Low-Cost, Treated Polyethylene Withstands 350F, Opening New Markets for Temperature-Resistant Plastics

摘要

Standard, low-cost polyethylene (PE) products are upgraded by E-Beam Services, Inc., in a post-molded crosslinking process (PEX) that is consistent with the performance expectations of more expensive, thermoset products. In comparison to standard PE products, which will lose most of their strength and characteristic form at a temperature of about 190F, the electron-beam processed, crosslinked materials maintain both form and strength at temperatures over 350F. In addition, the crosslinking process reduces the stress-crack and wear resistance failures that are problems characteristic of some plastics.