Eigen-line in welded structures of thermoplastic polymers

Welding is widely used as a joining method for thermoplastics, and it is imperative to ensure the joining quality, particularly for critical applications. In a previous work by the authors, an Eigen-line was found in the electrofusion joint of polyethylene (PE) pipes based on ultrasonic tests and it could be used to detect and assess cold welding defects. However, the nature of the Eigen-line and reasons for the Eigen-line's existence in ultrasonic images have not yet been fully understood, which limited its applications. In this paper, Eigen-lines were observed in other thermoplastics including polypropylene (PP), polyamide 6 (PA 6), polyoxymethylene (POM) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), suggesting that Eigen-lines have common existence. Microindentation tests were conducted on specimens cut from electrofusion joints and butt joints of PE pipes. It was found that a significant change of elastic modulus exists around the Eigen-line, which can partly explain the appearance of an Eigen-line in ultrasonic images. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and reflective optical microscopy were also employed to explore the nature of the Eigen-line. The results showed that an Eigen-line is a thin layer with polymer chain orientation between base material and welded zone.