high-density polyethylene

American  

noun

Chemistry.

1. polyethylene consisting mainly of linear, or unbranched, chains with high crystallinity and melting point, and density of 0.96 or more, produced at low pressure and used chiefly for containers and articles made by injection molding. HDPE

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Etymology

Origin of high-density polyethylene

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

high-density polyethylene

SCG Chemical’s earnings should be aided by improved spreads for high-density polyethylene, polypropylene and polyvinyl chloride, the analyst says.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 14, 2026

It makes a fantastic product called Flexsteel, a spoolable pipe that combines the strength of steel with the corrosion resistance of high-density polyethylene, or HDPE.

From Barron's ● Jan. 16, 2026

But they can sell you a heftier sack made of high-density polyethylene, or HDPE.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 24, 2023

Made from high-density polyethylene and a metal frame, the nutcracker has a wide base that makes it extra sturdy, and its collapsible structure makes storage easy.

From Seattle Times ● Nov. 17, 2021

The oldest container, found in 2018, was a high-density polyethylene canister manufactured in 1971.

From BBC ● Oct. 1, 2019