The applications of high density polyethylene are very varied, since its physicochemical properties, easy processing and low cost make it the most widely used thermoplastic in our society.
Applications range from building materials, electrical insulation, packaging, pipes, bottles, toys, boxes, bags, water tanks, skating rinks, fishing nets and bulletproof vests. This is just a sample of the versatility of this plastic.
It is evident that the spectrum of applications is very wide, and even more so if we explore the possibility of modifying high density polyethylene, as is the case of obtaining cross-linked polyethylene.
The applications of HDPE can be classified in many ways, but the most important are the following:
*By the method used to manufacture the product.
*By the type of Polyethylene used
In the classification of the product by the method used, we find the transformation by Extrusion, Injection, Blowing, Rotomolding, Compression and Thermoforming, which are the methods used for the transformation of high density polyethylene.
The problem with this type of classification is that it is possible that a product can be manufactured by more than one manufacturing process, even by three methods, which complicates its classification.
The application by type of Polyethylene used can be divided into 4 types which are:
High Density Polyethylene, High Density High Molecular Mass Polyethylene, Ultra High Molecular Mass Polyethylene and Crosslinked Polyethylene. This type of classification is the most recommended.