Polyethylene - linear low density (LLDPE) Uses and Market Data
06 November 2007 13:08 Source:ICIS
The popularity of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) is due to its higher tensile strength and superior impact and puncture resistance than its low density polyethylene (LDPE) rival. This has allowed converters to make thinner films without sacrificing strength, saving material and reducing costs. LLDPE’s good toughness relative to other products has also opened up new application areas.
However, LLDPE is not as easy to process as LDPE and it has poorer clarity. As a result, converters often use blends with LDPE to improve these properties. Polyethylene is used in the packaging of fruits. (Source: Plastics Europe).
Globally, around 80% of LLDPE goes into film applications such as food and non-food packaging, shrink/stretch film and non-packaging uses. The trend in food packaging films is towards high performance film structures that are less permeable to increase shelf life and enhance flavours. Growth is occurring from the transition of items packaged in rigid containers to high quality flexible packages.
LLDPE is being used in extrusion coating applications where it helps protect the contents of liquid containers, primarily for paper and paperboard packaging.
Non-food packaging applications are requiring stronger films such as consumer, industrial and agricultural uses.
The injection moulding sector, which accounts for around 5% of LLDPE demand, has outlets such as lawn and garden products, kitchen accessories, luggage and furniture parts, recreational products and toys.
The development of metallocene or single site catalyst technology has resulted in new LLDPE resins which allow significant downgauging of films as well as faster film processing and more stable operations. Easy processing LLDPE grades are also being introduced.