Ultraviolet Determination of Additives in Polyethylene

Abstract

A method for determining a large number of additives such as antioxidants, expanding agents, etc in polyethylene is discussed. The method consists of compression molding a clear film of polyethylene containing the additive. From this film the ultraviolet absorbance of the additive can be measured and the concentration calculated. It is possible to determine quantitatively most additives in the 0 002 to 1 0 per cent range. An application of the technique is described, and the advantages and limitations of the method are discussed.