Get started
Back to list

Distinguishing PE Plastic and Important Notes When Using

PE plastic is a popular type of plastic with different characteristics compared to other types on the market. In the following article, TAELIM will provide information about this type of plastic and notes for safe use.

Find out information about what PE plastic is?

PE plastic, also known as Polyethylene, is a type of plastic with high flexibility, opaque white color and light transparency. In terms of structure, PE consists of ethylene molecules (CH2-CH2) linked together through saturated hydrogen bonds and located next to two carbon atoms. The production process of Polyethylene is carried out by polymerization of ethylene monomer (C2H4).

PE plastic stands out with its glossy surface, high aesthetics and heat resistance up to 230°C. In addition, this type of plastic also has properties such as insulation, heat resistance, water resistance and good gas resistance. However, they are easily affected when exposed to strong cleaning chemicals, which can cause swelling and damage.

Currently, the world consumes about 60 million tons of plastic each year, which is also the most popular plastic in the world. PE is widely used in many fields such as industry, plumbing fittings, printing, and the electrical industry.

Nhựa PE là một loại nhựa có độ dẻo cao, màu trắng đục và độ trong nhẹ
PE plastic is a type of plastic with high flexibility, opaque white color and light transparency.

>>> See more: Comparison of Properties of PET and PP Plastic & Basic Applications

Distinguishing PE plastic and some common types of plastic

Currently, there are many different types of plastic on the market with distinct characteristics. Below is information on common types of plastic and how to distinguish PE from other types for you to understand.

Types of plastic Characteristic Advantage Disadvantages
PE plastic
  • Transparent but has a translucent, flexible and glossy surface.
  • PE has good water and vapor resistance.
  • Heat resistant but only for short periods of time.
  • PE has poor resistance to gases and grease. 
  • Packaging is made from PE plastic with high odor absorption and retention capacity.
PP plastic
  • Transparent, glossy surface, high mechanical properties, strong and hard.
  • Glossy surface so when printing will give clear print, beautiful color.
  • Resistant to oxygen, steam, some other gases and grease.
  • Used as food packaging.
  • PP plastic easily cracked or damaged if left in the environment for a long time.
  • PP is prone to breaking into small pieces in low temperature environments.
PVC plastic
  • PVC plastic is brittle and not very flexible. 
  • Should only be used for packaging raw foods with short shelf life.
  • Less used than PE, PP plastic.
  • Using PVC in the production of drainage pipes, raincoats, electric cable covers, etc.
  • If you want to use PVC for packaging, you need to add PE, PP to make the product more flexible. However, plasticized PVC will become hard, brittle and denatured after a while.
  • PVC plastic has a short lifespan and is not durable.
PC plastic
  • PC plastic is transparent, durable, abrasion resistant, and not affected by food ingredients.
  • Higher air permeability than PE, PVC.
  • Withstands heat well above 100 degrees Celsius. Therefore, PC is used to produce bottles, plastic caps of sterile products, and containers.
  • PC plastic is more expensive than PP and PET so it is less used.
PET plastic
  • PET plastic is transparent, durable, abrasion resistant, and has good impact resistance.
  • No change in chemical structure when temperature changes. Gas and vapor barrier is maintained at temperatures around 100 degrees Celsius.
  • PET is very resistant to force, heat and abrasion.
  • Heat resistance at very high temperatures is not good.
  • PET plastic is easily oxidized.
Phân biệt nhựa PE và một số loại nhựa phổ biến
Distinguishing PE plastic and some common types of plastic

Is PE plastic toxic and special notes when using it?

PE plastic is generally considered safe and harmless in its solid state, such as when used to make cups, glasses, trays, or plastic containers. However, when heated to the point of melting, it can produce toxic substances. Therefore, to ensure safety, you should note the following points:

  • Avoid overheat: Do not use an air fryer or microwave oven at too high a temperature (over 110°C) on PE plastic products, especially when storing foods containing a lot of fat. This can cause deterioration and be dangerous if the appliance is not specifically designed for hot foods.
  • Proper cleaning: When cleaning plastic containers, use paper towels to wipe off grease before washing with dishwashing liquid. Avoid washing directly with boiling water or using strong detergents, which may damage the product.
  • Proper storage: Do not store products made from this type of plastic in places with a lot of odors to avoid the product from absorbing odors.
Nhựa PE thường được coi là an toàn và không gây hại khi ở trạng thái rắn
PE plastic is generally considered safe and harmless in its solid state.

>>> See more: Common Types of Recycled Plastic Granules and Production Process

Recently, TAELIM has provided information about PE plastic and its characteristics to distinguish it from other types of plastic. At the same time, we also give you some tips to help you use plastic products safely and effectively.

TAELIM International Transport Company Limited 

With the desire to support the development of the plastic industry by providing high quality plastic pellets and services. Taelim Plastic is one of the Vietnamese plastic companies with many years of experience, with a long history of development, specializing in the production, trading, import and export of recycled pellets. By applying advanced technology, meeting European standards with a strict process, we ensure to bring customers the best products and services.

ADDRESS: SH109 Vinhomes Marina, Hai Phong

PHONE: (+84) 9815 888 16

EMAIL: hatnhua.taelim@gmail.com

same topic

ADDRESS: SH109 Vinhomes Marina, Hai Phong

PHONE: (+84) 9815 888 16

E-MAIL: hatnhua.taelim@gmail.com

INFOMATION

Search

NEWSLETTER:

SOCIAL:

Facebook Twitter Linkedin
Taelim Plastic Company © 2023. Design by BC Mar