Mechanical and thermal properties of zinc powder filled high density polyethylene composites

HDPE/zinc powder composites have been characterised from the point of view of mechanical and thermal properties. Results are presented for zinc powder contents varying between 0 and 20% by volume. Generally, the composites pr esent poorer mechanical properties as compared to the unfilled polymer. The density and hardness of HDPE/zinc composites are higher than that for the unfilled polymer. The thermal stability of the HDPE charged with zinc powde r is better that for the unfilled polymer. The incorporation of zinc powder in HDPE increases the thermal diffusivity and conductivity and decreases t he specific heat, The experimental data were interpreted using appropriate theoretical models. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.