Basic Characteristics: High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is an opaque white waxy material that is lighter than water, with a specific gravity of 0.941 to 0.960. It is soft, flexible, and slightly tougher than LDPE, with a slight elongation ability. HDPE is non-toxic and odorless.
Burning Characteristics: HDPE is flammable and continues to burn after being removed from the flame. The flame’s upper part appears yellow, while the lower part appears blue. During combustion, it melts and drips liquid without emitting black smoke, producing a wax-like odor.
Main Advantages: HDPE exhibits excellent resistance to acids, alkalis, and organic solvents. It also offers superior electrical insulation properties and retains some flexibility even at low temperatures. Its mechanical strength, surface hardness, tensile strength, and rigidity are higher than LDPE, approaching that of polypropylene (PP), although not as smooth as PP.
Advantages of High-Density Polyethylene:
- Lightweight Texture: UHMWPE has a density of only 0.97-0.98 g/cm3 and can float on water.
- Outstanding Mechanical Properties:
- Tensile strength is over ten times that of steel wire of the same cross-section.
- Modulus is second only to high-grade carbon fiber.
- Low elongation at break, with exceptional impact and cut resistance.
- Extremely high wear resistance with self-lubricating properties.
- Strongest fatigue performance among existing fibers, ensuring long service life.
- Low Water Absorption: The water absorption rate is very low, usually requiring no drying before processing.
- Strong Weather Resistance: HDPE exhibits excellent UV resistance, retaining over 80% of its strength after 1500 hours of exposure to sunlight. It can shield against radiation and is suitable for use as shielding panels in nuclear power plants.
- Hygienic and Non-toxic: HDPE is safe for contact with food and pharmaceuticals.
By understanding these characteristics, HDPE plastic sheets offer a versatile and reliable material option for various applications, providing durability, safety, and performance.