Reinforcing and Flame-Retardant Effects of Halloysite Nanotubes on LLDPE

Abstract

Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) were used to compound with linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) to prepare composites with better mechanical properties and higher flame retardancy. The PE graft was used as interfacial modifier in the LLDPE/HNTs composites. HNTs were showed to be a promising reinforcing and flame retardant nano-filler for LLDPE. The mechanical properties and flame retardancy as well as thermal stability of the composites can be further enhanced by the addition of the graft copolymer. Morphological observation revealed that the graft copolymer could facilitate the dispersion of HNTs in LLDPE matrix and enhance the interfacial bonding.