Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers are widely used in fiber reinforced polymers (FRP) because of their excellent properties. However
UHMWPE fibers inherently exhibit poor adhesion owing to the low surface free energy and the lack of polar functional groups
which affect the performance of the composites and limit their application. Surface modification can effectively increase the interface strength of FRP and thus improve the properties of the materials. In this review
the recent research progress on the surface modification of UHMWPE fibers
with the emphasis on chemical treatment
plasma treatment
corona discharge and radiation-induced surface grafting method
has been summarized
and the development of modification method is prospected.