FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) vs PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene): 0% composition overlap. Significantly different materials serving different application areas.
FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) vs PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene)
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate)
Flame retardant woven fiberglass cloth with epoxy resin binder — the worldwide standard substrate material for printed circuit boards (PCBs). Designated NEMA grade FR-4 and IPC-4101. Good mechanical strength, dimensional stability and electrical insulation up to 130°C (Tg). Dielectric constant 4.2–4.7 at 1 MHz. Self-extinguishing (UL94 V-0). Used for single/multilayer PCBs, electrical insulation boards, structural composites in electronics, test fixtures and jigs. Available in thicknesses 0.1–50 mm.
PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene)
Low-density polyethylene — branched chain structure gives flexibility, transparency, and easy processing. THE film/packaging polymer: cling wrap, carrier bags, squeeze bottles, shrink wrap. Also used for cable insulation, agricultural film, and coatings. Lower density (0.91-0.93) and strength than PE-HD but much more flexible.
| FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) | PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene) | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | — | — |
| Category | Polymers | Polymers |
| Standard | IPC-4101 | ISO 1872 |
Chemical composition (wt%) — Pro
| Element | FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) | PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene) | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Epoxy Resin Matrix | 35–45% | — | — |
| Glass Fiber (E-Glass) Cloth | 55–65% | — | — |
| Base Polymer (Polyethylene) | — | 99.5–99.9% | — |
Mechanical properties — Pro
| Property | FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) | PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene) | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flexural Strength | 380–480 | — | MPa |
| Tensile Strength | 280–340 | — | MPa |
| Compressive Strength | 350–420 | — | MPa |
| Density | |||
| Glass Transition Temp (Tg) | |||
| Dielectric Constant (1MHz) | |||
| Dielectric Strength | |||
| UL94 Flammability | |||
| Water Absorption (24h) | |||
| Tensile Strength | |||
| Elongation | |||
| Elastic Modulus | |||
| Density | |||
| Melting Point |
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FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) and PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene) have significantly different compositions (0% overlap). These materials are not interchangeable and serve different application areas.
Automated assessment based on composition analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Is FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) the same as PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene)?
FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) and PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene) have a 0% composition overlap. They are generally not directly interchangeable.
Can I replace FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) with PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene)?
Generally not recommended. The compositions differ significantly (0% overlap). These materials have different alloying concepts and are intended for different applications.
What is the difference between FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) and PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene)?
The main differences are in the following elements: overall alloying content. FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) is a Polymers grade, while PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene) is a Polymers grade.
View full data for each material:
Data provided for reference only. Always verify against the applicable specification for critical applications.
All data is for reference only. Equivalents indicate similarity, not identity. Always verify against the applicable specification for safety-critical applications. materialref.com accepts no liability for decisions based on this data.