Abstract: The by-product polyethylene wax from ethylene oligomerization contains impurities such as high-carbon olefins and ash, leading to low value and limited applications if sold with minimal processing. To enhance its utilization, refining treatments are necessary. This study examined the effect of different solvents on the separation of the polyethylene wax and identified optimal refining conditions. Using a Soxhlet extraction system with n-hexane, the wax was separated into four fractions（Fraction 1 to Fraction 4）in descending order of melting point, with mass percentages of 30.60%, 38.05%, 13.00%, and 18.35%, respectively. The physicochemical properties and ash composition of each fraction were systematically analyzed, revealing that metallic elements in the ash derived from the catalyst system used in ethylene oligomerization.

Key words: ethylene oligomerization, polyethylene wax, n-hexane, soxhlet extraction