Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE or sometimes shortened to UHMW) is also known as high-modulus polyethylene (HMPE) or high-performance polyethylene (HPPE)

It has a molecular weight numbering in the millions, usually between 2 and 6 million. It is highly resistant to corrosive chemicals (with exception of oxidizing acids), has extremely low moisture absorption and a very low coefficient of friction. It is self-lubricating and is highly resistant to abrasion.