Polyethylene
is formed when numerous ethylene molecules accumulate in a long
chain resulting in either a high-density or low-density polymer.
High-density polyethylene (HD-PE) is used in the manufacture of
bottles, crates, containers, toys, and pipes. The low-density types
(LD-PE and LLD-PE) are most widely used as films for packaging and
thicker sheets for plastic bags. Flame retardants are added to polyethylene
in applications like wire and cable.
Polyethylene
combines low cost processability with good physical properties.
Processes include injection molding, extrusion , blown and cast
film, compression molding and rotomolding. The relative low cost
of the polyethylene makes it a most attractive polymer, however
it is highly flammable.
Enhancing the
physical properties through the addition of talc at up to 30% or
more, and the need for relatively high loadings of flame retardant
to pass some of the more stringent flammability performance requirements,
brings unique challenges for formulators. Often the best approach
for the formulators is to consider our Fyrebloc®
solutions combining the brominated flame retardant with the synergist,
antimony trioxide, and if needed, zinc borate as a smoke suppressant
in a dust free form.
Polyethylene in wire
and cable applications can be crosslinked to permit the high additive
loadings required to pass flammability requirements such as VW-1
while maintaining the required physical properties for the application.
Contact
our Technical Service
group for expert advice on our products for polyethylene or see
the Product Guide below.
Key
Applications
Product
Guide for Polyethylene
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