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Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene — a thermoplastic with molecular weight of 3.5-7.5 million g/mol (versus 100,000-500,000 for standard HDPE), resulting in exceptionally long polymer chains that provide outstanding abrasion resistance (10-15x better than carbon steel), very low friction coefficient (0.05-0.15 against steel, self-lubricating), high impact strength (even at -200°C), and excellent chemical resistance to virtually all chemicals except oxidizing acids. Properties: density 0.93 g/cm³ (lightest engineering plastic, floats on water), tensile 20-45 MPa, elastic modulus 0.5-1.0 GPa, operating temperature -200 to +80°C (main limitation — softens above 80°C). Per ASTM D4020. Applications: conveyor chain guides and wear strips, chute and hopper linings (material slides without sticking), dump truck bed liners, dock fender pads, food processing (FDA compliant), artificial joint replacements (orthopedic implants), and marine bearing bushings. Colors: natural white (FDA), black (UV stabilized). Cannot be injection molded (too viscous) — manufactured by compression molding or ram extrusion. Brands: Tivar (Quadrant), Polystone (Roechling).