Multi-Scale Mechanical Property Investigation of HDPE-Based Composites Reinforced with Periwinkle Shell Powder and Cullet

Sekete, Maseala Camilla and Kabantiyok, Reuben Zakari and Oresegun, Olakunle Ibrahim and James, Mercy Kahywuani and Abiodun, Oluwafemi Dolapo and Ayinla, Kolade Abdulrahman (2025) Multi-Scale Mechanical Property Investigation of HDPE-Based Composites Reinforced with Periwinkle Shell Powder and Cullet. World Journal of Advanced Engineering Technology and Sciences, 16 (1). pp. 309-318. ISSN 2582-8266

This study investigates the effects of incorporating periwinkle shell powder (PSP) and cullet into high-density polyethene (HDPE) on its mechanical properties. The tensile strength, Young's modulus, hardness, and flexural strength of the HDPE composite samples were evaluated through various tests. The results showed that the addition of PSP and cullet to HDPE led to a significant increase in the Young's modulus of the composites. While there was only a slight increase in the tensile strength of the samples containing PSP and cullet, the hardness of the samples was remarkably increased, with sample D displaying the highest hardness value of 224. The flexural strength of the composites was not significantly affected, but specific compositions displayed increased flexural strength. The maximum improvements in the tensile strength and hardness value were achieved with the addition of 10% periwinkle shell powder and 20% cullet, respectively. The study concludes that incorporating PSP and cullet can significantly enhance the mechanical properties of HDPE, making it potentially valuable for various engineering applications.