Abstract:

Structure characteristics and formation processes of the typical rigid structure of p-aramid (PPTA) fibers and the typical flexible structure of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers are analyzed, in particular, the effect of spinning and heat treatment process on fiber structures. It is considered that for obtaining high-strength synthetic fibers, two conditions in structure should be satisfied: high degree of orientation and crystallinity; polymer molecular chain can be fully extended to form straight-chain crystallization. The current progress of PPTA fibers and UHMWPE fiber is also introduced. It is proposed that the polymer which can form a highly oriented structure with high crystallinity and full extension of molecular chain can be used to produce high strength fibers by controlling the spinning and heat treatment process.