The properties of Ultra High Molecular Mass Polyethylene are different from the two types of polyethylene mentioned above, basically due to its high molecular weight.
This makes it much more crystalline and denser, making it quite resistant to the point that it can replace applications of some metals such as stainless steel.
Physical properties
Among its physical properties, it is slightly denser than high density polyethylene, but a small change in this property causes totally different properties between the two. To such an extent that their applications are different. The main physical properties of ultra-high molecular mass polyethylene are as follows:
Main physical properties of UHMWPE
Mechanical properties
The most important property of Ultra High Molecular Mass Polyethylene is its abrasion resistance, which together with its impact resistance, are among the highest among plastics. In addition to its high abrasion resistance, this plastic maintains a self-lubricating surface with a low coefficient of friction, dynamic and static, which are significantly lower than those of steel and most plastics.
The main mechanical properties of Ultra High Molecular Mass Polyethylene are described in the following table where it can be observed that it is quite resistant and has a low friction coefficient.
Main mechanical properties of UHMWPE
The conventional Izod impact test has been modified to determine this property in the material, since the samples do not show fractures.
The abrasion resistance of this plastic is very high to such an extent that it is better than that of some metals, as can be seen in the following table, which is approximately 60% more resistant to abrasion than carbon steel.
Abrasion resistance of UHMWPE
