Ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene: catalysis, structure, properties, processing and applications

TitleUltrahigh molecular weight polyethylene: catalysis, structure, properties, processing and applications
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2020
AuthorsPatel, K, Chikkali, SH, Sivaram, S
JournalProgress in Polymer Science
Volume109
Pagination101290
Date PublishedOCT
Type of ArticleReview
ISSN0079-6700
KeywordsCatalysts for UHMWPE, Disentangled UHMWPE, Entangled UHMWPE, polyethylene (PE), Ultrahigh molecular weight (UHMW) PE
Abstract

Ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) belongs to an emerging class of high-performance specialty polymers with a unique set of properties and applications. The field has witnessed many scientific and technological advances in recent years. However, synthesis of UHMWPE is not a trivial exercise and presents several challenges. This review addresses these fundamental challenges and provides an overview of recent developments in the field of UHMWPE. The nature of catalysts, reaction conditions that favor its formation, their physical properties, methods of processing them into products, and their applications are discussed. Recent developments in formation of UHMWPE in a disentangled state by use of appropriate catalysts and reaction conditions are also discussed. This has elicited considerable interest as a means of enabling melt processing of UHMWPE. This review provides a comprehensive source of information and understanding of the multifaceted aspects of UHMWPE with specific reference to chemistry, catalysis, processes for manufacturing, and an analysis of catalyst structure-polymer property relationships. (C) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

DOI10.1016/j.progpolymsci.2020.101290
Type of Journal (Indian or Foreign)

Foreign

Impact Factor (IF)

22.620

Divison category: 
Polymer Science & Engineering

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