| abstract |
A simplified process for preparing polyolefins from saturated hydrocarbons is provided. The process involves partial and selective dehydrogenation of a saturated hydrocarbon in the presence of oxygen to form an olefin, unreacted hydrocarbon, and water, and optionally other by-products and oxygen. The water, other by-products (if present), and oxygen (if present) are separated from the olefin and unreacted hydrocarbon. No other separation is performed. The olefin and unreacted hydrocarbon are polymerized in the presence a polymerization catalyst or initiator to make polyolefin. Solid polyolefin is separated from unreacted hydrocarbon, which is recycled to the dehydrogenation reaction. |