Graphene and Polyethylene: A Strong Combination Towards Multifunctional Nanocomposites

The key to the preparation of polymer nanocomposites with new or improved properties resides in the homogeneous dispersion of the filler and in the efficient load transfer between components through strong filler/polymer interfacial interactions. This paper reports on the preparation of a series of nanocomposites of graphene and a polyolefin using different experimental approaches, with the final goal of obtaining multifunctional materials. A high-density polyethylene (HDPE) is employed as the matrix, while unmodified and chemically modified graphene fillers are used. By selecting the correct combination as well as the adequate preparation process, the nanocomposites display optimized thermal and mechanical properties, while also conferring good gas barrier properties and significant levels of electrical conductivity.

Behaviour of Horizontal Connections in Precast Walls under Lateral Loading

The design of connections is one of the most important considerations in the structural design of precast concrete structures. The purpose of the connection is to transfer loads, restrain movement and provide stability. Within one joint there may be several load transfers, each one must be designed for adequate strength and ductility and appropriately detailed. The proposed investigation aims to achieve efficient horizontal connections in precast walls with improved structural performance under various loads. HYSD reinforcement dowels are used as connectors. The arrangement of dowels is varied to achieve the efficient load transfer in the walls. The experimental investigation on three precast wall and one monolithic wall depicts that the precast wall exhibits high strength than the monolithic wall specimen and structural performance were found to be better than the monolithic wall specimen and also the efficient load transfer is achieved in the precast wall

Mechanical reinforcement of PBO fibers by dicarboxylic acid functionalized carbon nanotubes through in situ copolymerization

An optimized interfacial interaction in CNTs & PBO copolymer fibers was put into effect via dicarboxylic acids functionalized CNTs, which results in well dispersed, high reactivity and efficient load transfer between CNTs fillers and PBO matrix.