Development and Characterization of Graphite Nanoplate Reinforced Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene Based Nano-Composite Materials

In this study, graphite filled ultra high molecular weight polyethylene nano-composite materials were produced by dispersing 0, 0.02, 0.05, 0.1 and 0.15wt % graphite (Gr) and ultra high molecular weight polyethylene(UHMWPE) in ethanol. The thermal performances of UHMWPE and Gr filled composite materials were determined by thermogravimetric analysis. The chemical structure of UHMWPE and composite materials was investigated by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. Additionally; the effects of Gr on the tensile properties, surface roughness, density and hardness of polymer were investigated. According to these results, as the graphite is added, the maximum degradation temperatures of the composite materials are not affected much, and the modulus of elasticity and hardness increase and the surface roughness decreases. The tensile strength increased with the addition of Gr up to 0.1wt %, but decreased with the further increase of Gr weight fraction