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Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE)


What is LDPE Plastic?

What does LDPE stand for?

LDPE is an acronym for Low Density PolyEthylene and is a thermoplastic derived from petroleum used mainly in the plastic bag and film industry.

What is LDPE’s plastic number?

LDPE is recycling number 4.

What are LDPE’s properties?

  • LDPE is flexible, tough, and relatively transparent.
  • LDPE has density range between 0.910–0.940 g/cm³.
  • LDPE can withstand temperatures around 80 °C continuously.
  • Compared to HDPE, LDPE is more resilient with less tensile strength. That is, LDPE is more pliable but less strong.
  • LDPE has excellent resistance to acids, alcohols, bases and esters.
  • LDPE has good resistance to aldehydes, ketones, and vegetable oils.

What products are made from LDPE?

  • Grocery bags
  • Thin packaging (bread, newspaper, dry cleaning, sandwich bags, etc…)
  • Plastic film (ie., cling wrap, saran wrap)
  • Squeeze bottles
  • Six pack rings (for sodas)
  • Moisture barriers in construction
  • Agricultural wrap
  • Plastic laminate for cardboard milk and juice bottles
  • Flexible parts via injection molding

Can LDPE be recycled?

Yes, LDPE is 100% recyclable. Please call your recycling center or curbside program before depositing your LDPE (number 4 plastic).

Related Articles:

  • What is Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)?
  • What is Polypropylene (PP)?
  • What is Polycarbonate (PC)?

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