HDPE is one of the many plastic types commonly used in plastic packaging. Before you decide whether or not this plastic is most suitable for your needs, you must understand what it is and what properties it holds. HDPE is a popular plastic, and it’s commonly used in many packaging materials, such as HDPE bottles, as a result of its many beneficial properties. So, to learn what HDPE is in further detail, our blog below contains all of the necessary information on this material and the application of high-density polyethylene within pharmaceutical packaging.
What is HDPE?
HDPE, standing for “high-density polyethylene”, is a highly versatile polymer that is created by bringing together multiple ethylene molecules. As such, you end up with the name poly- (meaning many) and ethylene. HDPE is coded number two plastic in the seven different plastic categories. It is incredibly tough, but the main draw is that it can be used in both rigid and flexible forms.
In its rigid form, HDPE is perfect for containers and other hard plastic packaging. In a flexible form, you’ll most likely see it used as bags. It’s one of the most versatile plastics currently available for manufacturing. It’s only been around for 70 or so years, but you probably come into contact with it daily.
Why is HDPE a popular plastic?
One of the leading reasons for HDPE’s popularity is its versatility. HDPE can be used in multiple forms, making it very useful in an array of plastic packaging scenarios. The uses of HDPE will be discussed later in this article. For now, let’s look at why so many companies us this plastic:
- Extremely strong, yet incredibly light: A unique feature of HDPE plastic is that it is very strong, yet it hardly weighs anything. It punches well above its weight; you can hold a gallon of liquid in just a two-ounce HDPE container. This makes it popular in a range of industries, for everything from pharmacy packaging to medicinal cannabis packaging.
- Very durable: HDPE isn’t just strong; it’s durable too. This plastic can stand up to a lot of damage and wear and tear. It’s impact-resistant and faces up against adverse weather conditions too. If you have something made out of HDPE, then you know it will last a long time.
- Highly malleable: Most plastic possesses this property, and HDPE is one of the best in terms of its flexibility and the ability to mould it into lots of different shapes. Again, when you can mould something into lots of designs, then it becomes useful across lots of different sectors.
- Mould-resistant: Perhaps one of the reasons HDPE plastic lasts so long is that it is resistant to mould. Consequently, you find it in a lot of outdoor or underground projects. It’s used to make up decking, and it’s used to construct piping.
As you can see, it’s clear why HDPE is so widely used. It has a diverse range of uses, and companies across many industries will use it for multiple applications. Thanks to its strength and durability – while remaining lightweight – it is often used as a replacement for older and heavier materials.
Is HDPE recyclable?
HDPE is not only recyclable, but it’s in fact one of the most widely recycled plastics in the world – mainly thanks to its presence in many different objects. Many HDPE products are commonly recycled at recycling centres, with consumers being able to recycle HDPE products through kerbside collections. This helps prevent a great deal of plastic from entering landfill sites.
HDPE products feature a marking with the number two surrounded by an arrow, meaning that consumers can easily identify that their waste is recyclable. Once recycled, HDPE can easily be used to make a variety of recycled goods.
What Are the Applications of High-Density Polyethylene?
We’ve already touched upon a few of the uses earlier, but here are some common applications of high-density polyethylene:
- Pharmaceutical packaging, such as plastic bottle packaging
- Milk cartons
- Plastic containers
- Plastic shopping bags
- Shampoo bottles
- Laundry detergent bottles
- Cereal box liners
- Bread bags
- Water pipes
- Car fuel tanks
- Playground equipment
- Plastic lumber decking
- Trash cans
- Recycling bins (which are often made out of recycled HDPE)
- Traffic cones
- Patio chairs & furniture
This list is not exhaustive as HDPE is such a commonly used material, further proving the diversity and flexibility of this plastic. With all things considered, HDPE is a material highly suitable for a range of industries and is likely to be a prime choice for your business. It provides lots of practical uses with the benefits of being lightweight, strong, and long-lasting. Plus, it’s easy to recycle and can then be used to make recycled goods as well.
HDPE Packaging at Origin
Now that you know what HDPE in plastic is and what it’s capable of, you can choose from many quality and durable HDPE plastic packaging options in our vast range at Origin. In our range, you can find HDPE bottles coming in many different designs, sizes and colours to provide the optimal solution for your business.
You can choose the ideal HDPE packaging option from our selection, or work with our team of experts directly and produce a custom product that meets your exact needs.
If you’d like to speak to us about our range of packaging for the application of high-density polyethylene, or anything else within our range, get in touch with us today.
