WO2021254880A1

WO2021254880A1 - Wheel and wheel rim comprising ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene

Info

Publication number: WO2021254880A1
Application number: PCT/EP2021/065660
Authority: WO
Inventors: Bernhard GÜNTNER
Original assignee: Guentner Bernhard
Priority date: 2020-06-18
Filing date: 2021-06-10
Publication date: 2021-12-23

Abstract

Disclosed are a wheel and a wheel rim made of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). Said UHMWPE wheel rim has several advantages to traditional wheel rims, such as lower weight, higher abrasion resistance, better corrosion resistance, lower water absorption, higher impact strength and toughness and better cold resistance. Disclosed is also the use of UHMWPE for producing a wheel or a wheel rim.

Description

Wheel and wheel rim comprising ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] A wheel and a wheel rim that comprise or consist of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is/are provided. The wheel is in particular designed for accommodating a tyre. This wheel and wheel rim have advantageous properties over conventional wheels and wheel rims and can be provided with a tyre and mounted on or used for any vehicle.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The following discussion of the background is merely provided to aid the reader in understanding the wheel rim and UHMWPE and their uses disclosed in the following, and is not admitted to describe or constitute prior art.

[0003] Vehicles generally contact the ground via wheels. In ancient times, lacking alternatives, wheels were made out of wood. And wooden wheels are still used to this day. The earliest tyres were bands of leather, then iron, later steel placed on wooden wheels used on carts and wagons. The first patent for what appears to be a standard pneumatic tyre appeared in 1847, lodged by the Scottish inventor Robert William Thomson. However, this tyre never went into production. The first practical pneumatic tyre was made in 1888 on May Street, Belfast, by Scots-born John Boyd Dunlop, owner of one of Ireland's most prosperous veterinary practices. In Dunlop's tyre patent specification dated 31 October 1888, his interest is only in its use in cycles and light vehicles. In 1892, Dunlop's patent was declared invalid because of prior art by forgotten fellow Scot Robert William Thomson of London (patents London 1845, France 1846, USA 1847), although Dunlop is credited with "realizing rubber could withstand the wear and tear of being a tyre while retaining its resilience". Soon tyres where not only mounted on wooden wheel rims but more advanced materials. Early wheels of motor vehicles started with bicycle wheels with the wheel rims attached to the central axle by spokes. As vehicles became heavier wood-spoked wagon wheels with steel rims were used. Later solid rubber tyres were mounted on the wheel rims of the wooden wheels. Some wooden auto mobile wheels had a demountable steel rim which was bolted on to the outer circumference of the wooden wheel. Wheels which were completely made of metal (single or multiple pieces) gradually became widespread around the 1930's.

[0004] Here the wheel rim is the “wheel, without the tyre”. The wheel rim makes up the outer circular and inner design of the wheel but not the tyre.

[0005] Various metals can be used for the wheel rim. Commonly seen are steel, alloy (magnesium and aluminium), magnesium, aluminium and chrome. Steel is often used for smaller wheels on automotives or commercial vehicles and alloy/aluminium for bigger, more expensive wheels. Just recently carbon fibre composite wheels have been become available but only for exotic ultra-high performance sports cars with extremely high price tags (e.g. Koenigsegg). Additionally, prototypes of glass-reinforced plastic and polyamide wheels have been shown. Reduced weight of unsprung masses of a vehicle which the wheel rim is a big part of improves fuel economy, acceleration, performance, feel and handling of a vehicle and is highly desired.

[0006] In use a wheel rim is exposed to pressure and shear forces.

SUMMARY

[0007] In a first aspect there is provided a wheel rim that comprises ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). In some embodiments the wheel rim consists of a composition that contains UHMWPE. In some embodiments the wheel rim essentially consists of UHMWPE. In some embodiments the wheel rim consists of UHMWPE.

[0008] In some embodiments the wheel rim has a portion designed to contact a wheel, such as a base. The portion designed to contact a wheel may for example contact spokes of a wheel. This portion designed to contact the wheel may have a different content of UHMWPE than the remaining portion of the wheel rim. The portion designed to contact the wheel may for example have a higher content than of UHMWPE than one or any remaining portion of the wheel rim. In some embodiments the portion designed to contact the wheel essentially consists of UHMWPE. In some embodiments the portion designed to contact the wheel consists of UHMWPE.

[0009] In some embodiments the wheel rim has a portion that is designed to contact a tyre, typically a pneumatic tyre. The respective tyre may also be a polymer-filled tyre, e.g. a foam-filed tyre. As an illustrative example, the wheel rim may include a portion that is designed to receive a flank of a tyre. Illustrative examples of a portion that is designed to contact a tyre are a sidewall or a flange. This portion designed to contact the tyre may have a different content of UHMWPE than the remaining portion of the wheel rim. This portion may for instance have a lower content of UHMWPE than one or any remaining portion of the wheel rim. In some embodiments this portion may also consist of matter that is different from UHMWPE.

[0010] In a second aspect there is provided a wheel, rotatable about an axis, that comprises UHMWPE. In some embodiments the wheel consists of a composition that contains UHMWPE. In some embodiments the wheel essentially consists of UHMWPE. In some embodiments the wheel consists of UHMWPE.

[0011] In some embodiments the wheel may have a portion that has a different content of UHMWPE than the remaining portion of the wheel. The wheel rim may for example have a higher content than of UHMWPE than one or any remaining portion of the wheel. In some embodiments the portion designed to contact the wheel essentially consists of UHMWPE. In some embodiments the wheel may have a portion that has a higher content of UHMWPE than the remaining portion of the wheel.

[0012] The wheel of the second aspect may include a wheel rim that comprises ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). In some embodiments the wheel rim consists of a composition that contains UHMWPE. In some embodiments the wheel rim essentially consists of UHMWPE. In some embodiments the wheel rim consists of UHMWPE. The wheel may be a wheel assembly of which a wheel rim according to the first aspect is a component.

[0013] The wheel rim may in some embodiments be a wheel rim according to the first aspect.

[0014] In a large variety of embodiments of wheels, such as automotive wheels or aircraft wheels, the wheel rim defines the essential portion of a wheel. For sake of clarity it is understood that design elements such as the “spider” of an auto wheel, are generally not part of the wheel rim. Given that for many motor driven vehicles it is commonplace to supply assembled wheels and tyres, the following clarification is appropriate: As used herein, the term “wheel rim” excludes a tyre that may be mounted onto the wheel rim. Hence, such “one-part wheel rims” do not fall under the meaning of the term “wheel rim” as used herein. In some embodiments the wheel rim and the wheel define an assembly. In some embodiments the wheel rim may be detachable or removable from the remaining wheel. In some embodiments the wheel rim may not be detachable or removable from the wheel. In some embodiments the wheel rim and the wheel are a one-piece device. In some embodiments the wheel rim defines the entire wheel except for the tyre that is to be mounted thereon.

[0015] In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim as disclosed herein and/or the wheel as disclosed herein is/are fitted with a suitable tyre, typically a pneumatic tyre. In some embodiments the wheel including the wheel rim is mounted on a vehicle. The vehicle may be any mobility device with one or more wheels, such as a rail-bound vehicle, a scooter, an aircraft or a spacecraft.

[0016] In a third aspect there is provided the use of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) for constructing a wheel or a wheel rim. The wheel rim may be a wheel rim according to the first aspect. It may also be included in a wheel, including a wheel assembly, according to the second aspect. The wheel to be constructed may be a wheel according to the second aspect.

[0017] A wheel rim, a wheel and a use are provided herein, which are typically based on the use of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) to construct a wheel and/or wheel rim, which is/are capable providing the necessary strength and can be provided with a suitable tyre and mounted on a vehicle.

[0018] Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE, also referred to as UHMW) is a subset of the thermoplastic polyethylene. Also known as high-modulus polyethylene (HMPE), the polyolefin is a polyethylene having extremely long chains, with a molecular mass usually between 3,000,000 and 7,500,000 Daltons, such as between 3,500,000 and 6,000,000 Daltons. The longer chain serves to transfer load more effectively to the polymer backbone by strengthening intermolecular interactions. This results in a very tough material, with the highest impact strength of any thermoplastic presently made. In a wheel rim and a wheel disclosed herein the UHMWPE polymer may in some embodiments have more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule, including more than 150,000 monomer units per molecule.

[0019] UHMWPE is odourless, tasteless, and non-toxic. It embodies all the characteristics of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) with the added traits of being resistant to concentrated acids and alkali, as well as numerous organic solvents. It is highly resistant to corrosive chemicals except oxidizing acids; has extremely low moisture absorption and a very low coefficient of friction; is self- lubricating and is highly resistant to abrasion, in some forms being 15 times more resistant to abrasion than carbon steel. Its coefficient of friction is significantly lower than that of nylon and acetal and is comparable to that of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, Teflon), but UHMWPE has better abrasion resistance than PTFE.

[0020] Polymerization of UHMWPE was commercialized in the 1950s by Ruhrchemie AG which has changed names over the years. Today UHMWPE powder materials, which may be directly moulded into a product's final shape, are produced by Ticona, Braskem, DSM, Teijin (Endumax), Celanese, and Mitsui. Processed UHMWPE is available commercially either as fibres or in consolidated form, such as sheets or rods. Because of its resistance to wear and impact,

UHMWPE continues to find increasing industrial applications, including the automotive and bottling sectors. Since the 1960s, UHMWPE has also been the material of choice for total joint arthroplasty in orthopaedic and spine implants. UHMWPE fibres, commercialized in the late 1970s by the Dutch chemical company DSM, are widely used in ballistic protection, defence applications, and increasingly in medical devices.

[0021] UHMWPE is a type of polyolefin with a repeating unit of -CH2CH2-. It is made up of extremely long chains of polyethylene, which all align in the same direction. It derives its strength largely from the length of each individual molecule (chain). Van der Waals bonds between the molecules are relatively weak for each atom of overlap between the molecules, but because the molecules are very long, large overlaps can exist, adding up to the ability to carry larger shear forces from molecule to molecule. Each chain is bonded to the others with so many van der Waals bonds that the whole of the inter-molecular strength is high. In this way, large tensile loads are not limited as much by the comparative weakness of each van der Waals bond. When formed into fibres, the polymer chains can attain a parallel orientation greater than 95% and a level of crystallinity from 39% to 75%. In contrast, Kevlar derives its strength from strong bonding between relatively short molecules. The weak bonding between olefin molecules allows local thermal excitations to disrupt the crystalline order of a given chain piece-by-piece, giving it much poorer heat resistance than other high-strength fibres. Its melting point is around 130 to 136 °C (266 to 277 °F), and, according to DSM, it is not advisable to use UHMWPE fibres at temperatures exceeding 80 to 100 °C (176 to 212 °F) for long periods of time. But there are blends that contain special additives which are suitable for higher continuous operating temperatures up to 125 °C (e.g. TIVAR® H.O.T.). It becomes brittle at temperatures below -150 °C (-240 °F). The simple structure of the molecule also gives rise to surface and chemical properties that are rare in high-performance polymers. For example, the polar groups in most polymers easily bond to water. Because olefins have no such groups, UHMWPE does not absorb water readily, nor wet easily, which makes bonding it to other polymers difficult.

For the same reasons, skin does not interact with it strongly, making the UHMWPE fibre surface feel slippery. In a similar manner, aromatic polymers are often susceptible to aromatic solvents due to aromatic stacking interactions, an effect aliphatic polymers like UHMWPE are immune to. Since UHMWPE does not contain chemical groups (such as esters, amides or hydroxylic groups) that are susceptible to attack from aggressive agents, it is very resistant to water, moisture, most chemicals, UV radiation, and micro-organisms. Under tensile load, UHMWPE will deform continually as long as the stress is present - an effect called creep. When UHMWPE is annealed, the material is heated to 135 °C to 138 °C in an oven or a liquid bath of silicone oil or glycerine. The material is then cooled down at a rate of 5 °C/h to 65 °C or less. Finally, the material is wrapped in an insulating blanket for 24 hours to bring to room temperature.

[0022] Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is synthesized from its monomer ethylene, which is bonded together to form the base polyethylene product. These molecules are several orders of magnitude longer than those of familiar high-density polyethylene (HDPE) due to a synthesis process based on metallocene catalysts, resulting in UHMWPE molecules typically having 100,000 to 250,000 monomer units per molecule each compared to HDPE's 700 to 1,800 monomers. UHMWPE is processed variously by compression moulding, ram extrusion, gel spinning, and sintering. Several European companies began compression moulding UHMW in the early 1960s. Gel-spinning arrived much later and was intended for different applications. In gel spinning a precisely heated gel of UHMWPE is extruded through a spinneret. The extrudate is drawn through the air and then cooled in a water bath. The end-result is a fibre with a high degree of molecular orientation, and therefore exceptional tensile strength. Gel spinning depends on isolating individual chain molecules in the solvent so that intermolecular entanglements are minimal. Entanglements make chain orientation more difficult, and lower the strength of the final product.

[0023] UHMWPE is a material with high performance properties such as specific strength, stiffness, fatigue (cyclic) resistance, high wear-resistance at low temperatures (up to -200°C), ultra- low coefficient of friction, high impact strength and resistance to hostile environments, weather impacts and radiation exposures. The unique material properties, good processability and a variety of application allow using it widely for the production of various parts in tribology applications, abrasive action and hostile environments.

[0024] UHMWPE has a density of 931 - 949 kg/m³ (0.0341b/in³), a yield strength of 2.14e7 - 2.76e7 Pa (3.1 - 4.0 ksi), a tensile strength of 3.86e7 - 4.83e7 Pa (5.6 - 7.01 ksi), an elongation of 3.5 -5.25% strain (350 - 525 % strain), a hardness (Vickers) of 6.28e7 - 8.14e7 Pa (6.4 - 8.3 HV), an impact strength (notched) of 9.52e4 - 1.05e5 J/m²(45.3 - 50 ft.lbf/in²), a fracture toughness of 1.72e6 - 5.16e6 Pa/m⁰⁵ (1.56 - 4.69 ksi/in⁰⁵), a young's modulus of 8.94e8 - 9.63e8 Pa (0.13 - 0.14 10⁶psi), a max service temperature of 110 - 130 °C (230 -266 °F), a melting temperature of 125 - 138 °C (257 - 280 °F), a specific heat capability of 1.75e3 - 1.81e3 J/kg °C (0.418 - 0.432 BTU/lb. °F), a thermal expansion coefficient of 2.34e-4 - 3.6e-4 strain/°C (130 - 200 pstrain/°F), a C02 Footprint of 3.16 - 3.49 kg/kg (3.16 - 3.49 lb/lb) and is an insulator and recyclable.

[0025] In a wheel rim and in a wheel disclosed herein an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene polymer may be the major part of a composite of which the wheel rim or the wheel is made. In a wheel rim and in a wheel disclosed herein an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene polymer may be the major part of a composite of which the wheel rim or the wheel essentially consists. The ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene described above may be the major part of a composite of which the wheel rim or the wheel is made. In some embodiments ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene is the main component of one or more portions of the wheel rim or of the wheel. In some embodiments the wheel or the wheel rim to at least 90 % (m/m) contain a composite of which UHMWPE defines the main component. UHMWPE may in some embodiments define 60 % (w/w) or more, such as 65 % (w/w) or more, of such a composite. UHMWPE may in some embodiments define 70 % (w/w) or more, such as 75 % (w/w) or more, of such a composite. In some embodiments UHMWPE may define 80 % (w/w) or more, such as 85 % (w/w) or more, of such a composite. UHMWPE may in some embodiments define 90 % (w/w) or more, such as 95 % (w/w) or more, of such a composite.

[0026] In some embodiments the wheel or the wheel rim is/are composed of UHMWPE to 60 % (w/w) or more, such as 65 % (w/w) or more. In some embodiments one or more portions of the wheel rim or the wheel is/are composed of UHMWPE to 60 % (w/w) or more, such as 65 % (w/w) or more. In some embodiments the wheel rim or the wheel is composed of UHMWPE to 80 % (w/w) or more, such as 85 % (w/w) or more. In some embodiments one or more portions of the wheel rim or the wheel is/are composed of UHMWPE to 80 % (w/w) or more, such as 85 % (w/w) or more.

[0027] It is understood that a wheel and a wheel rim disclosed herein define(s) solid matter. Generally the wheel and the wheel rim is/are rigid. In some embodiments the wheel and the wheel rim has/have a tensile strength of 3.6e7 Pa, including 4.0e7 Pa, or more. In some embodiments the wheel and the wheel rim has/have a hardness (Vickers) of 6.0e7 Pa, including 6.5e7 Pa, or more.

[0028] A wheel rim and a wheel disclosed herein may contain any desired additional matter besides UHMWPE. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel further contain(s) a metal such as iron. The wheel rim and/or the wheel may in some embodiments contain steel. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel may further contain aluminium and/or magnesium.

The wheel rim and/or the wheel may in some embodiments contain a metal alloy. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel may further contain an additional polymer. An illustrative example of a respective polymer is polyamide. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel may further contain carbon fibres, including a carbon fibre composite. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel may further contain glass fibres, including a glass fibre composite. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel may further contain fibres, including a fibre composite.

[0029] In embodiments where a wheel with a wheel rim comprising, essentially consisting of or consisting of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is provided, the wheel rim is typically annular.

[0030] In this regard, a wheel rim as disclosed herein may have any desired dimensions and shape. In typical embodiments the UHMWPE wheel rim is shaped like a traditional steel (see Figure 1) or aluminium wheel rim (see Figure 2). In some embodiments the UHMWPE wheel rim is shaped differently, depending on the intended use or manufacturing process. In some embodiments the wheel rim may for instance have overall ovoid shape, and any other functional shape is possible. In some embodiments the UHMWPE wheel rim is composed of 100% UHMWPE. In some embodiments the UHMWPE wheel rim is composed of 90% (m/m) or more UHMWPE. In some embodiments the UHMWPE wheel rim is composed of 80% (m/m) or more UHMWPE. In some embodiments the UHMWPE wheel rim is composed of 70% (m/m) or more UHMWPE.

[0031] A wheel as disclosed herein may also have any desired dimensions and shape. In some embodiments the wheel disclosed herein may be of round shape, i.e. a classical shape as already addressed above. In some embodiments the wheel contains 100% UHMWPE. In some embodiments the wheel contains 90% (m/m) or more UHMWPE. In some embodiments the wheel contains 80% (m/m) or more UHMWPE. In some embodiments the wheel contains 70% (m/m) or more UHMWPE.

[0032] In some embodiments the wheel or the wheel rim contain(s) UHMWPE with 250,000 or more monomer units per molecule. In some embodiments the UHMWPE wheel rim is composed of UHMWPE with 100,000 or more monomer units per molecule.

[0033] A wheel rim disclosed herein may be used with any wheel that has matching dimensions. A wheel with a wheel rim disclosed herein may be used on any desired vehicle. A wheel disclosed herein may also be used on any desired vehicle

[0034] The wheel rim and/or the wheel disclosed herein may be adapted for or used for any movable, moving or stationary object with wheels. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a vehicle. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a car. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a truck. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a motorcycle. In some embodiments wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a quad. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a tractor. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a bicycle. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a tank. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a bus. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a plane. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a helicopter. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a rocket. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a drone. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a construction machine. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a spacecraft. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for an amphibious vehicle. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a train. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a tram. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a ship. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a boat. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a wagon. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a skate. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a skateboard. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a roller skate. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for a scooter. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for any other motor driven vehicle. In some embodiments the wheel rim and/or the wheel is/are adapted for or used for any other non-motor driven vehicle.

[0035] A wheel with a wheel rim as disclosed herein may be included in, such as mounted on, a movable, moving or stationary object with wheels. The wheel with a wheel rim may be included in any desired vehicle. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in a motor driven vehicle. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in a non-motor driven vehicle. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in a car or a truck. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in a motorcycle or in a bicycle. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in a quad. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in a tractor or in a tank. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in a bus. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in a plane or in a helicopter. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in a rocket. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in a spacecraft. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in a drone. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in a construction machine. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in an amphibious vehicle. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in a train or in a tram. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in a ship or in a boat. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in a wagon. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in a skate. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in a skateboard. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in a roller skate. In some embodiments the wheel with the wheel rim is included in a scooter.

[0036] A wheel as disclosed herein may also be included in, such as mounted on, a movable, moving or stationary object that is intended to be used with wheels. The wheel may be included in any desired vehicle. In some embodiments the wheel is included in a motor driven vehicle. In some embodiments the wheel may be included in a non-motor driven vehicle. In some embodiments the wheel may be included in a car or a truck. In some embodiments the wheel may be included in a motorcycle or in a bicycle. In some embodiments the wheel may be included in a quad. In some embodiments the wheel may be included in a tractor or in a tank. In some embodiments the wheel may be included in a bus. In some embodiments the wheel may be included in a plane or in a helicopter. In some embodiments the wheel may be included in a rocket. In some embodiments the wheel may be included in a spacecraft. In some embodiments the wheel may be included in a drone. In some embodiments the wheel may be included in a construction machine. In some embodiments the wheel may be included in an amphibious vehicle. In some embodiments the wheel may be included in a train or in a tram. In some embodiments the wheel may be included in a ship or in a boat. In some embodiments the wheel may be included in a wagon. In some embodiments the wheel may be included in a skate. In some embodiments the wheel may be included in a skateboard. In some embodiments the wheel may be included in a roller skate. In some embodiments the wheel may be included in a scooter.

[0037] A wheel and a wheel rim comprising UHMWPE, essentially consisting of UHMWPE or consisting of UHMWPE has several advantages when compared to traditional wheels and wheel rims, such as lower weight, higher wear and abrasion resistance, better (cyclic) fatigue resistance, better corrosion resistance, lower water absorption, higher impact strength and toughness and better cold resistance. The corrosion and water resistance renders such a wheel and/or rim highly suited for wet and winter conditions and will increase the product lifetime compared to steel and aluminium rims significantly. Naturally UHMWPE is white but it can be coloured to fit every need and is strong enough to be bullet resistant for use in armoured vehicles. UHMWPE has the highest impact strength among plastics similar to steel. The high abrasion resistance and impact strength will increase the product lifetime compared to steel and aluminium rims even further. The reduced weight of the wheel rim, and the wheel respectively, reduces the weight of the unsprung masses of a vehicle which improves fuel economy, performance, feel and handling of a vehicle and is highly desired. In fact a UHMWPE wheel rim can be even lighter than a carbon fibre composite wheel rim of the same stiffness. Finally, a UHMWPE wheel rim and wheel can be mass produced and thus can be widely available and at low costs.

[0038] The listing or discussion of a previously published document in this specification should not necessarily be taken as an acknowledgement that the document is part of the state of the art or is common general knowledge.

[0039] The invention illustratively described herein may suitably be practised in the absence of any element or elements, limitation or limitations, not specifically disclosed herein. Additionally, the terms and expressions employed herein have been used as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention in the use of such terms and expressions of excluding any equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof, but it is recognized that various modifications are possible within the scope of the invention claimed. Thus, it should be understood that although the present invention has been specifically disclosed by exemplary embodiments and optional features, modification and variation of the inventions embodied therein herein disclosed may be resorted to by those skilled in the art, and that such modifications and variations are considered to be within the scope of this invention.

[0040] From reading the present disclosure, other modification may be apparent to the person skilled in the art. Such modifications may involve other features which are already known in the field of wheels and wheel rims and component parts therefore and which may be used instead of or in addition to features already described herein.

[0041] The invention has been described broadly and generically herein. Each of the narrower species and subgeneric groupings falling within the generic disclosure also form part of the invention. This includes the generic description of the invention with a proviso or negative limitation removing any subject matter from the genus, regardless of whether or not the excised material is specifically recited herein.

[0042] Other embodiments are within the appending claims. In addition, where features or aspects of the invention are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

[0043] All publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference to disclose and describe the methods and/or materials in connection with which the publications are cited, as if each individual publication, including patent application, were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will prevail. The publications discussed herein are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of the present application. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the present invention is not entitled to antedate such publication by virtue of prior invention. Further, the dates of publication provided herein can be different from the actual publication dates, which can require independent confirmation.

[0044] Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any method or aspect set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order. Accordingly, where for a claimed method it is not specifically stated in the claims or descriptions that the steps are to be limited to a specific order, it is no way intended that an order be inferred, in any respect. This holds for any possible non-express basis for interpretation, including matters of logic with respect to arrangement of steps or operational flow, plain meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation, or the number or type of aspects described in the specification.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] Figure 1 depicts an example of a wheel rim as disclosed herein.

[0046] Figure 2 depicts a further example of a wheel rim as disclosed herein.

Example 1

[0047] A wheel rim made of 100% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a car (auto-mobile).

Example 2

[0048] A wheel rim made of 90% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 10% (m/m) steel. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a truck.

Example 3 [0049] A wheel rim made of 90% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 10% (m/m) alloy. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a motorcycle.

Example 4

[0050] A wheel rim made of 90% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 10% (m/m) aluminium. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a quad.

Example 5

[0051] A wheel rim made of 90% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 10% (m/m) magnesium. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a tractor.

Example 6

[0052] A wheel rim made of 90% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 10% (m/m) fibre composite. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a bicycle.

Example 7

[0053] A wheel rim made of 90% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 10% (m/m) polyamide. The wheel rim is fitted with a tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a tank.

Example 8

[0054] A wheel rim made of 80% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 20% (m/m) steel. The wheel rim is fitted with a tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a plane.

Example 9

[0055] A wheel rim made of 80% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 20% (m/m) alloy. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a bus.

Example 10

[0056] A wheel rim made of 80% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 20% (m/m) aluminium. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a helicopter.

Example 11

[0057] A wheel rim made of 80% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 20% (m/m) magnesium. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a rocket. Example 12

[0058] A wheel rim made of 80% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 20% (m/m) fibre composite. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a drone.

Example 13

[0059] A wheel rim made of 80% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 20% (m/m) aramid. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a construction machine.

Example 14

[0060] A wheel rim made of 80% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 20% (m/m) polyamide. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a spacecraft.

Example 15

[0061] A wheel rim made of 70% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 30% (m/m) steel. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for an amphibious vehicle.

Example 16

[0062] A wheel rim made of 70% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 30% (m/m) alloy. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a train.

Example 17

[0063] A wheel rim made of 70% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 30% (m/m) aluminium. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a tram.

Example 18

[0064] A wheel rim made of 70% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 30% (m/m) magnesium. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a ship.

Example 19

[0065] A wheel rim made of 70% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 30% (m/m) fibre composite. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a boat.

Example 20

[0066] A wheel rim made of 70% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 30% (m/m) polyamide. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a wagon.

Example 21

[0067] A wheel rim made of 60% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 40% (m/m) steel. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for skates.

Example 22

[0068] A wheel rim made of 60% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 40% (m/m) alloy. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a skateboard

Example 23

[0069] A wheel rim made of 60% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 40% (m/m) aluminium. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for roller skates.

Example 24

[0070] A wheel rim made of 60% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 40% (m/m) magnesium. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a scooter.

Example 25

[0071] A wheel rim made of 60% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 40% (m/m) fibre composite. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a motor driven vehicle.

Example 26

[0072] A wheel rim made of 60% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 40% (m/m) polyamide. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a non-motor driven vehicle.

Example 27

[0073] A wheel rim made of 50% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 50% (m/m) steel. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for vehicle.

Example 28

[0074] A wheel rim made of 50% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 50% (m/m) alloy. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a moving or stationary object with wheels.

Example 29

[0075] A wheel rim made of 50% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 50% (m/m) aluminium. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a moving or stationary object with wheels.

Example 30

[0076] A wheel rim made of 50% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 50% (m/m) magnesium. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a moving or stationary object with wheels.

Example 31

[0077] A wheel rim made of 50% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 50% (m/m) fibre composite. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a moving or stationary object with wheels.

Example 32

[0078] A wheel rim made of 50% (m/m) UHMWPE with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and 50% (m/m) polyamide. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a moving or stationary object with wheels. Example 33

[0079] A wheel rim made of UHMWPE blend with more than 100,000 monomer units per molecule and additives that confer a higher continuos operating temperature. The wheel rim is fitted with a pneumatic tyre. The wheel rim is fitted to and used for a moving or stationary object with wheels.

Claims

1. A wheel rim comprising 50% (m/m) or more ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene

(UHMWPE).

2. The wheel rim of claim 1, comprising 60% (m/m) or more UHMWPE.

3. The wheel rim of claim 1 or 2, comprising 70% (m/m) or more UHMWPE.

4. The wheel rim of any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising 80% (m/m) or more UHMWPE.

5. The wheel rim of any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising 90% (m/m) or more UHMWPE.

6. The wheel rim of any one of claims 1 to 5, consisting of UHMWPE.

7. The wheel rim of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene has 100,000 or more monomer units per molecule.

8. The wheel rim of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the UHMWPE is the main component of a composite comprising said UHMWPE.

9. The wheel rim of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the wheel rim, further to the UHMWPE, comprises a metal or a further polymer.

10. The wheel rim of claim 9, wherein the metal is steel.

11. The wheel rim of claim 9, wherein the metal is an alloy.

12. The wheel rim of claim 9, wherein the metal is aluminium and or magnesium.

13. The wheel rim of any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising one or more fibres or a fibre composite.

14. The wheel rim of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the wheel rim, further to the polyethylene, comprises polyamide.

15. The wheel rim of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the wheel rim is designed to accommodate a tyre.

16. The wheel rim of claim 15, wherein the wheel rim a Cotnrftodates a tyre.

17. The wheel rim of claim 15 or 16, wherein the tyre is a pneumatic tyre.

18. The wheel rim of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a movable or stationary object having wheels.

19. The wheel rim of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a vehicle.

20. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a motor driven vehicle.

21. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a non-motor driven vehicle.

22. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in an auto- mobile.

23. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a truck.

24. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a quad.

25. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a tractor.

26. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a bicycle or a motorcycle.

27. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a tank.

28. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a bus.

29. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a plane or a helicopter.

30. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a rocket.

31. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a drone.

32. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a construction machine.

33. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a spacecraft.

34. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in an amphibious vehicle.

35. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a train.

36. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a tram.

37. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a ship or a boat.

38. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in an amphibious vehicle.

39. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a wagon.

40. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a skate.

41. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a skateboard or roller skates.

42. The wheel rim of claim 19, wherein the wheel rim is adapted for or comprised in a scooter.

43. A wheel comprising the wheel rim according to any one of claims 1 to 42.

44. A wheel, having wheel a rim designed to accommodate a tyre, comprising >50% (m/m)

UHMWPE.

45. The wheel of claim 43 or 44, comprising >60% (m/m) UHMWPE.

46. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 45, comprising >70% (m/m) or >80% (m/m) UHMWPE.

47. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 46, comprising >90% (m/m) UHMWPE.

48. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 47, consisting of UHMWPE.

49. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 48, wherein the wheel accommodates a tyre.

50. The wheel of claim 49, wherein the tyre is a pneumatic tyre.

51. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 50, wherein the UHMWPE has 100,000 or more monomer units per molecule.

52. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 50, wherein the polyethylene is the main component of a composite comprising said UHMWPE.

53. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 50, wherein the wheel rim, further to the polyethylene, comprises a metal or a further polymer.

54. The wheel of claim 53, wherein the metal is steel.

55. The wheel of claim 53, wherein the metal is an alloy.

56. The wheel of claim 53, wherein the metal is aluminium and/or magnesium.

57. The wheel of claim 53, wherein the further polymer is polyamide.

58. The wheel of claim 53, further comprising one or more fibres or a fibre composite.

59. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 58, wherein the wheel is comprised in a movable or stationary object having wheels.

60. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 59, wherein the wheel is comprised in a vehicle.

61. The wheel of claim 60, wherein the vehicle is a motor driven vehicle.

62. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 61, wherein the wheel is comprised in a non-motor driven vehicle.

63. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 61, wherein the wheel is comprised in an auto-mobile.

64. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 63, wherein the wheel is comprised in a truck or a tractor.

65. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 63, wherein the wheel is comprised in a quad.

66. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 62, wherein the wheel is comprised in a bicycle or a motorcycle.

67. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 63, wherein the wheel is comprised in a tank or a bus.

68. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 61, wherein the wheel is comprised in a plane or a helicopter.

69. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 61, wherein the wheel is comprised in a rocket or a spacecraft.

70. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 61, wherein the wheel is comprised in a drone.

71. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 61, wherein the wheel is comprised in a construction machine. _^ ,

72. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 61, wherein the wheel is comprised in an amphibious vehicle.

73. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 61, wherein the wheel is comprised in a ship or a boat.

74. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 62, wherein the wheel is comprised in a wagon.

75. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 59, wherein the wheel is comprised in a skate.

76. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 59, wherein the wheel is comprised in a skateboard or roller skates.

77. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 62, wherein the wheel is comprised in a scooter.

78. The wheel of any one of claims 43 to 61, wherein the wheel is comprised in a train or a tram.

79. A vehicle, movable or non-movable, comprising the wheel according to any one of claims 43 to 78.

80. The use of UHMWPE for manufacturing a wheel and/or a wheel rim.

81. The use of claim 80, wherein the wheel has a wheel a rim designed to accommodate a tyre.

82. The use of claim 80, wherein the UHMWPE is the UHMWPE defined in any one of claims 1- 6.

83. The wheel rim of any one of claims 1 to 82, wherein additives confer the UHMWPE blend a higher continuos operating temperature.