The effects of surface treatment using potassium permanganate on ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene
(UHMWPE) fibers reinforced natural rubber (NR) composites were investigated. The results
showed the surface roughness and the oxygen-containing groups on the surface of the modified fibers
were effectively increased. The NR matrix composites were prepared with as-received and modified
UHMWPE fibers added 0e6 wt%. The treated fibers increased the modulus and tensile stress at a given
elongation. The tear strength increased with increasing fiber mass fraction, attained maximum values at
4 wt%. The hardness of composites exhibited continuous increase with increasing the fiber content. The
dynamic mechanical tests showed that the storage modulus and the tangent of the loss angle were
decreased in the modified UHMWPE fibers/NR composites. Several micro-fibrillations between the
treated fiber and NR matrix were observed, which meant the interfacial adhesion strength was improved.