Siberian scientists today only in Russia are developing technology – ultra high molecular weight polyethylene. This extreme in their properties the material stronger than steel by 7 times and is able to maintain its quality at minus one hundred degrees. Perfect for Arctic industry. It has already been called a “gold mine”.

Institute of Catalysis learned how to get not just a polymer – polyethylene with very high molecular weight. No decomposition in acid, can withstand frost down to minus one hundred degrees. Not material – armor. Initial elements – “mixed” in the reactor. Under pressure. The process does not go without a catalyst.

Tatiana Mikenas, Senior Research Fellow of the Institute of Catalysis of the SB RAS: “Titan-magnesium catalyst which is a particles, each particle is about five microns.”

The catalyst of our know-how. It allows the production of molecules with a certain mass and structure. The creation of the polymer – the researcher controls.

Olesya Gerasimenko, Reporter: “Of the five milligrams of catalyst – the output of about 100 grams of polymer, which is then processed. For example, here is a thread can be made of it. She became stronger at 7 times. ”

The most robust body armor in the world – from these yarns. UHMW polietelen – the best coverage for cars, truck bodies. Cut, Georgia, if it is to do nothing. In addition, the material is lighter than water.

Valentin Nikitin, Head of Technology Group: “Aircraft, unmanned, they are also light – wings can be made from it. Then you can make armor protection for armored vehicles. Bottoms helicopters. That is, it’s all in the West is widely used. ”

Abroad, and all the world’s production of polyethylene miracle. Here it is ready technology, and in his own country is not an investor.

Vladimir Zakharov, professor, chief researcher at the Institute of Catalysis SB RAS: “It is very difficult to process into products. That is why it is a relatively large scale is used in those cases where it must operate under extreme conditions, some where other polymers are not running “.

Where extreme than the extreme north of the country. Exam Arctic – our polyethylene, scientists have no doubt, will stand. And looking forward to checking “at the limit”.

Vesti Novosibirsk