Polyethylene: An overview of PE plastics
Polyethylene (PE) is one of the world’s most widely used plastics, but its simplicity can be misleading. This family of plastics is, in fact, incredibly diverse, with a large number of variants and grades. Let’s clarify the terminology surrounding PE plastics!
The classification of PE plastics is based mainly on the material’s density and whether it is made from virgin or recycled raw materials. Here, we focus on the most common variants, particularly those we offer.
Different types of PE plastic
- PE-LD (also known as LDPE)
- PE-HD (also known as PEHD or PE-300)
- PE-HMW (also known as PE-500)
- PE-1000
To draw a comparison: think of PE plastic as a car make. The different variants can then be likened to different models within that make. Each model has its own specific properties and is suitable for different applications.
PE-LD (low-density polyethylene)
PE-LD is often used in plastic films, bags and food packaging. It is a thin and lightweight material. The boundary between PE-LD and PE-HD lies at approximately 0.925 g/cm³. Some materials may be labelled as PE-300, but are in fact PE-LD.
PE-HD (High-density polyethylene)
PE-HD, also known as PE-300, is a versatile material. It is a relatively soft and pliable material that is easy to process and weld. We usually offer it in natural white, black and blue.
The material has good chemical resistance, low friction and can withstand temperatures from -50°C to 80°C. Moisture absorption is minimal, less than 0.01 per cent, and the density is around 0.95 g/cm³.
Black PE-HD is often UV-resistant and suitable for outdoor use, but is not always food-grade. Natural white PE-HD is usually food-grade but not UV-resistant. However, PE-300 is generally approved for contact with food and drinking water, regardless of colour.
We stock PE-300 as sheets, round bars, solid tubes and welding wire. We offer sheets in sizes up to 4000x2000 mm.
PE-500 (High-molecular-weight polyethylene)
The difference between PE-300 and PE-500 lies in their molecular density. Imagine polyethylene as a chain. PE-500 has more links per unit length than PE-300. This affects the material’s properties.
PE-500 is often used in chopping boards.
PE-1000 (Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene)
PE-1000 has an even higher molecular density than PE-500. It is a hard and durable material. It is a bestseller, thanks to its wide range of applications and relatively good price. The material is also easy to customise with additives.
PE-1000 is popular in heavy industry, as it performs well even under significant temperature fluctuations and varying humidity levels. It can contain additives, such as lubricants, to improve its performance under extreme conditions. The material can withstand temperatures as low as -150°C.
The material is known for having high internal stresses.
Have you considered which PE material is best suited to your project?
Polyethylene: An Overview of PE Plastics