Effect of Nanoparticles on Nanomechanical and Nanotribological Properties of Polyethylene Blend Films

Nanomechanical and nanotribological studies of polyethylene films containing a blend of high density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, and low density polyethylene, are carried out by means of nanoindentation and atomic force microscopy. The results of the polyblend films are compared with that of the individual components. Moreover, a TiO2 nanoparticle filled polyethylene blend film is studied as well as the effect of the nanoparticles on the nanomechanical and nanotribological properties. Additionally, wear mechanisms of various films are discussed. The improved nanomechanical and nanotribological properties of the nanoparticle filled polyethylene films render them attractive for various applications.