Influence of filler addition on the mechanical properties of nylon-6 polymer

Abstract

In general addition compounds are added to polymers to design composite materials with improved properties and to lower the overall production cost. In this investigation, the influence of adding inorganic mineral fillers on the mechanical properties of nylon-6 is investigated. One or combination of more than one filler with different percentage by weight were added to nylon-6. Wollastonite and glass beads with weight percentage varying between 10 and 30wt.% were added to nylon-6. Samples of the composites were prepared by injection molding process. Uniaxial tensile and Izod impact tests were carried out. Tensile strength, elongation at break, modulus of elasticity and impact energy were obtained. The results showed that the tensile strength and modulus of elasticity of nylon-6 composite increases with the increase in filler weight ratio while the impact strength and maximum elongation decreases with the increase in filler weight ratio. The maximum improvement is recorded with the addition of 10-15 wt.% filler ratio.