This article discusses the possibilities of using radiation cross-linked high density polyethylene (HDPEx) acting as a filler in the original high density polyethylene (HDPE) matrix. The newly created composite is one of the possible answers to questions relating to the processing of radiation cross-linked thermoplastics. Radiation cross-linked networking is—nowadays, a commonly used technology that can significantly modify the properties of many types of thermoplastics. This paper describes the influence of the concentration of filler, in the form of grit or powder obtained by the grinding/milling of products/industrial waste from radiation cross-linked high density polyethylene (rHDPEx) on the mechanical and processing properties and the composite structure. It was determined that, by varying the concentration of the filler, it is possible to influence the mechanical behaviour of the composite. The mechanical properties of the new composite—measured at room temperature, are generally comparable or better than the same properties of the original thermoplastic. This creates very good assumptions for the effective and economically acceptable, processing of high density polyethylene (rHDPEx) waste. Its processability however, is limited; it can be processed by injection moulding up to 60 wt %.

The main advantages of Thermoplastic Polyester Elastomers (TPE-E) are their elastomer properties as well as their ability to be processed in the same way as thermoplastic polymers (e.g., injection moulding, compression moulding and extrusion). However, TPE-Es’ properties, mainly their mechanical properties and thermal characteristics, are not as good as those of elastomers. Because of this TPE-Es are often modified with the aim of improving their properties and extending their range of application. Radiation cross-linking using accelerated electron beams is one of the most effective ways to change virgin polymers’ properties significantly. Their electrical (that is to say permittivity and resistivity measurements), mechanical (that is, tensile and impact tensile tests), as well as surface (that is, nano-indentation) properties were measured on modified/cross-linked TPE-E specimens with and/or without a cross-linking agent at irradiation doses of 0, 33, 66, 99, 132, 165 and 198 kGy. The data acquired from these procedures show significant changes in the measured properties. The results of this study allow the possibility of determining the proper processing parameters and irradiation doses for the production of TPE-E products which leads to the enlargement of their application in practice.

Bonding is increasingly being used, and it is an ever-evolving method for creating unbreakable bonds. The strength of adhesive bonds determines, to a significant extent, the possible applications of this technology and is influenced by many factors. In addition to the type of adhesive used, the characteristics of the surface layers play a significant role; therefore, significant attention is paid to their adjustment and modification. Radiation crosslinking is one of the most important methods for modifying polymer properties. Currently, the most frequently used type of radiation for polymer crosslinking is beta minus (β⁻) radiation, which affects not only mechanical but also surface properties, chemical and temperature resistance, and surface layer characteristics of polymers. This study investigated the effect of β⁻ radiation on the surface layer properties of low-density polyethylene (LDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and polypropylene (PP) and the effects of surface-layer modification on the ultimate tensile strength of bonded joints. Based on the results, we concluded that β⁻ radiation significantly changes the properties of the tested surface layers, increases the surface energy, and improves the adhesiveness of bonds. Consequently, the final strength of the LDPE, HDPE, and PP bonds increases significantly.

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is a tough material, which is used for engineering purposes (e.g. covers of electronic and engine parts). On the other hand, styrene acrylonitrile (SAN) is a brittle transparent material with good optical properties, it is used for household items, such as bo...