LDPE is a popular type of plastic known for its flexible and squeezable properties that make it perfect for dispensing liquids and more without breaking.
But what exactly is LDPE and how does it provide these benefits? Origin explains…
What is LDPE plastic?
LDPE means Low-Density Polyethylene. It’s a lightweight and flexible plastic that can be squeezed without breaking or compromising its structure. LDPE is commonly used in a range of packaging containers, including bottles, tubes and tubs.
The plastic was first produced in 1933 by Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI). It is used in a range of industries for a variety of products ranging from corrosion-resistant work surfaces to playground slides or even bulletproof vests. Primarily, though, LDPE materials are used for plastic bags, containers, and packaging.
The term LDPE is largely defined by its density range, which sits between 0.917–0.930 g/cm3. As with all types of Polyethylene (PE), it is a lightweight synthetic resin made from the polymerisation of ethylene and a crystalline non-polar thermoplastic that can be melted and reshaped with ease.
In 2022, the LDPE market was valued at $41.4 billion and is expected to climb to $58.8 billion by 2029, showing annual gains of 4.5%.
What is LDPE used for in pharmaceutical packaging?
It’s a popular material in pharmaceutical packaging for its durable, flexible and corrosion-resistant properties. Some of the key benefits of this plastic in the pharmaceutical packaging industry include:
- The material is not reactive at room temperature.
- It can be safely kept at temperatures of 80 degrees Celsius or even 90 degrees for short spaces of time.
- It is highly resistant to acids, alcohols, bases or esters.
- It has good resistance against aldehydes and ketones.
- The material’s low density allows it to break down with ease over time, offering a greater surface area.
- It can be widely recycled.
- It is a non-toxic, non-contaminating material that’s resistant to moisture and impact, boasting impressive toughness.
- It can be made either transparent or opaque, offering privacy where needed.
LDPE is also a readily available packaging material that is affordable and can be produced in a range of bag sizes for the storage of various pharmaceutical goods, ensuring that it will remain one of the most popular solutions for a long time to come.
What is the difference between LDPE and HDPE?
Both types of PE material are ultimately defined by their density range, with HDPE boasting rates of 930-970 kg/m3. This means HDPE is harder and melts at a higher temperature, making it less practical in some packaging areas while also being more difficult to recycle efficiently.
Many HDPE properties, such as its higher resistance, aren’t beneficial in the pharmaceutical industry. For example, the resistance against ultraviolet rays proves futile and, at an additional cost, it is far more practical for pharmaceutical companies to choose LDPE materials over their HDPE counterparts.
HDPE is less malleable and flexible than LDPE too. So, which is better, HPDE or LDPE for pharmaceuticals? While HDPE is suitable for a host of purposes, pharmaceutical packaging is not one of them.
Is LDPE recyclable in the UK?
One of the key benefits is its recyclability. Compared with many alternative plastic packaging solutions – including HDPE – it proves environmentally friendly and, in most forms, can be recycled using specialist equipment.
Firstly, LDPE products must be separated by their density – for example, cling film and thicker, more rigid bottles. Coloured LDPE products are also typically separated to be recycled individually.
These products are then ground into flakes, cleaned to remove any impurities, and then melted. The plastic then hardens into pellets – a form that makes it easy to store and transport – before being melted again when they come to be reused.
Recycled LDPE is often used to create ‘Linear LDPE’ – a slightly less pure form of the plastic – in products such as film and plastic bags. It may be mixed with virgin LDPE in this process.
LDPE packaging solutions from Origin
Origin is an industry leader in pharmaceutical packaging – offering a range of LDPE bottles designed to safely store a range of healthcare and medical products including liquids, powders and tablets.
To find out how we can work with you to develop bespoke packaging solutions, chat with our expert team today.
