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The composites of cross-linked polyethylene with enhanced thermal conductivity

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Abstract

This paper describes the composites of silane cross-linked polyethylene (PEXb) mixed with four different fillers dedicated to improving thermal conductivity, such as multi-walled carbon nanotubes, graphite, boron nitride, and mineral filler. Using the mathematical modeling, the concentration of each filler was estimated to reach the value of 0.675 W m−1 K−1 suitable for the usage PEXb in the production of geothermal pipes. From tested fillers, all improve the thermal conductivity of pure PEXb; however, above the required value, only 28 mass% of boron nitride (0.937 W m−1 K−1). It was associated with its perfect dispersion and the highest gel content achieved, also resulting in the highest flexural modulus. Graphite at 5 mass% and mineral filler at 35 mass% allowed the thermal conductivity to equal 0.622 W m−1 K−1 and 0.624 W m−1 K−1, respectively, with a simultaneous medium effect on the mechanical properties. Carbon nanotubes increased PEX's conductivity to a small extent, due to their occurrence as agglomerates.

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Acknowledgements

The European Union supported this work within the European Regional Development Fund under project no. POIR.01.01.01-00-0188/2 "Development of innovative geothermal systems based on new probes with increased heat exchange efficiency applicable in vertical ground heat exchangers" granted by the National Centre for Research and Development (Poland).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, Woloska Str. 141, 02-507, Warsaw, Poland

    Paulina Latko-Durałek, Kamila Sałasińska, Paulina Kozera, Magdalena Jurczyk-Kowalska, Karol Szlązak & Anna Boczkowska

  2. Institute of Heat Engineering, Faculty of Power and Aeronautical Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, Nowowiejska Str. 21/25, 00-665, Warsaw, Poland

    Michał Kubiś, Karol Pietrak & Piotr Łapka

  3. Institute of Natural Fibers and Medicinal Plants - National Research Institute, Kolejowa Str. 2, 62-064, Plewiska, Poland

    Szymon Rojewski

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  1. Paulina Latko-Durałek
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Latko-Durałek, P., Sałasińska, K., Kubiś, M. et al. The composites of cross-linked polyethylene with enhanced thermal conductivity. J Therm Anal Calorim (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10973-024-13000-2

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