HDPE PP

What is HDPE and PP?

PP, or polypropylene, is a thermoplastic polymer made from the propylene monomer. Resistant to acids bases, and solvents, PP is used to make textiles, stationery, car parts, packaging materials, and reusable containers. HDPE stands for high-density polyethylene. This polyethylene thermoplastic is made when intense heat is applied to petroleum. HDPE is used in various applications like wood-plastic composites, composite wood, in landfills as cell lining, plastic surgery applications, and natural gas pipes.

What are the Differences Between PET and HDPE?

PET and HDPE differ most notably in their appearance. PET is clear, resembling glass in appearance, while HDPE is more flexible and opaque in appearance. These two materials also differ in their usage. HDPE is commonly used to manufacture plastic laboratory supplies and plastic bottles, whereas PET is commonly used for food packaging and personal care products. Lastly, PET is shatterproof, lightweight, and inert, while HDPE provides more rigid strength and chemical resistance.

What is PET & PP?

Durable and robust, PET plastic is the most common thermoplastic polymer resin in the polyester family. Offering significant wear and chemical resistance, PET also has low moisture absorption and superior UV resistance. It is used in fibers for clothing and containers for liquids and foods.

PP is a thermoplastic and is used in a variety of applications that include packaging for consumer products, plastic parts for a wide range of industries, and individual devices like living hinges, and textiles.

How is HDPE Made?

HDPE is formed by applying intense heat to petroleum within a controlled environment. This process, known as “cracking,” helps create ethylene gas. In this process, gas molecules bind together forming polymers, which in turn, create polyethylene. After this process, polyethylene will have a sludgy appearance, but then once the molding is complete, it becomes a durable polymer material known as HDPE.