Plastic Liner

XLPE mechanical properties: (a) constitutive stress-strain curve at 20° C, (b) variations in the elastic modulus and yield stress with temperature.

What is XLPE?

Cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) and polyethylene (PE) are both types of thermoplastic polymers, but they differ significantly in their properties and applications. The key distinction lies in their molecular structure and how they respond to heat and pressure. XLPE, as the name suggests, is cross-linked, which means its polymer chains are chemically bonded together in a three-dimensional network. This cross-linking process enhances its thermal and mechanical properties, making it highly resistant to heat, pressure, and environmental stress. As a result, XLPE is commonly used for electrical insulation in cables and wires, where it can withstand higher temperatures and offer superior electrical performance. In contrast, regular polyethylene lacks this cross-linking and is typically used in applications where extreme temperature and pressure resistance are not critical, such as plastic bags, bottles, and general-purpose containers. Therefore, while both XLPE and polyethylene share a similar chemical composition, their distinct structures and properties make them suitable for different industrial and commercial uses.