The original polyethylene, low density polyethylene, or LDPE as it is commonly known, was developed in 1933. Its 
manufacture eventually lead to the production of HDPE, its high density cousin, and both types of polyethylene are made today in a wide range of grades which are designed for use in different applications.
Polyethylene is a product of crude oil. It is made from ethylene gas, which can be extracted from naphtha which is found in crude oil. Ethylene gas is extracted by heating the naphtha to very high temperatures at which point its chemical structure breaks down and ethylene gas is released.
In order to create polyethylene, this ethylene must be encouraged to form long chains. Ethylene can be polymerized at high temperatures and pressures, though today catalysts are used to allow the reaction to take place at lower temperatures and pressures than would be required if polymerization were to take place naturally.
When LDPE is first produced it is a hot translucent viscous mass. As it begins to cool towards room temperature it begins to solidify. In order to make the LDPE workable, manufacturers channel liquid LDPE through a die and slice it into short lengths. These lengths are then air or water cooled to create LDPE pellets.
Properties of LDPE
LDPE is a very flexible and soft plastic, much more so than HDPE. This has made it a very popular plastic in the manufacture of a wide range of household and commercial products. In addition to being a soft plastic that is easily molded, LDPE is also:
• Non reactive at room temperature with excellent chemical resistance to acids, bases, esters and alcohols.
• Able to withstand 80 degrees Celsius continuously, and up to 95 degrees Celsius for short periods.
Uses of LDPE Pellets
LDPE pellets are an extremely convenient form of raw material. Manufacturers can purchase these translucent pellets in bulk then melt them down for various applications. Color can also be added at this stage. Virgin or prime LDPE (LDPE that has not been used before) carries color very well, creating vivid bright products.
LDPE pellets are often used in the manufacturing of:
• Food storage containers
• Laboratory vessels and containers
• Flexible parts
• Playground equipment
• Computer components (disk drives, hard drives, etc)
• Household containers
Supplier of LDPE Pellets
We supply LDPE Pellets of various grades and types. Contact us through this form below and let us know your specific requirements. We will get back to you with the LDPE price quote and available quantity shortly.