Mechanical Properties of Polypropylene Filaments Drawn on Varying Post Spinning Temperature Gradients

High Modulus and high tenacity polypropylene fibers have been prepared by drawing on a gradient heater. Results show that fiber properties are significantly affected by temperature profiles of final stage drawing on a gradient heater. The gradient drawn filaments showed superior mechanical properties when compared to filaments drawn over a constant temperature heater. Fibers with initial modulus of 16.4 GPa and tenacity of 670 MPa have been manufactured in the process. The nature of the gradient drawing had a significant effect on end properties. The superior mechanical properties are attributed to the high crystal perfection and crystallinity and low void fractions obtained at high draw ratios when drawn over a gradient heater.