Low density Polyethylene (LDPE)

Brief Overview

Low-density polyethylene is made by the co-polymerization of Ethylene using olefins with longer chains. This polymer is different from LLDPE because it has long branches rather than short ones, processed at higher temperatures and pressures, and different molecular weight distribution and linear structure.

Manufacturing Process

LDPE is made through either a stirred autoclave or tubular reactor. Its general manufacture involves the compression of ethylene gas, polymerisation using an initiator, and gas separation.

Packaging

Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is used for making thin-film liners, wrapping film, stretching film, etc. 80% of the world’s productions go-to food packaging due to its high puncture resistance, thus increasing the food’s shelf life. It is also used in extrusion coating applications where it protects the object like containers, paper, etc.

Food Industry

Juice and milk cartons are made of liquid packaging board, a laminate of paperboard and LDPE (as the waterproof inner and outer layer), and often with a layer of aluminum foil (thus becoming aseptic packaging).