Polymerization of Ethylene to Polyethylene

nC2H4 → (–CH2–CH2–)n

Descripción general

Ethylene molecules undergo addition polymerization to form polyethylene, the world's most produced plastic. The C=C double bond opens and links to adjacent monomers. Ziegler-Natta catalysts produce linear HDPE, while radical initiation produces branched LDPE. Over 100 million tonnes are produced annually.

Participantes

Rol Sustancia Coeficiente Estado
Reactivo Ethylene C₂H₄ 1 (g)

Ejemplo cotidiano

Plastic bags, bottles, food containers, and plastic wrap are all made from polyethylene produced by this polymerization reaction.

Importancia industrial

El polietileno es el plástico más producido mundialmente, con aplicaciones en envases, tuberías y películas.

Propiedades

Tipo
Organic
Reversible
No
Energía
Exotérmico
ΔH
-93,0 kJ/mol
Catalizador
Ziegler-Natta or metallocene catalysts

Reacciones relacionadas

Epoxidation of Alkenes (mCPBA) Swern Oxidation Oxidation of Secondary Alcohol to Ketone E2 Elimination (Dehydrohalogenation) Claisen Condensation (Ethyl Acetate) Aldol Condensation of Acetaldehyde Kolbe Electrolysis Baeyer-Villiger Oxidation Beckmann Rearrangement (Cyclohexanone Oxime) Dehydration of Ethanol

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Polymerization of Ethylene to Polyethylene?
The balanced equation is: nC₂H₄ → (–CH₂–CH₂–)ₙ.
What type of reaction is Polymerization of Ethylene to Polyethylene?
Polymerization of Ethylene to Polyethylene is a organic reaction.
Is Polymerization of Ethylene to Polyethylene exothermic or endothermic?
Polymerization of Ethylene to Polyethylene is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -93.0 kJ/mol.
What conditions are needed for Polymerization of Ethylene to Polyethylene?
This reaction requires a catalyst (Ziegler-Natta or metallocene catalysts).