Low Density Polyethylene

Low density polyethylene is a thermoplastic made from the monomer called ethylene. It was first produced by Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) in the 1930s and the process employed involves free radical polymerisation. A major concern with LDPE is the fact that only 5.7% of the material is actually recyclable, yet, it continues to be used widely as a common plastic due to its favourable properties.

LDPE varies generally by the level of flexibility, which differs according to the production process administered. The high density LDPE is the most rigid.

LDPE is a relatively stable plastic which appears semi-rigid and is known for its robustness, making it a high utility plastic. It is heat resistant and can withstand temperatures up to 85 degrees Celsius. Also, being chemically inert, it is highly resistant to a variety of alcohols, acids and bases. LDPE has a density range of 0.910–0.940 g/cm3. Aside from its toughness, it is also flexible and reacts only to strong oxidising agents and solvents.

• LDPE goes into the manufacturing of a large number of LDPE products:
• Packaging including food products - meat, bakery items, etc.
• Wrapping for towels and household utilities
• Packaging for liquid edibles such as milk cartons
• Storage - bags, trays, etc.
• In agriculture for greenhouse construction
• For insulation
• Industrial - chemical tank linings, pipes, etc.
• Electronics - hard disks, optical disks, etc.