Abstract: High-density polyethylene (PE-HD)/multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) composites are prepared through a friction stir processing method. The effect of traverse speeds on macro- and micro-structures and tensile strength of the composite was investigated. The results indicated that the composite layers exhibited a smooth surface without any defects. MWCNTs were uniformly dispersed in the matrix in a cloudy form. The lower traverse favors the separation and dispersion of MWCNTs in the matrix. The tensile strength exhibited a trend of increase at first and decrease afterwards with an increase of traverse speed, and a maximum value was achieved at the traverse speed of 30 mm/min.

Key words: friction stir processing, multiwalled carbon nanotube, polyethylene-based nanocomposite, microstructure, tensile strength