Macropolymerization of Polyethylene by Anhydrous Alkalis and Effective Inhibition of Polyethylene Destruction at High Temperatures

Abstract The polyolefin transformation at 200 to 450°C. in the presence of alkali metals and their hydroxides is described. A twofold to fourfold increase of the molecular weight of polyethylene in contact with alkali melts is observed at 200 to 300°C. This phenomenon was given the name “macropolymerization” of polyolefin. At 350 to 450°C. a high retarding action of polyolefin destruction is observed.