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Linear Low-Density Polyethylene Enriched with Graphene: Effects on Its Rotational Molding and Properties
Francisco Pereira de Araújo Júnior1, Enzo Erbisti Garcia1, Gerson Alberto Valencia Albitres1
1Instituto de Macromoléculas Professora Eloisa Mano, Centro de Tecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Avenida Horácio Macedo, 2030, Bloco J, Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro 21945-970, Brazil.
ACS Omega
|October 13, 2025
Summary
Adding graphene (GP) to linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) significantly reduces rotational molding energy consumption and enhances impact strength. Graphene improves thermal conductivity, aiding processing and material properties.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Engineering
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Graphene (GP) possesses exceptional thermal conductivity and properties suitable for various applications.
- Linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) is a widely used polymer in rotational molding.
- Investigating GP's influence on LLDPE processing and performance is crucial for advanced material development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of graphene addition on the rotational molding process of LLDPE.
- To characterize the changes in physical and thermal properties of LLDPE composites containing graphene.
- To explore the potential for energy savings and improved performance in graphene-reinforced LLDPE.
Main Methods:
- Rotational molding experiments were conducted using LLDPE enriched with graphene masterbatch at varying concentrations.
- Material characterization included drop dart impact tests, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), melt flow rate (MFR) analysis, rheological measurements, WAXD, Raman spectroscopy, and thermal conductivity assessment.
- Optimization of molding conditions involved determining internal peak air temperatures.
Main Results:
- Graphene addition led to significant energy savings during the rotational molding of LLDPE.
- Impact strength of the LLDPE composites was notably improved by the presence of graphene.
- Calorimetric measurements indicated a reduced degree of crystallinity in LLDPE with graphene, correlating with enhanced thermal conductivity and faster cooling rates.
- WAXD and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the presence of graphene even at low concentrations, without altering the overall rheological behavior.
Conclusions:
- Graphene incorporation enhances the thermal conductivity of LLDPE, enabling energy savings in rotational molding.
- The improved thermal properties contribute to increased impact strength and partial amorphization of the polymer matrix.
- Graphene is a promising additive for modifying LLDPE properties for advanced applications.
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