All about Plastics: HDPE & MDPE

The difference between HDPE and MDPE is that HDPE is slightly stronger and heavier that MDPE. Both of these plastics are made in a similar manner by combining petroleum with a catalyst like chromium/silica catalysts, Ziegler-Natta catalysts or metallocene catalysts.

The production manner of these plastics means that these are plastics with a good resistance to dropping, rapid temperature changes as well as resistance to some solvents. This makes these containers ideal for milk jugs, cleaner bottles, yogurt containers, shampoo & conditioner bottles, as well many more uses including construction and medical uses.

So… where can we find HDPE & MDPE being used?

HDPE & MDPE are used most commonly used in bottles and tubs, as well as cereal bags! HDPE & MDPE are a common container material in both the food and cosmetics industries because HDPE & MDPE are squeezable and have low costs in comparison to PET. This means that you don’t have to have higher products costs just to pay for the containers!

HDPE & MDPE are accepted at many recycling centers and are often recycled into laundry detergent bottles, oil bottles, recycling containers, plastic lumber, doghouses, picnic tables as well as other sturdy outdoor objects like playhouses and storage bins.

That being said, what are the pros and cons for you using HDPE & MDPE containers for your products?

Pros:

• Has the ability to be very squeezable
• Has a lower cost than PET or other plastics
• Is naturally translucent
• Is easily recycled
• The best way to sanitize is to dip in water/Hydrogen Peroxide solution containing 3% Hydrogen Peroxide and allow to air dry.
• When dipped in a 3% Hydrogen Peroxide solution to sanitize, any remaining dry water marks are less obvious.
• Shatterproof and ideal for slippery bathrooms!
• Can handle rapid temperature changes.

Cons:

• Can’t be transparent or clear

I hope I didn’t bore you today! Check back in tomorrow for the next plastics on our list, PVC (Polyvinyl chloride)!