Plastic polyethylene packaging is the most commonly used type of plastic in the world. Regardless of where you live and what type of products you buy and consume, you have undoubtedly encountered this type of plastic along the way.
Why is Polyethylene So Popular?
Polyethylene is widely used because it is highly versatile. There are several varieties of polyethylene, which are each suited best to various types of applications.
HDPE
High Density Polyethylene, or HDPE is one of the best types of plastic for standard bottles and containers. It ranges from semi-translucent to entirely opaque in appearance. Thinner applications with the semi-translucent appearance are used in containers like milk jugs, which are excellent for products with shorter shelf lives. Thicker, more opaque versions of this plastic are used in storing household cleaners and other chemicals, since this plastic has a high chemical resistance.
LDPE
The term “Low Density Polyethylene” may make the plastic resin sound less than desirable, especially in comparison to its higher-density cousin. However, LDPE is just as versatile and just as common as HDPE.
If you have ever opened a bag containing a loaf of bread, cotton balls or cotton rounds, produce such as a head of lettuce or salad, or even opened the flexible top of a harder plastic container, you have encountered this type of plastic. Favored for flexibility and transparency in many applications, it is a perfect complement to the higher-density varieties.
Choosing Packaging for Your Products
When selecting product packaging for your business, it is important to determine upfront whether you need length and stability of shelf life or flexibility and transparency for consumers. Thankfully, regardless of what you need, polyethylene has a resin to match your requirements.
Consult the experts at your local plastics manufacturer and distributor if you are still unsure which resin is best for you. Some products have to be packaged in specialty resins, but most are perfectly suited to plastic polyethylene packaging. Talk to an expert before placing your first packaging order to ensure a fantastic result – and fresh, safe products for your consumers.