Ethan Clarke
Plastic is everywhere, and it comes in many different forms. The Society of the Plastics Industry introduced the Resin Identification Code (RIC) system in 1988, which categorises plastic resins into seven types. Each plastic type is labelled with a number from one to seven inside a small triangle made of arrows. These numbers indicate the complexity of the plastic's chemical composition, with higher numbers indicating a more complex composition and more difficulty in recycling. This article will explore the seven types of plastic, their uses, and how they can be recycled.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic Number 1 | PETE, also known as polyethylene terephthalate, is a plastic polymer frequently used in soda bottles, water bottles, plastic tote bags, and food containers. It is accepted by most curbside recycling programs. |
| Plastic Number 2 | HDPE, or high-density polyethylene, is commonly used for milk jugs, shampoo bottles, cleaning supply bottles, plastic shopping bags, and playground equipment. It is widely accepted by curbside recycling programs. |
| Plastic Number 3 | PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a soft, flexible plastic used in piping, window frames, shower curtains, and toys. It is harder to recycle and must be taken to specialized facilities. |
| Plastic Number 4 | Type 4 plastic is used for produce and grocery bags. These bags should not be placed in recycling bins as they can tangle in equipment. They are often recycled separately by grocery stores. |
| Plastic Number 5 | N/A |
| Plastic Number 6 | Polystyrene is used in packing materials like "peanuts" and plastic framing. An increasing number of curbside programs accept this plastic. |
| Plastic Number 7 | This category includes other plastics such as acrylic, nylon, and bioplastic, which are not typically recycled. These plastics are often used in car parts and accessories. Objects made with these plastics can sometimes be reused or "upcycled." |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic #1 is PET or PETE, made from polyethylene terephthalate
The recycling code number for PET is 1, and it is often accepted through curbside recycling programs. PET is commonly recycled and has the digit 1 (♳) as its resin identification code (RIC). PET can be recycled into its original uses, and methods have been devised to break the polymer down into its chemical precursors for resynthesis into PET.
PET is used in fibres for clothing, containers for liquids and foods, and thermoforming for manufacturing. It is also used in combination with glass fibre for engineering resins. One of the biggest applications of PET is in the creation of fibres, accounting for over 60% of its global demand. In the textile industry, PET is referred to as polyester.
PET is also used in 3D printing as PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol), where it has become a popular material due to its ability to be modified for self-cleaning applications. PETG is a clear amorphous thermoplastic that can be injection-molded, sheet-extruded, or extruded as a filament for 3D printing.
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Plastic #2 is HDPE, made from petroleum
Plastic #2, also known as High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), is a versatile and widely used plastic that is derived from petroleum. It is a sturdy and durable material, known for its strength and flexibility. HDPE is created through a process called polymerization, where ethylene molecules, obtained from crude oil, are linked together to form long chains of polyethylene. This plastic has a high strength-to-density ratio, making it ideal for a range of applications where durability and lightweight properties are required. One of the key advantages of HDPE is its ability to resist moisture and chemicals, which makes it suitable for storing and containing various substances.
The process of refining crude oil to produce ethylene, the building block of HDPE, is an energy-intensive process. However, HDPE itself is highly recyclable, and many products made from HDPE can be recycled and reused multiple times. This helps to reduce the environmental impact associated with the production and disposal of this plastic. Recycling HDPE can be done through specialized facilities, where the plastic is cleaned, melted, and reshaped into new products or raw material for manufacturing.
HDPE is commonly used in a variety of consumer and industrial products. One of its most recognizable uses is in the production of plastic bags, as HDPE is strong and lightweight, making it ideal for carrying groceries and other items. Plastic bottles, such as those used for milk and juice, are often made from HDPE due to its ability to maintain its integrity and protect the contents. This plastic is also used for manufacturing pipes and containers, as it is corrosion-resistant and durable.
In addition to its versatility and durability, HDPE is valued for its safety in a range of applications. It is non-toxic and does not leach chemicals, making it suitable for food storage and packaging. This plastic is also used in medical applications, such as syringes and drug packaging, as it can be sterilized and is resistant to bacteria and other contaminants. HDPE's versatility, safety, and recyclability make it a popular choice across a wide range of industries.
The recycling process for HDPE is well-established, and many local recycling programs accept products made from this plastic. Consumers can look for the number '2' inside the recycling symbol on products to identify if they are made from HDPE. By recycling HDPE products, consumers can contribute to reducing waste and promoting the reuse of this valuable material. Proper recycling helps ensure that HDPE can be repurposed into new products, extending its usefulness and reducing the environmental impact of virgin plastic production.
In conclusion, Plastic #2, or HDPE, is a petroleum-based plastic that offers a range of benefits, including durability, flexibility, and chemical resistance. Its versatility and safety have led to its widespread use in consumer and industrial applications. With its ability to be recycled and reused, HDPE contributes to a more sustainable future, reducing the environmental footprint of plastic products. Proper recycling practices by consumers are key to ensuring the continued reuse and sustainability of this valuable resource.
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Plastic #3 is PVC, polyvinyl chloride
Plastic #3 is PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, one of the most widely used plastics in the world and the third most highly produced. It is a synthetic material that was discovered in 1872 by German chemist Eugen Baumann and became popular in the late 1920s. PVC is lightweight, strong, and resistant to grease, oil, and chemicals, and sunlight. It is also flexible, making it useful for a wide array of household products, such as plastic tubing, trays, furniture, and kids' toys. It is also commonly used in construction for pipes, window frames, and tiles.
PVC is produced by polymerization of the vinyl chloride monomer (VCM). It is formed in flat sheets in a variety of thicknesses and colours. These sheets are then cut and used to produce commercial signage products, vinyl wraps, stickers, and vinyl fabric for coats, skiing equipment, and shoes.
PVC is challenging to recycle and is considered toxic when disposed of. It is not usually accepted in curbside recycling programs and often needs to be taken to specialist recyclers. Some countries are moving away from using plastic resin numbers, instead referring to rigid and soft plastics. Rigid plastic bounces back when you try to squash it, whereas soft plastic can be scrunched up.
PVC has been linked to health issues, particularly for workers in the polyvinyl chloride industry. It has been associated with certain types of occupational cancers, and it is accepted that VCM is a carcinogen. Lead compounds were previously added to PVC to improve workability and stability but have been shown to leach into drinking water from PVC pipes.
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Plastic #4 is PP, used for food containers
Plastic #4 is LDPE, or low-density polyethylene, one of the oldest grades of polyethylene. LDPE is considered safe for use and is FDA-approved and food-grade. However, it is not environmentally friendly, as only a small percentage of LDPE plastic is recycled. LDPE is used to make grocery bags, food wraps, squeezable bottles, and bread bags. It is also used to make bags for newspapers, sliced bread loaves, and fresh produce. LDPE can be changed into lumber and floor tiles.
Compared to HDPE plastic, LDPE is more elastic. LDPE is also considered relatively safe, but it is not recyclable via curbside and other recycling programs. It is suggested that LDPE be reused several times before being discarded.
PP, or polypropylene, is ranked at number 5 on the resin identification code. PP is considered safe for food storage and is FDA-approved and food-grade. PP is used to make food containers for products like yoghurt, sour cream, margarine, and medicine and ketchup bottles. It is also used to make straws, rope, carpet, and bottle caps. PP is considered microwave-safe because it is heat-resistant and won't warp in the microwave. However, some studies have shown that even microwavable-safe plastic can cause asthma and hormone disruption, so it is better to substitute plastic containers with glass. PP can sometimes be recycled, but the percentage of recycled PP plastic is low.
Overall, LDPE and PP are considered safe plastics that can be used for food containers and storage. However, it is important to note that while PP is microwave-safe, it is still better to substitute it with glass when possible, and to reuse PP containers rather than discarding them after one use.
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Plastic #5 is safe for recycling
#5 plastic is known as polypropylene, often shortened to PP. It is used to make food containers for products like yoghurt, sour cream, and margarine. It is also made into straws, rope, carpets, and bottle caps. PP products can sometimes be recycled.
#5 plastic is accepted by most curbside pickup recycling programs. However, it is important to note that not all plastics are created equal when it comes to recycling. While #5 plastic is generally safe for recycling, it is always good to check with your local waste management guidelines. Some municipalities may have specific guidelines or restrictions on the types of plastics that can be placed in recycling bins.
Additionally, it is important to properly clean and scrape food containers before recycling them. Containers with food and liquid residues can contaminate entire batches of recycling and are often sent to landfills. Keeping plastics containing food or drink out of the microwave, dishwasher, and other hot places is also crucial. Plastic tends to break down and release chemicals when heated.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic resins are divided into seven categories, numbered 1 through 7, to facilitate recycling. The higher the number, the more chemically complex the plastic is, and therefore the harder it is to recycle.
Plastic number 1, or PETE/PET, is polyethylene terephthalate, a plastic polymer. It is frequently used in soda bottles, plastic bags, and food containers. It can often be recycled through curbside recycling programs.
Plastic number 7 represents all other plastics besides types 1 through 6. It includes acrylic, nylon, and bioplastic, and is often used in car parts and accessories. Plastic number 7 is rarely recycled in the traditional sense, although some curbside programs now accept it.
