Polyethylene (PE) is the most widely used plastic in the world, known for its versatility, durability, and relatively low cost. Its history dates back to the early 20th century and involves a series of significant scientific and technological developments. Here is an overview of the key milestones in the history of polyethylene:
Early Discoveries and Development
1. Accidental Discovery:
- 1898: German chemist Hans von Pechmann was the first to synthesize polyethylene, though accidentally. He observed the formation of a waxy substance while decomposing diazomethane. This substance was later identified by his colleagues, Eugen Bamberger and Friedrich Tschirner, as polyethylene.
2. Controlled Polymerization:
- 1933: The first practical synthesis of polyethylene was achieved by British chemists Eric Fawcett and Reginald Gibson at the Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) in the UK. They accidentally created polyethylene by subjecting ethylene to extremely high pressure and a temperature of around 170°C (338°F). The resultant material was a white, waxy solid.
Early Discoveries and Development
1. Accidental Discovery:
- 1898: German chemist Hans von Pechmann was the first to synthesize polyethylene, though accidentally. He observed the formation of a waxy substance while decomposing diazomethane. This substance was later identified by his colleagues, Eugen Bamberger and Friedrich Tschirner, as polyethylene.
2. Controlled Polymerization:
- 1933: The first practical synthesis of polyethylene was achieved by British chemists Eric Fawcett and Reginald Gibson at the Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) in the UK. They accidentally created polyethylene by subjecting ethylene to extremely high pressure and a temperature of around 170°C (338°F). The resultant material was a white, waxy solid.
