Optimization of Thermal and Rheological Properties of HDPE-Organoclay Composite Using Response Surface Methodology

Authors : Abdallah YASSİN, Ebru GÜNİSTER

Pages : 322-334

Doi:10.35378/gujs.861242

View : 16 | Download : 5

Publication Date : 2023-03-01

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :The processing parameters to disperse active filler within a polymer matrix to enhance the polymers’ properties should be selected carefully to achieve the best dispersion. In this research, Box-Behnken Design insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(BBD);, an experimental design for response surface methodology insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(RSM);, with three levels was used as a design of experiment insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(DOE); to analyze the effect of processing parameters on the thermal and rheological properties of high-density polyethylene-organoclay insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(HDPE-OC); composites prepared by adding organoclay insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(OC); to high density polyethylene insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(HDPE); using melt blending method. HDPE-OC composites were characterized morphologically by SEM and XRD, and thermally by DSC and TGA, and tested rheologically. Investigated factors were filler amount, mixing temperature and screw speed. The evaluated responses were melting temperature, degradation temperature, storage modulus, and complex viscosity of HDPE-OC composites. The effect of each factor on the responses was determined through an analysis of variance insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(ANOVA);. The obtained data was used to predict the responses by fitting into a second order equation with MINITAB software. Constructed models were verified using validation experiments therefore optimum melt blending processing parameters obtained as 1.5 wt.% of OC, mixing temperature of 183 °C, and screw speed of 77 rpm for HDPE-OC composites.
Keywords : HDPE, Organoclay, Polymer Composites, RSM, Thermal Properties