Polyethylene-Ultra High Modulus Polyethylene Short Fibers Composites

Abstract

Composites based on chopped ultra high modulus polyethylene fibers (UHMPE) and low density polyethylene (LDPE) were prepared in the melt state. It is shown that the UHMPE fibers do not melt during the preparation operations, and an im portant enhancement of the mechanical properties is obtained as a function of fiber content and length. The efficiency of these fibers was found to be comparable to those of Kevlar® fibers, and higher than those of glass fibers. An important transcrystalline region has been observed for all the fibers, however, its effect on their efficiency as a reinforcing agent is questionable. It is also shown that UHMPE fibers can advantageously replace Kevlar® fibers in some particular applications.