Halloysite nanotubes reinforced ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene nanocomposite films with different filler concentration and modification

Halloysite nanotube/ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (HNT/UHMWPE) nanocomposite films were prepared by melt extrusion and thermal extension methods, and the morphology, microstructure, thermal properties, mechanical properties and wettability of these nanocomposite films were investigated with respect to the effects of HNT concentration and modification. HNTs were homogenously distributed and formed self entangled network structures in the UHMWPE matrix. The incorporation of HNT obviously accelerates the crystallization and enhances the thermal stability, mechanical strength and wettability of UHMWPE. However, after HNT concentration exceeds a critical value, the crystallinity and mechanical strength of UHMWPE decrease due to the restriction of HNT obstacles and the existence of large HNT agglomerates. Surface modification of HNT is a good method to further improve the crystallization, thermal stability and mechanical property of UHMWPE nanocomposites, with reduction of nanotube aggregation and strengthening of interfacial bonding between nanotubes and matrix.