• CSR PLASTIC | Clean Society by Recycling | Sustainability

Is LDPE a Single-Use Plastic

Is LDPE a Single-Use Plastic?

LDPE (low-density polyethylene), recycled using technological devices by CSR Plastic's professional team, is not a single-use plastic. It is light, flexible, and soft. Resistant to corrosion, LDPE provides flexibility at low temperatures. LDPE has a density range of 917-930 kg/m3.

LDPE plastic is used in many areas. Since it is a durable type of plastic, all items made with LDPE can be used for a long time. In addition to its cost, the packaging and storage of LDPE are also very suitable. LDPE, composed of monomer ethylene, is 100% recyclable. LDPE is represented by the number 4 inside the recycling triangle on various plastic materials. It is represented by the formula C2H4, being a type of plastic formed by long chains of ethylene molecules called monomers.

How Is LDPE Produced?

LDPE (low-density polyethylene) is produced through a process called free radical polymerization. This process requires temperatures between 420-570 degrees K and pressures of 1000-3000 atm. Generally, LDPE is produced in tubular reactors or autoclaves.

The production of LDPE requires significant effort. First, smaller molecules are obtained by breaking down petroleum-based hydrocarbons, and then ethylene gas is separated from the mixture to obtain raw material from petroleum. Next, the ethylene gas is pumped into the reactor. For polymerization, organic peroxide or oxygen is combined and cooked. A polyethylene slurry is formed and extruded with granules. The unreacted gas remaining in the reactor is used in the next batch. After the extrusion phase, the following processes occur with LDPE granules:

• Thermoforming
• Injection molding
• Extrusion
• Blow molding

Effects of LDPE on Health

LDPE (low-density polyethylene) is used in many products today because it does not contain carcinogenic substances. It is among the safest types of plastic. LDPE does not cause problems when it comes into contact with human skin, inhaled, or ingested. However, chemicals can mix with the material during the production of LDPE products. These chemicals can cause significant problems when they spread to the environment or come into contact with food. According to the FDA, untreated LDPE can be used in food.

LDPE is used in products such as plastic bags, water bottles, kitchen utensils, greenhouse films, irrigation pipes, and medical bags.

However, it is important to note that recycled LDPE and untreated LDPE do not have the same guarantees of sterility and purity. Ensuring that it does not combine with hazardous chemicals is crucial for the health of living beings and the environment. LDPE plastics are rated for food-grade use. It is necessary to know how and where to store LDPE plastics by paying attention to this rating.

Why Is LDPE Used in Pharmaceutical Packaging?

LDPE (low-density polyethylene) is used in pharmaceutical packaging due to its corrosion-resistant and flexible structure. LDPE is used in pharmaceutical packaging for the following reasons:

• It is widely recyclable.
• It is non-reactive at room temperatures.
• It has an opaque and transparent structure.
• It shows high resistance to ketones and aldehydes.
• It can be safely stored at temperatures between 80-90 degrees Celsius.
• It is non-polluting.
• It is highly resistant to esters, acids, bases, and alcohols.
• Due to its low density, it easily breaks down over time and starts to cover a wide surface area.

LDPE (low-density polyethylene) can be produced in different bag sizes for storing various pharmaceutical products. It can be considered the most easily obtainable packaging material. LDPE is a type of plastic resistant to electricity. For this reason, it is also used in the insulation of high-voltage electrical panels. The reasons for its wide use in commercial and industrial areas are:

• Low density
• Flexibility
• Durability

Thanks to LDPE plastic, many materials can be coated and stored safely. You can contact CSR Plastic for more detailed information about LDPE (low-density polyethylene).