2,6-Diacetylpyridinebis (2,6-diisopropylani) iron dichloride, a late-transition metal catalyst for olefin polymerization, was supported on SBA-15 successfully and the property of the supported catalyst was carefully studied. Ethylene polymerization was systematically investigated in the presence of MAO under various conditions employing this type of catalyst system. In general, after support, a decrease in the catalytic activity was observed and higher molecular weight and fibrous morphology of polyethylene were obtained. The "extrusion polymerization" phenomenon was observed in ethylene polymerization by using the supported catalyst system. (C) 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.