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Polyethylene is a thermoplastic polymer made from the monomer ethylene. It is one of the most common plastics in the world, widely used in packaging, films, bottles, and containers. Polyethylene is produced through polymerization, a process where many small ethylene molecules (monomers) link together to form long chains (polymers). The properties of polyethylene can vary significantly depending on the polymerization process and the resulting molecular structure.

There are several main types of polyethylene, including High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), and Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE). HDPE is known for its strength and rigidity, making it suitable for milk jugs, detergent bottles, and pipes. LDPE is more flexible and transparent, commonly used for plastic bags, films, and squeeze bottles. LLDPE offers a combination of flexibility and puncture resistance, finding applications in stretch wrap and heavy-duty films.

Polyethylene is valued for its chemical resistance, low cost, and good electrical insulation properties. It is also relatively lightweight and can be easily processed through methods like injection molding, extrusion, and blow molding. While polyethylene is generally considered safe for many applications, concerns exist regarding its environmental impact due to its slow degradation rate and the potential for microplastic formation. Recycling efforts are ongoing to mitigate these issues.