Control of branches distribution in linear PE copolymers using fibrillar nanoclay as support of catalyst system

This study focuses on evaluating the consequences of using of sepiolite as a filler and co-catalyst support in the polymerization of polyethylene copolymers and their nanocomposites. The method used, in situ polymerization, has many variables to study because the type and distribution of the branches have an important effect on the final properties of the material. In an effort to understand the influence of these variables, different polyethylene copolymers (hexene, octene, decene), with its respective nanocomposites, were prepared and characterized. Preliminary results have demonstrated the use of sepiolite allows obtaining nanocomposites with narrower molecular weights and a more homogeneous distribution of the branches than the corresponding neat copolymers. [Display omitted] •In situ polymerization allows obtaining copolymers nanocomposites.•PE copolymers loaded with sepiolite have been successfully prepared.•The presence of modified sepiolite can regulate a rise of grafted comonomer.•Improvements in stiffness and toughness are presented against the neat copolymers.•Method's versatility allows manufacturing ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene.