A new class of high modulus polypropylene multifilament fiber and/or yarn
is provided. Such a multifilament fiber and/or yarn exhibits an
exceptional combination of high strength and toughness with low weight
and density. The inventive fibers thus permit replacement of expensive
polymeric fibers within certain applications with lower cost
alternatives, or replacement of high density components with such low
density fibers, without sacrificing strength or durability. Such
multifilament fibers are produced through melt-spinning processes and
exhibit highly unique microstructures therein, including significant void
volumes, interspersed and crossed voids, and nanofilament bridges within
such voids. Such microstructural characteristics appear to impart the
exceptional properties noted above.