ABSTRACT
This chapter investigates the mechanical and tribotechnical properties of the chemically modified ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). It discusses permolecular structure and wear track surfaces of UHMWPE specimens with various volume fractions of added UHMWPE and high-density polyethylene grafted with maleic anhydride and vinyltrimethoxysilane. Chemical modification of UHMWPE makes it possible to increase wear resistance considerably that is related to features of crystallization and formation of permolecular structure. Particular type of filler is determined in correlation with application area and operating conditions of the given antifriction materials. The basic problem in the development of UHMWPE based on antifriction composites is its low adhesion to nanofillers because of the absence of polar groups. The wear resistance of the UHMWPE-based nanocomposites is mostly determined by crystallization conditions and the type of permolecular structure formed during crystallization. The powder of UHMWPE was grafted in a solid-phase state by using a planetary mill in ozone atmosphere.
