| Abstract: | The molecular weight distribution of polyethylene produced by radiation was calculated according to a kinetic scheme. The calculated molecular weight distribution was compared with the results deduced from gel-permeation chromatography. The observed distribution curve from GPC was broader and showed a lower degree of polymerization than the calculated one. Discrepancies between observed and calculated curves can be explained if the polymer contains nonsteady-state products and if the reaction mechanism includes chain transfer to dead polymer. By this reaction long-chain branching would occur. Several long-chain branches per polymer molecule were indeed found, as inferred from solution properties. |
