Effective Dissolution of UHMWPE in HDPE Improved by High Temperature Melting and Subsequent Shear

A simple and effective way was expected to improve the blending of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) in high-density polyethylene (HDPE) matrix. HDPE/UHMWPE blends were subjected to high temperature melting (HTM) at 280 degrees C for up to 10 h, followed by shear at 175 degrees C. These results were examined by scanning electron microscopy, polarized optical microscopy, and melt rheological behavior. UHMWPE particle was swelled partially during HTM, and this swollen region could be peeled from the particle by the subsequent shear, which resulted in more dissolution of UHMWPE in HDPE matrix. These results were also validated by the rheological behavior. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:270-276, 2015. (c) 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers