Patent ID: 6221925
Filing Date: 2001-04-24
Classification: C08J

Abstract:
A process for forming articles consisting essentially of foamed high density polyethylene having an original density, prior to foaming, of at least 0.94 g/cc, comprising treating said high density polyethylene, prior to foaming, with a peroxide to provide a peroxide treated high density polyethylene having a low shear viscosity which is at least about 1.25 times the viscosity of the untreated high density polyethylene measured at 0.1 rad./sec. and a high shear viscosity which is less than about 3.0 times the viscosity of the untreated high density polyethylene measured at 100 rad./sec.;admixing the peroxide treated high density polyethylene with a blowing agent; andfoaming the peroxide treated high density polyethylene to form a closed cell foam product which exhibits a density reduction, as a result of foaming, of over 20%.