Carnosic acid and similar compounds exhibit antioxidant behavior in a polyethylene matrix. Thermal resistance of LDPE was investigated at three temperatures (190, 200, and 210degreesC) by isothermal chemiluminescence. The main kinetic parameters: oxidation induction period (t(i)), half oxidation time ([1,2), Maximum oxidation time (t(max)), and propagation rate of oxidation (nu(ox)(max)) were calculated. The inhibition of thermal degradation is proved by the values of these parameters relative to unstabilized polymer: the induction times of stabilized low density polyethylene are of one order of magnitude greater that raw polyethylene, and half oxidation periods are three to five times longer than initial LDPE. Thermal aging of protected low density polyethylene occurs at a much slower rate in comparison with unmodified LDPE. The depletion of stabilizers was also evaluated and the kinetic characteristics (the half-life and the rate constant of consumption for each antioxidant) at three concentrations of all tested additives (0.125, 0.25, 0.50 and 0.75% w/w) were determined. The effectiveness off stabilization was depicted by two values of activation energies calculated from oxidation induction times and maximum oxidation periods. Some considerations on stabilizing mechanism are presented. (C) 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.