Abstract: Compositions are provided which comprise 50-80% of a synthetic wax, such as a Fischer-Tropsch wax, in combination with 10-50% of a polyethylene material having a Brookfield viscosity at 284.degree. F. greater than about 5000 centipoise. The compositions serve as replacements for commercially available low viscosity polyethylenes, i.e., polyethylenes having Brookfield viscosities at 284.degree. F. of less than about 1000 centipoise, in such applications as lubricating plastic extrusions and coating paperboard stock. The compositions can be prepared by melting and then mixing the components. Accordingly, custom tailoring of the compositions for specific applications can be readily performed.

Abstract: A method for depolymerizing a non-thermosetting polymer is described. The method comprises the steps of heating the polymer until it is molten and then reacting the molten polymer with oxygen in the absence of a catalyst at a temperature between about 270.degree. F. and about 415.degree. F. by sparging the molten material at a flow rate of at least 2 cubic feet per minute per 1000 pounds of polymer with oxygen-containing gas bubbles having a diameter of less than about 10.0 mm. Advantages of the invention include reduced reaction temperatures, reduced reaction times, elimination of the need for a catalyst, and improved end-products. Treatment of amorphous polypropylene and mixtures of alpha-olefins and Fischer-Tropsch waxes are preferred applications of the invention.