Introduction
Polyethylene films are one of the most widely used materials in the plastics and packaging industry. Due to their diverse mechanical and chemical properties, these films are used in the food packaging industry to produce agricultural and industrial films. Among the types of polyethylene films, there are three main groups among the applications:
- High-density polyethylene film (HDPE Film)
- Light-weight polyethylene film (LDPE Film)
- Linear low-density polyethylene film (LLDPE Film)
Knowing the differences and applications of each is very important for manufacturers, because choosing the right one will increase the final quality of the product in the final form.
What is high-density polyethylene film?
High density polyethylene or HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) is a polymer with a high molecular density and linear chains. This structure makes high-density polyethylene film have high tensile strength and at the same time show less transparency than light polyethylene.
What is light-density polyethylene film?
Low-density polyethylene or LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) has a lower density due to its branched structure. The result of this structure is that light-density polyethylene films are more flexible and soft. These types of films are widely used in food packaging and the production of transparent nylons.
What is linear low-density polyethylene film?
Linear low density polyethylene or LLDPE (Linear Low-Density Polyethylene) is a combination of the characteristics of heavy and light polyethylene. Its structure is linear with short branches, which is what makes linear light polyethylene film highly resistant to punctures and tears while remaining flexible.
Features of high density polyethylene film
- High tensile strength
- Good resistance to chemicals
- Matte appearance
- More difficult to process than LDPE
- More economical price
Applications of high density Polyethylene Film
- Shopping bags
- Packaging of dry foods such as flour and sugar
- Light-weight agricultural films
- Durable garbage bags
- Industrial pipes and coatings
High Density Polyethylene Film Grades
Some common HDPE film grades include:
These grades are used in various industries depending on the manufacturer and process conditions.
Features of Low Density Polyethylene Film
- High flexibility
- Better transparency than HDPE
- Easy processability in film production machines
- Good impact resistance
- Good printability
Applications of Low Density Polyethylene Film
- Food packaging films
- Agricultural and greenhouse films
- Transparent retail nylons
- Protective coatings in various industries
Low DensityPolyethylene film grades
Some of the most commonly used grades of LDPE film:
- LFI 2119
- LFI 2130
- LDPE 2100TN00
- LDPE 2420H
- LDPE 2420D
- LDPE 2420E02
- E02LH0075
Features Linear Low Density Polyethylene Film
- High flexibility and elasticity
- Excellent resistance to puncture
- High mechanical strength even at low thickness
- Acceptable transparency
- Good processability in the production of multilayer films
Application of Linear Low Density Polyethylene Film
- Stretch films
- Food packaging films
- Greenhouse and agricultural films
- Industrial and multilayer films
Linear Low Density Polyethylene Film Grades
Some commonly used LLDPE grades:
- LLDPE 209AA
- LLDPE 18B03
- LL235F6
- LLDP 22B01
- LLDPE 22B02
- LLDPE 22B03
- LLDPE 0220
What is the difference between HDPE and LDPE film?
HDPE Film: Higher strength, matte appearance, more affordable, less transparency
LDPE Film: More flexible, more transparent, easier to process, less mechanical strength
What is the difference between light and linear light polyethylene film?
LDPE: Softer, more transparent, but lower resistance to puncture
LLDPE: More resistant, more elastic and suitable for thin and industrial films
What should film manufacturers consider when choosing the right polyethylene?
- Type of final product (shopping bag, agricultural film, stretch film)
- Need for greater transparency or strength
- Desired film thickness
- Type of machine and process conditions
- Raw material budget and target market
Polyethylene film export status
Exports of polyethylene films to neighboring countries have grown significantly in recent years due to the high quality of domestic products and competitive prices. Countries such as Turkey, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan and CIS countries are among the main markets for importing Iranian polyethylene films. Easy access to land and sea transportation routes, geographical proximity and the extensive needs of the packaging and agricultural industries of these countries have provided a valuable opportunity for the development of polyethylene film exports.
Conclusion
Polyethylene films are produced in three main categories: heavy, light and linear light, each of which has its own characteristics and applications. The right choice between HDPE, LDPE and LLDPE can have a direct impact on the final quality of the product. For packaging that requires strength, HDPE is more suitable; for applications where transparency and flexibility are important, LDPE is recommended; and where tear resistance and elasticity are critical, LLDPE will be the best option.
Contact Afshin Karami Trading Company
Does choosing between HDPE, LDPE and LLDPE seem difficult? Don’t worry! Our team is ready to help you choose the best option for your products. If you are planning to purchase polyethylene films in different grades or need advice on choosing the best type of polyethylene for your production line, contact our experts now. Our team is ready to accompany you in making a confident choice.