Continuous fiber-polyolefin composites and methods of making

Abstract

The present invention relates to polyolefin matrix composites reinforced with continuous carbon fibers, and a process for making them. The polymer-fiber composite material comprises a plurality of continuous fibers; and a polyolefin matrix, wherein, the polyolefin matrix comprises polyolefin polymer chains with a number average molecular weight of at least 1×106 amu, and wherein, the polymer-fiber composite has a notched impact strength greater than the notched impact strength of a neat polyolefin, wherein the neat polyolefin has an equivalent chemical composition and number average molecular weight as the polyolefin of the polyolefin matrix in the polymer-fiber composite material. The present invention also relates to articles of manufacture made substantially from polyolefin matrix composites reinforced with continuous carbon fibers as well as orthopedic implant devices having a wear surface, or bearing comprising a polyolefin matrix composite reinforced with continuous carbon fibers.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.