Borotron™ UH050 UHMW-PE (ultra high molecular weight polyethylene) shapes are enhanced with 5.0% elemental boron for superior performance in extreme shielding in nuclear and medical applications. The high hydrogen content of the polyethylene allows the material to absorb thermal neutrons, which are then absorbed by the added boron compound. For these reasons, Borotron™ UH050 UHMW-PE components are often favored as solutions in applications involving nuclear waste disposal and detection, nuclear material storage and transportation, radiation therapy and hot cell technology.
PROPERTIES
Enhanced with 5% elemental boron
Very good wear and abrasion resistance
Superior impact strength
Excellent chemical resistance
Low coefficient of friction
Very low water absorption
Excellent machinability
Thermal Properties
Property
Value
Heat Deflection Temperature at 1.8MPa (264 psi) (ºC)
42
Continuous allowable service temperature in air
80
Mechanical Properties
Property
Value
Tensile Strength (MPa)
16
Tensile Modulus of Elasticity (MPa)
900
Compressive stress at 1% nominal strain (MPa)
8.5
Compressive stress at 2% nominal strain (MPa)
13
Compressive stress at 5% nominal strain (MPa)
19.5
Flexural Strength (MPa)
Charpy Impact Notched (kJ/m²)
30P
Chemical Properties
Property
Value
Hot Water / Steam
Limited
Acids, Weak
Acceptable
Acids, Strong (pH 1-3)
Not acceptable
Alkalies, Weak
Acceptable
Alkalies, Strong (pH 11-14)
Not acceptable
Hydrocarbons - Aromatic
Acceptable
Hydrocarbons - Aliphatic
Acceptable
Ketones, Esters
Acceptable
Chlorinated Solvents
Limited
Alcohols
Acceptable
Inorganic Salt Solutions
Acceptable
Electrical Properties
Property
Value
Dielectric Strength (kV/mm)
Certification Properties
Property
Value
FDA
Not compliant
European Food Approval
Not compliant
NSF
Not compliant
3A-SSI
Not compliant
Canada AG
USDA
Not compliant
Flammability (UL Rating)
HB
Medical use
NUCLEAR - Shielding portfolio
Miscellaneous Properties
Property
Value
Base Material
UHMW-PE
Brand Family
Colors
Natural Natural (white)
Density (g/cm3)
1.01
Water Absorption after 24 hrs immersion in water (%)
