Comparison between self-reinforced composites based on ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fibers and isotropic UHMWPE

The self-reinforced composites based on ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers and isotropic UHMWPE were comparatively analyzed. The composites were produced using a compression molding, which resulted in only partial surface melting of the fibers and promoted a good interfacial adhesion, while the fiber core remained highly oriented. It was demonstrated that the formation of such structure led to significantly higher performance properties of the composites as compared to those of the isotropic polyethylene.