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HMPE

HMPE (High Modulus Polyethylene) is a synthetic polymer that is one of the strongest fibers per unit weight. It is a variant of polyethylene with very high tensile strength and modulus, and is often promoted under brands such as Dyneema and Spectra. The material has excellent properties that make it suitable for demanding applications, from ropes to body armor.

More information about this product
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Producttype

Engineering plastics & Rubbers

Seaco Groep - producten - HMPE

Technical description

HMPE is a high-modulus polyethylene, which means it has very high tensile strength and stiffness compared to ordinary polyethylene (HDPE). The material has extremely low elongation at break and is highly resistant to abrasion, but at the same time is very lightweight. The molecular structure of HMPE provides exceptional mechanical properties, such as high strength, low elongation, and exceptional resistance to impact and chemicals.

Technical characteristics

Specific gravity
~ 0.97 g/cm³ (lightweight, less than water)
Tensile strength
~ 3.5 – 4.0 GPa (very high, stronger than steel per unit weight)
Modulus of elasticity
~ 100 – 140 GPa (very stiff, compared to most plastics)
Elongation at break
2% – 3.5% (very low, so the material does not deform quickly)
Wear resistance
Exceptionally high, even better than steel and many other materials
Impact resistance
Very good, maintaining strength and stiffness on impact
Melting point
~ 135 °C
Chemical resistance
Excellent – resistant to most acids, bases and solvents
Temperature range
-150 °C to +80 °C (loses strength at higher temperatures)
Coefficient of friction
Very low (ideal for applications requiring low friction)
UV resistance
Good, but may deteriorate without UV stabilizers
Water absorption
None – hydrophobic material, does not absorb water

Typical Applications

  1. Ropes and Cables:
    For use in marine, aviation, and industrial applications (such as lifting cables and cargo lines).
  2. Bulletproof Materials:
    As in bulletproof vests, helmets, and other protective equipment.
  3. Industrial Products: 
    Such as cutting boards, conveyor belts, and abrasion-resistant liners.
  4. Sports and Outdoor Products:
    For products such as climbing harnesses, fishing lines, and ropes.
  5. Aircraft and Automotive Systems:
    Use of HMPE in lighter, higher performance parts of vehicles and aircraft.
  6. Medical Applications:
    In medical implants, for example, because of the material’s biological inertness.

Comparison with other plastics (such as POM, PET, PEEK):

  1. HMPE
    1. Tensile strength: 3,5 – 4,0 MPa
    2. Modulus of elasticity: 100 – 140 GPa
    3. Wear resistance: Very high
    4. Application: Bulletproof, ropes, cables
  2. UHMPE
    1. Tensile strength: 20 – 40 MPa
    2. Modulus of elasticity: 0,6 – 1,5 GPa
    3. Wear resistance: Very high
    4. Application: Sliding plates, bearings, linings
  3. HDPE
    1. Tensile strength: 20 – 37 MPa
    2. Modulus of elasticity: 0,8 – 1,5 GPa
    3. Wear resistance: Good
    4. Application: Packaging, piping, tanks

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