General Information:

• Product Name: Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE)
• Classification: Thermoplastic polymer
• Molecular Weight: Typically 3 to 6 million g/mol, but can exceed 10 million g/mol

Typical Properties:

• Density: 0.930 – 0.935 g/cm³
• Tensile Strength: 20 – 40 MPa
• Elongation at Break: 200 – 350%
• Tensile Modulus: 600 – 700 MPa
• Hardness: Shore D 60-65
• Coefficient of Friction: Very low, 0.05 – 0.11 (dynamic against steel)
• Abrasion Resistance: Extremely high
• Continuous Use Temperature: -150°C to 90°C (-238°F to 194°F)
• Chemical Resistance: Resistant to most acids, alkalis, and solvents
• Dielectric Constant (1kHz): 2.3

Features and Benefits:

• Wear Resistance: Among the best of any thermoplastic, even exceeding certain metals.
• Low Friction: Offers very low resistance, making it suitable for sliding components.
• Impact Resistance: High capacity to absorb sudden stresses without deformation or breakage.
• Corrosion Resistance: Can withstand a wide range of chemicals and corrosive environments.
• FDA Compliant: Suitable for direct food contact applications.
• Lightweight: Has a low density compared to its strength.

Applications:

• Material Handling: Liners, chutes, and hopper applications.
• Medical: Used for artificial joints due to its wear resistance.
• Marine: Dock fenders, ropes for deep-sea applications.
• Textile: Loom picker components.
• Paper Processing: Doctor blades, forming tables.
• Food Processing: Wear plates, guide rails.

Processing Methods:

• Compression Moulding: Common method for creating sheets and profiles.
• Extrusion: Useful for rods, tubes, and profiles, but may be limited due to the material’s high molecular weight.
• Machining: Can be machined into precision parts, similar to working with very hardwood.

Environmental Impact and Recycling:

• UHMWPE is recyclable, but post-consumer recycling is relatively limited due to its long-lasting nature and specific recycling needs.
• Waste or scrap material from processing can be reground and reused.

Storage and Handling:

• Store UHMWPE in a cool, dry environment. It is inert and does not react with most substances.
• As with all polymers, avoid prolonged exposure to UV light which can degrade the material.

Safety Information:

• In its solid form, UHMWPE poses no specific hazards.
• During processing, care should be taken to prevent overheating which can result in off-gassing.