Influence of glass beads filler and orientation process on piezoelectric properties of polyethylene composites

Abstract

Abstract The effect of silica filler (in the form of glass beads) on polyethylene composite properties has been studied. Conditions for obtaining polyethylene-based composites in the extrusion process were developed. Two types of such composites were prepared: non-oriented and oriented in the uniaxial stretching process in a ratio of 3:1. The morphology, microstructure (including crystallinity degree), mechanical resistance, and thermal stability of the obtained composites containing 2.5–10% of the filler were analyzed by the scanning electron microscopy connected with energy dispersive X-ray analysis, X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetry methods, and tensile tests. In order to induce piezoelectric effect, the samples were charged with a direct current of 100 V/μm at 85 °C. The piezoelectric properties of the polyethylene composites were determined by the measurement of charge and voltage of current generated during action of stress up to 120 kPa. Piezoelectric coefficients, d 33 and g 33 , versus applied stress were determined and the stability of electrets stored during 2–5 months was tested too. The best piezoelectric properties were found for medium-density polyethylene composite containing 5% of glass beads.