Low density polyethylene (LDPE)

Low density polyethylene (LDPE)

Polyethylene is a thermoplastic polymer resulting from the polymerization of ethylene monomer. Its macro-molecular structure is linear, with a smaller or larger number of ramifications. Polyethylene produced by various technologies are different between them by values of some features such as: molecular mass, degree of ramification, crystallinity, density, mechanical properties, thermal properties, etc.

Low density polyethylene has a high resistance to impact, a modest structural strength and a good resistance to many chemicals attack. It is processed mainly by centrifugation, blowing and injection.

LDPE takes the form of transparent, opaque or colored granules and has a degree of crystallinity between 40 and 50%.

Advantages

  • very low cost;
  • excellent chemical resistance;
  • very good processing;
  • high resistance to impact at low temperatures;
  • very low water absorption;
  • recommended for food and medicines industry;
  • can be transparent under the form of thin foil.

Usages and applications