Mechanical properties of iron powder filled high density polyethylene composites

Mechanical properties of high density polyethylene (HDPE) and HDPE containing 5, 10 and 15 vol.% Fe polymer composites were investigated experimentally. Composite materials were prepared with a twin screw extruder and injection moulding. Microstructure of fracture surface, yield and tensile strength, % elongation, the modulus of elasticity, Izod impact strength (notched), and hardness (Shore D) were determined for each sample. It was found that iron particles had significant impact on the mechanical properties of HDPE. As compared to the mechanical properties of unfilled HDPE, Fe filled polymer composites showed lower yield and tensile strength, % elongation, and Izod impact strength, while the modulus of elasticity and hardness of the composites were higher than those of HDPE. Addition of 5 vol.% Fe reduced Izod impact strength and % elongation of HDPE about 40% and 90% respectively and increased the modulus of elasticity of HDPE about 31%.