High Density Polyethylene HDPE(QHB18)

What is High Density Polyethylene HDPE(QHB18) ?

High-density polyethylene HDPE is a plastic made from petroleum. Since this material can be subsequently reshaped by melting and molding, it is classified as thermoplastic polyethylene. Two lengths of material can be welded, but are less receptive to adhesives.

As the name suggests, polyethylene HDPE is denser than other plastic polymers, also known as LDPE. Its crystalline structure is linear rather than branched to form long polyethene chains. Instead, the lack of branching causes its carbon molecules to bind to other hydrogen molecules, which gives the final product better tensile strength. In addition, it also makes HDPE more resistant to acids and alkali.

HDPE did not happen by accident or naturally. A reactant additive called a Ziegler-Natta catalyst induces the lack of divergence during polymerisation. Typically, these catalysts are derived from titanium compounds.

Because HDPE is durable and not prone to chemical reactions, it has various uses in different industries. It can be used as different packaging containers, such as milk and detergent bottles and plastic bags. It is also used in storage systems specially designed to store chemicals and fuels. HDPE can also be used to produce chemical barrier materials such as landfill liners that prevent soil and groundwater contamination. Additionally, one of this material’s most common uses is in producing wood-plastic composites for furniture, flooring, fencing and landscaping.

Regarding environmental impact, while HDPE does not readily biodegrade in landfills, these products can be recycled, albeit losing some of their original strength since the material structure is made of hydrogen and carbon, and high-temperature treatment releases only water and carbon dioxide. However, additives such as flame retardants, UV stabilizers and dyes can produce other toxins.