HDPE vs UHMWPE "Starboard"

[Myka]

I called one of the plastics places here for prices on HDPE plastic sheets for my new tank. When I told him what it was for and expressed concerns that the product needs to be non-leeching he mentioned that they also have UHMWPE or Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene. Anyone using this or think it would be a good or bad idea??

This is the company's page for the UHMWPE: http://www.redwoodplastics.com/products/uhmw-polyethylene/

FWIW, I asked about black HDPE and he said he has it, but it is a recycled product so he is unsure if there would be any impurities. Something to note for others considering the black HDPE. Not sure if all black HDPE are recycled.

 

[Myka]

Anyone?

 

[Subw00er]

HDPE will be fine. Thats what the food safe barrels everyone uses are made out of. The UHMW will also be fine but probably overkill.

UHMW is like the guide on a table saw.. very rigid and slippery surface. Its usually used in places where you need to avoid abrasion.

I guess I'd avoid the black HDPE. Usually the new food grade ones are blue I think.. thats what mine is.

 

[Subw00er]

HDPE will be fine. Thats what the food safe barrels everyone uses are made out of. The UHMW will also be fine but probably overkill.

UHMW is like the guide on a table saw.. very rigid and slippery surface. Its usually used in places where you need to avoid abrasion.

I guess I'd avoid the black HDPE. Usually the new food grade ones are blue I think.. thats what mine is.

 

[Myka]

Slippery surface is no good. I'll go by the supplier in the spring and check out the options. I'm definitely not going for the black HDPE. I wasn't planning to anyway, I don't like the look of a black bottom.

I think I will probably go for 1" or 3/4" HDPE and drill holes partially through it for acrylic rods to make rock structures.

Thanks!