HDPE

HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) is a thermoplastic polymer belonging to the polyolefin family. It is produced via polymerization of ethylene (ethylene) with a low degree of branching, resulting in a high density and therefore better mechanical properties than standard polyethylene (LDPE).

HDPE is known for its rigidity, impact resistance, chemical resistance and low water absorption. The material is relatively inexpensive, easy to process (e.g., via extrusion or injection molding), and has a wide range of applications in both the industrial and consumer sectors.

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Producttype

Engineering plastics & Rubbers

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Technical description

Nylon is a polymer composed of long chains of repeating units formed by the polymerization of diamines and dicarboxylic acids. The material has a high melting point, a good strength-to-weight ratio, and good processing capabilities. Nylon is able to withstand both mechanical and thermal stresses well, making it ideal for applications from mechanical parts to textile products.

Nylon’s hydration is an important feature: it absorbs water from the environment, which can affect its mechanical properties, such as strength and ductility.

Technical characteristics

Specific gravity
~ 0.94 – 0.97 g/cm³ (higher than LDPE, but still lightweight)
Tensile strength
~ 20 – 37 MPa
Modulus of elasticity
~ 0.8 – 1.5 GPa
Elongation at break
10% – 100% (depending on type and processing conditions)
Impact resistance
Good, especially at low temperatures
Melting point
~ 130 – 135 °C
Chemical resistance
Very good against acids, bases and most solvents
Temperature range
-50 °C to +80 °C (above 80 °C it deforms slowly)
UV resistance
Moderate – may become brittle without UV stabilizers
Water absorption
Negligible / virtually zero
Water absorption
Excellent via extrusion, injection molding, welding

Typical Applications

  1. Piping for gas and drinking water
  2. Tanks and vessels for chemical storage
  3. Packaging (such as bottles and crates)
  4. Toys, home and garden products
  5. Construction membranes and foils
  6. Geotechnical applications (sheet piling, pond liner)
  7. Container materials and pallets

Comparison with other plastics (such as POM, PET, PEEK):

  1. HDPE
    1. Density: ~0,95
    2. Wear resistance: Good
    3. Impact resistance: – Good
    4. Temperature resistance:
      -50 °C till +80 °C
    5. Price: €
  2. UHMPE
    1. Density: ~0,93
    2. Wear resistance: Very high
    3. Impact resistance: – Very high
    4. Temperature resistance:
      -269 °C till +80 °C
    5. Price: €€€
  3. LDPE
    1. Density: ~0,92
    2. Wear resistance: Moderate
    3. Impact resistance: – Good
    4. Temperature resistance:
      -40 °C till +60 °C
    5. Price: €

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