Mechanical properties of polyamide matrix composites filled with titanates modified-coal

Purpose: This article presents the influence of the type of coal surface modifier on mechanical properties of polyamide 6 filled with hard pulverized coal. Design/methodology/approach: Before preparing compositions, pulverised filler surface was modified with coupling agents. The composite of polyamide 6 and modified hard coal was compounded using a twin-screw extruder. A blend was granulated and later test samples were performed on injection moulding machine. Afterwards, mechanical properties were evaluated. These properties have essential meaning for applications of new composites as structural materials. Findings: Tests demonstrated that modification of powdered hard coal surface with coupling agents didn’t have significant effect on mechanical properties of polyamide/hard coal composites. Research limitations/implications: Applied compounding procedure did not allow to achieve good compositions homogenisation. A new method is planned to be applied in future research. Simultaneously, it is necessary to investigate composites with other coupling agents which will improve filler’s adhesion to a polymer. Long-term test are also planned. Practical implications: Hard coal, cheap and widely available filler, used to modify thermoplastic polymers, enable to obtain new materials with attractive properties and many applications. Originality/value: Paper represents innovative polymer filler and methods to modify it.