The phenomenon of transcrystallization was studied at the interface of UHMWPE fibers embedded in an HDPE matrix. It was hoped that epitaxial crystallization in such model composites could eventually be used to improve adhesion between these high-strength fibers and the thermoplastic matrix material. Matrix crystallization was induced and accompanied on a specially designed hot stage which made the crystallization front advance slowly along a thermal gradient. Transcrystalline interfacial layers were observed without regard to temperature conditions, but with widely varying dimensions. Lamellar resolution within these layers was achieved by low voltage scanning electron microscopy, and the very beginning of transcrystallization was observed in sample areas where UHMWPE fiber segments were only partially embedded into the HDPE matrix. Lamellar alignment on the fiber surface indicated that transcrystallization in this system was associated with epitaxial nucleation.
polymer composites; polyethylene; UHMWPE; transcrystallinity; epitaxy; low voltage scanning electron microscopy
