October 11, 2024 – The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has recently unveiled the 2024 annual project application guidelines for the National Key Research and Development Program, encompassing 16 pivotal special projects, among which “Advanced Functional and Smart Materials” stands out prominently. This particular special project focuses intently on crucial materials for solid-state batteries, energy materials such as thermoelectric, photovoltaic, and energy storage solutions, alongside high-end separation membranes and catalytic materials.
Among these emphasized areas, Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) has garnered substantial attention as a polymer material exhibiting exceptional properties. Renowned for its remarkable wear resistance, self-lubrication, high strength, and chemical stability, UHMWPE has demonstrated extensive application potential across various sectors, including mechanical industry, petrochemicals, new energy materials, and composites. Its product forms are diverse, spanning sheets, rods, profiles, industrial pipes, fibers, and lithium-ion battery separators, catering to the diverse needs of different industries.
According to insights from AsiaMB, China’s research and development journey with UHMWPE dates back to the 1970s, with multiple research institutions and enterprises dedicating themselves to its R&D and industrial production endeavors. Over decades of evolution, China’s UHMWPE industry has witnessed significant advancements in technological research, capacity building, and market applications. Notably, in recent years, the surge in downstream demand has propelled the industry into a phase of rapid development. As of August 2024, domestic UHMWPE production capacity has reached 250,000 tons per annum, with both ongoing and planned capacity expansions maintaining high levels.
In terms of capacity distribution, enterprises such as Celanese (Nanjing) Chemical, Henan Wosen, and Anhui Fengda New Material have emerged as industry leaders. Particularly, Henan Wosen Ultra High Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. commissioned the world’s first slurry loop continuous production line for UHMWPE in 2023, filling a domestic technological gap. Meanwhile, companies like Zhongxi New Material, SIBON Chemical (Eastern Shenghong), Yangzi Petrochemical, and Daqing Petrochemical are actively expanding capacities and enhancing product quality to meet the escalating market demands.
Furthermore, to foster innovation and development within the UHMWPE industry, the “2024 Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene Innovation and Development Forum” is set to convene on October 24 in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. This forum will invite industry experts and scholars to share insights on industry trends, the latest technological achievements, and high-end product developments, providing robust support for the industry’s future growth.
In summary, China’s UHMWPE industry has achieved remarkable success in technological research, capacity building, and market applications, showcasing broad development prospects. As technology continues to advance and market demand expands, the industry is poised to embrace a more prosperous era of development.