Polyethylene Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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polyethylene
[ˌpɒliˈɛθəliːn ]
Definition
material science
Polyethylene is a widely used thermoplastic polymer, known for its durability and flexibility. It is derived from the polymerization of ethylene, a gaseous hydrocarbon. This material is commonly utilized in the production of plastic bags, bottles, toys, and various packaging materials. Its properties can be modified through different polymerization processes to achieve desired characteristics such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The versatility and cost-effectiveness of polyethylene make it one of the most commonly produced plastics worldwide.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Plastic bags are primarily made from polyethylene.
- Polyethylene crates are used for fruit and vegetable storage.
- Many containers are manufactured from polyethylene due to its strength.
- The recycling of polyethylene is an important environmental concern.
- Polyethylene films are often used in construction and agriculture.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Applications
- It's widely used for making grocery bags, plastic bottles, and toys due to its lightweight and durability.
- The plastic is also essential in high-strength, low-weight materials like piping and outdoor furniture.
Environmental Impact
- While polyethylene is recyclable, many items made from it end up in landfills and oceans, contributing to pollution.
- Biodegradation of polyethylene can take hundreds of years, prompting research into more sustainable alternatives.
Science
- The process of making polyethylene involves polymerization, where small molecules called monomers link together to form a larger molecule.
- There are different types of polyethylene, like low-density (LDPE) and high-density (HDPE), which have various properties and uses.
Pop Culture
- The emergence of polyethylene played a significant role in the rise of consumer culture in the 20th century due to its versatility.
- Polyethylene containers feature prominently in modern packaging, influencing the way products are marketed and sold.
Origin of 'polyethylene'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from 'poly', which means 'many', and 'ethylene', which is a type of gas used to create the plastic.
- Polyethylene was first discovered in 1898 by chemist Hans von Pechmann, but it wasn't widely used until the mid-20th century.
The term 'polyethylene' is derived from the Greek words 'poly' meaning 'many' and 'ethylene', which refers to the ethylene molecule from which the polymer is formed. The discovery of polyethylene dates back to the late 19th century when chemists first synthesized it through the polymerization of ethylene gas. However, it wasn't until the 1930s that polyethylene was produced on a commercial scale. Following this, it gained immense popularity during World War II for its use in military applications. The development of high-density polyethylene in the 1950s further expanded its uses, making it a staple in various industries such as packaging, automotive, and consumer goods. Today, polyethylene is one of the most commonly used plastics worldwide, with vast applications across numerous sectors.