— POLYMER · PE
Polyethylene
Polyethylene (PE) is a family of thermoplastics made by polymerising ethylene. The family covers materials with very different property profiles, so the first selection step is usually to decide which type of polyethylene the application needs. Genesis Polymers Europe supplies Velogy low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), each described on its own page.
— ABOUT PE
How LDPE and HDPE differ
The difference starts with molecular structure. LDPE is made by high-pressure polymerisation and has branched chains, including long-chain branching. The branches limit how closely the chains can pack, giving a flexible material with useful melt strength and sealing behaviour. HDPE has comparatively little branching. Its chains pack more closely, creating greater crystallinity and a stiffer material.
In practice, LDPE is mainly selected for flexible products such as packaging film, shrink film, bags and extrusion coatings. HDPE is selected where rigidity matters: bottles, jerry cans, drums, caps and closures, as well as tape, film and selected pipe applications. Density helps describe the difference, but it is not a complete specification. The processing method, additive package and conditions of use still determine which grade fits.
Explore LDPE and HDPE
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE): structure and properties, film and coating processes, additive packages, and Velogy KeyForm and AdvyForm LDPE grades.
High-density polyethylene (HDPE): stiffness, impact strength and stress crack resistance, processing routes, and Velogy KeyForm, AdvyForm and CertyForm HDPE grades.
— NEED HELP CHOOSING?
Not sure which grade fits?
Not sure which polyethylene suits your application? Contact Genesis Polymers Europe with your product, conversion process and target properties, and we can help identify relevant grades for evaluation.
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