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What is High-Density Polyethylene?

Karyn Maier
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Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 37,089
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High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is a type of plastic made from petroleum. Since this material can be remolded by subsequent melting and shaping, it is classified as a polyethylene thermoplastic. It can also be joined in segments when welded or machined. However, it does not accept adhesives very well. Also known as polyethylene high-density (PEHD), products made of high-density polyethylene are marked by the imprint of the number “2” surrounded by the Möbius strip recognized as the universal recycling symbol.

As the name implies, HDPE is denser than most other polymer plastics, namely low-density polyethylene. This is due to its crystallization structure occurring in a linear fashion rather than branching out to form long chains of polyethylene. Instead, the lack of branching results in its carbon molecules bonding with more hydrogen molecules. This allows the final product to possess greater tensile strength, even though it is lighter than water. It also makes high-density polyethylene highly resistant to acids and solvents.

The production of high-density polyethylene does not happen by accident or natural event, however. In fact, the lack of branching during the polymerization process is deliberately induced by the addition of a type of reagent known as a Ziegler-Natta catalyst. Usually, these catalysts are derived from titanium compounds.

Since HDPE is so durable and chemically non-reactive, it has numerous applications in various industries. It is used in many different types of packaging containers, such as milk and laundry detergent bottles, as well as plastic grocery bags. It is also found in storage systems designed to store chemicals and fuels. In fact, high-density polyethylene is used to produce materials to act as chemical barriers, such as liners that are placed under landfills to help prevent soil and groundwater contamination. One of the most common uses of this material is in the manufacturing of wood plastic composites to make furniture, flooring, fencing, and landscaping materials.

In terms of environmental impact, products made of high-density polyethylene do not readily biodegrade in landfills. Such products can be recycled, though, albeit at the risk of losing some of its original tensile strength. Since this material is constructed of hydrogen and carbon, being subjected to high heat merely results in the release of water and carbon dioxide. However, additives, such as fire retardants, UV-stabilizers, and dyes, can produce other toxins. In addition, some environmental groups express concern over the potential hazard from the leeching of phthalates used in producing some children’s toys made from high-density polyethylene, such as teething rings.

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Karyn Maier
By Karyn Maier
Contributing articles to About Mechanics is just one of Karyn Maier's many professional pursuits. Based in New York's Catskill Mountain region, Karyn is also a magazine writer, columnist, and author of four books. She specializes in topics related to green living and botanical medicine, drawing from her extensive knowledge to create informative and engaging content for readers.
Discussion Comments
By anon165874 — On Apr 06, 2011

what type of plastic is high density polythene and what is it used for?

By anon148783 — On Feb 02, 2011

Is HDPE noncombustible?

By anon119311 — On Oct 17, 2010

What is the main source of polythene high density? thanks

By anon79116 — On Apr 21, 2010

All polyethylenes, both low density & high density are 100 percent recyclable and impervious to chemicals. (When battery acid came in boxes, the bags inside were low density polyethylene!) All are degraded back into their hydrocarbons by UV. Bury them and they degrade faster than glass. Leave them in sunlight and they degrade. (Cover your outside wood pile with a trash bag to experience this.)

Karyn Maier
Karyn Maier
Contributing articles to About Mechanics is just one of Karyn Maier's many professional pursuits. Based in New York's...
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