LDPE is a polyethylene of limited density. It is the most frequently used material in the production of foils, in particular for packaging purposes. All simple types of disposable bags, refuse bags and shopping bags are made solely from LDPE. The reasons for this include low cost and ease of processing.
Foils are manufactured by extrusion, either as 2D foils or hoses (tubular extrusion). Such foils can be very thin (bags for baked goods) or have thick-walls (large bags). The exact thickness of the packaging may be adapted to meet the given requirements - from 30 micrometers (0.030 mm) up to 200 micrometers.
Should the need exist for the eventual packaging to be resistant to perforation, PE foils can be laminated with another type of foil, improving the properties of the final package. For example, lamination with PET foil (polyethylene-terephthalate) occurs in the production of foodstuff bags for pets. Lamination with paper-based boarding is applied to produce fruit juice packaging (of Tetrapack type).
The benefit of LDPE is that it can be printed onto to a high standard. Shopping bags and large bags can be decorated with multi-coloured printing. This material can also be welded to achieve various shapes of pouches and bags. Recycled PE is applicable in the production of pouches and bags, contributing to protection of the environment.
Applications
Foil LD-PE 1116
– Automotive industry – car mats, gaskets – Agriculture – cover foils – Shim plates in packaging – Industrial applications – separation sheets – In the clothing and haberdashery industry (stiffeners and cut-outs)
