The world attention is now on ultralight composites where matrix materials and fibres like UHMWPE which are lighter than water are used to make Self reinforced composites. But there is a dearth of attempt or literature in extending the UHMWPE idea to PP , Nylon or Polyester. Why ? What are the issues in processing such light yet strong fibres ? If properly processed we can aim for an ultralight, strong and tough PP composite with a relative density of 0.9 g/cc.
The molecules of UHMWPE are longer than those of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) due to a synthesis process based on metallocene catalysts which result in UHMWPE molecules typically having 100000-250000 monomer units per molecule. While, compared to HDPE's there are only 700-1800 monomers.
According to the chemical structure, degree of crystallinity, and melting temperature of UHMWPE, it has some properties that make it unique such as low stretch, high strength, low density (0.93 g/cm3), high abrasion resistance, high resistance to wear and impact, resistant to concentrated acids, alkalis, and organic solvents, extremely low moisture absorption and a very low coefficient of friction.
It is necessary to mention that except mechanical and chemical properties, the process-ability of polymers is the main parameter of industrial scale production.
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