UHMPE

UHMPE is an extremely high molecular weight thermoplastic polymer belonging to the polyolefins family. The material is characterized by excellent wear resistance, low coefficient of friction, high impact resistance and excellent chemical resistance. Thanks to its molecular structure, UHMPE has a very high toughness, while at the same time being very lightweight.

It is widely used in industries where a combination of low friction, high wear and impact resistance is required, such as in sliding and wear surfaces, transportation technology, machine parts, linings and medical applications.

Very high molecular mass:
(>3 million g/mol), providing unique mechanical properties.
Exceptional wear resistance:
Better than steel and virtually all other plastics.
Low coefficient of friction:
Makes it ideal for sliding applications.
Very high impact resistance:
Does not break easily on impact, even at low temperatures.
Hydrophobic:
Does not absorb water.
Chemically inert:
Resistant to acids, bases and most solvents.
Low density:
Lighter than water, floats.
UV sensitive:
May degrade with prolonged exposure to sunlight without additives.

Specific gravity

~ 0.93 – 0.94 g/cm³ (lightweight)

Tensile strength

~ 20 – 40 MPa (lower than HMPE – UHMPE is more commonly used as a plastic)

Modulus of elasticity

~ 0.6 – 1.5 GPa (much lower than HMPE/Dyneema – flexible plastic)

Elongation at break

300% – 600% (very stretchy, tough)

Wear resistance

Exceptionally high – better than PTFE (Teflon)

Creep

Can exhibit creep under long-term loading

Melting point

~ 130 – 136 °C

Chemical resistance

Excellent – resistant to acids, bases, solvents

Temperature range

-269 °C to +80 °C (very good at low temperatures)

Coefficient of friction

Very low (smooth, self-lubricating plastic)

UV resistance

Moderate – not suitable for prolonged exposure to sunlight

Water absorption

Negligible / almost zero

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
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
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