Electrical properties of UHMWPE/graphite nanoplatescomposites obtained by in-situ polymerization method

There are described nanocomposites based on ultra high molecular weight polyethylene and graphite nanoplates prepared by in-situ polymerization method. It is carried out a comprehensive study of electric properties ofthese composites, including direct current (dc) and alternating current (ac) properties. There is explored dependenceof the conductivity and dielectric permeability on fller concentration, temperature, deformation and frequencyof electric feld. These relationships are compared with those for composites based on other carbon fllersincluding both nanoscale (carbon nanotubes, carbon black) and micron-sized (graphite, schungite) fllers. Morespecifc electrical properties of investigated materials such as lower percolation threshold and higher dielectricpermittivity compared to those for composites based on other carbon fllers are attributed to the plate-like shapeof graphite nanoplates. These materials are distinguished also by their high electrical stability against temperatureand deformation. Therefore, it makes graphite nanoplates the most preferable conductive fller for some practicalapplications. Some possible application areas for UHMWPE/graphite nanoplates nanocomposites will be alsodiscussed. Polyolefns J (2017) 4: 1-12