Mathematical modeling of the mechanism of inhibiting effect of sterically hindered phenols in the oxidation of LDPE in melt

The mechanisms of inhibiting action of 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-methyl phenol and 2,6-di-tert-butyl phenol in the oxidation of a melt of low-density polyethylene was studied kinetically at 120, 130, and 140 degrees C and mathematical models of the mechanisms were developed. The key reactions in the mechanism of the antioxidant action were determined at each of the temperatures; the corresponding kinetic parameters were determined. The efficiencies of these antioxidants and also of the previously investigated 2,4,6-tri-tert-butyl phenol were compared.