The effect of initial morphology on the mechanical properties of ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene

Studies of the physical and mechanical properties of melt crystallized ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene morphologies from melts with different thermal histories indicate that their properties depend on the degree of fusion of the powder particles during their processing and can be enhanced by heating the polymer above 220°C. The degree of cohesion of the powder particles and their initial morphology also have a significant effect on the deformability of the polymer in the solid state forming methods used to prepare high modulus and strength products. Copyright © 1986 Society of Plastics Engineers