Can All Types Of Plastic Be Recycled?

Plastics are labeled with a number inside the recycling symbols to tell workers what kind of plastic they are dealing with. HDPE, for example, is plastic number 2 and is found in milk jugs, laundry detergent bottles, and some plastic bags. PETE is plastic number 1, found in soda bottles and peanut butter jars.

Plastics Recycling Chart

A plastic recycling chart can help you learn what plastics can be recycled. The Society of the Plastics Industry (SPI) has developed a plastic recycling code system that categorizes plastic according to its composition. The numbers on plastic bottles, containers and packaging tell you what kind of plastic it is.

1: PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)

PET plastics are highly recyclable and are often accepted by local recycling facilities. These plastics are commonly used in water bottles, food containers, cooking oil bottles, and peanut butter jars. They feature the number “1” in the triangle recycling symbol.

2. HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)

HDPE plastic is very lightweight yet strong and is commonly used in milk jugs, laundry detergent bottles, plastic bags, and pipes. With the number 2 in the triangle recycling symbol, HDPE plastic is also easy to recycle. Also, look for the chasing arrows symbol with a number 2 inside – indicating that the plastic is recyclable.

3. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC plastic is found in shower curtains, plastic pipes, and siding. It’s not often accepted in local recycling programs and must be sent to a special facility. However, PVC plastic can be recycled. Be cautious when recycling plastic with the number 3 in the triangle – it may contain harmful chemicals.

4. LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene)

LDPE plastic is found in plastic bags, shrink wrap, and some food containers. It’s generally not accepted in local recycling programs but can be recycled at special facilities. Companies are using recycled LDPE plastic in products like reusable shopping bags, carpeting, and fencing.

5. PP (Polypropylene)

Common products made from polypropylene plastic include yogurt containers, ketchup bottles, and syrup bottles. Many recycling programs don’t accept polypropylene plastic because it can’t be easily melted and reformed. However, this plastic can be recycled – companies use recycled PP plastic to make products like auto parts, reusable shopping bags, and rope.

6. PS (Polystyrene)

You’ll find polystyrene plastic in products like CD cases, plastic utensils, packing peanuts, and some meat trays. It can be recycled, but many recycling programs don’t accept it because it’s hard to melt and reform. The positive news is that firms use recycled PS plastic in products like plastic lumber and picture frames.

7. Other

Plastic with the number seven is often referred to as “other” plastic. It’s used in three- and five-gallon water bottles and some bulletproof materials. This plastic isn’t often recycled because it’s difficult to recycle. Check out this chart from the Society of Plastics Industry to learn more about plastic recycling.

Bottom Line

D&D Plastics is your one-stop shop for all of your plastic recycling needs. We accept all types of plastic, and we’ll work with you to find a recycling solution that works for your business. With our years of experience in the plastic recycling industry, we can help you turn your waste plastic into valuable resources. Contact us today to learn more about our plastic recycling services.

Categorised in: Plastic Fabrication

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