What is High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)?
define high density polyethylene plastic: High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is a thermoplastic polymer made from petroleum derivatives. It is known for its high strength-to-density ratio, making it one of the most durable and widely used plastics. The density of High Density Polyethylene typically ranges from 0.93 to 0.97 g/cm³, contributing to its lightweight yet strong nature.
HDPE is produced through a catalytic polymerization process, resulting in a material that is chemically resistant, impact-resistant, and moisture-resistant. The high density polyethylene chemical formula is (Câ‚‚Hâ‚„)â‚™, indicating a polymer structure with minimal branching, which enhances its strength and durability.
Common High density polyethylene uses include plastic bottles, milk jugs, food storage containers, and piping systems. In industrial settings, HDPE pipes are widely utilized for water supply, gas distribution, and sewage systems due to their corrosion resistance and flexibility. Additionally, HDPE sheets are used in cutting boards, marine applications, and industrial tank linings.
Key HDPE properties include exceptional tensile strength, allowing it to withstand significant stress without breaking. It is also highly resistant to UV radiation, making it suitable for outdoor applications. HDPE plastic is easy to process using extrusion, injection molding, blow molding, and rotational molding techniques.
Another advantage is HDPE recyclability, as it carries the resin identification code “2”. Recycling HDPE bags, bottles, and other Hdpe products helps reduce plastic waste and supports sustainability efforts.
The High density polyethylene price varies based on market demand and application, but it remains cost-effective compared to other engineering plastics. Its combination of strength, durability, and recyclability makes HDPE a preferred material across numerous industries.
Types and Grades of HDPE
Polyethylene, particularly High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), is available in various types and grades, each designed for specific applications. The manufacturing process and formulation determine the properties of each grade, including flexibility, strength, and durability.
HDPE injection molding grade is used to produce rigid, high-strength plastic products through an injection process. This grade is commonly used in the manufacturing of plastic crates, containers, housewares, industrial parts, and medical equipment. Injection-molded HDPE has excellent impact resistance, making it suitable for automotive components, caps, closures, and storage bins.
| GRADE | PRODUCER | MFR (190°C / 2.16kg ) | DENSITY (g/cm3) | DATASHEET |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 52518 | JAM | 18 | 0.954 | |
| 60505UV | JAM | 5 | 0.952 | |
| 60507UV | JAM | 7.5 | 0.958 | |
| 60511 | JAM | 11 | 0.958 | |
| 52B07 | LORESTAN | 7 (5K/G) | 0.952 | |
| 52505UV | jam | 5 | 0.952 | |
| I3 | AMIRKABIR, KERMANSHAH | 8 (5K/G) | 0.957 | |
| 2200J | ILAM | 5.8 (5K/G) | 0.953 | |
| 52B18 | LORESTAN | 18 | 0.952 | |
| 62107UV | LORESTAN | 7 (5K/G) | 0.962 | |
| 5030SA | TABRIZ | 2 | 0.950 | |
| 5218EA | TABRIZ | 18 (5K/G) | 0.952 | |
| 5218UA | TABRIZ | 18 (5K/G) | 0.952 | |
| 6040UA | TABRIZ, LORESTAN | 3.6 (5K/G) | 0.960 | |
| 6070UA | TABRIZ | 7.2 (5K/G) | 0.960 | |
| HD62N18 | BAKHTAR | 15-21Â (5K/G) | 0.960-0.964 | |
| HD62N07 | BAKHTAR | 6-8 (5K/G) | 0.960-0.964 | |
| HD52B18 | BAKHTAR | 18 | 0.952 | |
| 54B04 UV | BAKHTAR | 3.6-4.4 | 0.952-0.956 | |
| 52511 | JAM | 11 | 0.952 | |
| HI0500 | BANDAREMAM | 5 | 0.965 | |
| 5620EA | ARAK | 20 | 0.956 | |
| 54B04 | LORESTAN | 3.6-4.4 | 0.952-0.956 | |
| HD7260 | BAKHTAR | 23±3 | 0.957±0.002 | |
| I4 | AMIRKABIR, MARUN | 4.0 ± 0.7 | 0.954 ±0.002 | |
| HD3840UA | LORESTAN, TABRIZ | 3.6-4.4 | 0.935-0.939 | |
HDPE blow molding grade is specifically designed for making hollow plastic products, such as bottles, jerry cans, and drums. It offers good stress crack resistance, impact strength, and lightweight properties, making it ideal for packaging applications in food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and household chemicals. Blow-molded HDPE is also used in automotive fuel tanks due to its resistance to chemicals and durability.
| GRADE | PRODUCER | MFR (gr/10min) | DENSITY (gr/cm3) | DATASHEET |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BL3 | JAM | 1.2±0.3 | 0.954±0.002 | |
| HD4760 | BAKHTAR | 1 | 0.954 | |
| 0035 | BANDAREMAM | 0.35 | 0.959 | |
| BL4 | JAM, AMIRKABIR, KERMANSHAH | 0.29-0.41 | 0.949-0.953 | |
| 5510 | ARYA SASOL | 0.075 | 0.955 | |
| HD4750 | BAKHTAR, KERMANSHAH | 1.1+0.3 | 0.944+0.002 | |
| HD52HF2 | BAKHTAR | 0.18+0.22 | 0.950-0.954 | |
| HBM 4265 | Arya Sasol | 6.5 | 0.942 | |
| HBM 5520 | Arya Sasol | 0.25 | 0.955 | |
| HBM 5020 | Arya Sasol | 0.3 | 0.950 |
HDPE rotational molding grade is used in large, seamless, and durable plastic products. This process creates uniform, stress-free structures with excellent impact resistance. Common applications include storage tanks, playground equipment, traffic barriers, and outdoor furniture. Rotomolded HDPE is preferred for large, custom-molded items due to its ability to form thick, sturdy walls without weak points.
| GRADE | PRODUCER | MFR | DENSITY | DATASHEET |
| 3840UA | Tabriz | 4 | 0.938 | download |
| HD2840UA | ShazandArak | 3.8 - 4.5 | 0.925-0.929 | download |
| HD3560UA | ShazandArak | 6 | 0.935 | download |
HDPE film grade is a thin, flexible type of polyethylene used for plastic bags, agricultural films, food packaging, and liners. It provides moisture resistance, durability, and lightweight performance while maintaining excellent tensile strength. HDPE films are widely used in the packaging industry, particularly for grocery bags, produce bags, and industrial liners. Some specialized HDPE films also have UV stabilization for outdoor use.
high density polymer materials
HDPE caps and closures grade is used to manufacture plastic lids, bottle caps, and tamper-evident closures. This grade has high stiffness, dimensional stability, and excellent sealing properties, making it ideal for beverage, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic containers. Due to its chemical resistance, it is widely used in detergent and chemical packaging as well.
High density polyethylene pipe grade is formulated for water, gas, and sewage piping systems. It offers high tensile strength, corrosion resistance, and flexibility, making it an ideal choice for municipal water distribution, irrigation systems, and industrial fluid transport. Hdpe pipes are lightweight, easy to install, and can withstand extreme environmental conditions, including underground and underwater applications.
| GRADE | PRODUCER | MFR | DENSITY | DATASHEET |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7700M | KHALIJE FARS, ILAM | 0.27 | 0.949 | |
| HMCRP 100 BLACK | JAM | 0.20-0.24 | 0.955-0.959 | |
| PE100 | JAM | 0.19-0.25 | 0.946-0.950 | |
| PE80 | ARYA SASOL | 0.33 | 0.944 | |
| EX3 | JAM, MARUN | 0.39-0.51 | 0.943-0.947 | |
| PCF55 | SHAZAND | 22.8 | 0.959 | |
| 4440EA | TABRIZ | 4 | 0.944 |
To manufacture HDPE pipes, raw polyethylene is dried, heated to approximately 180 °C (356 °F), and extruded through a die. The pipes are often black due to the addition of carbon black, which enhances UV resistance. After cooling, the pipes are printed with relevant information and cut to the desired lengths. HDPE pipes are utilized in a variety of applications, including water supply, sewerage and drainage, and gas distribution. They are safe for transporting potable water due to the use of food-grade polyethylene and are commonly used in sewage systems and stormwater management due to their chemical resistance. They are also suitable for high-pressure gas mains, making them a versatile and reliable choice for many industries.
HDPE raffia grade is primarily used in woven plastic products, such as woven sacks, ropes, straps, and tarpaulins. This grade provides high tensile strength, durability, and weather resistance, making it suitable for agriculture, construction, and industrial packaging. HDPE raffia is widely used in grain storage bags, cement bags, and bulk packaging materials due to its superior tear resistance and flexibility.
Typical uses of HDPE raffia in woven fabrics include:
- Agriculture: Crop covers, shade nets
- Packaging: Durable bags
- Construction: Tarpaulins, scaffolding nets
- Industrial settings: Conveyor belts, sacks
Its strength and durability ensure that HDPE raffia remains reliable across these diverse applications.
HDPE Properties and Characteristics
pe high density is a highly versatile material with a range of properties that make it ideal for various industrial, commercial, and consumer applications. Below are its key High density polyethylene properties:
Tensile Strength
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) has excellent tensile strength, allowing it to withstand significant stretching and stress without breaking. This makes it ideal for applications requiring durability, such as piping and industrial containers.
Strength-to-Density Ratio
Despite being lightweight, HDPE is incredibly strong. Its high strength-to-density ratio contributes to its widespread use in structural applications, packaging, and piping systems.
Impact Resistance
HDPE can absorb high-impact forces without cracking or breaking, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications like protective barriers and fuel tanks.
Melting Point
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) has a melting point ranging between 248°F and 284°F (120°C – 140°C), making it resistant to moderate heat exposure.
Chemical Resistance
It is highly resistant to chemicals, acids, and solvents, making it ideal for chemical storage tanks and industrial piping systems.
Flexibility
While HDPE is less flexible than Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), it still retains some flexibility depending on thickness. Thinner sheets and films are more pliable, while thicker HDPE remains rigid.
Resistance to Temperature Variations
HDPE performs well under various temperature conditions, making it suitable for outdoor applications. It resists water, including salt water, and does not degrade easily under extreme conditions.
Low-Temperature Performance
This material maintains its impact and fracture resistance down to -76°F (-60°C), ensuring durability in cold environments.
Low Moisture Absorption
HDPE has a low moisture absorption rate, preventing it from warping or degrading when exposed to humid or wet conditions.
Weldability
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is easy to weld using thermoplastic welding equipment, which is essential in applications like pipe fittings and industrial fabrication.
Food Contact Safety
FDA-compliant grades of HDPE are safe for direct food contact, making them ideal for cutting boards, food storage containers, and beverage containers.
UV Resistance
While standard HDPE degrades under prolonged UV exposure, UV-stabilized grades offer enhanced resistance, making them suitable for outdoor applications.
antimicrobial Properties
Certain HDPE grades feature antimicrobial additives, providing protection against bacteria, algae, and fungi, which is useful in medical and food-processing environments.
HDPE Properties Table
HDPE Applications
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), a thermoplastic polymer, is widely used across multiple industries due to its strength, durability, UV resistance, and FDA compliance. Its versatility makes it an essential material for various consumer and industrial applications. Below are some common High density polyethylene uses.
1. Packaging
high density plastic is a preferred choice for bottles, rigid containers, and films used in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries. Its chemical resistance and recyclability make it ideal for milk jugs, detergent bottles, and food storage containers.
2. Toys
Due to its impact resistance and non-toxic properties, HDPE is commonly used in outdoor and children’s toys. It is durable enough to withstand rough handling while being safe for children.
3. Hoses and Caps
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is widely used in irrigation systems, water pipes, and bottle caps due to its chemical resistance and flexibility. It ensures long-lasting performance in agriculture, construction, and beverage packaging.
4. Films and Tarpaulins
HDPE is used to produce damp-proof construction films and packaging materials. These films provide moisture resistance and durability, making them ideal for industrial and household applications.
5. Cosmetic Bottles
HDPE is commonly found in shampoo, lotion, and cream bottles, offering lightweight and leak-proof packaging while maintaining FDA compliance for personal care products.
6. Cutting Boards
Due to its non-porous surface and food-safe properties, HDPE is widely used for cutting boards in commercial and home kitchens. It resists bacteria growth and is easy to clean.
7. Water and Chemical Tanks
HDPE is a top material for fabricated tanks, offering corrosion resistance against water, chemicals, and industrial liquids, making it perfect for chemical storage and water treatment facilities.
8. Playground Systems
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is used in outdoor and indoor playground structures, as it resists weathering, UV radiation, and physical impact, ensuring long-term durability in recreational areas.
9. Marine Construction
HDPE’s resistance to water and salt makes it an ideal choice for marine applications, including pile guards, dock bumpers, and boat components.
10. Orthotics and Prosthetics
HDPE is used in AFOs (Ankle-Foot Orthoses) and KAFOs (Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthoses) due to its lightweight and flexible properties, allowing for comfortable, customized medical devices.
11. Tank and Chute Linings
For light-duty industrial applications, HDPE is used to line tanks, chutes, and hoppers, reducing wear and enhancing material flow.
12. Outdoor Cabinetry and Furniture
HDPE is ideal for outdoor cabinetry and furniture due to its UV resistance, moisture resistance, and long lifespan, making it perfect for gardens and patios.
13. Piping Systems
HDPE is widely used in drinking water, sewage, and natural gas piping, offering leak-proof connections and resistance to chemicals, corrosion, and environmental stress.
14. Geomembranes
HDPE is used in hydraulic applications such as reservoir linings, canal liners, and containment barriers, ensuring leak prevention and environmental safety.
15. Landfill Liners
To prevent soil and groundwater pollution, HDPE is used in landfill liners, acting as a barrier against hazardous waste leakage.
16. Cable Insulation
HDPE is an excellent insulator for electrical cables, protecting wires from moisture, chemicals, and environmental wear, making it essential for power and communication industries.
HDPE Processing and Manufacturing
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), a thermoplastic polymer, is processed using various manufacturing techniques depending on its intended application. These methods ensure that HDPE retains its durability, UV resistance, and FDA compliance for safe use in food and medical industries.
- Extrusion: This method is used to produce constant–profile products such as piping, films, and sheets. Molten HDPE is forced through a die to create a continuous shape, making it ideal for water and gas pipes.
- Blow Molding: This process is used for making hollow plastic products like bottles, tanks, and containers. Air is blown into molten HDPE inside a mold, shaping it into a lightweight, recyclable
- Injection Molding: This technique forms complex, rigid parts such as toys, bottle caps, and cutting boards. Molten HDPE is injected into a mold under high pressure, producing durable, impact-resistant products.
- Rotational Molding: Used for creating large, seamless parts like storage tanks and playground equipment, this method involves slow rotation of a heated mold to evenly coat its interior with HDPE.
- Welding: HDPE parts can be joined using thermoplastic welding techniques, ensuring leak-proof connections in pipes, tanks, and industrial components.
- Thermoforming: This process involves heating High density polyethylene sheet and shaping them into trays, liners, and automotive parts. It allows for cost-effective mass production of lightweight yet strong products.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using HDPE
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is a widely used thermoplastic polymer known for its strength, chemical resistance, and recyclability. However, like any material, it has both benefits and limitations.
Benefits of HDPE
- Strength and Durability: HDPE has a high strength-to-density ratio, making it ideal for pipes, tanks, and outdoor applications.
- Chemical Resistance: Due to its Hdpe chemical properties, it withstands exposure to acids, solvents, and industrial chemicals, making it a preferred material for packaging and chemical storage.
- Low Moisture Absorption: HDPE does not absorb water, ensuring longevity in marine and underground applications.
- Easy to Fabricate and Machine: It can be easily cut, welded, and molded into various shapes for custom applications.
- Weldability: Unlike some plastics, HDPE can be thermally welded, providing strong and leak-proof joints in piping and tanks.
- Recyclability: As an FDA-compliant material, HDPE is highly recyclable, reducing environmental impact.
- Recyclability: High density polyethylene examples such as bottles, bags, and containers are highly recyclable, reducing plastic waste.
- Cost-Effectiveness: HDPE is an affordable material compared to metals and some engineering plastics.
Disadvantages of HDPE
- Difficult to Bond with Adhesives: HDPE has low surface energy, making it hard to glue without special surface treatments.
- Difficult to Print or Paint: Traditional printing and painting do not adhere well, requiring surface modification.
- Difficult to Print or Paint: High-density polyethylene structure lacks natural adhesion for printing and painting, requiring specialized techniques.
- Not Suitable for High Temperatures: The High density polyethylene formula results in a material that softens at high temperatures, limiting its use in heat-intensive applications.
- Poor Dimensional Stability: It expands and contracts with temperature changes, affecting precision applications.
Recycling HDPE
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is one of the most commonly recycled plastics, identified by the resin identification code “2”. Its recyclability helps reduce plastic waste, minimize environmental impact, and lower the demand for new plastic production. Recycled HDPE is used in bottles, piping, plastic lumber, bins, and outdoor furniture. The recycling process involves collection, cleaning, shredding, and reprocessing into new products. Since HDPE retains its strength and durability after recycling, it is a sustainable choice for both industrial and consumer applications. By recycling HDPE, we can significantly reduce landfill waste and contribute to an eco-friendlier plastic economy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) is a highly versatile and durable thermoplastic polymer known for its linear structure and minimal branching. This unique molecular arrangement results in a dense, crystalline material with exceptional mechanical strength, stiffness, and chemical resistance. Produced using advanced catalytic methods, HDPE’s properties make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from packaging and piping to automotive and construction materials. Its combination of high tensile strength, temperature resistance, and excellent chemical stability underscores its importance in various industrial and consumer products.