Polyethylene is of low strength, hardness and rigidity, but has a high ductility and impact strength as well as low friction. It shows strong creep under persistent force, which can be reduced by addition of short fibers. It feels waxy when touched.
The usefulness of polyethylene is limited by its melting point of 80 °C (HDPE, types of low crystalline softens earlier).
Polyethylene is produced by different chemical firms and sold variously by such names as Tekalen ®, Hostalen ®, Vestolen ®, Sustelen ®, Multilene ®, Lupolen ®, Baylon ®, Carlona ®, Dehoplast ®, Dowlex ®, Egelen ®, Eltex ®, Eraclene ®, Escorene ®, Finathene ®, Halgulen ®, Stamylan ®, Supralen ®, Lacqtene ®, Marlex ®, GUR ®, Ladulen ®, Ertalene ®.