Investigation of Mechanical Properties of Low-Density Polyethylene with Copper Nanoparticles

In this work, it is shown that the method of the in situ preparation of Cu/LLDPE by combining the formation of a composite and a nanodispersed phase in the viscous-flow state of a polymer makes it possible to achieve a uniform distribution of nanoparticles in the matrix and effectively regulate their mechanical and functional properties. The optimal concentration of Cu nanofiller was found to be 2-5%, allowing to achieve the best mechanical properties. Comparative analysis of the physical and mechanical properties of Cu/LLDPE nanocomposites obtained by various methods shows that the deformation and strength characteristics of the 3CuLLDPE nanocomposite obtained by the in situ method are improved in comparison with the properties of the 3CuLLDPE nanocomposite, prepared by ex situ method. The relationship between the filler content and the modulus of elasticity/tensile strength has been determined. With an increase in the filler content, the elastic modulus increases by 10-20%, and the tensile strength decreases by 30%. Elongation at break for samples with nanofiller content up to 3 wt. % higher than unfilled polymer