Common Types of Polyethylene (PE)
PE belongs to polyolefin family of polymers- polymers of simple alkenes- and is classified by its density and branching.
The most common types of polyethylene are:
• Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene
• High density polyethylene
• Low density polyethylene
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
A polymer of ethene
Advantages:
1. Good low temperature resistance
2. Excellent electrical insulating properties
Disadvantages:
1. Poor UV- and low heat resistance
2. Susceptible to stress cracking
 Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (HMWPE)
A polymer of ethene
Advantages:
1. chemical resistance
2. Water resistance
Disadvantages:
1. not suitable for high load applications
2.
deform continually as long as the stress is present
 Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
a polymer of ethene
Advantages:
1. Transparent in thin film form
2. High impact strength at low temperature
3. Excellent electrical insulating properties
Disadvantages:
1. Poor UV resistance
2. Highly flammable