---
title: Polypropylene- Is it different from HDPE?
description: A quick look at a few differences between HDPE and polypropylene. These two plastics are similar in many ways yet quite different at the same time.
---

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# [Polypropylene- Is it different from HDPE?](https://www.globalplasticsheeting.com/our-blog-resource-library/polypropylene-is-it-different-from-hdpe)

 Written by [The Plastic Sheeting Gurus!](https://www.globalplasticsheeting.com/our-blog-resource-library/author/the-plastic-sheeting-gurus) | Tue, May 17, 2016 @ 09:45

polypropylene- Is it different from HDPE? Yes it is.  To begin with, polypropylene is also called, "polypropene".  it is a thermoplast polymer which is made from a monomer called propylene.  Like HDPE it has a wide variety of applications such as packaging, labeling, textiles, ropes, stationery, automotive components and more.  Like HDPE it is rugged and usually resists man chemical solvents and acids.  

**Density Differences:**

Several things differentiate polypropylene from HDPE.  Density is the first factor.  The density of polypropylene is between 0.895 and 0.92 g/cm².  High Density Polyethylene  is known for it's big strength-to-density ratio.  The density of HDPE can range from 0.93 to 0.97 g/cm³.  HDPE can be more rigid as a result.  polypropylene, because of its lower density is used for molding parts with lower weight and more parts of a certain mass of plastic can be produced.

**Temperature Differences:**

HDPE has a working temperature of 212 degrees F to 200 degrees F. Polypropylene has a melting point between 266 degrees F to 340 degrees F.

**U.V. and Chemical Resistance**

Polypropylene has good chemical resistance like HDPE but it has poor UV resistance -unless it is stabilized with additives.  HDPE is resistant to many different solvents and has a wide variety of applications. It protects the environment by forming a chemical-resistant barrier to prevent the pollution of soil and groundwater by the liquid constituents of solid waste.

A lot has been written about both HDPE and Polypropylene. Please visit the web to learn more about these very versatile plastics.

 

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