What is the difference between LDPE and HDPE?

LDPE and HDPE are both polyethylene, but a difference in density gives them different strengths. Here is the plain-English version.

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It comes down to density

The core difference between LDPE and HDPE is simply the density of the material.

LDPE: softer and more flexible

LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) is lower-density, with a softer feel, more flexibility and more stretch. It also melts at a lower temperature, which makes it easy to heat-seal.

HDPE: harder and stronger

HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) is slightly harder, with more tensile strength and higher density, so it is the stronger of the two. That makes it ideal for applications needing durability and weight resistance.

Both stem from polyethylene and both are versatile, useful polymers: the right choice just depends on whether you value flexibility or strength. Still deciding? Ask our team.