Filled linear polyethylene compositions

Abstract

Abstract High‐density coordination polyethylene was blended with finely‐divided, rigid, low‐cost fillers. Compounding was accomplished by Banbury mixing. The purpose was to achieve cost reduction on a unit‐volume basis. For each of the five fillers investigated, the effects of filler concentration on the flexural stiffness, tensile strength, tear resistance, and melt index of the filled compound were investigated. These compounds were observed to exhibit a considerable increase in stiffness (threefold or more) over that of the polymer itself, at the expense of reductions in tensile yield point, tear resistance, and melt processibility. Little if any reinforcement appeared to exist in the compounds investigated.