7 Types of Plastic: The Different Materials and Grades

7 Types of Plastic: The Different Materials and Grades

Plastic is a diverse material, available in various types that differ in materials and grades. Some common examples include LDPE, PE, Polyester, HDPE, PVC, LDE, PP, PS, and PC.

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Plastics are not as straightforward as they appear. Each type has unique properties, with some being reusable and others releasing hazardous substances after repeated use.

The recyclability of plastics also varies greatly, ranging from easy recycling processes to those requiring sophisticated and detailed handling.

Take a closer look at your nearest plastic product, such as a lunch box, water bottle, or instant noodle cup. You might notice a number on the back or bottom of the item.

This number indicates the type of plastic used to make the product. Do you know which numbers to avoid to prevent environmental damage?

Here are the 7 types of plastic you need to know:

1. PET or PETE or Polyester (Polyethylene Terephthalate)

Polyethylene Terephthalate, commonly known as PET, is a wrinkle-free fiber. It’s different from the ordinary plastic bags found in supermarkets. PET is mainly used in food and drink packaging because it effectively prevents oxygen from spoiling the products inside and keeps carbon dioxide from escaping carbonated drinks.

Despite its recyclability, PET contains antimony trioxide, a recognized carcinogen. The longer a liquid stays in a PET container, the higher the potential release of this harmful substance, especially under warm temperatures.

2. HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)

HDPE is unique due to its virtually unbranched polymer chains, making it denser, stronger, and thicker than PET. It is commonly found in grocery bags, opaque milk and juice containers, shampoo bottles, and medicine bottles. HDPE is not only recyclable but also relatively more stable than PET.

3. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC is used in toys, blister wraps, cling wraps, detergent bottles, loose-leaf binders, blood bags, and medical tubing. Previously one of the most widely used plastics, PVC's manufacturing and disposal processes are associated with severe health risks and pollution. PVC is toxic, rarely accepted by recycling programs, and is best avoided.

4. LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene)

LDPE has a simpler chemical structure, making it easy and cheap to process. This plastic type is found in grocery bags, plastic wraps, milk carton coatings, and food storage containers. Though considered safer for food use, LDPE is difficult to recycle and can have hormonal effects on humans.

5. Polypropylene (PP)

Polypropylene is more resistant to heat and widely used for hot food containers, disposable diapers, and sanitary pads. PP is safer for food and drinks but not entirely recyclable and may cause asthma and hormonal disruptions.

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6. Polystyrene (PS)

Polystyrene, known as styrofoam, is common in food containers, egg cartons, disposable cups, and bike helmets. PS can leach toxic styrene, especially when in contact with hot food, and has a low recycling rate.

7. Other Plastics

This category includes all other types of plastic not identified by numbers 1-6, such as bioplastics and polycarbonate (PC). Known by various names like Lexan and Makrolon, PC is used for baby bottles and other containers but is linked to numerous health problems and has a low recycling rate.

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The 3 Important Key Points

1. All plastic types can release hazardous materials under extreme conditions such as high heat.
2. Safer plastic options include Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), and Polypropylene (PP).
3. Currently, the most recycled types are Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) and High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE).

Reasons Why Not All Plastics Can Be Recycled

Not all plastics can be recycled due to a lack of facilities, technology, funding, and market interest. Consequently, recycling plants focus on the types of plastic they need and ignore the rest.

The Early History of Plastic Usage

Plastic usage dates back to the 19th century when Alexander Parkes created "Parkesine" in 1862. In 1907, Leo Hendrik Baekeland invented Bakelite, the first mass-produced synthetic plastic, transforming various industries. However, the modern era emphasizes the environmental impacts of plastic, urging sustainable use.

Tackling the Problem of Plastic Waste in Indonesia

The extensive use of plastic in Indonesia has led to significant waste management challenges. Efforts to reduce packaging waste, increase recycling, innovate sustainable packaging, and educate consumers are crucial to tackling these issues.

1. Reducing Packaging Waste

Manufacturers can minimize plastic packaging or switch to eco-friendly materials.

2. Recycling Packaging Waste

Effective recycling requires both companies and consumers to actively participate in proper waste segregation and sending waste to recycling facilities.

3. Packaging Innovation

Developing biodegradable and efficiently recyclable packaging is essential.

4. Consumer Education

Raising awareness about proper disposal practices through clear marking and environmental campaigns can help reduce waste.

Types of Plastic Category in an Infographic

Now you can choose the right plastic types for food and drinks and avoid non-food grade plastics due to their low recycle rate quality. Remember to separate your waste responsibly to aid the recycling process.