Polymeric Coatings Based on LDPE and Taurit: Preparation, Structure, and Mechanical Properties

Abstract

The article describes a preparation method and performance behavior of polymer composite systems with a matrix of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and a reinforcing agent of Taurit. Taurit (a kind of shungite) is an inexpensive, well-available, and environmentally friendly mineral that is compatible with many polymers. The composites have been prepared via extrusion blending, and their mechanical and protective properties have been studied. The performance of Taurit-containing materials has been compared with properties of composites with other commonly used fillers (e.g., carbon black, talc, aluminum oxide, and asbestos fibers), and Taurit has proved to be the most efficient reinforcement in this series. The results indicate that the obtained composites can be used as coatings of pipelines to protect them from corrosion and mechanical damage.