Polüetüleeen

Polüetüleeen is the common name in several European languages for the synthetic polymer polyethylene. It is the simplest of the aliphatic polymers, consisting of long chains of carbon atoms bonded to hydrogen. The polymer is produced by the catalytic polymerisation of ethylene, an unsaturated hydrocarbon derived from petroleum or natural gas. Two main industrial processes produce polüetüleeen: the low‑pressure (vulcanisation) method, which gives a relatively flexible, low‑density product, and the high‑pressure method that yields a denser, more rigid material. A third, the metallocene‑catalysed route, allows precise control over molecular weight and tacticity, enabling tailor‑made properties.

The resulting polymer is chemically inert, resistant to acids and many bases, and has a very low moisture absorption. Its physical characteristics vary from translucent, flexible sheets to opaque, brittle granules. Because of these versatile properties, polüetüleeen is used in a wide range of applications. Packaging materials such as food and beverage containers, plastic bags and film, packaging trays, and stretch wrap are classic uses. Structural applications include piping, electrical cable insulation, and household products such as cutlery and toys. In recent decades, expanded polüetüleeen (EPE) has become a popular lightweight, shock‑absorbing filler for packaging and construction.

Environmental concerns are largely driven by its persistence in ecosystems. Polüetüleeen degrades slowly, breaking down into microplastic particles that accumulate in soils and waterways. Recycling of high‑density polyethylene is common, but overall recycling rates remain modest. In addition, the extraction of feedstocks and the energy demand for polymerisation contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Research into biodegradable alternatives and more efficient recycling processes is ongoing. Overall, polüetüleeen remains a foundational commodity in the global plastics industry, valued for its cost‑effectiveness, durability, and ease of processing.