Preparation and characterization of MCM-41 supported metallocene catalysts for olefin polymerization

Abstract

The effect of the structure and surface properties of support material on metallocene (zirconocene chloride) adsorption and catalyst activity in ethene polymerization was studied. Commercial Grace silica, mesoporous silicate, MCM-41, and aluminium-modified MCM-41 were used as supports. The highest amount of zirconocene dichloride was adsorbed on Al-modified MCM-41 (Si/Al = 32), providing the most reactive sites for attachment of the active component on the support surface. The 13C-CPMAS NMR studies proved that Cp2ZrCl2 is bound to the support surface. Also the highest activity in ethene polymerization was obtained using this support. © 1999 Academic Press.