A senior research chemist with the Exxon Chemical Company in Baytown, Texas provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of polyethylene in all its varied aspects of production, properties, and applications. The introductory chapter outlines this versatile plastic's molecular structure, morphology, properties, markets, and uses. Subsequent chapters describe the development of the field since1933, its market expansion through new applications, current catalyst and production processes, molecular weight and composition distribution analysis, and emerging trends. The discussion of physical properties encompasses the gamut of solid- state mechanical, chemical, thermal, optical, electrical, and melt rheological properties. The final chapter looks at the future of polyethylene by-products through environmentally and economically- conscious primary and secondary polymer recycling and disposal strategies. Illustrations include optical micrograph views and schematic thermograms of polyethylene samples. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)