October 5th, 2018


High-density polyethylene, or HDPE, has a huge variety of applications, and a unique strength-to-density ratio. These two traits, among others, set high-density polyethylene apart from other plastics.

HDPE’s inherent density can range anywhere from 0.93 to 0.97 g/cm3. This means that HDPE floats in both fresh wather and in saltwater.

HDPE is remarkably inert, leaking no additives, binders, or chemicals into surrounding materials. It resists corrosion through chemical reaction, as well as bacteria and insects. And HDPE exhibits better resistance to corrosive chemicals than many other inexpensive plastics. These combined traits make HDPE an ideal material for a huge variety of applications, including;

  • Filament for 3D printers.
  • Pipe for the distribution of natural gas.
  • Plastic shopping bags.
  • Plastic surgery components.
  • Corrosion protection for steel pipe.
  • Hard hats.
  • Geothermal heat transfer systems.
  • Milk jugs.
  • Domestic water supply piping.
  • Heat resistant mortar for fireworks.
  • Gas cans
  • Dipping tanks
  • Cutting boards

Because HDPE is one of the most-used plastics in America, it is also one of the most commonly recycled plastics. Recycled HDPE can either be put back into the production of milk cartons or other items containing foods and beverages, or be used to make plastic lawn furniture, hula hoops, buckets, and auto parts.

At Colorado Plastics, we offer stock HDPE in several forms including partially recycled, utility grade black sheets, natural and black colored virgin sheet and plate, arena board, and borated HDPE sheets. And fully recycled HPDE sheet is available. All of these have a wide variety of applications from arena siding to replacing lead in nuclear shielding applications.

If you would like to know more, we invite you to visit our website. Additionally, you may contact us directly with any questions or comments.