Ethan Clarke
Plastic liners are used in a variety of applications, from pipe repair to pond lining and food storage. While plastic is generally considered inert, it can still produce a smell, which can be attributed to various factors such as additives, leftover monomers, or breakdown products. This smell can be described as a new plastic odour, similar to that of a new shower curtain or pool float. In some cases, the smell may be caused by an ingredient called styrene, commonly used in the production of plastics and resins. It is important to note that while PE (polyethylene) plastic is stable and odourless, other types of plastic, such as PVC, can contain plasticizers like phthalates, which contribute to a noticeable odour. Proper ventilation and regular cleaning can help minimize any potential odours or health risks associated with plastic liners.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| PE liner smell | PE liner is odour-resistant but may smell like new plastic during the pipe repair process due to an ingredient called styrene. |
| Plastic smell | Plastic has a smell due to volatile small molecules at room temperature, such as additives, leftover monomers, or breakdown products. |
| Plasticizer odour | Plasticizers in polyethylene bins can cause a strong chemical smell over time. |
| LDPE | LDPE is a type of polyethylene that does not typically contain plasticizers but can develop an odour over time. |
| PVC | PVC liners can cause a plastic smell and potentially leech chemicals, which can be harmful to fish. |
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What You'll Learn
PE liners are odour-resistant but may smell like raisins
PE liners are odour-resistant, but they may still give off a smell under certain conditions. While PE (polyethylene) is a very stable material, it can start to smell like raisins when it comes into contact with other substances, such as during the new cured-in-place pipe process. For example, one person reported that their new AC ductwork, which had a plastic liner, gave off a raisin-like smell when it got wet and mixed with other sprays and tapes.
Additionally, PE liners can also be affected by the breakdown of polymers by free radicals, which can cause them to develop an odour and eventually split. This odour is often described as polyethylene oxide. However, it's important to note that this usually occurs over time and is not common in new PE liners.
The smell of raisins from PE liners may also be due to the presence of styrene, an ingredient used in making many types of plastics and resins. Styrene has a very low odour threshold, and even small amounts can be easily detected. This could be a possible explanation for the raisin-like smell associated with some PE liners.
Furthermore, while PE itself does not contain plasticizers, the presence of other substances or additives could contribute to the odour. For instance, the use of fire retardants in PE liners to make them self-extinguishing could potentially impact their smell. However, it is important to note that these odours are typically not harmful and can be minimized by ensuring proper ventilation and maintenance.
In summary, while PE liners are generally odour-resistant, they may, in certain cases, emit a smell that resembles raisins. This odour can be influenced by various factors, including the presence of other chemicals, the breakdown of polymers, or the use of additives during the manufacturing process.
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Plastic smell caused by ingredient styrene
The plastic-like smell from PE liners is likely caused by styrene, an ingredient used in making many types of plastics, resins, and household products. Styrene has a very low odour threshold, meaning it can be easily detected even in small amounts. This distinct smell is often noticed by people during pipe repair or when installing new ductwork.
Styrene is a common and unmistakable smell in the world of composites, often encountered when working with materials like Bondo or primer. It is not as harmful as many other chemicals used in the industry, but continuous exposure to styrene is not recommended. The health effects of styrene exposure can vary, and it is important to protect oneself from overexposure. Short-term symptoms of overexposure include balance problems, drowsiness, slowed reaction time, lack of focus, and headaches. According to studies, long-term overexposure can lead to more severe issues such as hearing loss and liver damage in animals, and "impaired learning" and "sperm damage" in rats.
To minimize the possibility of styrene odours, it is important to maintain proper ventilation and ensure that sewer connections and plumbing traps are in good working order. Running water regularly through all drains, especially those that are seldom used, can also help prevent the plastic smell from becoming noticeable.
While the maker of the ductwork may deny the possibility of PE plastic off-gassing, it is important to consider the presence of other factors that could contribute to the plastic smell. For example, factors such as rain, spray adhesives, and other chemicals used during installation could potentially mix with the PE plastic and create a plastic-like smell.
In summary, the plastic smell from PE liners is likely caused by the ingredient styrene, which has a very low odour threshold. While not all exposures to styrene are harmful, it is important to minimize the possibility of odours and protect oneself from continuous exposure to prevent potential health risks associated with overexposure.
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Plasticizers in polyethylene bins may cause a strong chemical smell
Polyethylene (PE) is a stable material that is widely used for plastic products, including pipes, pond liners, and laboratory bottles. While PE itself does not typically contain plasticizers, in some cases, these may be added, such as adipates, terephthalates, or phthalates. These plasticizers can potentially be a source of contamination and may cause a strong chemical smell, especially after prolonged storage or exposure to certain conditions.
For example, one user reported a persistent "new plastic" smell from their new AC ductwork, which was attributed to the plastic lining in the flex ductwork. In another instance, a user noticed an odd, "plasticky" smell from old propanol/ethanol stored in polyethylene laboratory bottles. The bottles themselves also emitted a similar smell, suggesting that the plastic may have contaminated the solvent.
The presence of plasticizers in polyethylene bins may also contribute to the strong chemical smell that can develop over time. One individual shared their experience of storing fabrics in plastic bins, only to find that the contents eventually took on a strong chemical odour, requiring them to be washed before use. While the exact cause of this odour is not definitively known, it is suspected that plasticizers in the polyethylene bins may be a contributing factor.
To mitigate the issue of odour transfer to stored items, it is recommended to use clear polyethylene plastic bags, which have different plasticizers, as an additional barrier between the items and the bins. This approach can potentially reduce the intensity of the odour.
It is worth noting that the potential health risks associated with exposure to certain plasticizers in building and construction plastics have been highlighted in studies. These studies emphasize the need for increased transparency in the chemical compositions of plastics to protect human and ecosystem health.
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Non-rigid PVC contains plasticizers with noticeable odours
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a common plastic that is unique in its ability to accept large amounts of plasticizers, allowing it to transform from a rigid solid to a soft gel. This flexibility is achieved through the addition of plasticizers such as phthalates, which are diesters of phthalic acid. Non-rigid PVC, or flexible PVC, can consist of over 85% plasticizer by mass, while unplasticized PVC (UPVC) should not contain any.
The use of plasticizers in PVC has noticeable effects on its odour. Phthalates, for example, have distinct odours that can be easily detected even in small amounts. A retired polymer chemist mentions their ability to detect phthalates through smell, even in oxygen masks used for minor medical procedures. This sensitivity to the odour of phthalates may be due to their presence in other commonly used products, such as plastic bin bags, which have a strong smell when first opened.
The odour of phthalates and other plasticizers can also be noticed in other applications of PVC. For example, PVC is used in pipe repair and new cured-in-place pipe processes, where it can emit a distinct plastic-like smell. This odour may be caused by styrene, an ingredient used in the production of many plastics and resins. Similarly, PVC is used in the form of PE (polyethylene) plastic in HVAC flex ductwork, where it has been reported to emit a new plastic smell, similar to that of a new plastic shower curtain or pool float.
While the odour of PVC and its plasticizers can be noticeable, it is important to consider potential health risks associated with exposure. Low phthalates, such as Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and Dibutyl phthalate (DBP), have been associated with increased health risks and are being phased out. On the other hand, high-molecular-weight phthalates like diisononyl phthalate (DINP) and diisodecyl phthalate (DIDP) are generally considered safer.
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Pulp and aluminium liners are odour-resistant
While some plastic liners can have a distinct odour, there are alternatives available that are odour-resistant. Pulp and aluminium liners, for example, are designed to be odour- and taste-resistant. They consist of a polyester film, a pulp material, and an aluminium foil layer that acts as a barrier to the contents. These liners are suitable for food applications because of their odour- and taste-resistant properties. They are also resistant to hydrocarbon products but should not be used with acids or alkalis.
Pulp and aluminium liners are commonly used in metal caps for food products and other consumer goods. The metal caps provide a wide range of temperature tolerances and are highly resistant to impact fracture. The pulp and aluminium liners within these caps are ideal for non-acidic, non-alkaline products, including oils, wet foods, and powders.
The odour-resistant properties of pulp and aluminium liners are particularly advantageous in food storage and packaging applications. They help maintain the freshness and integrity of the contents by preventing odour transfer and ensuring that the product's original taste is preserved. This is especially beneficial for products with strong flavours or aromas, as it prevents them from permeating the packaging and affecting other items nearby.
In addition to their odour-resistant qualities, pulp and aluminium liners offer other benefits. They have good chemical resistance and can work well with both oil and water-based products. This versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of applications, including personal care products, household cleaners, and food items. The liners are also structurally similar to foam liners, with a pressure-sensitive adhesive that creates an airtight seal when activated, providing an extra level of protection for the contents.
Overall, pulp and aluminium liners are a reliable choice for odour-resistant packaging. Their combination of a polyester film, pulp material, and aluminium foil layer creates a barrier that effectively prevents odour transfer while also offering chemical resistance and versatility in terms of product compatibility. By utilising these liners, manufacturers can ensure the freshness, quality, and integrity of their products throughout their shelf life.
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Frequently asked questions
PE plastic does not off-gas and is odour-resistant. However, some people have reported a plastic smell from new ductwork with PE liners. This could be due to other factors such as adhesives, sprays, or tapes used during installation.
The smell comes from small molecules that are volatile at room temperature, such as additives or breakdown products.
The plastic lining in the ductwork or the pipe repair process could be the source of the smell. It could also be caused by other factors, such as adhesives, sprays, or tapes used during installation.
Ensure your sewer connections are in proper working order and frequently run water into all the drains, especially those that are seldom used.
Yes, 3-ply foam liners and pulp and aluminium liners are both odour-resistant.
