Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
Low Density Polyethylene LDPE is part of the Polyethylene family of thermoplastics which include HDPE and MDPE. LDPE has the least dense molecular structure, when ethylene is polymerized it is straight polymer chains, with branches from a main chain, LDPE has the most branching as so is least dense.
LDPE, HDPE, LLDPE, PP are polyolefins, which are high molecular weight hydrocarbons, they are some of the only plastics existing that have a lower specific gravity, weighing less than water. They are susceptible to oxidation and UV damage.
LDPE is lighweight and flexible, so often used in the manufacture of various containers, dispensers, squeeze bottles, tubing, plastic parts and moulded elements of computers and equipment. On constructions sites and factories it os often used as key element to pallets packing and shipping as a shrink wrap.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Glass reinforced plastic GRP
- Glass fibre reinforced plastic
- High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
- High Density Polypropylene (HDPP)
- Polycarbonate plastic
- Polypropylene in the construction industry.
- Plastic cladding
- Plastic coating market
- Plastic in construction
- Plastic in concrete
- Recycled plastic bridges
- Wood plastic composites market for construction
Featured articles and news
We're expanding our collaborative mission by launching DB Intelligence, an exclusive market research advisory panel. Built environment professionals can now get paid to share their expertise on industry trends, products and services.
Panel members receive direct financial incentives for participating in research projects like short surveys, 1-2-1 interviews and focus groups. Register today to shape the future of the construction sector.
Social media ban consultation comes to close
CIOB urges UK Government to consider social media’s role in careers guidance in ban debate.
The latest of eight Skills England apprenticeship units
The addition of battery manufacturing welcomed by ECA with a warning about the risks of fast-tracked apprenticeship units.
Building Control Independent Panel final report
A precis of a key report led by Dame Hackitt with full recommendations and link to the government response.
Guide to ISO 19650 for Architecture Firms (2026)
A user gives their low down.
A UK training and membership provider for mould remediation professionals.
Building Safety recap April, 2026
A short and longer run-through of the month, with links to further information and sources.
CIAT May 2026 briefing.
Independent NSI and BAFE study exploring how organisations are changing the way they buy fire safety services.
From medieval scribes to modern word art.
ECA welcomes crackdown on late payment and push for clean energy, whilst CIOB seek fixed cladding removal timeframes.
Cyber Security in the Built Environment
Protecting projects, data, and digital assets: A CIOB Academy TIS.
Managing competence in the built environment
ITFG publishes new industry guide on how to meet the ICC principles.
The UK's campaign to reduce noise pollution: Mythbusting, articles and topic guides.



















