What is HDPE (film)?

HDPE stands for High Density Polyethylene and can be recognized by the crackling character of the film.

Polyethylene is made by polymerization of ethylene, a substance extracted from petroleum. HDPE film is made with a catalyst, by a low-pressure process. Because it is produced under low pressure, linear chains with few side branches are created. This allows molecules to organize themselves well, resulting in a high degree of crystallization. The higher the degree of crystallization, the higher the density.  This results in a strong, rigid, liquid-proof and wear-resistant foil.

HDPE is widely used as a raw material for, for example, garbage bags.

Advantages of HDPE (film)

1. HDPE is resistant to many industrial and living chemicals and can withstand the corrosion of strong oxidants, organic solvents and acid-based salts.
2. HDPE is waterproof and non-hygroscopic.
3. HDPE is highly machinable and suitable for fusion welding.
4. HDPE is four to five times harder than LDPE film and very strong and impact-resistant.
5. HDPE is UV resistant.
6. HDPE is odorless and non-toxic. It is therefore also suitable for food packaging and clothing.

Another major advantage of HDPE film is that little material is needed to make a product. This means that relatively little energy is needed for production. In addition, it also produces less CO2 emissions than other packaging materials because it is so light and has so little volume. Above that, the material is easy to recycle.

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