Reaction calorimetric investigation of the propylene slurry phase polymerization with a silica-supported metallocene/MAO catalyst

The slurry phase polymerization of propylene with a silica-supported metallocene/MAO catalyst was kinetically investigated by two different methods at several polymerization conditions. Heat flow calorimetry on the one hand as an innovative method and flowmeter-technique on the other hand as a well established classical method led to consistent kinetic profiles. Thus, the principle applicability of the heat flow calorimetry for the kinetic investigation of the described polymerization process was demonstrated, contrary to some expectations in literature. Furthermore, the sensitivity of the calorimetric method is shown and polymerization heats for the slurry process have been determined.