Emerging trends in olefin polymerization: a perspective

TitleEmerging trends in olefin polymerization: a perspective
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2023
AuthorsBirajdar, RS, Bodkhe, D, Gupta, P, Shaikh, MH, Ramekar, R, Chikkali, SH
JournalJournal of macromolecular science part A- pure and applied chemistry
Volume60
Issue11
Pagination731-750
Date PublishedNOV
Type of ArticleArticle
ISSN1060-1325
Keywordscompatibilizer, Functional polyethylene, Insertion (co)polymerization, renewable monomers, uHMWPE
Abstract

The seemingly matured field of olefin polymerization still poses several challenges and holds enormous potential to meet contemporary material requirements. In this feature article, we examine the progress of olefin polymerization in the last two decades. Among the several emerging trends, we identify four most impactful discoveries, namely, (i) disentangled ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (dUHMWPE), (ii) disubstituted functional olefin copolymerization, (iii) incorporation of bioderived comonomers in polyolefins, and (iv) application of above (ii, iii) functional polyolefins as compatibilizers. The dUHMWPE has attracted significant attention and heterogeneous Ziegler-type catalysts, homogenous metallocene, and post-metallocene catalysts have been reported to produce disentangled ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene. Insertion copolymerization of difunctional disubstituted olefins has been reported only recently and ortho-phosphinobenzene sulfonate palladium catalyst outperforms the other catalysts. Interestingly, insertion copolymerization of bioderived olefins has witnessed a surge in the number of reports. Sugar and plant oil-derived olefins have been copolymerized with ethylene to obtain relatively hydrophilic polyethylene. The functional polyethylene is finding a new application as compatibilizer or displays better adhesion to surfaces. Thus, the feature article offers a succinct account of emerging trends in polyolefins, identifies the most impactful contributions, and debates the application potential of these new materials.

DOI10.1080/10601325.2023.2269971
Type of Journal (Indian or Foreign)

Foreign

Impact Factor (IF)

2.5

Divison category: 
Polymer Science & Engineering
Database: 
Web of Science (WoS)

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