Polyethylene or Polythene

Polythene is formed by the addition polymerization of multiple monomers of ethylene or ethene. When liquid ethylene is polymerized at high temperature and pressure, a resin of polyethylene is obtained. It can be melted spun or moulded as desired. Note that in addition polymerization there is no elimination of simple molecules like water or methanol.

Properties

Polyethylene has a low softening point of 383K and a low specific gravity of 0.22. The material is

• tough

• flexible

• highly insulating

• water resisting

Uses of Polyethylene

One of the most important uses of polyethylene is in packaging. It is used as a packaging material because of its strength. Low-density polyethylene is used in electric insulation.