Forming and characterization of glass fiber/calcite reinforced polyethylene and recycle PET hybrid composites

Various products are used as reinforcement elements to improve the properties of polymeric materials and to reduce the costs. In this study, it was aimed to enhance the mechanical properties of high density polyethylene (HDPE) and recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) polymer blend. In addition, contribution to the environmental protection by using recycled products is among the objectives of this study. Composites were prepared by adding various ratios of glass fiber (4%, 9%, and 13%) or calcite (7%, 17%, and 25%) into rPET/HDPE polymer blends. These composites were characterized by SEM images, MFI tests, DSC analysis and mechanical tests (tensile, bending and impact tests) and morphological, rheological, thermal and mechanical properties were examined. Results of the tests showed that the addition of 20% rPET into virgin HDPE in presence of 3% EGMA as compatibilizer improves the properties of material. However, SEM images pointed that sufficient adhesion between polymers could not be achieved. Glass fiber and calcite in low rates improved mechanical properties; however, the material properties were negatively affected by increasing rates. From this study it can be concluded that, it is possible to reduce cost and contribute recycling by adding rPET into virgin HDPE, calcite and glass fiber reinforcement within certain ratios improves the properties of rPET/HDPE polymer composites, and further research about compatibilizer type and amount is needed to increase the adhesion between respective components.