Microporous hollow fiber membrane prepared from high density plyethylene/ultra high molecular weight polyethylene blend

Abstract

Hollow fiber was prepared from the blend of a high density polyethylene (HDPE)/ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). The changes in the morphology and mechanical property of the hollow fiber were investigated. The commercial product (Sterapore), having a high water permeability, was analyzed with viscosity measurement and FT-IR. The molecular weight of Sterapore was very high and its surface was coated with a vinyl alcohol/vinyl acetate copolymer. The content of UHMWPE in the HDPE/UHMWPE blend was limited below 10 wt%. In order to improve the dispersion of UHMWPE, a mineral oil should be introduced in the blend. The morphology and mechanical property of the hollow fiber of HDPE/UHMWPE blend were similar to those of the commercial product.