HDPE is short for high-density polyethylene. Because its molecular chains have little branching, they pack closely together; this gives the material high density, stiffness and higher tensile strength at the same thickness.
HDPE film usually looks translucent and matt, and makes a distinct rustling sound when crumpled. Because even a thin film can do the job of carrying, it is the best-known raw material for t-shirt bags. It is also used in bags on a roll, some garbage bags and sack liners. In applications that require flexibility and impact strength, LDPE or LLDPE is usually preferred, or blended with it.