Polyethylene

Sustainable, strong & versatile

Polyethylene (PE) is the most widely used plastic worldwide. It is a flexible, recyclable plastic made from petroleum, just like all other plastics.

Polyethylene types

The main polyethylene grades we process are: LDPE, MDPE and COEX.

  • Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE) is a glossy and flexible material and is naturally transparent. This plastic is often dyed white, which has a dynamic effect on the print colours. LDPE can also be dyed in other colours on request. This is subject to higher minimum quantities and a price supplement.

  • Medium Density Polyethylene (MDPE) has a matt appearance andis stiffer than LDPE. MDPE is semi-transparent by nature, similar to the appearance of lime paper. Like LDPE, MDPE can also be dyed white or in another colour.

  • COEX or coex film consists of several layers of polyethylene with each layer having specific properties. Coextrusion makes it possible to combine the advantages and properties of different materials in the same film. This allows for one side to be made glossy, while the other has a matt appearance. It is also possible to give each layer a different colour as applied to e.g. shipping bags. These often have a white exterior to which the print is applied and a dyed interior that makes the film opaque.

Why choose a packaging or carrier bag made from polyethylene?

Polyethylene has the following advantages:

  • The production process of packaging made of polyethylene is more energy-efficient than that of paper packaging. Moreover, plastic is more compact and lighter than paper, which also means that transporting plastic packaging has a smaller impact on the environment.

  • PE packaging or carrier bags have a long service life and can therefore be reused several times.

  • Polyethylene is recyclable. Because the raw material is thermoplastic, it can be melted and reused almost indefinitely.

  • Polyethylene is a relatively cheap raw material compared to paper or starch-based bioplastics.

  • A polyethylene carrier bag is incredibly strong and tolerates both tropical heat and extreme freezing temperatures.

  • Polyethylene packaging is water-resistant, promotes hygiene of the packaged product and ensures longer shelf life of food products, reducing food waste.

What products can be made from polyethylene?

Most of our products can be made from polyethylene:

Carrier bags:

Fruit and vegetable packaging:

Shipping packaging:

Industrial packaging:

Examples of products made from polyethylene

    Would you like a carrier bag or
    packaging made of polyethylene?

    We’re happy to help!

    Our specialists are at your service for additional information on our various material types and will be happy to offer advice tailored to your product.

    Contact us
    Custom packaging design
    Contacteer alpagro duurzame verpakkingen

    How can we help you?

    +32 (0) 11 60 91 30
    info@alpagro.be

    ALPAGRO PACKAGING NV
    Europark 1060
    B-3530 Houthalen

    VAT BE 0432.252.685