A New Catalyst for Ethylene Polymerization Containing Nickel Oxide

Abstract
A new catalyst for ethylene polymerization NiO–NiSO4, was found from a study of NiO–SiO2, and NiCl2 catalysts. The Ni–NiSO4 catalyst prepared from mixtures of formate and sulfate is much less active than NiO–NiSO4 prepared from mixtures of hydroxide and sulfate. Poisoning behavior of carbon monoxide and water is quite similar to NiO–SiO2 catalyst. An equimolar mixture of NiO–NiSO4 gives maximum activity. The active species is postulated to be hydroxy sulfate of nickel. The structure of the active site is discussed.