Advanced Solution Process Technology for Cast Film Applications: New Opportunities Using Novel Catalyst Technologies

Abstract

Using a new advanced solution technology, NOVA Chemicals Corporation has developed an improved family of polyethylene resins, some of which are ideally suited for specific applications, for example, medium density for hygiene films and linear low density for stretch films. This new technology has been used to produce polyethylene resins with tailored molecular structure and processability. This new technology is based on an improved solution polymerization process using a new Ziegler-Natta catalyst. The rheological properties, particularly draw resonance, together with the physical and mechanical properties of cast films made from these new resins are presented in this paper. In addition, there is a discussion on the results of an investigation on the effects that different types and levels of stabilizers have on resin processing behavior and film stability.

Keywords

polyethylene Ziegler-Natta catalyst single-site catalyst solution process reactor technology metallocene catalyst molecular weight distribution LDPE LLDPE octene hexene cast film neck-in draw resonance antioxidants phosphite phenolic yellowness index nitrous oxides gas-fade resistance gels stretch film mechanical properties dart impact cling Elmendorf tear optical properties melt index

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