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
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