Improved processability for ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene/polyolefin elastomer composites: Effect of ethylenevinyl acetate copolymer

Polyolefin elastomer (POE) films can be used as a matrix for ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber‐reinforced composites via a hot‐melt process. However, the low melting temperature of UHMWPE limits composite processing. Therefore, this study aimed to create a film by blending POE with ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) to reduce the film's processing temperature. Morphological analysis revealed that due to limited compatibility, EVA appeared as droplets within the immiscible POE matrix. T‐Peel tests demonstrated increased self‐adhesion in both the POE/EVA films and the fiber‐reinforced composites with higher EVA content. However, the mechanical properties of POE/EVA films, including tensile properties and shore hardness, were reduced due to EVA having lower inherent properties. UHMWPE fiber‐reinforced composites were fabricated from these films. In composites, optimal tensile and flexural properties were observed at lower EVA content. Scanning electron microscopy analysis suggests that the POE/EVA films are sufficiently infiltrated at 10–20 wt% EVA content. As EVA content increased, the drop weight impact test indicated a reduction in the maximum impact load and an increase in impact energy, attributed to improved adhesion and a broader distribution of impact load across the interface. Highlights Polyolefin elastomer/ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene composites' properties were studied with varying ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) additive content. Add EVA to improve film impregnation when forming composites Increase in impregnation affects increase in properties of composites. Characterization shows that the optimal EVA content is 10–20 wt%. Preparation of (A) Polyolefin elastomer/ethylene vinyl acetate (POE/EVA) films and (B) POE/EVA/ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) composites with twin screw extrusion and hot‐press process.