Plasrics : A comprehensive breakdown of common plastic (polymer) types


Below is a comprehensive breakdown of common polymer types:

PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate): 

A strong, lightweight plastic that's highly recyclable and provides excellent moisture barrier.

Characteristics:
  • Crystal clear transparency
  • Good gas and moisture barrier
  • Easily recyclable
  • Strong and lightweight
  • Food safe
Most common examples:
  • Beverage bottles
  • Food containers
  • Synthetic fibers (polyester)
  • Packaging films
  • Strapping materials
PE (Polyethylene): 

A versatile, common plastic available in different densities (low and high) known for its flexibility and chemical resistance.

Types: 

LDPE (Low-Density):
  • Plastic bags
  • Squeeze bottles
  • Film wraps
  • Flexible containers
HDPE (High-Density):
  • Milk jugs
  • Shampoo bottles
  • Trash bins
  • Pipe systems
  • Characteristics:
  • Chemical resistant
  • Waterproof
  • Flexible
  • Good electrical insulation
  • Low cost
PP (Polypropylene): 

A lightweight, heat-resistant plastic with excellent chemical resistance and good fatigue resistance.

Characteristics:
  • High heat resistance
  • Chemical resistant
  • Good fatigue resistance
  • Lightweight
  • Food safe
Most common examples:
  • Food containers
  • Car parts
  • Medical devices
  • Bottle caps
  • Furniture
  • Reusable containers
  • Packaging films
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): 

A durable, versatile plastic that can be rigid or flexible depending on additives.

Types: 

Rigid PVC:
  • Pipes
  • Window frames
  • Door frames
  • Siding
  • Bottles
Flexible PVC:
  • Cable insulation
  • Inflatable products
  • Shower curtains
  • Medical tubing
  • Floor coverings
Characteristics:
  • Fire resistant
  • Weather resistant
  • Chemical resistant
  • Cost-effective
  • Versatile in formulation
Major applications by industry:

Packaging:
  • PET: Bottles, food containers
  • PE: Bags, containers
  • PP: Food containers, films
  • PVC: Blister packs
Construction:
  • PVC: Pipes, profiles
  • HDPE: Pipes
  • PP: Insulation
Automotive:
  • PP: Interior parts
  • PVC: Wire coating
  • PE: Fuel tanks
Medical:
  • PP: Syringes
  • PVC: Blood bags
  • PET: Pill bottles
Consumer Goods:
  • PE: Toys
  • PP: Furniture
  • PET: Textiles
  • PVC: Credit cards

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