HDPE High Density Polyethylene

Able to resist deterioration, Acme's HDPE plastic products are long-lasting, resilient, and strong. HDPE plastic is an incredibly sturdy material, which has only a slightly greater density, yet a higher level of durability than low density polyethylene. Acme offers a variety of HDPE plastics to fit your needs.
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What is HDPE Plastic?

HDPE plastic is a polyethylene thermoplastic created from petroleum. Also known as alkathene or polythene when used for pipes, HDPE is commonly used to produce items like cutting boards and plastic bottles.

Is HDPE Plastic Toxic?

HDPE is one of the most commonly used plastics in the United States. It creates no harmful emissions during its production or when HDPE plastic products are used by consumers. Additionally, the material does not leak any kind of toxic chemicals into the soil or water.

Is HDPE Plastic Used for Food Containers that are BPA Free?

The molecules of HDPE are more tightly packed and stable than other food grade plastics, meaning less plastic can leach into your food. The safest food grade containers/buckets made from HDPE have the #2 symbol stamped on them, which indicates the plastic is considered safe from any BPA leakage.

What is HDPE Plastic Made From?

HDPE is made when intense heat is applied to petroleum. Also known as cracking, this process creates ethylene gas. At this stage of production, the gas molecules will then attach to each other—forming polymers—which in turn, produce polyethylene.

What Is HDPE Plastic Used For?

HDPE plastic has many applications such as:

  • Cutting boards
  • Cabinets
  • Boating
  • Packaging
  • Containers
  • Snowboards
  • Filaments for 3-D printing

How Can You Tell If Plastic Is HDPE?

HDPE can be identified by its physical properties. It is usually semi-rigid opaque but can be colored. It tends to feel much rougher and wrinkled. For example, if plastic bags are made from HDPE, it tends to have a crinkly, wrinkly sound when moved, compared to bags made from LDPE which are softer and make more of a swishing noise.

Why Is HDPE A Suitable Plastic?

HDPE is a great plastic because of its many useful applications and its properties. HDPE is highly resistant to chemicals, UV rays, weathering, corrosions and more. In addition, it also easily machined and modeled. HDPE is also BPA free and recyclable which has an added environmental benefit.

Is HDPE Stronger Than LDPE?

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is stronger than low-density polyethylene (LDPE). This is due to the natural properties that come with each type of plastic. LDPE is naturally more flexible and has a lower melting point compared to HDPE which is stronger, more rigid and can withstand more heat.