Polyethene, or PE, is a type of plastic made from ethylene and extracted from oil or natural gas. PE is one of the most common types of plastic because it is inexpensive to manufacture. Its simple molecular structure, consisting of long chains of carbon and hydrogen atoms, makes it a versatile and flexible thermoplastic that can be adapted to many different products. The material is elastic, does not absorb water, withstands contact with food and various substances, and is easy to dye. However, it burns easily and intensely.
There are different types of polyethene, the most common of which are:
LDPE (low density)
A flexible, soft, and strong plastic used in squeeze bottles, pipes, and various types of packaging.
HDPE (high density)
A more rigid plastic used in bottles, toys, plastic bags, fibre cloths, nets (for fishing, gardening, and vegetables), and sun-protective fabrics, among other things.
Polyethene can also be used as a coating in clothing, furniture upholstery, and outdoor equipment to make them water-repellent and more durable.
Challenges & Environmental Impact
Polyethene is made from non-renewable fossil fuels, and its production is energy-intensive, emitting greenhouse gases.
PE-based textiles can release microplastics during washing, thereby contributing to water pollution that can harm animals and nature. Polythene is a strong, durable, and non-degradable material that can persist in nature for hundreds of years, accumulating in the ecosystem over time.
Animals risk getting caught in plastic nets or accidentally eating plastic, which can lead to serious health problems and be life-threatening.
Sources
Science Direct -Polyethylene Fabric 
Science Direct – Thermoplastics Material
Sustainability MIT – Could we recycle plastic bags into fabrics of the future?
Februari 2025, TÄNKOM | Revised October 2025, RETHINK
