HPDE vs PET Plastics | Key Differences | Recyclable Plastics

27, May. 2024

 

HPDE vs PET Plastics | Key Differences | Recyclable Plastics

What's the Difference Between HDPE and PET Plastics?

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What is HDPE Plastic?

HDPE stands for high-density polyethylene. It is a highly durable, opaque petroleum-based thermoplastic that is resistant to heat, punctures, and impacts. A HDPE plastic is also resistant to corrosion and microbial growth.

How is HDPE made? By deriving ethane from ethylene gas. Then, the ethane is heated, mixed with benzene, and then exposed to UV radiation to catalyze the polymerization process. The polymer is poured into board-shaped molds and cooked at a low heat to eliminate any oxygen.

Once the boards are cooled, they will be shipped as raw materials that can be turned into a variety of products from plastic drums and shipping barrels to laundry detergent containers and facial prostheses.

HDPE has a melting point of 160°F which is higher than many other plastics making it exceptionally rigid and stable when cool. On the other hand, when heated above its melting point, it's highly malleable.

HDPE Bottles vs PET Bottles

PET and HDPE plastics are very popular for manufacturing bottles and jars. However, understanding why to use each plastic type is important to many brands and a growing consumer base. Many new points have to considered including:

  1. Sustainability ' use less energy and raw materials
  2. Recyclability ' will the waste fit into the current circular economy?
  3. Container size ' can we use concentrated liquids and make the packaging smaller?
  4. Storage ' how long will HDPE or PET last with other contents inside?
  5. Refill ability ' can we offer refill pouches and reduce costs for both consumers & manufacturers?

These important commercial and domestic factors make packaging brands re-think their offering and solution.

We will explore why and how to compare HDPE & PET within this article.

PET Plastic Bottles

PET is also known as PETE or Polyester. PET stands for Polyethylene Terephthalate and is mainly used to manufacture plastic bottles for liquid or beverage consumption. PET is also used for many disposable plastic containers that are also used for ready-made or frozen foods. PET is popular because it provides a sound oil barrier that helps with chemicals attacking the plastic. PET can also be very clear plastic and look like glass once set to its desired shape. PET can also be colour matched to be any colour.

Temperature range

PET bottles do not have as high of a temperature resistance (less than 131°F) as HDPE. PET containers can also handle cold temperatures of about -40°F.

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HDPE Plastic Bottles

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polyethylene high-density (PEHD) plastic is one of the most common plastics used in manufacturing; HDPE is known for its durability and strength. While not as clear as PET plastic, HDPE bottles and containers can be translucent so you can see your product inside the bottle. This type of plastic can also be colour matched and is popular in white.

Temperature Range

HDPE bottles and containers also are able to withstand colder and freezing temperatures very well (-110° F) and higher temperatures moderately well near 167°F.

What Are The Diversities Between PET & HDPE

Understanding the diversity of different plastic types is one thing, but what are the advantages and disadvantages of each plastic type. Here is a stats table to help make up your mind.

MATERIAL PROPERTIES HDPE PET RIGIDITITY 3 4 IMPACT 3 2 MOISTURE BARRIER 3 3 GAS BARRIER 1 3 STRESS CRACK RESISTANCE 2 5 CLARITY Semi Opaque ' 2 Clear ' 5 COLD RESISTANCE -110°F ' 4 -40°F ' 3 HEAT RESISTANCE 167°F ' 4 131°F ' 3 METHYL ETHYL KETONE RESISTANCE 3 3 MINERAL OILS RESISTANCE 4 3 ALCOHOL RESISTANCE 3 4 ESSENTIAL OIL BARRIER 2 3 WEAK ACID RESISTANCE 4 4 ACETONE RESISTANCE 3 1 ETHYL ACETATE RESISTANCE 3 3 HYDROGEN PEROXIDE RESISTANCE 5 3 SODIUM CHLORIDE RESISTANCE 4 5

Score Card (KEY)

Excellent = 5
Very Good = 4
Good = 3
Fair = 2
Poor = 1

OVERALL SCORE HDPE PET SCORE 51 53

As you can see, there really isn't much between each plastic type. However, you can pick a bottle that best suits your product solutions.

HDPE is a very stiff, high-density plastic with a good temperature resistance and an excellent water vapour barrier. PET plastics are highly transparent in appearance, available in different colours, lightweight and tough against gases and liquids. PET is also highly resistant to diluted acids, oils and alcohols.

Product Material Help

As hybrid packaging specialists, we understand the need to use different materials for bottles, jars, dispensing pumps and tubes; therefore, testing your product contents with a container is key to achieving perfect results for your consumer base.

 

Berlin Packaging UK offers a packaging studio to help with your skincare & beauty product journey. We have Account Managers ready to take your call, send samples and answer any questions or concerns.

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