The effect of transcrystallinity on the transverse mechanical properties of single‐polymer polyethylene composites

The microstructure of polyethylene (PE)/PE composites, consisting of the high‐density PE (HDPE) matrix and ultrahigh molecular‐weight PE (UHMWPE) fibers, was investigated. Single‐fiber composites were prepared and analyzed in a hot‐stage crystallization unit attached to a polarizing microscope, aiming to find out how the conditions of crystallization affected the transcrystallinity (tc) growth at the fiber‐matrix interface. Thermal treatments leading to two extreme microstructures, of either maximum or minimum thickness of the transcrystalline zone, were sought. It was found that a uniform transcrystalline layer was developed on the UHMWPE fiber from the HDPE melt under isothermal conditions, whereas rapid cooling from the melt prevented the generation of tc. The mechanical properties of unidirectional composite laminae either with or without the transcrystalline zone were measured. A comparison of the transverse strength predicted by theoretical models with the experimental values revealed good interfacial adhesion in the PE/PE system. It was shown that the tc growth had a negligible effect on the composite mechanical properties in the longitudinal direction, whereas it resulted in a 50% decrease of the transverse tensile strength and strain to failure. Scanning electron microscopy attributed that observation to premature brittle failure at tc/tc contact regions. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.