Polyethylene has excellent low-temperature resistance (minimum operating temperature can reach -70 to -100°C), good chemical stability, and resistance to most acids and bases (not oxidizing acids). It is insoluble in common solvents at room temperature, has low water absorption, and has excellent electrical insulation properties. However, polyethylene is very sensitive to environmental stress (chemical and mechanical) and has poor thermal aging resistance. The properties of polyethylene vary by variety, primarily depending on its molecular structure and density. Different production methods can produce products with varying densities (0.91 to 0.96 g/cm³). Polyethylene can be processed using standard thermoplastic molding methods (see Plastics Processing).
