LDPE vs HDPE

Polyethylene is a thermoplastic that is made as a result of the polymerization of ethylene. There are different polymerization processes that make LDPE and HDPE. Polyethylene is the most popular plastic that is consumed every day. Polyethylene’s best attribute is its durability, recyclability, resistance to acids, temperature changes, and physical damage such as punctures. That is why it’s a plastic of choice in the food, manufacturing, and construction industries. Below, are the types of polyethylene plastics available at Elements Supply.

Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) - is a type of thermoplastic widely used in making plastic bags for packaging and manufacturing industries. It has low density because of its big spaces between branches created during polymerization. Its low density makes it translucent, flexible, resistant to chemicals, dirt and moisture protectant, puncture resistant, and recyclable. It is ideal for packaging various products such as food items, pharmaceutical products, small parts, and produce bags.

High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) - Similar to LDPE, but it is made with higher density because of its linear structure formed during polymerization. Like LDPE, HDPE bags have high chemical resistance. Though HDPE bags provide better durability than LDPE bags and are more resistant to punctures, they are less flexible than LDPE. HDPE bags are popular in packaging odd-shaping products, heavy items, and sharp objects.