Synthesis and Properties of a Composite Material Based on Polyethylene, Bismuth Oxide, and Boron Carbide

Inorganic Materials: Applied Research. 2026. Vol. 17. No. 2. P. 276–282.

Pavlenko V. I., Bondarenko G.G., Cherkashina N. I., Romanyuk D. S.

A composite material based on polyethylene, boron carbide (B4C), and bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) is
synthesized by the method of joint cryogenic milling of all components in liquid nitrogen environment followed
by pressing. The effect of cryogenic milling on the distribution of fillers in a composite is studied and
the prospects of using this method are assessed in comparison with traditional methods of mixing components
of polymer composites. The structure and properties of the finished composite are studied using scanning
electron microscopy (SEM), IR Fourier spectroscopy, and X-ray phase analysis. The strength characteristics
of a composite material with different filler contents are determined. It is shown that the optimal
composition is one containing 55 wt % of polyethylene, 5 wt % of boron carbide, and 40 wt % of bismuth
oxide, which provides a good balance of strength. Cryogenic milling results in a uniform distribution of filler
particles in the matrix and improves strength characteristics of the material. The composite is stable up to
250°C and has high thermal properties, which makes it to be promising for use in space constructions requiring
materials with high heat resistance and radiation protection.

Keywords: синтез, synthesis, свойства, properties, композитный материал, composite material