Effect of process parameters on the properties of LDPE/sepiolite composites

Abstract

Abstract This study examines the effect of processing parameters and reactive extrusion on the mechanical, thermal, morphological, and rheological properties of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and sepiolite composites (LDPE/sepiolite: 95/5 wt/wt) produced by in situ reactive extrusion in a twin-screw extruder. Using a design of experiments, the contribution of the factors reverse mixing elements (RE), maleic anhydride (MA), and dicumyl peroxide (DCP) was determined. The results showed that a better interaction between LDPE and sepiolite phases occurred when reactive extrusion was carried out, leading to a satisfactory balance between mechanical properties and thermal stability behavior. The rheology analysis revealed that a more pronounced solid-like behavior was achieved in the composite prepared by reactive extrusion and in the presence of the filler. The SEM micrographs showed the appearance of a network-like morphology in the composite processed in the presence of additives and sepiolite filler.

Keywords

• low density polyethylene
• sepiolite
• cross-linking
• reactive extrusion
• composites