Materials Science Forum, Vol.437-4, 235-238, 2003
Rotational moulding of particulate reinforced polymeric shell structures
Rotational moulding is a well-known process for producing thin-wall plastic shell structures. However, research on incorporation of reinforcing materials during this manufacturing process is still in its early stage. In this study, glass beads of different shapes have been introduced to reinforce the rotomoulded medium density polyethylene. Simulated plate moulding and practical rotational moulding processes have both been employed. The results show that the uniform distribution of glass beads, reduction of cycle time and improvement of secant modulus can be achieved with reinforced polyethylene. Furthermore, incorporation of coupling agent modified spherical glass beads (SGB) can further improve the mechanical properties for the rotomoulded products.