Linear Low-density Polyethylene Research Articles

Optimizing the ratio of coomassie and methylene blue dyes for a cost-effective and rapid staining of PET, PVC, PP, PS, LLDPE, LDPE, and HDPE

The ubiquitous presence of plastic brought on by the extensive use of plastic products calls for efficient and rapid plastic detection methods to detect and evaluate pollution. The commonly used Nile red dye takes many hours and is expensive while also not equally efficient across all the common plastic waste. To address this, we investigated the staining efficiency and optimized the ratio of a combined Coomassie brilliant blue and Methylene blue dye. In the optimisation process, Methanol-based Coomassie and Methylene blue dyes effectively stained the Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), Polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PS), Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE), Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), and Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) plastics without compromising the plastic's integrity. Image analysis showed a generally better staining efficacy compared to Nile red. Through systematic experimentation, we identified specific optimal ratios of Coomassie (C) brilliant blue: Methylene (M) blue for various plastics: 5:5 (mass) for PVC, 7:3 (mass) for PET, and 8:2 (mass) for PP, LDPE, and HDPE. Additionally, the ratio of 10:0 (mass) was found suitable for PS and LLDPE. Given the cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and accessibility of the blue dyes in labs, the optimized ratio of the blue dyes makes it suitable for large-scale plastic staining across the six tested types of plastic, replacing Nile red.

Tribo-mechanical and structural characterizations of LLDPE matrix bio-composite reinforced with almond shell micro-particles: effects of the processing methodology

Abstract The objective of this research work is to examine the effect of mixing operation in the reinforcement of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) with almond shell powder (ASP). Two groups of bio-composites mixed in solid state and melt extrusion state were developed by the standard thermo compression molding process. For each group of bio-composites developed, the mass percentage of ASP was varied from 5 % to 40 %. Tensile and friction tests and micro structural analyzes were carried out. The main results show that the addition of ASP particles: decreases the maximum tensile stress and increases the rigidity of the two types of bio-composites produced. A significant improvement was observed in terms of maximum stress and Young’s modulus of the bio-composites mixed in the molten state compared to those mixed in the solid state. Microscopic observations concluded that the melt-blended ASPs were better covered by the LLDPE matrix and the dispersion was successfully achieved. Friction tests have shown an improvement in tribological performance thanks to the addition of an optimal percentage of ASP equal to 20 % in the case of bio-composites mixed in the molten state. From this research work, it can be concluded that the LLDPE/ASP homogenization method influences the mechanical and tribological properties of bio-composites.

Effect of Polyethylene Pyrolysis Oil Hydrotreatment on the Pt/Al2O3 Catalyst: Experimental Characterization.

The dramatic increase in plastics production, coupled with a low recycling and recovery rate, has been a major challenge for sustainable practices and combating climate change. Hydrotreatment processing to upgrade fuel oils is a well-known process in the petroleum industry. In this work, we aim to investigate the catalyst properties before and after the hydrotreatment of pyrolysis oil derived from plastics, namely, linear low-density polyethylene, as no such report is available in the literature. Granular and powder forms of the Pt/Al2O3 catalyst were used in this study with characterization methods executed as such: transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and IR-RIS. XRD data show that the crystallinity of the catalyst support was unaffected by the hydrotreatment without any residues left, as the characteristic diffraction peaks were indicated for the crystalline phase of the support as 37.4, 39.8, 46.3, and 67.3°. In addition, the TGA experiments revealed that the carbon deposition on the spent catalyst was higher, as indicated by the higher weight loss (15.359%) compared to the fresh catalyst sample (11.43%). XPS analysis showed that the carbon deposition is more intense on the granular spent catalyst, as the intensity of the peaks is some 15 times greater than the peaks from the fresh catalyst. Also, compared to the observed peaks of the powder catalyst, less coke is formed. The band at 1624.05 cm-1 from the IR-RIS spectra was attributed to a shifted C=O band from the coke formation. The extension of these investigations using different catalysts to improve their characteristics and performance and to inhibit coke deposition will contribute to the incorporation of such processes in industry as well as the cost of fuels.

Manufacturing process and annealing influence on the dynamic mechanical properties and physical structure of LLDPE thin films

Thin films of Linear Low-Density Polyethylene are used for stratospheric balloon applications. They undergo tensile mechanical stress on a wide range of temperatures [-95; 55]°C. The aim of this study is to compare the influence of blown film and double-bubble manufacturing processes on the crystalline phase and mechanical properties of the films through their operating temperatures (flight, storage, and transportation temperatures). Dynamic Mechanical Analysis and Differential Scanning Calorimetry have been used to monitor the dynamic mechanical properties in tension mode and the crystalline phase of the films respectively. The films mechanical properties are dependent on their manufacturing process. The double-bubble process allows isotropic tensile mechanical properties regarding stretching direction, whereas the blown film process favors only transversal direction. To simulate different storage conditions, annealing has been performed. The influence of annealing on the tensile mechanical properties of the films depends mainly on the internal stress stored during manufacturing. The double-bubble process produces a biaxially stretched film with a higher stretching ratio than blown films. The dissipated internal stress can be associated with thermal shrinkage and goes up to 10 % for the biaxially stretched film. The more internal stress is stored, the more E′ and E″ increases. Annealing also favors the formation of a secondary crystalline phase that is dependent on annealing temperature and time, and exhibits αc relaxation. After annealing, the amorphous phase is less stretched, and the crystalline phase keeps its orientation.

Mechanical recycling of biobased polyethylene-agave fiber composites

Biobased polymers have emerged as a promising alternative to petroleum-based polymers in terms of lower environmental impact. However, to improve their carbon footprint, it is important to study strategies, such as recycling, extending the useful life of these biopolymers, and mitigate their higher costs compared to petroleum-based polymers. Adding agro-industrial wastes as fillers or reinforcements is another option to reduce the cost and increase the biobased content to produce composites. This study aimed to evaluate the addition of agave fibers to biobased linear low-density polyethylene (bio-LLDPE) and their effect on its reprocessing by extrusion, i.e., close-loop mechanical recycling. The results revealed that it was possible to reprocess the bio-LLDPE alone as limited changes in their physical properties were observed up to 34 cycles. However, for the composites, the viscosity changed in the first eight cycles mainly due to fiber break-up (lower aspect ratio). The dimensions of the agave fibers are modified by reprocessing. In the initial 8 cycles, there is a notable decrease in fiber dimensions, affecting the tensile, flexural, and impact properties of the composites. The water uptake was found to decrease with each cycle due to better fiber dispersion and the reduction of interfacial voids/defects. Nevertheless, the color of the bio-LLDPE and its composites showed significant changes by reprocessing, which is associated with thermal and oxidation degradation. Despite minor property losses, the study reveals that bio-LLDPE/agave fiber composites exhibit a commendable level of sustainability. This characteristic enables their extended reuse and reprocessing over a prolonged duration.

Effect of blend composition on the adhesion strength of EVA‐g‐MA/LLDPE‐g‐MA films to epoxy substrates

AbstractHeat shrink sleeves (HSS) are multilayer polymers that provide corrosion resistance for welding joints of steel pipes. Within the HSS structure, the adhesive layer is a blend of components, such as ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE). In this study, a systematic approach was employed to investigate the effect of the rheology and blend composition of the maleic anhydride‐modified EVA and maleic anhydride‐modified LLDPE (EVA‐g‐MA/LLDPE‐g‐MA) adhesive layer, prepared by melt processing, on its adhesion properties. Various characterization techniques were employed to investigate the local morphology of the prepared blends at different zones. Peel strength tests were used to characterize the adhesion strength of the prepared adhesives. Our findings demonstrate that the local distribution of EVA‐g‐MA within LLDPE‐g‐MA plays a crucial role in the adhesion strength of the adhesive. The results show that the adhesion strength enhanced by nearly 45% as the composition of EVA‐g‐MA at the surface went up by 20%, shifting the failure location from the epoxy/adhesive interface to the bulk of the adhesive layer. Our hypothesis of the decrease of EVA‐g‐MA intrachain bonding and increase in the EVA‐g‐MA free chain amount in the presence of LLDPE‐g‐MA to improve the adhesion properties was corroborated through our calorimetry results where the relative EVA‐g‐MA crystallinity decreased as LLDPE‐g‐MA was introduced to the blend. The findings of our study highlight the importance of rheological behavior and blend composition in obtaining optimized performance of adhesives within the HSS structure.Highlights Compression molding of EVA‐g‐MA/LLDPE‐g‐MA induces a layered morphology. Local distribution EVA‐g‐MA/LLDPE‐g‐MA components influence their adhesion. EVA‐g‐MA at the interface improves the adhesion of EVA‐g‐MA/LLDPE‐g‐MA. LLDPE‐g‐MA suppresses the EVA‐g‐MA crystallinity. EVA‐g‐MA/LLDPE‐g‐MA composition affects adhesion at different temperatures.

Enhancing electrical characteristics and electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness in thermoplastic elastomeric polymer blends by utilizing the selective distribution of conductive black

The selective distribution of filler within polymer blends presents a compelling advantage, notably manifesting as a reduced percolation threshold when compared to an individual polymer matrix with a random filler dispersion. In this context, a thermoplastic elastomeric (TPE) blend comprising ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM) and linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), denoted as EL, has been meticulously formulated. The incorporation of varying amounts of conductive carbon black (Vulcan XC 72; VCB) into this TPE matrix has been achieved through conventional melt blending, yielding a composite material with exceptional electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness of -27.80 dB at 50 phr (parts per hundred rubber). This success is credited to the creation of a linked structure resulting from a dual-step percolation process. The selective distribution of carbon black (CB) throughout the TPE mixture results in a decreased critical concentration for connectivity and enhanced electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding performance. This advancement underscores the potential of EPDM-LLDPE-VCB (ELV) composites to safeguard against electromagnetic radiation. It paves the way for their utilization in various techno-commercial applications, where a balance of mechanical strength, thermal stability, and flexibility is crucial.Graphical

Development and study of lightweight recycled composite materials based on linear low-density polyethylene and W for radiation application

Composite materials based on a polymer matrix of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) and W were produced by thermal pressing. The content of W in the samples varied from 0 to 70 %. The recycling properties of LLDPE are demonstrated in this study, which significantly helped to reduce the defects. The microstructure of the composites consists of well-defined W grains covered by elastic LLDPE fibers. A homogeneous distribution of tungsten in the polymer matrix was observed for sample W70. The EDX analysis showed the presence of tungsten and carbon (from the polymer component). The XRD analysis confirms the increase in W content in the samples. The FTIR spectra of the composites showed an increase in the content of terminal methyl groups, a decrease in the molecular weight, and a decrease in the degree of crystallinity of the polyethylene matrix with an increase in the W content in the composite. The sample with 70 % W content has the highest effective density (2.61 g/cm3). The sample relative density ranges from 93.3 to 97.7 %. The porosity of LLDPE-W composites does not exceed 7 %. Gamma radiation shielding efficiency parameters such as LAC, HVL, and MFP were calculated using Phy-X/PSD. The radiation source was Co60, with an emission range of 0.8–2.5 MeV. As the gamma energy increases, it is observed that the values of all the parameters deteriorate. However, the sample with a maximum W content of 70 % has the best values of LAC, HVL, and MFP among the other samples.

Development and characterization of microwave‐processed linear low‐density polyethylene based sisal/jute hybrid laminates

AbstractNatural fiber‐reinforced composites are gaining significant popularity for their biodegradability and eco‐friendliness. Fiber modifications and hybridization have been used to address issues like hydrophilicity and fiber inhomogeneity. However, efficient manufacturing is still a challenge for natural fiber‐reinforced polymer composites. The present study explores the potential of microwave processing of hybrid laminates composed of sisal and jute fibers. The laminates, consisting of linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) as matrix and sisal and jute as reinforcement materials were subjected to microwave processing at specific power, time, frequency, and loads. Four types of laminates with different stacking sequences: sisal‐sisal‐sisal (SSS), sisal‐jute‐sisal (SJS), jute‐sisal‐jute (JSJ), and jute‐jute‐jute (JJJ) were developed. The developed composites showed ~3% void content, with the SJS and JSJ composite having the least and highest void content, respectively. The SJS composite showed the highest tensile and flexural strength of 15.27 and 20.40 MPa, respectively, out of all the configurations and an improvement of 42% and 85% over pure LLDPE. Hybrid composites having high‐strength fibers in the skin layer exhibited superior mechanical properties. Microscopic examination of the fractured specimens revealed that fiber pull‐out and fiber breakage were the primary failure mechanisms of failure. Lateral failure due to delamination between matrix and fiber was predominant with grip and gauge regions as frequent failure points. The incorporation of sisal and jute fiber reinforcement into the polymers doesn't change the thermal stability of the fabricated composites significantly. The above results show that microwave‐assisted processing is a promising method for producing natural fiber‐reinforced hybrid polymer composites.Highlights Development of hybrid laminates using microwave energy at 2.45 GHz. The mechanism of microwave‐based processing of polymer composites has been discussed. Effect of layering sequence on mechanical and thermal properties of the developed composite. Assessment of tensile strength with morphology, flexural strength and thermo‐gravimetric analysis.

Green Bionanocomposites of Poly(Lactic Acid) (PLA) and Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE): Fabrication and Properties

This study utilizes a polymer matrix made from a combination of Poly (Lactic Acid) (PLA) and Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE). The polymer matrix is then improved by adding a compatibilizer, Polyethylene-graft-maleic anhydride (PE-g-MA), a filler, Recycled Tyre Waste (RTW), and a nano-scale filler, Graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs). Examining how PE-g-MA, RTW, and GNPs influence the binary blend's (PLA/RTW) chemical and thermo-mechanical characteristics is the focus of this study. A twin-screw extruder is used for the melting and intercalating processes. The binary mixture consists of 5% PE-g-MA, five percent RTW, and 3% GNPs. The samples are then pelletized after being cooled to room temperature. Analysis and characterization of the pelletized samples thermal and chemical characteristics follow. After including a compatibilizer, filler, and nanofiller into the bionanocomposite, improved qualities are anticipated.

Formation of secondary microplastics during degradation of plastics originating from the MV X-Press Pearl maritime disaster

AbstractThe MV X-Press Pearl maritime incident had a profound impact on the marine and coastal ecosystems along the west coast of Sri Lanka. Considerable quantities of plastic pellets, specifically nurdles or pellets measuring less than 5 mm and estimated at 1680 tonnes, were released into the Indian Ocean. A notable portion of these plastic pellets/primary microplastics (MPs), has the potential to degrade into secondary MPs. The objective of this study was to investigate and understand the degradation process of plastic pellets into secondary MPs under the extreme conditions of fire and exposure to chemicals during the MV X-Press Pearl maritime disaster. Beach sand samples were collected from 40 locations along the affected west coast of Sri Lanka, at both mean sea level and the berm. An additional 20 samples were collected for a background study covering the entire coastline of Sri Lanka. The Wet Peroxide Oxidation (WPO) process was employed to separate microplastics, and observations of secondary MP quantities were recorded. Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectroscopic (FTIR) analysis was carried out to identify functional groups of MPs. The variance in average values of secondary MPs at mean sea level (large MPs (i.e. size > 0. 5 mm) = 33 ± 56 items per 1 mm2 and total MPs (i.e. observed through microscope under 40× magnification) = 61 ± 66 items per 1 mm2) and the berm (large = 61 ± 154 items per 1 mm2 and total MPs = 106 ± 165 items per 1 mm2) suggested significant dispersal of large quantities of MPs to other areas in the Indian Ocean with oceanic currents. The baseline average value of secondary total MPs in other coastal areas of the country was approximately 53 ± 66 items per 1 mm2. The positive correlation between large and total secondary MPs and plastic pellets pollution index indicates that a considerable amount of plastic pellets were degraded into secondary MPs within 6 to 8 days after the accident, under the influence of nitric acid and heat/fire. These secondary MPs are mainly composed of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), as identified by FTIR observations. Consequently, these lightweight polymers have the potential to spread across a wider region, posing a severe environmental threat on a global scale as a transoceanic marine pollutant.

Flexible, lightweight, high strength and high efficiently hierarchical Gd2O3/PE composites based on the UHMWPE fibers with self-reinforcing strategy for thermal neutron shielding

To tackle the challenge for materials in the fields such as deep space exploration with flexibility, light weight, high strength, and highly efficient neutron shielding properties, a novel organic-inorganic composites has been developed in this study. Based on ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers self-reinforcing linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) matrix method and hierarchical scattering and absorption strategy, a flexibly and light-weight multilayer structure has been designed with alternating gadolinium oxide (Gd2O3)/LLDPE layers and UHMWPE fiber layers by stacking hot-pressing to augment the mechanical properties and neutron shielding efficiency of the composites. Moreover, PE, including UHMWPE fibers and LLDPE matrix, and Gd2O3 has been utilized as neutron shielding element to enhance its neutron scattering and absorption capability via an abundance of hydrogen atoms and Gd element. The neutron shielding performance of the multilayer Gd2O3/UHMWPE/LLDPE composite, with a low density of ca. 1 g/cm3, has been verified by neutron shielding test and a simulation method of equivalent Gd areal density (EGdAD). As a result, an ca. 90.0% neutron shielding efficiency can be achieved with only 2 mm thickness of the composites (with 20 wt% Gd2O3), and an EGdAD value of 0.0489 g/cm3 is required to achieve 99% shielding efficiency. Moreover, the composites have a significant improvement in the tensile strength and modulus, with an average increase of 1000% (15.86 MPa–179.95 MPa) and 1238% (230.53 MPa–2787.55 MPa) compared to the Gd2O3/LLDPE composites, respectively. The comprehensive performance of our developed multilayer Gd2O3/UHMWPE/LLDPE composites is superior to previously reported results in the literatures. Therefore, it has great application prospect in the various fields like aerospace.

A commercially viable solution process to control long-chain branching in polyethylene.

In polyolefins, long-chain branching is introduced through an energy-intensive, high-pressure radical process to form low-density polyethylene (LDPE). In the current work, we demonstrated a ladder-like polyethylene architecture through solution polymerization of ethylene and less than 1 mole % of α,ω-dienes, using a dual-chain catalyst. The ladder-branching mechanism requires catalysts with two growing polymer chains on the same metal center, thus enchaining the diene without the requirement of a steady-state concentration of pendant vinyl groups. Molecular weight distributions lacking a high-molecular weight tail, distinctive Mark-Houwink signatures, nuclear magnetic resonance characterization, and shear and extensional rheology consistent with highly branched polyethylene architectures are described. This approach represents an industrially viable solution-polymerization process capable of producing controlled long-chain branched polyethylene with rheological properties comparable to those of LDPE or its blends with linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE).

Electrical and Electro-Thermal Characteristics of (Carbon Black-Graphite)/LLDPE Composites with PTC Effect.

Electrical properties and electro-thermal behavior were studied in composites with carbon black (CB) or hybrid filler (CB and graphite) and a matrix of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). LLDPE, a (co)polymer with low crystallinity but with high structural regularity, was less studied for Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) applications, but it would be of interest due to its higher flexibility as compared to HDPE. Structural characterization by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed a segregated structure resulted from preparation by solid state powder mixing followed by hot molding. Direct current (DC) conductivity measurements resulted in a percolation threshold of around 8% (w) for CB/LLDPE composites. Increased filler concentrations resulted in increased alternating current (AC) conductivity, electrical permittivity and loss factor. Resistivity-temperature curves indicate the dependence of the temperature at which the maximum of resistivity is reached (Tmax(R)) on the filler concentration, as well as a differentiation in the Tmax(R) from the crystalline transition temperatures determined by DSC. These results suggest that crystallinity is not the only determining factor of the PTC mechanism in this case. This behavior is different from similar high-crystallinity composites, and suggests a specific interaction between the conductive filler and the polymeric matrix. A strong dependence of the PTC effect on filler concentration and an optimal concentration range between 14 and 19% were also found. Graphite has a beneficial effect not only on conductivity, but also on PTC behavior. Temperature vs. time experiments, revealed good temperature self-regulation properties and current and voltage limitation, and irrespective of the applied voltage and composite type, the equilibrium superficial temperature did not exceed 80 °C, while the equilibrium current traversing the sample dropped from 22 mA at 35 V to 5 mA at 150 V, proving the limitation capacities of these materials. The concentration effects revealed in this work could open new perspectives for the compositional control of both the self-limiting and interrupting properties for various low-temperature applications.

Fabrication of jelly like material from rLLDPE by a binary approach based on gamma irradiation and thermal processing for oil remediation

This study investigated the fabrication of a jelly-like material from recycled linear low-density polyethylene (rLLDPE) using gamma irradiation and thermal processing with silicone oil. rLLDPE was irradiated at 0, 50, 75, and 100 kGy before pyrolysis in silicone oil at 300 ℃ for 1 h to produce the jelly-like material (Ir-jLLDPE). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed interactions between rLLDPE and silicone oil in Ir-jLLDPE. Scanning electron microscopy revealed a rough, porous surface morphology with internal fibrillar structures. Thermogravimetric analysis showed thermal decomposition stages related to structural changes from irradiation and silicone oil integration. Batch adsorption experiments demonstrated the exceptional absorption capacities of Ir-jLLDPE for various organic solvents (0.1–24.7 g/g) and oils (0.6–19.8 g/g). Kinetic studies revealed absorption followed pseudo-first order at 50 and 75 kGy doses and pseudo-second order at 0 and 100 kGy doses. Isotherm modeling indicated the Freundlich model better described adsorption behavior. Over 10 adsorption cycles, Ir-jLLDPE exhibited excellent stability for pump oil at 50 and 75 kGy. This research highlights the promise of gamma-irradiated, thermally processed rLLDPE materials for applications in oil spill remediation, organic contaminant removal, and environmental sustainability. The novel approach of combining radiation and thermal processing can upcycle problematic rLLDPE plastic waste into an absorbent jelly material with potential environmental remediation applications.

CHARACTERIZATION OF PERIWINKLE SHELL ASH REINFORCED POLYMER COMPOSITE FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATION

The Periwinkle shell (Tympanotonus fuscatus) is one of the most abundant wastes in the Calabar coastal region of  Nigeria and needs to be put into proper use. The great need to shift attention towards waste materials with good mechanical properties to replace some materials used in the Automobile industries for Automobile products is paramount. This research focused on the Mechanical characterization of several composites developed from Periwinkle Shell Powder (PSP) as filler and four selected polymeric materials as the matrix.  Recycled high-density polyethylene (rHDPE), Recycled linear low-density polyethylene (rLLDPE), Recycled polystyrene (rPP) and recycled polystyrene (rPS) from waste dumps were selected as the Matrix for the composites. The crushed periwinkle shell  (CPSP) was subjected to a calcination (ashing) process. Ashed Periwinkle Shell Powder (APSP) was used to reinforce the rHDPE, rLLDPE, rPP and rPS at 0 to 40% filler loading. Mechanical tests carried out resulted in the 30%PSP and 70%PP composite having better tensile and flexural strengths, good flexural modulus, hardness, impact and moisture absorption results. Results obtained from the mechanical tests were comparable with values obtained from a tested existing vehicle bumper. The APSP-filled recycled polymer composites can serve as a suitable green alternative to existing vehicle bumpers.

Effect of microcarbon particle size and dispersion on the electrical conductivity of LLDPE-carbon composite

This experimental research aimed to develop a conductive polymer composite (CPC) material for electromechanical devices. The composite was made by incorporating conductive micro carbon derived from rice husks into a Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) polymer matrix using hot compaction. Variations of filler composition were used, with carbon loading of 50%, 45%, and 40%, and mesh sizes of #150, #200, and #250. The experimental results showed that particle size variations did not significantly affect composite density, but higher mesh selection improved filler dispersion within the matrix, resulting in higher electrical conductivity values. The optimal conductivity value of 9.43E-04 S/cm was achieved with a micro-carbon composition of 50% loading. However, decreasing micro carbon loading had a more significant impact on reducing electrical conductivity values.

Effect on thermal, mechanical, and biodegradable properties of plasma‐treated fish scale powder/linear low‐density polyethylene polymer composite films

AbstractIn the present work, we report the effect of low‐temperature plasma treatment on thermal, mechanical, and biodegradable properties of polymer composite blown films prepared from carp fish scale powder (CFSP) and linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE). The CFSP was melt compounded with LLDPE using a filament extruder to prepare 1, 2, and 3 wt.% of CFSP in LLDPE polymer composite filaments. These filaments were further pelletized and extruded into blown films. The blown films extruded with 1, 2, and 3 wt.% of CFSP in LLDPE were tested for thermal and mechanical properties. It was observed that the tensile strength decreased with the increased loading content of CFSP, and 1% CFSP/LLDPE exhibited the highest tensile strength. To study the effect of low‐temperature plasma treatment, 1% CFSP/LLDP polymer composite with high tensile strength was plasma treated with O2 and SF6 gas before blow film extrusion. The 1% CFSP/LLDPE/SF6‐extruded blown films showed increased thermal decomposition, crystallinity, tensile strength, and modulus. This may be due to the effect of crosslinking by the plasma treatment. The maximum thermal decomposition rate, crystallinity %, tensile strength, and modulus obtained for 1% CFSP/LLDPE/SF6 film were 500.02°C, 35.79, 6.32 MPa, and 0.023 GPa, respectively. Furthermore, the biodegradability study on CFSP/LLDPE films buried in natural soil for 90 days was analyzed using x‐ray fluorescence. The study showed an increase in phosphorus and calcium mass percent in the soil. This is due to the decomposition of the hydroxyapatite present in the CFSP/LLDPE biocomposite.

Thermal conversion of irradiated LLDPE waste into sustainable sponge-like compounds: a novel approach for efficient trace-level oil–water removal

The newest method for recycling waste linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) is the thermo-catalytic degradation technique known as catalytic pyrolysis. Typically, it is limited by 500–800 °C high temperatures. Catalytic pyrolysis releases toxins and forms harmful carbonized char. The current study is based on exposing wasted LLDPE to different gamma irradiation doses and then pyrolysis in castor oil (150–300 °C). The output product of Ir-(rLLDPE) is turned into another compound with a new structural architecture (sponge-like). SEM analysis confirms conversion, showing sponge-like spicules and layers. Ir-(rLLDPE) is sponge-like with a soft, malleable, absorbent texture. The DSC demonstrates altered thermal properties, with a melting point at 121 °C splitting into two peaks (endothermic at 117 °C and exothermic at 160 °C). The exothermic peaks signify the curing process of the sponge-like material. Ir-(rLLDPE) is assessed as an adsorbent for aqueous oils and solvents. The study examines irradiation doses, pyrolysis temperature, and time on adsorbent capacity. The oil removal obeys the Langmuir isotherm with monolayer adsorption, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 24.75 g/g of waste oil and 43 g/g of 1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane. Squashing maintains adsorption after 20 reuses. Data shows sponges effectively clean marine oil spills and solvents.

Influence of LLDPE on the mechanical properties improvement of 3D printed POE/LLDPE blends

AbstractPolyolefins and polyolefin elastomers (POEs) are widely used in various applications due to their unique properties. However, their use in 3D printing has been limited due to challenges such as excessive softness, shrinkage, warpage, and poor mechanical properties. In this study, two strategies were employed to enhance the performance of POEs in 3D printing. First, POE was blended with 10%, 30%, and 50% percentages of linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) to improve the material's mechanical properties and printability. Second, a specialized printer called a pneumatic feeding fused granule fabrication (FGF) printer was used. This printer allows for the direct printing of material granules, eliminating the need for filaments and resolving filament‐related problems. To evaluate the quality of the printed parts, tensile tests, dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging were conducted. The printed parts showed desirable tensile properties (with approximately 3000% elongation at break and approximately 12 MPa tensile strength). Compression tests were also conducted on cubic structures with varied composition ratios and printing patterns such as grid, triangle, and honeycomb. The main purpose of this research was to explore the energy absorption capabilities of the printed blends. The results of our study showed that blending POE with LLDPE improved printability, tensile strength, energy absorption, and compressive properties. The blend with 50% LLDPE and honeycomb structure exhibited the best compressive and energy absorption properties.Highlights Blending of POE and LLDPE using melt mixing with three different blending ratios. Successful 3D printing with the fused granule fabrication technique. Investigating mechanical properties, microstructure, and thermal analysis. 125% increase in ultimate tensile strength by increasing LLDPE. Achieving the highest energy absorption for the 3D printed honeycomb structure.