Fracture behaviour of linear low density polyethylene – fumed silica nanocomposites

The role of fumed silica nanoparticles, having different surface area and surface treatments, on the fracture behaviour of a linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) matrix was investigated. Tensile tests under quasi-static and impact conditions evidenced beneficial effects on both the elastic modulus and the strain at yield. By the essential work of fracture approach, increments of both the initiation and the propagation components of the specific essential work of fracture terms were highlighted. Dilatometric measurements excluded the filler–matrix debonding as a possible toughening mechanism, while a progressive alignment of silica aggregates was detected by TEM observations.

► Role of silica nanoparticles on the fracture behaviour of linear-low-density polyethylene. ► Enhancements of the elastic modulus and of the stress at yield of nanocomposites. ► EWF approach shows improvements of the fracture properties of the nanocomposites. ► Filler–matrix debonding excluded as possible toughening mechanism for nanocomposites. ► Progressive alignment of silica aggregates on deformed specimens.