Irradiation of linear polyethylene - Partitioning between sol and gel.

Investigation of the importance of chain-scission processes and of the applicability of the general theory of network formation to polyethylene with respect to critical conditions for gelation, using molecular weight fractions of linear polyethylene irradiated at 133 C. The partitioning between sol and gel was found to adhere to the theory just beyond the gel point. Deviations from theory occurred as the irradiation dosage was increased. It was concluded that main-chain scission at the temperatures concerned is not a significant process.