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What Is HDPE Plastic?

What Is HDPE Plastic? thumbnail
HDPE plastics are used to make milk jugs and other food packaging.

HDPE (high-density polyethylene) plastic is a linear polymer (a polymer that does not branch or cross-link) generated from ethylene using a catalyzing process.

  1. Applications

    • HDPE plastic has several applications, including packaging for foods (milk and snacks, for example) and cleaners. It is also used for pipe fittings, trays and hinges.

    Processing

    • High-density polyethylene plastics are suitable for several manufacturing processes including injection molding, extrusion molding and blow molding.

    Characteristics

    • HDPE plastic is resistant to acids, bases, alcohol and vegetable oils, as well as being impact resistant. It is also resistant to sustained heat of about 110 degrees Celsius.

    Disadvantages

    • High-density polyethylene plastics have poor resistance to UV (ultraviolet) light. HDPE does not biodegrade in landfill settings, nor can it be composted.

    Recycling

    • HDPE is a recyclable material and is falls under No. 2 of the plastic resin code. Recycled HDPE is used in pallets, drainage pipes and packaging.

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References

  • Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Mark Kobayashi-Hillary

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