Can Liner Resins: LLDPE vs HDPE

What it is

HDPE (high-density polyethylene) liners feel crisp and papery and rustle when handled. They are very strong for their thickness when pulled, resist tearing until punctured, and cost less per bag. Once punctured, a tear in HDPE runs easily. LLDPE (linear low-density polyethylene) liners feel soft and stretch before they break. They resist punctures and tear propagation, so they suit sharp, heavy or irregular waste. Some liners are blends or use recycled resin.

Lab tests used to compare film include tensile strength and elongation (ASTM D882), dart drop impact (ASTM D1709) and tear resistance (ASTM D1922).

How to identify

Rub and stretch a corner. HDPE crinkles and resists stretching, then tears. LLDPE stretches a long way before it gives. HDPE is usually translucent and sold by thickness in microns. LLDPE is often black, clear or colored and sold by thickness in mils. The case label shows resin type, size, thickness and count. See can liner gauge, mil and micron.

HDPE vs LLDPE

Key points

• Choose by the waste stream. Office paper does not need a heavy LLDPE liner, and kitchen waste will tear a thin HDPE liner.
• Do not compare HDPE and LLDPE by thickness alone. A thinner HDPE liner can match a thicker LLDPE liner on some loads and fail on others.
• Fit matters as much as resin. An oversized liner bunches and tears; an undersized one slips into the can. See the can liner sizing chart.
• "Equivalent" or "rated" strength claims vary by maker. Test a case on the real waste before switching a whole site.
• Recycled-content liners may vary more in strength. Check maker data.

Common mistakes

• Picking liners by price per case without checking count and thickness.
• Using HDPE for wet or sharp waste.
• Comparing microns to mils directly.
• Overfilling liners past their design load.

Governing standards: ASTM D882 (tensile properties of thin plastic sheeting); ASTM D1709 (dart impact); ASTM D1922 (Elmendorf tear).

Reference only. Verify against the current governing code or standard, the manufacturer's data and the project documents before use. Apps for Distributors disclaims liability arising from reliance on this reference.