What is HDPE?

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What is HDPE?
HDPE stands for high density polyurethane, a plastic product that is made from petroleum. Currently, about 4% of petroleum is used for the production of plastics. As an example of its production volume, in 2007 the global production of HDPE reached 30 million tons.

HDPE is one of the most commonly used plastics in the world and is the most commonly utilized plastic in the US. It has the recycle symbol #2, and Unicode U+2674. HDPE is commonly used in milk jugs, water bottles, buckets, automobile parts, plastic bags and plastic appliance parts.

HDPE is a lot stronger than the standard polyurethane, it retains its solidity in room temperature and is an effective barrier against moisture. It is also not susceptible to rotting, is resistant to insects and is usually not eaten away by chemicals. HDPE also does not leak any harmful chemicals or toxins onto soil or water.

One of the best things about HDPE is its recyclability. In order to recycle HDPE, it is washed clean, then shredded to smaller pieces, then ground. This is then mixed with UV stabilizers and pigments, after which the plastic can be molded into shape for use once more.

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