Preparation of UHMW-PE/LLDPE blend-based nanocomposites with carbon nanotubes by solution process

• Grant number: 14/20916-2
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: November 01, 2014
• End date: October 31, 2015
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Materials and Metallurgical Engineering - Nonmetallic Materials
• Principal Investigator: Fabio Roberto Passador
• Grantee: Bruna Cristina da Silva
• Host Institution: Instituto de Ciência e Tecnologia (ICT). Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP). Campus São José dos Campos. São José dos Campos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The development of lighter and more resistant advanced materials for high-impact applications is of great interest for defense and public safety. The use of polyethylene/carbon nanotubes nanocomposites with high thermal and mechanical properties and good processability with the possibility of obtaining products with complex geometries become a viable alternative for aerospace applications. However, due to the nonpolar nature and low interaction between the components, it is necessary to modify the surface of carbon nanotubes and incorporate compatibilizer agents in this system. The objective of this research project is the preparation of UHMW-PE/LLDPE blends-based nanocomposites with carbon nanotubes by solution method. The study is based on the effect of different contents of LLDPE, carbon nanotubes, and the surface modification of the nanotubes on the thermal and mechanical properties of the nanocomposites for high impact applications.