Polyethylene is a type of thermoplastic that is extremely durable and used in many areas. It is obtained by polymerization of ethylene. Ethylene consists of CH2 molecules that are double bonded to each other. Polyethylene is formed by polymerizing this molecule. It can be obtained as low density or high density. It is diversified by its density. This diversifies the usage area.
Polyethylene is a highly durable thermoplastic. The moisture absorption rate is also very low. This ensures long-term use. Polyethylene production types vary as high pressure and low pressure. Low density polyethylene is produced in high pressure production. High density polyethylene is produced in low pressure production.
This is not the only way to produce polyethylene. Polyethylene is also known for its suitability for recycling. The recycling of plastic is very beneficial for the environment. It also provides one more area for production. It is also very important in terms of good evaluation of raw materials. In production with recycling, plastic is first turned into resin. It is then blended with untreated polyethylene. Polyethylene produced in this way is not as clear and transparent as non-recycled polyethylene. However, it can still be used easily in many areas.
What are the Usage Areas of Polyethylene?
Polyethylene is used in many fields because it is a good raw material. As a result of this wide usage area, its production is made by many institutions. Recycling is also very important as it is used quite a lot. Polyethylene is also suitable for food contact. It is used in the production of plastic kitchen utensils. It is also used in making plastic bottles and grocery bags. It is of great importance that such wastes are separated and sent for recycling.
Polyethylene is also used in plastic tubes and pipes. Since it is an insulating material, it is also used in the outer layer of the cables. Polyethylene, which is also used in the automotive industry, has many other uses.
What are the Properties of Polyethylene?
Soft and easy to shape
It is semi-permeable
Easy to produce
Lightweight and easy to use
It is durable
It is an insulator
It is solid
pressure resistant
Resistant to cracking
Resistant to corrosion
Resistant to chemical effects
Friction coefficient is low
Less wear
Low Density Polyethylene
This polyethylene is known as LDPE. Its density is between 0.910 g/cm3 and 0.930 g/cm3. It is flexible due to the long branches in the chain of this polyethylene. It is highly resistant to rupture. It is not affected by chemicals. It is used at maximum 80 degrees. Its melting temperature is 120 degrees. Due to its flexibility, it is highly resistant to breakage.
LDPE is one of the most preferred types of polyethylene because it is economical. It is used in many fields. It is amorphous.
High Density Polyethylene
This type of polyethylene is known by the abbreviation HDPE. Its density is between 0.940 g/cm3 and 0.970 g/cm3. Unlike LDPE, the branching in its chains is very less. For this reason, it is less flexible and has a more crystalline structure. It is highly resistant to water and chemicals. Its durability is less than LDPE. However, this level of durability can be increased with special fillings. The usage areas of this type of polyethylene are also quite wide.