Properties of iron powder filled high density polyethylene

HDPE/iron powder composites have been characterized from the point of view of mechanical, thermal and electrical properties. Results for iron powder c ontents varying between 0 and 24 % by volume are presented. Generally, the composites show poorer mechanical properties as compared with the unfilled polymer. The density and hardness of HDPE/iron composites are higher than t hose of HDPE. The incorporation of iron powder in HDPE increases the therma l diffusivity and conductivity and decreases the specific heat and the elec trical resistivity. The experimental data were interpreted using appropriat e theoretical models.