An Investigation on the Rheological Properties of Ultra-high Molecular Weight Polyethylene Single-polymer Composites

Abstract

Rheological behavior of Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene single-polymer composites (UHMWPE SPCs) was studied. UHMWPE cloth was used to prepare polyethylene single-polymer composites (PE SPCs). SPCs samples were prepared by imitating hot pressing process with a rotational rheometer. Rheological data was collected by the rheometer during the preparation of the material. Rheological responses such as the storage modulus and complex viscosity to a dynamic strain sweep, and linear viscoelastic (LVE) frequency sweep were achieved. The relationship between rheological properties of PE SPCs and temperature was discussed. The LVE range of the PE SPCs was extended with increasing temperature. Both storage modulus and complex viscosity of the PE SPCs were decreased with increasing temperature. The composites showed pseudoplastic shear thinning behavior. Reinforcement effect of fiber was more obvious in the low-frequency range than in the high-frequency range.