Powder processing of ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene I. Powder characterization and compaction

Abstract

Powders of ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene from three suppliers were characterized for density, crystallinity, particle size, particle size distribution and particle morphology. The powders had molecular weights in the range 2‐5 million. Bulk powder behavior, compressibility, green strength and springback were evaluated and explained in terms of particle characteristics. The green densities of the powders were found to reach a plateau at pressures of about 100 MPa. These plateau density levels were found to depend upon powder, characteristics and to lie between 80 and 90 percent relative density. Green strength is shown to be a unique function of a densification parameter. Copyright © 1977 Society of Plastics Engineers, Inc.