CAS 9002-88-4 identifies polyethylene (PE), a thermoplastic polymer made from ethylene repeat units. Buyers should select a PE grade according to the intended application, processing method, and required properties—not by CAS number alone. High-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), and other PE types differ in structure and performance, so a grade suitable for a film may not suit a pipe or molded component. In this guide, we explain the main options, typical property ranges, selection factors, and the information to provide when requesting a quotation from Xinshangrui.
This guide is for procurement teams, product engineers, converters, and manufacturers evaluating polyethylene for commercial or industrial use. It is also useful when comparing supplier quotations, because the name “polyethylene” does not specify a complete material grade or processing specification. Buyers working with laboratory or chemical-reagent supply channels should clarify whether they need a polymer sample for evaluation or production-scale resin. These requirements may call for different packaging, documentation, and order quantities.
Polyethylene is a family of thermoplastic polymers whose properties depend in part on molecular structure, density, molecular weight, and additives. It is commonly valued for low moisture absorption, electrical insulation, and resistance to many aqueous solutions and chemicals under suitable conditions. Actual performance depends on the specific grade, temperature, exposure time, part design, and processing history. Therefore, a general PE description should be treated as a starting point rather than a substitute for grade-specific technical data.
CAS 9002-88-4 is a useful chemical identifier for polyethylene, but it does not identify every commercial grade or define properties such as melt flow, color, additives, or intended processing method. Two materials carrying the same CAS number may be designed for different applications. When requesting a quotation, specify a grade name or application, and ask for the relevant technical data sheet (TDS) and safety data sheet (SDS). If a particular property is critical, confirm the test method and conditions used to report it.
Grade names provide an initial guide to material behavior, but they do not replace product-specific specifications. Density figures below are broad, indicative ranges commonly used to distinguish PE types; supplier grades may vary. Use them to guide an initial discussion, then verify the exact values and test methods in the documentation for the offered product.
| PE type | Indicative density range | Common application areas | Buyer considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| LDPE | About 0.910–0.940 g/cm³ | Flexible film, bags, coatings, and some molded products | Consider flexibility, clarity needs, and film-processing requirements. |
| LLDPE | About 0.915–0.940 g/cm³ | Stretch and packaging films, liners, and selected molded products | Check the balance of toughness, stiffness, and processing behavior. |
| HDPE | About 0.941–0.965 g/cm³ | Containers, pipes, caps, crates, and household or industrial components | Specify the molding or extrusion process and the required mechanical properties. |
| UHMWPE | Typically around 0.93–0.94 g/cm³ | Wear components, liners, and selected engineering applications | Its processing and supply format can differ substantially from commodity PE resin. |
Polyethylene grades are supplied for processes such as film extrusion, pipe extrusion, blow molding, and injection molding. Melt flow rate (MFR), sometimes reported as melt flow index, can help indicate flow behavior, but it is meaningful only when the test temperature and load are stated. Do not compare MFR values from different test conditions as if they were directly equivalent. Thermal properties also vary by grade; as a general reference, LDPE may have a melting range around 105–115 °C, while HDPE commonly melts around 125–135 °C.
For film, buyers often compare LDPE and LLDPE according to flexibility, toughness, sealing needs, and the capabilities of the production line. The best choice depends on film thickness, layer structure, converting method, and the performance requirements of the finished package. Ask the supplier for a grade intended for the relevant film process and confirm the available technical data. Where the film will contact food, cosmetics, or another regulated product, define the applicable compliance requirements separately rather than assuming they apply to every PE grade.
HDPE is commonly considered for rigid containers and molded or extruded components where stiffness and durability are important. For pipes or pressure-related applications, buyers need more than a generic HDPE designation: design standards, service conditions, and the required grade qualification must be established. A container grade and a pipe grade should not be treated as interchangeable without technical confirmation. Share the part design, production method, and operating conditions with the supplier before final selection.
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UHMWPE may be considered for applications that require wear resistance or low-friction performance, but it is not simply a drop-in substitute for standard extrusion or injection-molding grades. The required form—such as powder, sheet, or machined stock—can affect sourcing and downstream processing. Buyers should describe the component’s contact surfaces, loads, temperature range, and manufacturing method. Ask for grade-specific property information and, where necessary, evaluate a sample in the intended application.
Separate “must-have” requirements from preferences before comparing offers. For instance, a buyer may require a particular processing method and color, while allowing a range of density or MFR values. This distinction can help suppliers recommend suitable alternatives without weakening essential requirements. If the application has regulatory, mechanical, or long-term service demands, have the proposed grade reviewed by the responsible technical or compliance team.
Polyethylene pricing is not determined by CAS number alone. Quotations can depend on the specific grade, order volume, packaging, destination, market conditions, and any documentation or customization requirements. Minimum order quantities and lead times also vary by product availability and shipping arrangements. Because these details are order-specific, request a current quotation rather than relying on a general estimate.
To make sourcing discussions more efficient, include the target grade or application, required quantity, packaging preference, delivery destination, and requested delivery window. If you do not have a confirmed grade, share the intended process and required properties so the supplier can assess options. Ask whether the quoted product is available from current stock or requires a new production or procurement schedule. Confirm quotation validity and shipping terms before placing an order.
Evaluate the response for technical clarity as well as price. A quotation that identifies a grade, documents, packaging, and supply conditions is easier to compare than one that only names “polyethylene.” Avoid assuming that a low price indicates equivalence when the grade or test basis is different. If a supplier proposes an alternative, ask for a clear explanation of the differences and assess them against your application requirements.
As a chemical materials supplier, Xinshangrui can help buyers clarify polyethylene sourcing requirements and discuss suitable product options for their intended use. For an initial inquiry, provide your application, processing method, target properties, estimated volume, destination, and documentation needs. If you already have a preferred grade or specification, include it so we can review the request more precisely. Product availability, MOQ, lead time, and final documentation should be confirmed for each quotation.
CAS 9002-88-4 identifies polyethylene, but it is not enough to select a production material. Compare LDPE, LLDPE, HDPE, UHMWPE, or other options according to the processing route and the properties your application actually requires. Treat broad density and melting ranges as orientation only, then verify grade-specific information with the supplier’s technical documentation. The right next step is to prepare your application and specification details and request a grade-specific quotation.
Contact Xinshangrui with your target use, processing method, required quantity, and key technical requirements to begin a focused sourcing discussion. If you are uncertain which grade fits, describe the performance goals and we can discuss the information needed to narrow down the options. Confirm technical suitability and commercial terms before moving from evaluation to a production order.
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