What Is PET Plastic
PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) is a transparent type of plastic with a gloss finish. It has all the benefits of glass – being a strong inert material that does not react with foods. It is resistant to attack by microorganisms, such as germs, fungi and parasites and does not biologically degrade when exposed to excess moisture and air for an extended period of time.
PET is a better option than glass. PET is lighter, durable and a more cost effective option that is strong and shatterproof. PET also has a highly recyclable nature. These unique properties have made the PET the world’s favorite packaging material.
Usage of PET Plastic
PET can be heated and molded into variety of shapes. PET plastic is generally used for packaging foods and beverages, especially soft drinks, juices and water bottles.
How to Identify PET From Other Plastic
Plastic products made from PET are labeled with a recycling symbol that has a number 1 inside. This symbol and number is usually found on the bottom of the bottle. This is PET's Plastic Identification Number, a plastic numbering system introduced by the Society of the Plastics Industry, Inc (SPI) back in 1988. There are a total of 7 plastic numbers. These numbers are used to identify plastic types during the recycling process.
Is PET Recyclable
Yes, PET is highly recyclable. Recycled PET is called rPET. rPET is pretty much the same as PET, the difference is that the raw material comes from a recycled source rather than an original source. Just like PET, rPET can be heated and molded into various of shapes.
Can PET Be Recycled Infinitely
PET can be recycled infinitely. However, the recycling process can decrease the quality of the PET. When the resin goes through multiple heat cycles during the recycling process, the breakdown of polymer chains occurs, which degrades the PET’s quality. Some additives can be added to raise PET’s quality. These additives are molecules that attach to the ends of broken polymer chains, reconnect them, and produce the longer chains needed for production of PET bottles or other products.