GUR^®

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GUR^® ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE) is a linear polyethylene with a much higher molecular weight than standard PE, which offers outstanding abrasion resistance, superior impact resistance, non-sticking and self-lubricating properties, and excellent mechanical characteristics, even in cryogenic conditions.

What is GUR® UHMW-PE?

UHMW-PE is an extremely high viscosity polymer that is produced in the form of a powder and has an average particle size diameter typically ranging from 100-200 microns.

As a result of its viscosity, it generally cannot be processed by the common methods used for ordinary thermoplastics. As an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene supplier, Celanese understands that compression molding and ram extrusion processes are key to generating the high pressures needed to fuse UHMW-PE particles together. Then they typically are used to form the material into stock shapes or profiles with subsequent machining as necessary.

Why GUR® UHMW-PE?

Because of its abrasion resistance, chemical resistance and good frictional properties, major application areas of UHMW-PE include bulk material handling, food and beverage machinery, chemical, mining and mineral processing equipment, recreational equipment, transportation and orthopedic implants.

GUR® UHMW-PE can also be gel processed for such applications as battery separators, synthetic paper or high-strength fiber applications. The free sintering process can be used to produce porous parts such as filters, wicking parts, and fluid delivery components.

Ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)

Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) is a linear, low-pressure, Ziegler-type catalyst, polyethylene resin. Its weight-average molecular weight of 4 x 10⁶ is approximately ten times that of high molecular weight high density polyethylene (HMW-HDPE) resins. The extremely high molecular weight of this resin, which is commercially available in grades ranging in molecular weight from 3.5 x 10⁶ to 6 x 10⁶g/mol (ASTM calculation), yields several unique properties. UHMWPE has both the highest sliding abrasion resistance and highest notched impact strength of any commercial plastic.

Welcome to the world of GUR® UHMW-PE – an ultra-high-performance polyethylene powder that includes both ultra-high molecular weight and high molecular weight polyethylene. First produced in Oberhausen (Germany) in 1955, GUR® UHMW-PE has become synonymous with high quality, strong performance and innovation - a unique thermoplastic and engineering polymer.

Product Properties

Exceptionally high notched impact strength
High energy absorption capacity at high stress rate
Excellent wear-resistant properties
Low coefficient of friction
Very high chemical resistance to acids, alkalis and corrosive gases
Highly resistant to environmental stress cracking
Wide service temperature range from -200°C to 90°C

Grades

Orthopedic implants
Filtration
Batteries/lithium
Fibers
Additives
Membranes

Processing

Pressureless sintering
Ram extrusion
Compression molding
Injection molding

As a polyethylene with a very high molecular weight, GUR^® UHMW-PE is produced as a powder that requires special processing. In the semi-finished industry, the high pressures generated in compression molding and ram extrusion processes fuse the particles together. The material is then typically formed into stock shapes or profiles. It can also be processed by gelation and pressureless sintering.

GUR^® UHMW-PE premium grades for orthopedic implants and standard grades meet the requirements of heath organizations, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Union food-conformity. FDA Drug and Device Master Files are available for premium grades.