Polyethylene (PE) is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic that belongs to the polyolefin category.
PE can be manufactured in two different ways, resulting in either low (LDPE) or high density (HDPE). : LDPE is the least dense and thus rigid, and HDPE the most.
PE is naturally white or transparent, and can easily be colored during processing using a masterbatch. Many PE variants are approved for contact with foodstuffs, and PE is often used in packaging of different kinds and easy to recycle. PE can also be made using non-fossil raw materials.
PE is used in many industries, in products such as shopping bags, kitchen foil, film, bottles, buckets, and chopping boards. It is also suitable for use in sliding rails, cable insulation, underfloor heating pipes, and petrol tanks.
Primary properties:
- Excellent chemical resistance
- Very low moisture absorption
- High impact resistance
- Poor heat resistance
- Good performance at low temperatures (down to -40°C)
- Good mechanical and electrical properties
