Effect of linear low density plyethylene on the physico‐mechanical properties of multiphase space domestic waste composites prepared by hot pressing

Abstract Typical space domestic waste (SWL‐10%, SWL‐25%, SWL‐40%, SWL‐50%) added with different proportions of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) was used as raw material to prepare high‐stability composite materials by heating and compression molding. The hot pressing of LLDPE and space waste not only effectively reduces volume, but also yields composite material with superior physical and mechanical properties. This study investigated the impact of hot pressing process on the stability of composites prepared from multiphase space domestic waste. The physical and mechanical properties of these compressed blocks were analyzed, while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were employed to characterize the composites' properties. Our results demonstrate that BSWL‐40% (hot pressing temperature (160 °C), LLDPE addition ratio (50%)) composite achieves a volume reduction rate as high as 96%, with an initial density increase by 16.1%. Furthermore, the compressive strength and impact strength of BSWL‐50% composites increased by 19% (6.85 MPa) and 71% (14.3 KJ/m 2 ). These improvements can be attributed to enhanced physical/mechanical interlocking structure at a temperature of 160 °C based on SEM analysis findings. Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy also confirmed the presence of ester bonds between LLDPE and space domestic waste materials. Highlights Solid‐plastic composites were successfully prepared by hot pressing. LLDPE particles were added to domestic waste for composite fabrication. The BSWL‐40% composite achieved a high volume reduction of 96%. The stability of the composite was judged by physical and mechanical properties. The BSWL‐50% composite exhibited superior mechanical properties.