Neohexene graphitic nanoplatelets for reinforced low-density polyethylene

Abstract

As a new filler, neohexene graphitic nanoplatelets (NeHGNs), is prepared firstly by using ball milling with solid graphite and liquid neohexene. The characteristics of NeHGNs are confirmed using a variety of analytic techniques. Due to the exceptional dispersion in organic solvents (e.g. xylene) and the good affinity with low-density polyethylene (LDPE), the NeHGN/LDPE_X (NeHGNs content (X) = 0.5, 1, or 2) nanocomposites are made easily through a solution procedure. Thus, the NeHGNs play as a competent filler for LDPE due to its outstanding properties and a chemical affinity between neohexene-functional groups and LDPE. In result, the NeHGN/LDPE_X nanocomposites show significantly improved mechanical properties (i.e., tensile strength and Young's modulus) and thermal stability compared to the pure LDPE. Thus, considering excellent performances and competitive price, the NeHGNs are recognized as a new prospective reinforcing filler for a variety of polyolefins.