(415e) The Effect of As-Spun Fiber Morphology on Post Drawn Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene Fiber Performance

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers demonstrate uniquely high modulus and strength compared to other high-performance materials, especially when considered on a mass basis. While many studies have demonstrated these properties, questions remain regarding how the morphology of the polymer develops during processing, and how this leads to the observed properties. For example, we don’t have a complete understanding of how the morphology of the as-spun fiber (ASF) influences the later stage morphology developments. In this work we probe the effect of various parameters, including the ASF morphology, that could be critical to the morphology, and therefore, the mechanical behavior of these materials. In this study we use a modified extensional rheometer (VADER 1000) to perform the drawing process on UHMWPE fibers we have spun. Various ASF structures can be generated as shown in a previous work. With the VADER 100 we can monitor true stress and strain throughout the draw, and discover the mechanical properties prior to, and at, the failure point. Small and wide-angle x-ray scattering is used investigate the crystalline morphology. Various structural parameters are then correlated to the mechanical response. With this information a fundamental understanding of the post-drawing will be developed.