As an expert in the field, I’ve spent a considerable amount of time studying and understanding the nuances of different materials used in outdoor furniture. Today, I’d like to share my insights on two popular materials: High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and Polywood.
Comparison of HDPE and Polywood:
| HDPE | Polywood | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Type | HDPE is a petroleum thermoplastic. | Polywood is a brand that uses HDPE to manufacture outdoor furniture. |
| Composition | HDPE is derived from natural gases such as ethane, propane, methane, or a mix, or it can be obtained by catalytic cracking of crude oil into gasoline. | Polywood uses HDPE, which is derived from recycled plastic containers like milk jugs and laundry detergent bottles. |
| Structure | HDPE has a linear structure with a low degree of branching, contributing to its strength. | Polywood lumber includes UV-inhibited pigment systems to maintain the color throughout the material. |
| Properties | HDPE has a density of 0.93 to 0.97 g/cm3, a melting point of 120 to 140°C, and a continuous temperature of -50°C to +60°C. It is known for its tensile strength, high-impact resistance, and melting point. | Polywood shares the properties of HDPE. In addition, it is designed to withstand all types of weather conditions. |
| Applications | HDPE is used in various applications due to its high strength-to-density ratio. It is commonly used in the production of plastic bottles, corrosion-resistant piping, geomembranes, and plastic lumber. | Polywood is primarily used to create outdoor furniture. The brand produces all types of outdoor poly lumber furniture. |
| Environmental Impact | While HDPE is derived from petroleum, it is recyclable under resin identification code 2. | Polywood takes environmental sustainability a step further by recycling plastics. The brand recycles an average of 400,000 ocean-bound and landfill-bound plastic containers per day. |
| Durability | HDPE is known for its durability and weather resistance. It can withstand rain, sun, cold, heat, and the wear and tear of your backyard for many years. | Polywood, being made from HDPE, shares these benefits. The brand’s furniture is designed to last for many years with minimal maintenance. |
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
HDPE, or High-Density Polyethylene, is a petroleum thermoplastic renowned for its tensile strength, high-impact resistance, and melting point. It’s a robust plastic with a linear structure and a low degree of branching, which contributes to its strength. HDPE is derived from natural gases such as ethane, propane, methane, or a mix, or it can be obtained by catalytic cracking of crude oil into gasoline.
The primary properties of HDPE include a density of 0.93 to 0.97 g/cm3, a melting point of 120 to 140°C, and a continuous temperature of -50°C to +60°C. Due to its high strength-to-density ratio, HDPE is one of the most versatile and widely used plastics.
Polywood
Polywood is a brand that manufactures outdoor furniture from lumber made from HDPE. The brand recycles an average of 400,000 ocean-bound and landfill-bound plastic containers per day, transforming them into genuine Polywood lumber.
Polywood lumber includes UV-inhibited pigment systems to help maintain the lumber colors throughout the material, not just on the surface. The brand produces all types of outdoor poly lumber furniture through an on-site design department.
HDPE vs Polywood: A Detailed Comparison
The main difference between Polywood and HDPE lies in their application. HDPE is a material, while Polywood is a brand that uses this material to create furniture. People often mistake the two because ‘poly wood’ is similar to Poly lumber, a product of HDPE.
Why Choose HDPE or Polywood?
HDPE is one of the best materials for outdoor furniture. It’s durable, weather-resistant, and can withstand rain, sun, cold, heat, and the wear and tear of your backyard while still looking good for many years.
Polywood, being made from HDPE, shares these benefits. The brand takes it a step further by recycling plastics, making their products environmentally friendly.
In conclusion, both HDPE and Polywood offer excellent options for outdoor furniture. Your choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you value durability, weather resistance, or environmental sustainability, both materials have something to offer. I hope this information has been helpful and informative in your decision-making process. Happy furniture hunting!
