Study on processing of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene/polypropylene blends

The processing of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) by the addition of polypropylene (PP) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) was investigated. The results show that the addition of PP improves the processability of UHMWPE more effectively than does the addition of HDPE. UHMWPE/PP blends can be effectively processed with a twin-roller and general single-screw extruder. In the extrusion of UHMWPE/PP blends, PP is enriched at the surface of the blend adjacent to the barrel wall, thus increasing the frictional force on the wall; the conveyance of the solid down to the channel can then be carried out. The melt pool against the active flight flank exerts a considerable pressure on the UHMWPE powder in the passive flight flank, which overcomes the hard compaction of UHMWPE. The PP penetrates into the gaps between the particles, acting as a heat-transfer agent and adhesive, thus enhancing the heat-transfer ability in the material. (C) 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.