Colorating and mechanical performance of low-density polyethylene (LDPE)/dye-loaded shell powder (DPSP) composites

Filling and colorating are two important procedures in the polymer production. In this work, a bio-filler dye-loaded shell powder (DPSP) was prepared at first and then its filling and colorating effects on low density polyethylene (LDPE) polymer were investigated. SEM analysis showed the good dispersion of DPSP and strong interfacial adhesion. Mechanical property studies indicated that the incorporation of DPSP had an excellent filling effect at lower loading rate. Uniform color distribution in the specimens was also obtained at the premise of improving the mechanical performance of LDPE polymer. Vicat softening temperature tests indicated that the incorporation of DPSP could enhance the heat resistance of the composites. The optimal additive amount of DPSP was determined as 10 wt.% with a good balance between toughness and stiffness of LDPE composites.