Polyethylene, linear [MW ~52,000] is a NIST standard used in polymer testing workflows involving melt flow rate determination. Melt flow rate is widely used in polymer technology as a material specification because the reported value, together with the load and temperature used during testing, provides information about polymer processing behavior.
Related names: Linear polyethylene, PE, polyethylene standard, and polyethylene melt flow rate standard.
This linear polyethylene has a molecular weight of approximately 52,000 and an Mw/Mn of approximately 2.90. It is solvent-soluble in 1-chloronaphthalene, 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene, and decalin above 80°C.
Key Properties
- Linear polyethylene polymer standard
- Product Number: 09829
- CAS Number: 9002-88-4
- Synonym: PE
- Molecular weight: approximately 52,000
- Mw/Mn: approximately 2.90
- Solvent-soluble in 1-chloronaphthalene, 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene, and decalin above 80°C
- Used for melt flow rate determination in polymer testing workflows
Applications
Melt Flow Rate Testing
This polyethylene standard is used in workflows for determining melt flow rate, a common polymer specification used to evaluate processing behavior under defined load and temperature conditions.
Polymer Processing Studies
Linear polyethylene [MW ~52,000] is relevant for polymer technology work where polyethylene flow behavior, molecular weight distribution, and processing characteristics are being evaluated.
Reference & Method Development Workflows
This material may be used in laboratory workflows involving polyethylene reference materials, method comparison, instrument evaluation, or testing consistency for thermoplastic polymer analysis.
Solubility & Compatibility Considerations
- Solvent-soluble in 1-chloronaphthalene, 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene, and decalin above 80°C
- Solubility depends on solvent selection, temperature, polymer concentration, and mixing conditions
- Processing behavior depends on molecular weight, molecular weight distribution, thermal history, and test conditions
- Users should confirm compatibility with the intended test method, solvent system, and instrument workflow
Melt flow rate results depend on standardized test conditions, including temperature, load, sample preparation, instrument configuration, and method execution.
Application Tips
- Use the load and temperature conditions specified by the applicable melt flow rate method
- Prepare samples consistently to minimize variability in polymer testing workflows
- Confirm solvent and temperature conditions before preparing polyethylene solutions
- Refer to applicable ASTM or laboratory methods for melt flow rate testing requirements
References
- ASTM D 1238-00; Test Method for Melt Flow Rates of Thermoplastics by Extrusion Plastometer; ASTM Standards, Vol. 08.01, American Society for Testing and Materials, West Conshohocken, PA (2001).
- Taylor, B.N.; Guide for the Use of the International System of Units (SI); NIST Special Publication 811; Ed. (April 1995).
Handling & Storage
- Store at room temperature
- Exercise normal care when handling
- Keep container tightly closed when not in use
- Use normal precautions for laboratory polymer handling
- Follow the product SDS for complete handling, storage, cleanup, and disposal guidance
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FAQ
Click a question to expand.
1. What is Polyethylene, linear [MW ~52,000] used for?
It is used in polymer testing workflows involving melt flow rate determination and polyethylene processing behavior studies.
2. What is melt flow rate?
Melt flow rate is a polymer specification that describes flow under defined test conditions. The value is reported with the load and temperature used during testing.
3. What is the molecular weight of this polyethylene?
This linear polyethylene has an approximate molecular weight of 52,000 and an Mw/Mn of approximately 2.90.
4. What solvents can be used with this polyethylene?
This polyethylene is solvent-soluble in 1-chloronaphthalene, 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene, and decalin above 80°C. Users should confirm solvent, temperature, and concentration conditions for their workflow.
5. Which references are included for melt flow rate and SI unit guidance?
The references include ASTM D 1238-00 for melt flow rate testing of thermoplastics by extrusion plastometer and Taylor’s NIST Special Publication 811 for guidance on the International System of Units.
Safety & Documentation
Review the product specification and Safety Data Sheet before use. Exercise normal care when handling and follow SDS guidance for storage, cleanup, and disposal.
