Structure and mechanical properties of GR/UHMWPE nanocomposite ropes

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and graphene (GR) was melt compounded by reactive extrusion. Nanocomposite monofilaments were prepared by melt spinning through a co-rotating screw extruder and drawing at hot water. GR/UHMWPE nanocomposite ropes were twisted using nanocomposite monofilaments. A structure and mechanical properties of the GR/UHMWPE nanocomposite monofilaments and its ropes had been characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and mechanical test. Results showed that the monofilaments surface of monofilaments became rougher with introducing of GR nanosheets, which could be related to stacking of GR. The breaking load of GR/UHMWPE nanocomposite ropes was remarkably improved upon nanofiller addition, with the decrease of the elongation at break.