Graphene oxide‐reinforced UHMWPE fishing monofilaments: Toward high strength and toughness

Abstract With aquaculture transitioning from nearshore to offshore and deep‐water environments, high‐strength and tough polyethylene fishing monofilaments have been developed to satisfy the operational requirements of modern fisheries. This study investigated the properties of graphene oxide (GO)‐modified ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) monofilaments. The results indicated that even a small amount of PE‐GO substantially enhanced the breaking strength and knot strength of the blend monofilaments. The influence of PE‐GO content on thermal degradation, crystallinity, and crystallite size was analyzed, and the fracture morphology was examined. Highlights Blend monofilaments combining high strength and toughness were developed. The incorporation of PE‐GO inhibited the crystallization of UHMWPE. The fracture morphology has changed due to the addition of GO nanoparticles.