HDPE vs LDPE vs LLDPE - What Is the Difference & Which Should You Choose

Shrink films are a very popular product for packaging due to their tight, protective covering. Yet, most people will be unaware that there are three main types of polythene shrink film, all of which have very similar properties. These are LDPE, LLDPE and HDPE.

In this article, we will dive into all three types of shrink film and explain the properties, differences, and common questions around usage of each.

What are the properties of the three types of shrink film?

LDPE is the most common form of plastic film and is flexible, transparent, and very resistant. This material is often used for electrical insulation, plastic, frozen and waste bags, meat and food products for the consumer to use in their home. Typically, it has a density of 0.917g/cm³ to 0.93g/cm³ and is normally around 0.4ml to 40ml thick.

HDPE is lightweight but is actually the toughest of all three materials. Similarly to LDPE and LLDPE, it holds good impact resistance. HDPE is typically used for both construction materials such as pipes, and consumer products including shampoo bottles and milk cartons. Typically has a density of between 0.93g/cm³ to 0.97g/cm³ and a thickness which ranges from 12mil to 100mil thick.

LLDPE is more of a linear polymer structure and is naturally milky in colour. Its malleable strength provides a good cover to prevent any tearing and puncturing. It can be used for a range of versatile products including heavy-duty bags, toys, and cable covers. LLDPE typically has a density of 0.965g/cm³ or more and around 0.4 ml to 40 ml in thickness.

Comparison between LDPE, LLDPE and HDPE

There are many similarities between LDPE, LLDPE and HDPE, but also many differences, which is important to know when deciding on what to use for your packaging needs.

We have broken down these differences by highlighting the main benefits of each type of shrink wrap so you can compare them and decide which one is right for you:

LDPE

When compared to the other two, LDPE can be stretched without breaking and has excellent seal strength. Also, due to its composition it is easier to produce, therefore cheaper than LLDPE and HDPE. Additional benefits of LDPE include:

• Moisture/water resistant
• Low toxicity levels
• Poor conductor of electricity
• Good chemical resistance
• Easily processed

Read more about LDPE and its use in plastic bags.

LLDPE

By comparison, LLDPE is the most flexible out of the three materials and has the highest resistance to tears and punctures. It also deals very well in extreme temperatures and weather. Additonal benefits of LLDPE include:

• High chemical resistance
• High resistance to surface cracking
• Highly flexible

HDPE

Arguably the most sustainable material out of the three and due to its durability, can stay in circulation for many years. HDPE also has other benefits:

• Environmentally friendly and 100% recyclable
• Very durable
• Available in translucent to opaque variation
• Excellent chemical resistance
• Is a stiff material
• UV resistant

If you are still unsure on what is the right material for your packaging needs then call I-Poly on 0330 094 7197 and our friendly team of experts will be happy to help.

Common questions on usage

Which material is best for the environment?

Out of the three materials, HDPE is the most sustainable and easiest to recycle.

It doesn’t give off any harmful fumes during the manufacturing process and requires very little energy to produce it.

HDPE is made from recycled materials and can be reused time and time again which keeps it in circulation for many years.

Which material is the most flexible?

When you are packaging any item, flexible packaging ensures a tight covering to protect even the most awkwardly shaped items.

LLDPE is the most flexible of all the shrink films and does not strain harden. This means that as it cools down, it remains flexible, unlike LDPE. This flexibility means that it is not susceptible to surface cracking.

LLDPE is a blended form of LDPE giving it flexibility, conformability and tensile strength.

Which material is the toughest?

HDPE is the most durable material out of the three and the most UV resistant, adding another level of protection to your items. Its strength comes from its tight cell structure which makes it almost impossible for molecules to pass through its structure even on a microscopic level. However, bear in mind though that HDPE is prone to stress cracking and is not weather resistant.

Which is the most commonly used?

Despite LDPE not being quite as strong or flexible as the other two materials, it is the most widely used. Different industries use this type of plastic as it covers almost everything needed for low cost, efficient packaging.

Due to its ability to be stretched without breaking, it is perfect for plastic bags and films. It is also chemical, water and moisture-resistant which is ideal for extra protection.

Other types of shrink film

We have covered the three most common types of shrink film but there are others, which are not as commonly used. These include:

• MDPE (Medium Density Polyethylene) - Sometimes referred to as “black alkathene” MDPE is defined by a density range of 0.926 - 0.940 g/cm3. It is typically used in gas pipes, sacks, shrink film and carrier bags.
• XLPE (Crosslinked Polyethylene) - A type of electrical cable commonly used for power transmission and distribution. It is highly resistant to heat, moisture and chemicals.
• UHMW (Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) - Often used in belt scrapers, chain guides and packaging machinery components due to its strength and durability.

So which should you choose?

If you are still trying to decide which material to choose, we can assist you. Polyflex is one of the UK’s leading independent polythene packaging suppliers and we know our stuff. The customer always comes first and we want you to be entirely satisfied with the products you choose.

Contact us for a quote or a free sample to help you select the material right for your packaging needs.