Two-dimensional infrared (2D IR) correlation spectroscopy was applied to a semicrystalline linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) sample under varying pressure. A substantial level of spectral changes are observed when even a moderate amount of pre:;sure is applied to the polyethylene sample. Fine features of the spectral changes are readily analyzed by the 2D correlation method. The pressure-induced 2D IR spectra indicate the observed changes in IR spectra may be attributed to the morphological reorganizations of semicrystalline superstructure of polyethylene, e.g., reorientation of lamellae and partial melting under compression. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.