Preparation and characterization of activated carbon/ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene composites

Abstract This research uses physical mixing and twin‐screw extrusion process to prepare biomass activated carbon (BAC)/ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) composite materials. The mechanical properties, micro‐morphology, and thermodynamic properties of the composite materials were explored. The experimental results show that the tensile strength of 65% activated carbon added to the composite material has changed from 22.93 to 97.65 MPa, which is an increase of 325.86%. According to the Scanning electron microscope (SEM) image, a schematic diagram of the internal combination of the composite material is made, the concept of a three‐dimensional network interpenetrating three‐dimensional structure is proposed, and the mechanism of tensile properties enhancement is explained. Obviously, as the carbon content increases, the storage modulus (E′) also increases, and the loss factor (tan δ) and glass transition temperature (Tg) also change. The ability of composite materials to resist pyrolysis has also been enhanced. The above results indicate that BAC as a filler of composite materials can improve various performances.