Catalysis and the Polyethylene Revolution

Abstract

The world of polyolefins is enormous (Table I).[1a] Indeed the world of polyethylene itself is very large and is undergoing a major revolution (Table II).[1b-4]. Developments in catalysis for polyethylene in the last decade have had a major impact on the polyethylene industry. After nearly a half century of producing low-density polyethylenes (LDPE) at 20,000–50,000 psi and 300°C (Figure 1), new technology capable of operating at less than 300 psi and near 100°C has emerged. Union Carbide Corporation has developed a unique and versatile low-pressure, gas-phase process that does away with the extremely high pressures and temperatures characteristic of the conventional processes for making low-density polyethylenes. The scientific community and industrial organizations around the world have recognized Union Carbide’s gas-phase, UNIPOL process, as a major technological accomplishment.[2]