Equistar Chemicals, LP

Andrew J Scheie

Harilaos Mavridis

Mark K Reinking

Manivakkam J Shankernarayanan

Richard T E Sylvester

A method of modifying polyethylene is disclosed. The method comprises contacting the polyethylene powder with ozone. The modified polyethylene exhibits an increase in melt elasticity and the complex viscosity at low shear rates. The rheological benefits are achieved without a significant reduction in the weight average molecular weight of the polyethylene. The modified polyethylene can be used in applications that require higher melt strength such as film or blow molding.

Modification of polyethylene with ozone

A process for improving the melt characteristics of propylene-ethylene random block and impact copolymers is provided. The process involves contacting a powder of the copolymer with a low level of free radical initiator followed by heating at a temperature below the melting point of the copolymer and above the free radical initiation temperature.

Solid state modification of propylene polymers

A method of modifying a polyethylene is disclosed. In the method ethylene or a mixture of ethylene and a C3-C10 &#x3b1;-olefin is polymerized in an organic solvent with a Ziegler or single-site catalyst to form an initial polyethylene solution. The initial polyethylene solution is then reacted with a free radical initiator to produce a modified polyethylene. The modified polymer has an enhanced melt elasticity and increased long chain branching index, and is essentially free of gel.

Modifying polyethylene made by Ziegler or single-site catalyst with free radical initiator

A process for improving the melt characteristics of polyethylene resins is provided. The process involves contacting a polyethylene resin powder with a low level of free radical initiator at a temperature below the melting point of the resin.

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Cincinnati, OH, United States of America

Andrew J Scheie