| Abstract: | In this study, the deformation behavior of high density polyethylene (HDPE) and its nanocomposites under uniaxial static and dynamic compression loadings were experimentally investigated. The nanofillers used were carbon nanofibers (CNF) with surface treatments and pristine graphite nanoplatelets (GNP) respectively. The dynamic tests were performed at the strain rates of 1 × 103, 4 × 103, and 7 × 103/s using the split Hopkinson pressure bar and the static tests were done at the strain rate of 1 × 10−2/s. In addition, microstructual examinations were performed to gain insights into the observed macroscopic behavior. It was observed that all the materials showed appreciable strain‐rate sensitivity. CNF‐based nanocomposites exhibited higher strength compared to that of the HDPE matrix material. However, the strength enhancement by GNP was very limited. The lower strength in HDPE/GNP relative to that of HDPE/CNF is likely due to the defect formation around the poor interface between polyethylene matrix and GNP reinforcement. Furthermore, the GNP with lamellate structure is also likely to create two‐dimensional interfacial cracks between the two phases, and hence weaken the strength and stability of the composites. It was also observed that for HDPE/CNF composites, different surface treatments did not seem to show significant effects on material strength. POLYM. COMPOS., 2013 © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers |
