Reinforcing of polyethylene with carbon nanofibers: an approach to improve CNF distribution via pre-coating of CNF surface by PE

Abstract

The article describes a method of the synthesis of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) and a technique for obtaining masterbatches, which are represented by CNFs with a layer of pre-synthesized polyethylene (PE) on their surface. Using scanning electron microscopy, it was shown that in-situ ethylene polymerization over the catalyst anchored on the CNF surface allow to evenly cover CNFs surface by PE. Pristine and pre-coated CNFs were introduced to commercial PE matrix. It has been found that the reinforcing of PE with CNFs leads to improved mechanical properties and two times higher resistance to abrasive wear. The application of the proposed approach makes it possible to reduce significantly the carbon filler’s effective concentration and distribute uniformly the filler throughout the composite.

Experimental and Simulation Study on Coproduction of Hydrogen and Carbon Nanomaterials by Catalytic Decomposition of Methane-Hydrogen Mixtures

“…Such carbon is considered as a valuable product, which is attractive for the improvement of physicochemical characteristics of various composite materials, including composites based on cement stone, concrete, different kinds of polymers, lubricants, etc. [22][23][24][25][26]. Therefore, the carbon nanomaterials, including carbon nanofibers (CNF), produced via the catalytic pyrolysis of hydrocarbon sources are highly demanded for their application in material sciences.…”