High density polyethylene (HDPE) is a cost-effective thermoplastic with a linear structure. It has no or low degree of branching. It is flexible, translucent/waxy, and weather resistant.
HDPE is more rigid due to high crystallinity (> 90%). This also means it is less transparent than LDPE & LLDPE versions. HDPE also displays toughness at low temperature
What are the properties of HDPE?
HDPE Melting point: 120-140°C
Density of HDPE: 0.93 to 0.97 g/cm3
Chemical resistance of HDPE:
Excellent resistance to most solvents
Very good resistance to alcohols, dilute acids and alkalis
Moderate resistance to oils and greases
Poor resistance to hydrocarbons (aliphatic, aromatic, halogenated)
Continuous temperature: -50°C to +60°C, relatively stiff material with useful temperature capabilities
Higher tensile strength compared to other forms of PE
Low-cost polymer with good processability
Good low-temperature resistance
Excellent electrical insulating properties
Very low water absorption
FDA compliant
What are the applications of HDPE?
Excellent combination of properties makes HDPE an ideal material in diverse applications across industries. Some of the major uses of HDPE include:
Packaging Applications – HDPE is used in several packaging applications including crates, trays, bottles for milk and fruit juices, caps for food packaging, jerry cans, drums, industrial bulk containers etc. In such applications HDPE provides the end-product a reasonable impact strength.crates
bottles for milk & juices
caps for food
industrial containers
Consumer Goods – Low cost and easy processability make HDPE a material of choice in several household/consumer goods like garbage containers, housewares, ice boxes, toys etc.garbage containers
housewares
ice boxes
toys
Fibers and Textiles – Thanks to its high tensile strength, HDPE is widely used for agricultural applications such as in ropes, fishing and sport nets, nets as well as industrial and decorative fabrics.ropes
fishing net
sport net
industrial net decorative fabrics
