Low density polyethylene (LDPE) is a flexible low crystalline thermoplastic made from the monomer ethylene. Its melting point is 115°C. LDPE retains pliability and toughness over a wide temperature range, but its density falls off at above room temperature.
LDPE has a broad range of applications including the production of a great bulk of customer goods as well as packaging, transportation and protection materials; it is also utilized in the agricultural industry and the manufacture of electrical cables.
The global LDPE production experienced stable growth over 2009-2012, driven by the constantly rising demand for the product. In 2012, the global LDPE output overrode 19.8 million tonnes, registering growth by more than 700,000 tonnes y-o-y.
Polyethylene low density capacity broken down by region, 2011
Europe is the dominant LDPE producer; the region accounted for around 35% of the overall LDPE production volume in 2012. The US, China, France, Japan and Germany make up top five LDPE manufacturing countries, having a combined share of about 41% of the overall LDPE output volume.
Low density polyethylene production by country
Europe, Asia and North America are the largest LDPE consumers across the world; their combined LDPE consumption volume accounts for above 86% of the global figure.
ExxonMobil Chemical Co, Dow, LyondellBasell, Sabic, Westlake, Polimeri Europa and Borealis AB are among the leading participants in the global LDPE market.
The global LDPE foreign trade almost reached USD 26.9 billion in 2011. Europe is the leading world LDPE exporter and importer. Nevertheless, imports prevail over exports in the region.
The worldwide LDPE production is poised for steady growth in the years to come and is expected to go beyond 22 million tonnes in 2015. The market growth is likely to be driven to a large extent by forthcoming numerous LDPE capacity introductions.
More information on the LDPE market can be found in the report Polyethylene Linear Low Density (LLDPE): 2013 World Market Outlook and Forecast up to 2017.