The effect of CNT grafting on the mechanical properties of the UHMWPE fiber/HDPE composite

In order to improve the mechanical properties of the ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber‐reinforced high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) composite, carbon nanotube (CNT) was grafted on the UHMWPE fiber. The UHMWPE fiber/HDPE composite was prepared by injection molding process, and the effects of CNT contents on the mechanical properties of composite materials were studied. The results show that the mass fraction of CNT will significantly affect the mechanical properties of the composite. When the CNT content is 4 wt%, the tensile strength, tensile modulus, flexural strength, flexural modulus, and impact strength of the UHMWPE fiber/treated CNT/HDPE composite increased compared to the UHMWPE fiber/CNT/HDPE composite and UHMWPE fiber/HDPE composite. When the CNT content is 4 wt%, the above‐mentioned performance is the best. Pull‐out and fracture, bridging effect, and crack deflection effect are the main mechanisms of CNTs in UHMWPE fiber/HDPE composites. This study provides new insights into the interface design of UHMWPE fiber/HDPE composites and paves the way for their further development.