-friendly material for cleaner production

This work has developed advanced technical applications in clean production based on a biocomposite high-density polyethylene (HDPE) reinforced cellulosic Yucca treculeana L. fibers (YTFs) from agriculture waste leaves. Once the extraction was complete, the fibers were chemically treated with a low concentration (3% for 4 h) of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) to remove impurities from their surface and increase their adhesion capacity. Furthermore, this work aimed to understand how adding YTFs (10%, 20%, and 30%) influences the dynamic properties of the polymer-based clean production biocomposites. The impact of the additions on the damping behavior in terms of loss modulus (E″), storage modulus (E′), glass transition temperature (Tg), and loss factor (tanδ) of YTFs/HDPE biocomposites was evaluated at a frequency of 1 Hz using the dynamic mechanical analysis. In particular. According to the results, E′ is significantly improved by adding YTFs. Furthermore, to reach a Tg of about 80 °C, YF30/HDPE offers a tanδ of 0.164, an E′ of 2491 MPa, and an E″ of 223 MPa. Scanning electron microscope images reveal a fiber-polymer interface that adheres firmly to the HDPE matrix. This study highlights the promising potential of YF/HDPE biocomposites as sustainable and cost-effective replacements for conventional materials in diverse applications. Indeed, given its load-bearing capacity and recyclability, this type of biocomposites would be a wise choice for manufacturing automotive interior trim, sporting goods, and eco-friendly building materials. Further research and development could optimize the properties of these biocomposites and extend their use to various cleaner production industries.

Evaluation of the processing conditions on the production of expanded or plasticized wood plastic composite with cashew nutshell powder

Abstract In this work we investigate the influence of closed (“C”) or open (“O”) extrusion degassing, and low (5 MPa – “L”) or high (90 MPa – “H”) holding pressure during injection molding on the properties of wood-plastic composite (WPC) based on high-density polyethylene (HDPE) flakes compatibilized with 5 wt% maleic anhydride-modified polyethylene (MAPE), 5 wt% lubricant (Struktol® TPW 113), and 40 wt% cashew nutshell powder (CNSP). Two reference compounds were extruded with closed degassing and injected at 90 MPa of holding pressure: (1) HDPE flakes extruded with 5 wt% MAPE and 5 wt% Struktol® TPW 113 (HDPEad_C-H) and (2) HDPE flakes previously melt mixed in an internal mixer with 5 wt% CNSL (HDPEr/5CNSL) and then extruded with the same additive content (HDPEad/5CNSL_C-H). At 90 MPa holding pressure, the extract content of WPC slightly increased and CNSL acted as a lubricant and poor plasticizing agent, reducing the crystallinity and density of the additivated matrix (HDPEad_C-H), increasing the flow rate without significantly changing the tensile strength. On the other hand, low holding pressure (5 MPa) favored the volatilization and expansion of the residual CNSL in the WPC, which acted as a blowing agent improving filling of the mold cavity and avoiding sink marks. Sample extruded with open degassing (atmospheric pressure) did not significantly change the extract content, but favored CNSL diffusion from particles to matrix, which subsequently during injection molding led to its entrapment at the interface, resulting in low adhesion, especially at high holding pressure that hinders CNSL expansion and vaporization. These findings contribute to understand the role of residual CNSL of CNSP in WPC properties and thus, to strengthen the plastics recycling chain and reduce carbon footprint.

Material extrusion: A promising tool for processing CoCrMo alloy with excellent wear resistance for biomedical applications

CoCrMo is a prevalent alloy in prosthesis manufacturing, characterized by its favorable biocompatibility, high resistance to corrosion and high wear-resistance. Material Extrusion (MEX) Additive Manufacturing allows control over microstructural homogeneity, minimizing material waste and enabling the selection of the geometry and size of the parts, key features in the biomedical field. Granule-based MEX has been recently developed and uses a granulated metal-polymer composite as starting material that is extruded to fabricate complex parts. The binder is eliminated and the final part is obtained after sintering. This research aims to investigate the potential of MEX as a promising route for fabricating CoCrMo parts for prosthesis manufacturing. A feedstock based on Paraffin Wax and High-Density Polyethylene as binder, was prepared with optimized solid loading, then screw based MEX printing parameters, in terms of printing temperature and extrusion flow, were explored to maximize density after sintering. The microstructure development was evaluated based on carbon content, shrinkage, density, grain size, and hardness and wear performance of the optimized samples investigated. Almost fully dense parts with a microstructure free of carbides and secondary phases has been developed, which enables an excellent wear response in terms of wear rate and wear coefficient.

Combined effect of montmorillonite Cloisite 30B and graphene nanoplatelets on high‐density polyethylene matrix under high strain rate dynamic compression

AbstractLaminated polymer composites are widely used in ballistic barriers where polyethylene can be applied. The mechanical properties of polymers can be improved with the addition of nanofillers. Therefore, this work evaluates the effect of the combination of montmorillonite Cloisite 30B (OMt) and graphene (Gr) on the dynamics compression properties obtained from a split‐Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) test for nanostructured maleinized high‐density polyethylene (HDPE). The nanofillers are incorporated into the polymeric matrix in its molten state, and their dispersion is evaluated through x‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy analyses. Thermal analysis, including differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis are performed. Additionally, the viscoelastic behavior of the materials is studied from the results of storage and loss modulus obtained by dynamic‐mechanical analysis. Under the SHPB test conditions, it is possible to evaluate the material stress–strain curve, identifying its yield point, compressive strength, and deformations to calculate the elastic stiffness and toughness of the material. The nanocomposite with 3% OMt and 0.75% Gr (wt.%) shows the highest average compressive strength and toughness values. Furthermore, this sample shows similar Tpeak temperature, improved crystallinity index, storage, and loss modulus, with similar glass transition temperature compared to the HDPE sample.