Gamma-oxidation of linear low density polyethylenes: Ethylene–butene and ethylene–hexene copolymers

Different linear low density polyethylenes (LLDPEs) based on hexene and butene comonomer were irradiated with γ-rays under air. The oxidation products have been quantified using NO and SF₄ treatments by IR spectroscopy. An FTIR examination displayed unexpected products such as free hydroperoxides and trans-vinylenes. It was found that the type of α-olefin used to process LLDPE films may influence the mechanism of oxidation. Parameters such as the melt index and the density seem to affect the γ-oxidation rate. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.