Plastics for packaging

How to choose the right material: a closer look at LDPE

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Plastics used in packaging are a vital part of the modern supply chain, thanks to their versatility, durability and relatively low cost. However, not all plastics are equal: choosing the right material depends on a variety of factors, including product characteristics, required durability, environmental impact and food safety requirements.

In this article, we will examinate the main differences between the types of plastic used in packaging, with a particular focus on LDPE (low-density polyethylene).

Types of plastics for packaging

The most common plastics used in packaging sector include:

  • LDPE (Low-density polyethylene): used for bags, films, and flexible packaging.
  • HDPE (High-density polyethylene): used for bottles, cans and rigid containers.
  • PP (Polypropylene): Often chosen for food containers, caps, and films.
  • PET (Polyethylene terephthalate): Commonly used for water and beverage bottles.
  • PVC (Polyvinyl chloride): Found in transparent films and some types of rigid containers.
  • PS (Polystyrene): Used for single-use packaging such as cups and Styrofoam trays.

Each of these materials has specific characteristics that make them suitable for certain types of packaging. Below we analyze the peculiarities of each material, focusing in particular on LDPE and its crucial role in the packaging industry.

LDPE: main characteristics

Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is one of the most used plastics in flexible packaging, thanks to its combination of lightness, flexibility, and resistance. Here are some of its distinguishing characteristics:

  • Flexibility and softness: LDPE is known for being extremely flexible and easy to work with. This makes it ideal for products such as grocery bags, cling film and bulk packaging.
  • Moisture resistance: LDPE is highly resistant to water and moisture, making it perfect for protecting food and industrial products from moisture.
  • Lightweight: Despite its strength, LDPE is very light, reducing transportation costs and emissions associated with logistics.
  • Transparency: Although not completely transparent, LDPE offers good visibility of the contents, a useful characteristic for many types of packaging.
  • Recyclability: LDPE is recyclable, although the recycling rate may vary depending on local infrastructure. Its recycling code is number 4.

Applications of LDPE in packaging

LDPE is used in a wide range of packaging applications, including:

  • Plastic bags: From grocery bags to waste collection bags, LDPE is a popular choice due to its flexibility and strength.
  • Stretch and Shrink Films: Used to wrap pallets or protect products during transportation.
  • Food Packaging: LDPE is often used for cling film and fresh food bags due to its moisture resistance and food safety.
  • Linings: LDPE is used as an inner liner for milk and juice cartons to provide a moisture barrier.

Differences Between LDPE and Other Types of Plastics

It is helpful to compare LDPE to other plastics commonly used in packaging, in order to understand better its characteristics:

  1. LDPE vs. HDPE
    1. Density and Stiffness: HDPE has a higher density and a stiffer structure, making it suitable for rigid containers such as bottles and cans.
    2. Strength: HDPE is more resistant to impact and high temperatures, while LDPE is preferable for applications that require flexibility.
  2. LDPE vs. PET
    1. Transparency: PET is much more transparent, making it ideal for beverage bottles and packaging that requires perfect visibility of the product.
    2. Oxygen barrier: PET offers a superior barrier to oxygen, making it more suitable for preserving food and beverages.
  3. LDPE vs. PP
    1. Heat resistance: PP can withstand higher temperatures, this is why it is suitable for containers that need to be sterilized or heated.
    2. Flexibility: LDPE is more flexible and softer than PP, making it more suitable for applications such as bags and films.

Environmental aspects of LDPE

One of the most discussed aspects of the use of plastics in packaging is their environmental impact. However, LDPE is a more responsible choice than many other plastics, due to its recyclability and versatility in sustainable applications. Although recycling rates may vary depending on local infrastructure, LDPE is widely accepted in recycling programs and is transformed into a wide range of new products, reducing the need to produce virgin raw materials.

A practical example is the use of LDPE waste to create products such as street furniture, pipes and agricultural films. Innovative collection and regeneration programs have made it possible to transform this material into high-quality recycled pellets, ready for new industrial applications. These processes demonstrate how LDPE can be a key player in the circular economy.

These are the essential steps to further enhance the value of LDPE:

  • Increasing recycling initiatives: investing in technologies and infrastructure that facilitate the recovery and transformation of LDPE.
  • Developing innovative recycled products: expanding the market for recycled LDPE products, supporting a more sustainable production cycle.
  • Raising awareness: raising awareness among consumers and companies about the importance of proper disposal and recycling of LDPE.

All TermoPlastica Sghedoni products are classified as LDPE 4 (in compliance with Commission Decision 97/129/EC), which ensures that they meet stringent European standards for the coding and management of plastic waste. This code identifies the material as recyclable, contributing to greater environmental sustainability and facilitating waste separation at a global level.

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