Search for optimal conditions for monolithization of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene reactor powder

In order to clarify the possibility of sintering reactor powders of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene under pressure at a temperature higher than its equilibrium melting point at atmospheric pressure $(T^0_m)$ without catastrophic changes in the internal structure of particles, a comparative WAXS analysis was carried out of the samples sintered below $(T>T^0_m)$ and above $(T^0_m)$ this temperature and cooled under different conditions. A multifunctional structural analysis of the X-ray scattering curves recorded in the Bragg-Brentano mode on a 2D Phaser Bruker diffractometer from UHMWPE reactor powders sintered under different conditions was carried out, and the crystallite sizes were calculated. It was found that an increase in the sintering temperature above $T^0_m$ does not significantly change the crystal structure of the polymer, and the precursors produced can be used for further orientational hardening.