Enhancing HDPE Properties: Impact of Nano-TiO₂ and Nano-SiO₂ Particles on Mechanical Properties and Wear Resistance

The present study aims to create hybrid nanocomposite pellets by blending nano-titanium oxide (TiO₂) and nano-silicon dioxide (SiO₂) with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) at different, yet equal, concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 wt%) using the twin-screw extrusion method. The proportions of TiO₂ and SiO₂ are balanced, with the polymer as the primary component. The test specimens for various analysis were then prepared using micro-injection molding. The microstructural analysis of the samples was carried out using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Microscopic analysis showed a uniformly dispersed TiO₂–SiO₂ particle within the HDPE, irrespective of their composition. The mechanical properties such as hardness, strength, and impact energy were carried out using a Shore-D hardness tester, universal testing machine (UTM) and Charpy impact testing machine, whereas the wear analysis was carried out using a pin-on-disk tribometer. The findings from the mechanical testing revealed that the composites with 3 wt% TiO₂–SiO₂ exhibited enhanced mechanical properties and increased wear resistance, attributed to the higher concentration of reinforcing particles effectively reducing mechanical deformation and friction. The wear test findings also revealed the wear rate and coefficient of friction for composites with 3wt% TiO₂–SiO₂ showed a steady state increment compared to other conditions.