Linear high-density polyethylene (HDPE) can be produced via a slurry process or in gas-phase reactors identical to those used to make LLDPE. HDPE polymers are highly crystalline, tough materials that can be formed by most processing methods.
Within the density range of HDPEs, the stiffness, tensile strength, melting point, and chemical resistance all improve at the high end. However, materials with the highest densities have lower stress crack resistance and low-temperature impact strength.
It is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic, with a continuous use temperature range of -50°F (-46°C) to 180°F (82°C). It has a low difficulty to machine. It has high impact and abrasion resistance and high chemical and good corrosion resistance. It has very low water absorption. It is thermoformable. It provides good electrical insulation.
Common Applications
HDPE is injection-molded into items such as crates, housewares, pails, and dunnage containers; extruded into pipe, tubing, and wire insulation; blown into film for packaging; and rotationally molded into containers, toys, and sporting goods. Much HDPE is blow-molded into containers for household and industrial chemicals.