Electron Beam-Irradiated Cross-Linked Polyethylene Composites Containing Graphene Nanoplatelets for Thermally Conducting Pipes

In this study, some polyethylene/graphene nanoplatelet (PE-GE) composites are successfully prepared via a melt-blending process used for thermally conductive pipes. A comparison study on the effect of different fillers (i.e., graphene nanoplatelet and aluminum oxide) on thermal conductivity is conducted. The conductivity was over 2.5 W/m·K when 30 fractions of GE were involved. Furthermore, an electron beam irradiation technology is utilized to obtain the cross-linked composite materials with excellent comprehensive performance. The relationships between thermal conductivity and filler content, and irradiation dose and gel content have been carefully investigated. Finally, a polyethylene/graphene composite with 0.72 W/m·K is used to extrude a pipe, which exhibits some attractive properties for floor heating pipes.