Material	LDPE - low density polyethylene
	LDPE is the low density version of PE. This has less hardness, stiffness and strength compared to HDPE, but better ductility. It is opaque and only thin foils can be transparent. LDPE is used for packaging like foils, trays and plastic bags both for food and non-food purposes. Used as protective coating on paper, textiles and other plastics, for instance in milk cartons.
Danish Name	LDPE - lav massefylde polyethylen
Category	Plastics, Thermoplastics
Products	Wrapping foil for packaging Plastic bag (soft type that does not crackle) Garbage bag Tubes Ice cube plastic bag
Processes	Plastic moulding Plastic injection moulding Extrusion Film blowing
Similar materials	Soft PVC
Price	Low cost plastic (see also Plastics general overview)
Environmen- tal notes	Creation: Production of 1 kg of LDPE requires the equivalent of about 2 kg of oil (raw material and energy). Use: - Disposal: Used PE plastic can be recycled through remelting although there is a quality loss. Incineration is straightforward and comparable to oil, since PE only consists of hydrogen and carbon atoms. In an inceneration plant only water and carbon dioxide are produced. However common additives like UV-stabilizators (e.g. carbon black), dyeing agents and fire protectors can produce other waste products. Heating value is equivalent to 3/4 kg of oil.
Additional Info	LDPE has excellent resistance to water, moisture and most organic solvents and chemicals (except ones with aromatic or chlorine content).
Photo	Thomas Nissen (Computer graphics)
Copyright	© 1996-2019 Torben Lenau This page is part of Design inSite Disclaimer