ASTM D4020 : 01a

1.1 This specification provides for the identification of virgin, unmodified ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE) plastics molding and extrusion materials. This identification is made in such a manner that the seller and purchaser can agree on the acceptability of different commercial lots or shipments.

1.2 It is not intended to differentiate between various molecular weight grades of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene commercially available.

1.3 It is not the function of this specification to provide specific engineering data for design purposes.

1.4 Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylenes, as defined in this specification, are those linear polymers of ethylene which have a relative viscosity of 1.44 or greater, in accordance with the test procedures described herein.

1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.6 The following precautionary caveat pertains only to the test method portion. Section 7, of this specification: This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

Note 1—There is no ISO equivalent specification. However, in ISO 11542-1, a range of viscosity numbers defines the viscosity of UHMW-PE grades. The viscosity numbers are determined in accordance with ISO 1628-3.