Thermo-mechanical properties of polyethylene composites filled with soapstone waste

In this study, soapstone waste originated from craftsmanship activities was used as an alternative filler (0-30 wt%) for a high-density polyethylene (PE) matrix. The aim of this paper is to understand the effect of the filler particles on crystallinity, thermal stability and thermo-mechanical properties of this newly developed composite material. Physico-chemical characterization was performed by x-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), oxidation induction time (OIT) and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMA) were performed to assess the effect of the filler on the themo-mechanical properties of PE. Thermal stability, measured by TGA, was enhanced, while OIT values reduced with filler content. A significant increase on the storage modulus of the composites (up to 148% in comparison with unfilled PE) was observed and this reinforcing effect was even more prominent at higher temperatures. XRD analysis revealed that the degree of crystallinity improved significantly with soapstone loading, which explains the substantial increase in stiffness observed. Increased crystallinity is also associated with higher strength, reduced residual stress, and better dimensional stability of end products, which can be particularly attractive for pressure pipe applications. Further characterization of high-density polyethylene composites filled with soapstone waste particles was performed. Physico-chemical characterizations were used to identify phases and functional groups in the material. The presence of hydroxyl groups from soapstone accelerated the consumption of stabilizers in the composites. However, the crystallinity of the polymer was enhanced with soapstone content, resulting in improved stiffness and thermal resistance.image