Specific Weight of Polyethylene: Density and Weight of 1 m³
Polyethylene is one of the most widely used plastics in the world. It is used to manufacture films, packaging, pipes, containers, cable insulation and many other products.
Note: Polyethylene is often incorrectly referred to as “cellophane”. They are different materials.
Polyethylene Density Table
Despite the common search query “specific weight of polyethylene”, the table gives the density values of the material and the corresponding mass of one cubic meter.
| Material | Density (g/cm³) | Weight of 1 m³ (kg) |
|---|---|---|
| Polyethylene | 0.910–0.976 | 910–976 |
Specific Weight Calculation
Specific weight is calculated using the formula:
γ = ρ × gwhere γ is the specific weight, ρ is density, and g is gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s²).
Density of Polyethylene
Polyethylene density depends mainly on the material grade, degree of crystallinity and temperature. For most industrial grades, it is within 0.913–0.973 g/cm³.
How to Use These Values
The values in the table are suitable for preliminary calculations of mass, volume, delivery and material comparison. If the calculation is related to purchasing, design, equipment selection or critical construction work, the data should be checked against the material data sheet, measurement conditions and manufacturer documentation.
Keep in mind that density and weight can change due to temperature, composition, fillers, material grade and measurement method. Reference values should be used as a practical estimate, not as the only source for an exact calculation.
Conclusion
One cubic meter of polyethylene typically weighs 910–976 kg, which corresponds to a density of 0.910–0.976 g/cm³.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the density of polyethylene?
For most industrial polyethylene grades, density is roughly 0.910-0.976 g/cm³, or 910-976 kg/m³.
How do LDPE and HDPE differ in density?
Low-density polyethylene is usually lighter, while high-density polyethylene has higher crystallinity and density. The exact value depends on grade.
How do you calculate the weight of a polyethylene part?
Multiply the part volume by the density of the selected polyethylene grade. For precise calculations, use the material data sheet.