Polyeteenikalvot

Polyeteenikalvot, in Estonian literature, refers to polyethylene membranes or diaphragms made from polyethylene. The term encompasses both nonporous barrier films used for containment and moisture barriers, as well as porous membranes used for separation processes. They are among the most common polymeric membranes in industrial and consumer applications.

Polyethylene membranes are typically produced by extrusion, casting, or blown-film processes. Porous variants are created through methods such as stretching, phase inversion, or track-etching to impart pore structure, while nonporous films are optimized for low gas and moisture permeability. The material family includes different densities, notably low-density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), each providing different balance of strength, clarity, and barrier properties.

Key properties of polyeteenikalvot include chemical resistance to many acids and bases, good electrical insulation, and relatively low moisture absorption. They offer excellent moisture barriers and can be tailored for mechanical strength through thickness or orientation. However, their heat resistance is limited, making high-temperature sterilization or prolonged exposure to hot moisture unsuitable in some applications.

Applications for polyethylene membranes span packaging, medical devices, water and air filtration, and battery separators. Porous versions are used in microfiltration and ultrafiltration, while nonporous films serve as protective barriers and diaphragms in valves and pumps. Environmental considerations emphasize recyclability of polyethylene and the importance of proper waste handling and recovery.

See also materials science, polymer membranes, and filtration technologies.