The Best Polyethylene & Polypropylene Glues

From food containers to our vehicles, plastic products can be found almost everywhere. While plastics are a diverse material, some plastics like polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) are especially difficult to bond. As a result, only certain adhesives can get the job done.

Polyethylene Vs. Polypropylene Plastic

Polyethylene and polypropylene are both types of plastics that are used in a variety of our everyday items, but there are some important differences. Each has some unique properties that make it more suitable for particular applications. We compare polypropylene and polyethylene plastic and their applications.

Polypropylene Plastic

Polypropylene (PP) is a thermoplastic polymer and the second most widely produced commodity plastic. PP plastic is known for its durability. It has great resistance to chemicals, moisture, and high temperatures. Polypropylene plastics also tend to be more rigid than polyethylene plastics.

Polypropylene has a wide variety of applications but is commonly used in:

• Packaging

• Labeling

• Carpets

• Clothing

• Medical devices

• Car parts

Polyethylene Plastic

Polyethylene plastic, also known as PE, HDPE or LDPE, is the most widely produced plastic in the world. It is a lightweight thermoplastic that can be made in different grades for different applications. PE plastic is known for its high resistance to low temperatures as well as its flexibility. Polyethylene also tends to be cheaper than polypropylene.

Polyethylene also has several different applications, including:

• Shopping bags

• Toys

• Boxes

• Film paper

• Helmets

Bonding Polypropylene and Polyethylene

Although the two plastics are used in a variety of everyday goods, it can be hard to find a glue for polyethylene and polypropylene that will work properly. Bonding PP and PE plastic tends to be difficult because both have low surface energy, and many adhesives cannot penetrate the surface enough to create a strong bond. Especially for load-bearing applications, you need a structural adhesive that you know will form a strong and lasting bond.

To combat the low surface energy of these materials, you should use the right surface preparation and plastic adhesives designed for the job. For example, certain surfaces can be pre-treated with techniques such as flame and plasma treatments. Additionally, there are specialty polyethylene and polypropylene glues that are created with these difficult substrates in mind.

See Infinity Bond MMA 500 in ActionWhile these are great adhesives for many applications involving polyethylene and polypropylene gluing, they may not be the right choice for your particular application. Fortunately, we have experienced lab technicians who can conduct adhesive product testing on your substrates to help you find the best solution for your needs.

Get More Information

The best adhesive for polypropylene or polyethylene will depend on the unique characteristics of the application. If you want to know more about a specific polypropylene adhesive or polyethylene adhesive, or you just want more general information about how you glue plastic together, we want to help.

Our adhesive experts have several years of experience in the industry and have bonded a variety of different substrates. Not only can they offer suggestions on specific products, but also, they can provide overall guidance. Contact us today to get in touch.