Properties of Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is a versatile thermoplastic made from ethylene monomers, known for its low density, softness, and flexibility. Commonly used in plastic bags, film packaging, squeeze bottles, and various industrial applications, LDPE offers a unique combination of mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties that make it essential in both consumer and engineering materials.
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The following table provides a comprehensive list of low density polyethylene (LDPE) properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units at normal temperature and pressure (NTP).
Click on the button to switch between Metric and Imperial units.
| Physical Properties | Metric |
|---|---|
| Category | Thermoplastic |
| Density | 912 - 925 kg/m3 |
| Water Absorption | 0.015 %wt/day |
| Mechanical Properties | Metric |
| Ultimate Tensile Strength | 5 - 26 MPa |
| Yield Tensile Strength | 0.2 - 11.5 MPa |
| Young’s Modulus (E) | 0.14 - 1.86 GPa |
| Flexural Modulus | 0.069 - 0.207 GPa |
| Elongation at Break | 20 - 40% |
| Shore Hardness (D) | 41 - 46 |
| Thermal Properties | Metric |
| Melting Point | 102 - 112 °C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 0.33 W/m·K |
| Specific Heat Capacity (Cp) | 1900 J/kg·K |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL) | 10-4 - 2×10-4 1/°C |
| Glass Transition Temperature (Tg) | -110 to -20 °C |
| Electrical Properties | Metric |
| Relative Permittivity (@1 MHz) (εr) | 2.25 - 2.35 |
| Electrical Resistivity | 1015 Ω·cm |
| Dielectric Field Strength (Ed) | 270 - 390 kV/cm |
| Optical Properties | Metric |
| Refractive Index (589 nm) | 1.51 - 1.52 |
| Hazardous Data | Metric |
| Flammability Rating (ANSI/UL 94) | Combustible |
Unless stated otherwise, all values are taken at room temperature (approximately 20°C or 68°F) and 1 atm pressure. (1 atm = 101,325 Pa)