Polyethene: meaning, definitions and examples
🛍️
polyethene
[ˌpɒliˈɛθiːn ]
Definition
material used
Polyethene, also known as polyethylene, is a type of polymer that is widely used in the manufacturing of plastic products. It is structured from long chains of ethylene monomers and is known for its durability and flexibility. Polyethene is used to produce various items including plastic bags, containers, and packaging materials. It is valued for its resistance to moisture and chemicals, making it a popular choice in many industries. This material is produced in various densities, leading to different properties suitable for specific applications.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The grocery store switched to polyethene bags.
- Polyethene is often used in packaging.
- They chose polyethene for its waterproof properties.
- Many toys are made from polyethene.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word stems from 'poly', meaning 'many', and 'ethene', which is a simple compound made of carbon and hydrogen.
- The discovery of ethene dates back to the 19th century, which paved the way for the development of various plastics.
Science
- Polyethene is a polymer, which means it's made up of long chains of repeating units, giving it unique properties.
- Different types of polyethene (like LDPE and HDPE) have varied uses due to their strength and flexibility.
Environmental Impact
- Polyethene is one of the most commonly used plastics, but it takes hundreds of years to break down, contributing to pollution.
- Recycling rates for polyethene have been increasing, with many communities promoting its reuse to reduce waste.
Applications
- Its versatility allows it to be used in everything from grocery bags to protective packaging film.
- Polyethene’s water-resistant properties make it ideal for products like food containers.
Pop Culture
- Movies often portray eco-friendly movements highlighting the pollution caused by plastic, including polyethene products.
- Many art installations now use recycled polyethene to raise awareness about plastic waste and its effects on the environment.
Translations
Translations of the word "polyethene" in other languages:
🇵🇹 polietileno
🇮🇳 पॉलीएथिलीन
🇩🇪 Polyethylen
🇮🇩 polietilena
🇺🇦 полиетилен
🇵🇱 polietylen
🇯🇵 ポリエチレン
🇫🇷 polyéthylène
🇪🇸 polietileno
🇹🇷 polietilen
🇰🇷 폴리에틸렌
🇸🇦 بولي إيثيلين
🇨🇿 polyethylen
🇸🇰 polyetylén
🇨🇳 聚乙烯
🇸🇮 polietilen
🇮🇸 pólíetýlen
🇰🇿 полиэтилен
🇬🇪 პოლიეთილენი
🇦🇿 polietilen
🇲🇽 polietileno