Linear Low Density Polyethylene Filled with Almond Shells Particles: Mechanical and Thermal Properties

The aim of this study is to investigate mechanical and thermal properties of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE)-based composite prepared with different almond shells powder (AS) contents. In this paper, AS (5, 10, 20, 30, and 40 wt%) filled LLDPE composites were prepared by compounding polyethylene and AS using a co-rotating twin screw extruder. All specimens for mechanical tests were molded using injection molding. 40 wt% AS filling into LLDPE has led to 100% increase in flexural strength of LLDPE. AS filling into LLDPE decreased the MFI value of LLDPE. AS filling into LLDPE at low weight fractions (5 and 10%) has not affected the un-notched impact strength of LLDPE. Thermal properties of the composite were studied by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). From TGA analysis, it is seen that degradation of AS within LLDPE started at about 200 degrees C