Development of UV-Resistant Low-Density Polyethylene/ ZnO Nano Composites for Irrigation Pipe Applications

Mina M. Hassan; Seenaa I. Hussein

doi:10.30526/39.3.4185

Authors

Mina M. Hassan Department of Physics, College of Science, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq https://orcid.org/0009-0009-3110-0155
Seenaa I. Hussein Department of Physics, College of Science, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8232-5823

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30526/39.3.4185

Keywords:

LDPE, ZnO, AFM, SEM, Hardness, Impact strength , TGA, DSC

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles on the mechanical, thermal, and surface properties of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) nanocomposites under accelerated weatheringconditions, including UV exposure, elevated temperature, and humidity. LDPE samples were reinforced with varying ZnO concentrations (0.5%, 1%, and 2%) and compared to neat LDPE (D₀). Shore D hardness and Charpy impact tests showed enhanced mechanical stability in nanocomposites, with D₁ (0.5% ZnO) exhibiting improved hardness and impact resistance before and after exposure. Contact angle measurements indicated increased hydrophobicity in D₁ due to better dispersion of ZnO. At the same time, higher loading in D₂ led to a decrease in contact angle due to surface roughness and nanoparticle agglomeration. SEM analysis supported these findings, revealing smoother, defect-free surfaces in D₁ compared to D₀. Thermal analysis via TGA and DSC demonstrated that D₁ had superior thermal stability, with delayed degradation onset (432.8°C), reduced weight loss (89.18%), and higher enthalpy values (ΔH₂ = 136.7 J/g). In contrast, D₃ (2% ZnO) showed increased degradation and instability due to excessive nanoparticle aggregation. Overall, the incorporation of 0.5% ZnO proved optimal, balancing mechanical reinforcement, thermal durability, and surface performance, making it a promising candidate for outdoor applications such as irrigation piping.

Author Biographies

Mina M. Hassan, Department of Physics, College of Science, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq

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Seenaa I. Hussein, Department of Physics, College of Science, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq

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