MEHRFACHKALANDRIERUNGSVERFAHREN ZUR HERSTELLUNG EINES NICHTFASERHALTIGEN HOCHMODULIGEN BANDS AUS ULTRAHOCHMOLEKULAREM POLYETHYLEN

摘要

A multi-calender process for forming a high modulus, high strength component for use in ballistic-resistant articles. The process includes forming ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene powder into a uniform sheet at a low pressure. Multiple calender units mold and draw the uniform sheet into a non-fibrous, monolithic, ultra high molecular weight polyethylene tape. The multi-calender process and subsequent draw stages stretch the non-fibrous UHMWPE tape to a total draw of at least 100 to 1 to produce a high modulus, high strength UHMWPE component with a modulus of 1,400 grams per denier or greater. The multi-calender process of the present invention enables production of a high-strength, high-modulus UHMWPE component for ballistic-resistant articles and other applications at significantly higher rates and at a lower unit cost.