Polyethylene, like other plastics, starts with the distillation of hydrocarbon fuels (ethane in this case) into lighter groups called “fractions,” some of which are combined with other catalysts to produce plastics (typically via polymerization or polycondensation). You can read about the process in greater depth here.
PE for Prototype Development on CNC Machines and 3D Printers
PE is available in sheet stock, rods, and even specialty shapes in a multitude of variants (LDPE, HDPE, etc.), making it a good candidate for subtractive machining processes on a mill or lathe. Colors are usually limited to white and black.
PE is not currently available for FDM or any other 3D printing process . PE is similar to PP in that it can be challenging to prototype with. You are pretty much stuck with CNC machining or Vacuum forming if you need to use it in your prototype development process.
Is PE Toxic?
In solid form, no. Polyethylene is often used in food handling. It could be toxic if inhaled and/or absorbed into the skin or eyes as a vapor or liquid (i.e., during manufacturing processes). Be careful and follow handling instructions for molten polymer in particular.
What are the Disadvantages of Polyethylene?
Polyethylene is generally more expensive than polypropylene (which can be used in similar part applications). PE is the second only to PP as the best choice for living hinges,.