LDPE Info
Low Density Polyethylene Plastic Containers
Characteristics of LDPE
- Poor
- Excellent
- Clarity
- Moisture Barrier
- Oxygen Barrier
- Acid Resistance
- Grease & Oil Resistance
- Stiffness
- Impact Resistance
- Heat Resistance
- Cold Resistance
- Sunlight Resistance
- Acid Resistance
- Alcohol Resistance
- Base Resistance
- Ester Resistance
- Hydrocarbon Resistance
- Ketone Resistance
- Oil Resistance
- Good
- Good to Excellent
- Poor
- Fair to Good
- Good
- Poor
- Excellent
- Fair
- Excellent
- Fair
- Excellent
- Excellent
- Excellent
- Good
- Fair
- Good
- Fair to Good
Other Characteristics of LDPE
Originating over 50 years ago from the high pressure polymerization of ethylene, LDPE is suitable for a range of laboratory apparatus. The low density of LDPE comes from the small amount of branching in the chain, on about 2% of the carbon atoms, which gives a more open structure. While LDPE is a very flexible material, it is also virtually unbreakable. It may be used at 203 °F for short periods of time. LDPE is a low-density version of PE. LDPE is not as hard, stiff or strong in comparison to HDPE. It is one of the most useful and widely used plastics.
- Max Utilization Temperature: 176°F
- Min Utilization Temperature: -58°F
- Specific Gravity: 0.92
LDPE for Packaging
LDPE has many physical properties that make it ideal for packaging. These characteristics include a good resistance to chemicals and vapor, and it tends to be stress crack-resistant and lightweight. Can be sterilized by gas, gamma irradiation and chemical disinfectant.
Other Uses of LDPE
LDPE is also used to manufacture flexible films, milk containers, textiles, and coatings on papers. LDPE is used in wire and cable applications for its stable electrical properties and processing characteristics.
