Depending on the molecular structure and density, PE powder is commonly classified as:

• Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) Powder

• Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) Powder

• High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Powder

• Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) Powder

🧪 2. Types and Grades of PE Powder

🔬 3. Product Features and Benefits

• ✔️ Excellente résistance chimique: Withstands acids, alkalis, alcohols, and salts.

• ✔️ Low Water Absorption: Makes it ideal for marine and moisture-exposed applications.

• ✔️ Good Impact Resistance: Especially LLDPE and UHMWPE variants.

• ✔️ High Electrical Insulation: Suitable for wire & cable coatings.

• ✔️ Low Friction Coefficient: Especially UHMWPE—used in sliding applications.

• ✔️ Custom Colors Available: Via masterbatch addition or pre-colored grades.

• ✔️ FDA Approved Grades: Available for food and pharmaceutical contact.

⚙️ 4. Manufacturing Processes Utilizing PE Powder

4.1. Rotational Molding (Rotomolding)

• Widely used in large hollow containers, fuel tanks, and bins.

• Nécessite uniform particle size (35–100 mesh) for optimal sintering and wall thickness control.

4.2. Electrostatic Powder Coating / Fluidized Bed Coating

• Used for dishwasher racks, fencing, pipelines.

• Powder must be electrostatically chargeable, often surface-treated.

4.3. Compounding & Masterbatch

• PE powder is a carrier or base in masterbatch formulations for colorants and additives.

• Free-flowing powders preferred for feeding consistency.

4.4. Compression Molding & Sintering

• UHMWPE powder is often used for pièces haute performance, including seals, gears, and guides.

📄 5. Fiche technique (FT)

The values below represent a typical specification. Actual data may vary by grade and manufacturer.

🔒 6. Emballage et stockage

• Standard packaging: 20 kg bags, 500–1000 kg jumbo bags, ou customized container loads.

• Moisture barrier liner is used in moisture-sensitive applications.

• Shelf life: 12 mois in dry conditions.

• Store in a cool, dry, shaded warehouse; avoid direct sunlight and humidity.

🌱 7. Environmental & Safety Information

• PE powder is non-toxic, inert, et recyclable.

• Burning produces CO₂ and water, but care must be taken not to overheat and generate decomposition products.

• During processing, dust control systems and PPE are required to avoid inhalation hazards.

• Complies with RoHS, ATTEINDRE, et WEEE directives (depending on grade).

📊 8. Typical Applications by Grade

🧰 9. Customization Options

Manufacturers and compounders offer PE powder in:

• Various particle sizes (20 mesh – 200 mesh)

• Color-matched or pre-colored powders

• Antistatic, UV-stabilized, ou flame-retardant versions

• PE/PP blends ou recycled content grades

• FDA/NSF approved food-safe grades

🤔 10. Foire aux questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use PE powder in 3D printing?

👉 Some manufacturers offer powder bed fusion-compatible PE grades, but typically other polymers (e.g., PA12) are preferred for precision.

Q2: How do I ensure good dispersion of PE powder in a resin system?

👉 Use high-shear mixers, and optionally surface-treated powders to improve compatibility.

Q3: Is PE powder biodegradable?

👉 No. Standard polyethylene is not biodegradable, mais oxo-degradable ou biopolymer-blended grades exist.

Q4: Does PE powder shrink upon cooling?

👉 Yes, especially HDPE. Mold design must account for shrinkage rate (~1.5–4%).

Q5: Can PE powder be used with fiberglass or mineral fillers?

👉 Yes, and it is often blended with talc, glass fiber, or mica to improve stiffness or thermal resistance.