HDPE and MDPE resin technologies
Polyethylene (PE) is a semi-crystalline polymer that can be classified in three categories: low-density PE (LDPE), linear low-density PE (LLDPE), and high-density/medium-density PE (HDPE/MDPE). HDPE/MDPE are typically defined as densities of 0.940-0.965 g/cc; these polymers have less branching than LLDPE. HDPE is manufactured in low-pressure reactors using either chromium, Ziegler-Natta, or metallocene catalysts. Conventionally, HDPE has a unimodal molecular weight distribution. Bimodal HDPE has a molecular weight distribution with two distinct components (a higher molecular weight component and a lower molecular weight component), which creates a different balance of physical properties. Multi-modal distributions can be produced in multiple reactors or in one reactor using catalyst technology to create the molecular weight distribution.
Market drivers in the HDPE and MDPE resin market
HDPE is suitable for multiple processing methods, and is converted using blow molding, injection molding, and rotomolding, as well as extrusion into sheet, film, pipe, fibers, and conduit, such as wire and cable. Beneficial properties of HDPE include toughness and chemical resistance. Blow molding is used to produce bottles of all kinds, such as milk jugs and detergent containers. HDPE bottles are widely recycled. HDPE is commonly used to make plastic grocery and retail bags, which are often recycled using in-store collection systems, but an increasing number of “bag bans”, taxes, and other restrictions are threatening these applications. Exhibit below shows key end-use demand applications of high-density polyethylene.
Exhibit 1. Key end-use applications of high-density polyethylene
HDPE and MDPE resin market assessment
ADI has conducted a strategic analysis that covers all major developments in the industry including changing market dynamics, technology trends, evolving industry structure and strategic alliances, and the current and expected competitive landscape, with a renewed emphasis on the emerging regions. Market forecasts are presented by region and application for the next five years with a vision of the next 10 years. The report is based on thorough analysis of the industry through a wide range of methods, including published information, patent searches, ADI CMR proprietary projects, and interviews with leading suppliers, converters, and major end-users in each market segment. Manufacturing cost economics and pricing structures are based on ADI CMR’s extensive cost databases and interviews. The geographic focus of the market assessment will be regions segmented into North America, South America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, China, Japan, India, and South Korea. The report will particularly benefit producers, compounders, end-users, entrepreneurs, and organizations attempting to understand these complex issues and capture future growth in the marketplace.
Prospectus
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