What is the density of polyethylene?
Polyethylene density is a characteristic used to distinguish between the degrees of polyethylene plastics, which are expressed as G/CM3. This measurement varies between oil -derived plastics due to differences in the crystallization structure created during ethun polymerization. In addition, the density is affected by the molecular weight of the final product. The density is also determined by the branching or binding of the eten monomers to the hydrogen molecules to form polymers. In fact, this last factor is the primary difference between a high density polyethylene (HDPE) and a low -density polyethylene (LDPE).
Most people are familiar with HDPE and LDPE plastics. However, there are a number of other levels of polyethylene density. This is because different types of polyethylene are obtained according to the methods used to induce polymerization. For example, the material produced by the addition of a free radical initiator (radical polymerization) often produces a different polyethylene density other than one -aided using a catalyst such as chromium and/or Oxide Sileslive. In addition, each type offers specific benefits. This type of plastic is also used in the construction of tanks to hold fuel and chemicals, as well as in plumbing pipes. Its counterpart, LDPE, has a density of only 0.910 g/cm3 and is used primarily to create plastic film, bags and grip.
Pex, on the other hand, polyethylene is medium to high density. Although it may not be as dense as HDPE, its linked crystallization structure gives it a very unique and valuable property-elasticity. For this reason, Pex is used in the plumbing industry, where it can be extended via accessories and then shrinking to return to the size to form a waterproof seal.
Polyethylene with very low density (VLDPE) has a density range between 0.880–0.915 g/cm3 and is used to produce frozen food bags and plastic packaging. On the other hand, the ultra -high molecular HM hasPolyethylene (UHMWPE) APPROVAL (UHMWPE) Minimum density 0.930 g/cm3. However, its high molecular weight leads to a very durable material that is resistant to chemical and environmental erosion. For these reasons, this type of polyethylene is used to produce bulletproof vests and artificial spare parts for hip and knee joints.
As expected, the density of polyethylene affects the impact of the product on the environment. In general, plastics do not biodegrade, but will remain intact in the environment for hundreds of years. However, most polyethylene plastics can be recycled to some extent. The best candidate for successful recycling is HDPE, which can be identified by number "2" in the symbol of recycling. LDPE, designed by the number "4", can be recycled, but unfortunately the VVE is not the most programs of residential collection and must either be returned to the store or to the recycling manufacturer.