Modification of Interfacial Interactions in Ceramic-Polymer Nanocomposites by Grafting: Morphology and Properties for Powder Injection Molding and Additive Manufacturing

The adhesion of the polymer to ceramic nanoparticles is a key aspect in the manufacturing of ceramic parts by additive manufacturing and injection molding, due to poor separation results in separation during processing. The purpose of this research is to investigate, by means of molecular dynamics simulations and experimental methods, the role of improved interfacial interactions by acrylic acid grafting-high density polyethylene on the adhesion to zirconia nanoparticles and on the composite properties. The polymer grafting results in high adhesion to the nanoparticles, increases the nanoparticles dispersion and improves the viscoelastic and mechanical properties required for additive manufacturing and injection molding.