The effect of loading rates and particle geometry on compressive properties of polypropylene/zinc oxide nanocomposites: Experimental and numerical prediction

摘要: Compressive properties, of particulate filled polymer matrix composites, are affected (to a certain extent) by the geometry particles, as well loadingrates. Therefore, this article presents results on compressive properties polypropylene/zinc oxide nanocomposites across strain rates from 10 22 to 23 s 21 . The specimens were tested using Universal Testing Machine for static loading and conventional Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar apparatus dynamic loading. Results show that yield stress 2.5% flow stress, both PP/ZnO nanocomposites, showed positive increment with increasing rates. However, shows contradictory pattern, where it decreased PP/ZnO-white seal recorded higher rate sensitivity, dissipation energy, stiffness, strength than PP/ZnO-pharmaceutical, over wide range investigated. Interestingly, Eyring theory almost agreed experimental results. Overall, based numerical results, we do believe particle geometry, rates, has significant influence specimens. POLYM. COMPOS., 33:99–108, 2012. 2011 Society Plastics Engineers