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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 06 February 2014
The kinetic performance of metallocene type catalysts as well as their instantaneous activity is determined on line by two independent methods in the semi-batch polymerization of ethylene via metallocenes. On the basis of first-principles, both methods are described and guidelines for their implementation at a laboratory scale reactor are offered. Polymerization tests were conducted with two heterogenized metallocene catalysts showing that the direct method (based on ethylene flow measurement) and also the calorimetric method (based on energy balances) reported equivalent high quality information. The calorimetric method here developed can be readily used by the chemical practitioner as the notions and tools required for its implantation are easily grasped. It is noted that the calorimetric method has the advantage of requiring a low cost instrumentation (only thermocouples) whereas the direct method needs a relatively more sophisticated equipment (mass flow meter).