How To Identify Different Types of Plastics
Types of plastic are identified by different symbols or numbers. The symbols are agreed internationally in order to provide clarity on the chemical makeup of each plastic and determines the grading for their recycling .
1) PET or PETE
PET is short for Polyethylene Terephthalate.
PET is one of the most commonly used plastics. It’s lightweight, strong and is often used in food packaging.
2) HDPE
HDPE is short for High-Density Polyethylene.
High-Density Polyethylene is strong and resistant to moisture and it is ideal for containers, pipes and other building materials.
3) PVC
PVC is short for Polyvinyl Chloride.
PVC is a hard and rigid plastic that is resistant to chemicals and weathering, making it suitable for building and construction applications. It also doesn't conduct electricity which makes it suitable for cable.
4) LDPE
LDPE is short for Low-Density Polyethylene.
LDPE is a softer, clearer, and more flexible version of HDPE. It’s often used as a liner inside beverage cartons, and in corrosion-resistant work surfaces and other products.
5) PP
PP is short for Polypropylene.
PP is one of the most durable types of plastic. It is more heat resistant than some others plastics, it is ideal for things like food packaging and food storage that’s made to hold hot items or be heated.
6) PS
PS is short for Polystyrene .
Polystyrene is usually known as Styrofoam, this rigid plastic is low-cost and insulates very well, these properties has made it a staple in the food packaging and construction industries.
7) Other
The other category is a catch-all for other types of plastic that don’t belong in any of the six categories or are combinations of multiple types.