High Density Polyethylene – What is it?
HDPE or High Density Polyethylene is one of the most durable and versatile plastics on the market today. It is a thermoplastic polymer that is made from petroleum which is known for its high strength to density ratio. HDPE is widely used for the manufacturing of many types of products from plastic building materials to car parts (fuel tanks) to bottles to plastic bags. It is also widely recycled in all its forms – be it a rigid plastic structure, or plastic bags.
It is very light, but very strong, and it is impact and weather resistant. It also doesn’t rot, mould or grow mildew, and insects and microbes do not find it to be a suitable habitat. Because the plastic is strong and re-usable, it tends to have less of an impact on the environment compared to its other plastic counterparts. However, HDPE does not biodegrade, nor can it be composted, therefore, great care needs to be taken to ensure it is recycled instead of thrown away.
How is HDPE made?
HDPE is made from petroleum using a process referred to as catalytic polymerisation.
By applying intense heat to petroleum (a process often called ‘cracking’), ethylene gas starts to form and during this process the gas molecules will attach to each other forming polymers. This produces polyethylene.
At this stage the polyethylene will have a sludgy appearance which is then put through a series of moulds which then forms granules.
This can then be used for blow moulding, extrusion and injection moulding (three methods of moulding plastic items).
Why is HDPE so popular for making bottles?
HDPE is chemically resistant, so you can store chemicals safely without the structural integrity of the plastic being threatened.
The bottles are 100% recyclable so the bottles can be used over and over again.
They are very lightweight and strong.
Unpigmented (clear) HDPE is used to manufacture milk and juice bottles whereas pigmented or coloured plastic have an enhanced fracture resistant quality. The latter is very popular for detergents and other household chemicals.
The HD Polyethylene Jerry Can
The HD Polyethylene Jerry Can is manufactured from food grade HDPE and is perfect for the storage and transportation of liquids, including water, oils such as cooking oil and motor oil and a wide variety of chemicals.
This can feature two openings to make cleaning, filling and pouring of the containers much easier. Both of these openings have screw on lids with rubber seals to prevent spillage and leakage.
The containers are manufactured in 10 litre, 14 litre and 20 litre with an option of a plain container without a tap.
The carefully designed smooth turning tap (for easily dispensing the liquids) is recessed into the body of the jerry can to prevent damage or breakage of the tap handling and transportation.
This container has a sturdy handle to assist with easy handling, designed with ease of use especially when the container is full.