What is MDPE Plastic?

MDPE combines the characteristics of low and high density polyethylene. Bottles are less translucent than LDPE but more flexible than HDPE. MDPE is manufactured by mixing HDPE with LDPE and is available in a variety of combinations, allowing choice of flexibility.

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What does MDPE stand for?

Medium density polyethylene, commonly shortened to MDPE, is a type of polyethylene defined by a density range of 0.926 - 0.940 g/cm3. It is less dense than HDPE, which is the more common type of plastic and is sometimes known as ‘black alkathene’.

Comparison of density ranges:High density polyethylene (HDPE): 0.93 to 0.97 g/cm3Medium density polyethylene (MDPE): 0.926 - 0.940 g/cm3Low density polyethylene (LDPE): 0.910–0.940 g/cm3

These measurements are the room temperature density values of polymers. As the density increases the plastic can become deformed in shape with a risk of being less durable when transported.

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What is MDPE plastic used for?

MDPE is a highly versatile material that combines the super pliable characteristics of LDPE (low density polyethylene) and the stiff, tough aspects of HDPE (high density polyethylene).

In some parts of the world the colour of the MDPE will determine its use. Yellow MDPE is used for gas distribution whilst blue MDPE is used in plastic pipes to carry wastewater and water supply. This is due to the plastics moisture and chemical resistance as it will not corrode or react to the variety of naturally occurring chemicals in the ground.

This property also makes it the perfect choice for liquid storage tanks such as water butts and oil tanks for the agricultural and haulage industries.

Black MDPE pipes are used for water systems above ground as it is also extremely robust, offering high-impact resistance, and can therefore withstand the high-pressure required to deliver mains water.

For more domestic usage MDPE bottles are the favourite choice for any kind of ‘squeezy’ bottle. They can be supplied with both pointed nozzles and caps, so you get all the benefits of flexibility. MDPE has good shock and drop resistance properties too and its stress cracking resistance is better than that of HDPE.

Recycling

Like HDPE, MDPE is accepted at many recycling centres. Recycled MDPE can live on as detergent bottles, recycling containers, picnic tables, doghouses and other outdoor objects such as playhouses and storage bins.

MDPE, whilst being a mix of HDPE & LDPE, falls under the number "2" resin identification code inside the universal recycling symbol.

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MDPE Packaging

At The Plastic Bottles Company we don’t currently stock any MDPE products, however our friendly team can source suitable options specific to your requirements and budget.

What is the Plastic Tax?

The Government has released a white paper detailing their efforts to combat virgin plastic use. This has resulted in the introduction of a plastic tax that will come into effect in April 2022. Suppliers and purchasers will be exempt from this tax if the recycled content for each product is 30% or more. Read more about the Plastic Tax on our blog.

We have been working with our customers and suppliers to offer a wide range of recyclable and biodegradable plastics exempt from the Plastic Packaging Tax. Contact us to learn more and how you can make the switch.

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