Abstract:
The double-diffusion process between fiber solvent and extracting agent in the extracting system of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) gel fibers was mathematically analyzed, the formula to calculate the diffusion coefficient of fiber solvent was concluded. The diffusion coefficient values of fiber solvent could represent the extracting capability of different extracting agents. According to the diffusion coefficient values of fiber solvent in different extracting agents, and comprehensively considered the extracting essence and purpose of gel fiber, dichloromethane was selected as the optimum extracting agent. The influencing factors affecting the diffusion coefficient of fiber solvent were also discussed. The results showed that the diffusion coefficient values in ultra-sonic state were larger than that in static state, increased with the increasing of extracting temperature, and decreased with the increasing of gel fiber radius.