Novel spherical Ziegler–Natta catalyst for polymerization and copolymerization. I. Spherical MgCl₂ support

Abstract

Abstract Spherical MgCl 2 adducts used as supports for a Ziegler–Natta catalyst for olefin polymerization were prepared by the general precipitation method. The influence of MgCl 2 /EtOH (mol/mol) and the dispersion speeds on the particle size (PS) and particle size distribution (PSD) were investigated. It was found that the former played a trivial role in controlling the PS and PSD, and the latter was the key factor. In particular, the influence of ethanol on the crystal structure was further examined, with consideration given to the performance of the supported Ziegler–Natta catalyst. It was believed that the reactions between MgCl 2 and ethanol had a controlling effect on the destruction of the original anhydrous MgCl 2 , which was the key point in the preparation of suitable supports for the latest generation Ziegler–Natta catalyst. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 40: 3112–3119, 2002