What is a key property of High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)?

• A. Very soft and melts easily.
• B. Strong and can be sterilised.
• C. Lightweight and transparent.
• D. Conducts electricity.

Answer: (B)

HDPE’s strength and its ability to withstand sterilization are central to what makes it useful. The higher density gives the material a rigid, tough structure with good mechanical strength, so it resists bending and impact. At the same time, its chemical resistance and stability mean it can be cleaned and sterilized without breaking down, which is essential for medical or food-contact applications. That combination—being strong and able to be sterilised—fits real-world uses like bottles, containers, and medical packaging. It isn’t typically very soft, not usually transparent, and it doesn’t conduct electricity, so those other properties don’t match how HDPE is commonly used.