Linear low density polyethylene’s (LLDPE) short chain branching gives it higher tensile strength, puncture and anti-tear properties, making it particularly suitable for film applications. Globally, over 80% of LLDPE goes into the film sector such as food and non-food packaging, shrink/stretch film and non-packaging uses. 
Global demand for LLDPE has been strong and growing ahead of GDP in most industrial regions of the world. Much of the growth in LLDPE has been in the replacement of low density polyethylene (LDPE), or used in blends with LDPE, but its penetration into LDPE markets is slowing in mature markets.
Most of the new volumes of LLDPE from projects being implemented in the Middle East are aimed at the Asian markets such as China but exports to Europe are also expected to grow.
LLDPE is produced by the addition of alpha-olefins - butene, hexene or octene - during the polymerisation of ethylene to give a resin with a similar density to LDPE but the linearity of high density polyethylene (HDPE). Solution, slurry or gas phase processes are used to make LLDPE.
Linear low density polyethylene is a thermosetting, transulant white solid whose chains are comparatively straight and closely aligned. LLDPE should not be exposed to flames as it gives off dense smoke on burning.
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Polyethylene linear low density
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Polyethylene linear low density
Uses and Outlook
Global demand for linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) has been strong and growing ahead of GDP in most industrial regions of the world. Estimates put world growth rates at around 6-7%/year with North America and Europe somewhat lower, while Asia is higher. By 2004, world production of LLDPE had surpassed 16m tonnes, according to SRI Consulting.
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Polyethylene linear low density
Process Technologies
Linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) is produced by the addition of alpha-olefins - butene, hexene or octene - during the polymerisation of ethylene to give a resin with a similar density to LDPE but the linearity of HDPE. Solution, slurry or gas phase processes are used to make LLDPE but the licensing of low-cost gas phase technology by Union Carbide (now Univation) and later BP Chemicals (Ineos) has contributed to the popularity of this resin. Many processes can swing between LLDPE and HDPE production although many plants tend to be dedicated to one of the two resins.
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