Surface enrichment behavior and properties of polypropylene-grafted poly(hexamethylene guanidine) modified ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene fibers

The gel-spun ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber has attracted widespread attention due to its low density and superior high strength and modulus. However, its limited antibacterial properties impede its development and high-end application in fields like ocean engineering and medical health. This study investigates the structure and properties of UHMWPE fibers modified with polypropylene-grafted poly(hexamethylene guanidine) (PP- g -PHMG). We show that PP- g -PHMG migrates from the UHMWPE matrix to the fiber surface during the super-stretching process, thus enriching the surface with PP- g -PHMG on the UHMWPE fibers. The resulting UHMWPE fibers added with a small amount of PP- g -PHMG (UPE-10%) exhibit excellent antibacterial properties while maintaining their mechanical strength with minimal compromise. This study provides a method for preparing antibacterial UHMWPE fibers that effectively balance desirable traits, including tensile strength and excellent antibacterial properties. A schematic diagram was proposed to describe the surface enrichment behavior of PP- g -PHMG modified UHMWPE fibers and their antibacterial properties. Highlights : • UHMWPE fibers combining high strength and excellent antibacterial properties were developed. • PP- g -PHMG migrates to the fiber surface, achieving the surface enrichment on the UHMWPE fibers. • A schematic diagram was proposed to describe the surface enrichment behavior of PP- g -PHMG modified UHMWPE fibers and their antibacterial properties.