Study of physio-mechanical properties of high density polyethylene (HDPE) - palm kernel nut shell (Elaeis guineasis) composites

Abstract

The major objective of this work is to determine the physio-mechanical properties of the proposed polymer composite which is a combination of two distinct materials: HDPE and palm kernel nut shell particulate. The materials compounding and sample formation was done using Reliable Two Roll Mill Model 5183 and Carvers Hydraulic Hot Press. Two composite systems were fabricated. Tensile strength of the fabricated composites was tested using standard equipment in accordance to the ASTM standard specifications; Advanced Material Testing Machine, Resil Tensile-impactor and Quanta 200 Environmental Electron Scanning Microscope. Percentage water absorption of the composite was also investigated. The results obtained showed that tensile properties changed with the filler content. The tensile strength first increased with increase in filler content. At a higher filler load the tensile strength dropped. Composite hardness and % water absorption increased with increase in filler content. Environmental Scanning Electron Microscope (ESEM) showed good filler-matrix interaction. The results obtained showed matrix-filler compatibility especially for the sodium hydroxide treated filler.