Different Types of Plastics Used for Packaging

Different Types of Plastics Used for Packaging

Plastics are a very cost-effective packing material for any company, and it is utilized in many different forms all over the world. However, various problems about the sorts of plastics usually used for packaging, such as their structure, use, and (most significantly) whether they could be reused, can be raised.

This blog seeks to provide you with more knowledge about the different forms of plastic you may encounter in your workplace or at the grocery, as well as the ones you are likely to encounter on a daily basis. Continue reading to learn more.

HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)

  • liquids in bottles (like detergent, shampoo, and milk)
  • cosmetics
  • bottle caps
  • reconstructive surgery

HDPE is renowned for its great density to strength ratio, which makes it an extremely flexible plastic that is chemically resistant and shatterproof. As a result, it is a safe plastic that may be utilized for a variety of applications.

HDPE is a durable plastic that can be reused in items such as pens, trash cans, patio furniture, fencing, and plastic containers, and is rated number 2 on the recycling scale.

LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene)

  • Packaging and food stretch film
  • zip lock bags with bubble wrap
  • shopping bags
  • Playground apparatus

LDPE is a durable and flexible plastic that provides a good barrier to water, oxygen, and carbon dioxide. Because of these characteristics, it’s suitable for stretchy food packaging.

On the recycle scale, LDPE is a 4 and it is also considered the safest plastic. Paneling, bin liners and grocery bags, tile floors, and mailing envelopes are all common uses for these items.

Plastics
Image Source: Pexels

Polypropylene (PP)

Typical applications include:

  • containers for takeout
  • bottles of drugs
  • Instruments for medicinal or laboratory use
  • plastic utensils
  • Strapping in PP

 

This material, also known as polypropylene, seems to be quite flexible (yet strong) and may be shaped to fit a variety of purposes. Its chemical tolerance and melting temperature make steel perfect for storing hot items and industrial plastic packaging manufacturer. Scientists combined PP with another chemical in a 2016 study to make a plastic that easily resists oily liquids. This might be used to construct shampoo bottles with all of the contents easily removable, making recycling these products much easier.

Brooms, auto battery containers, bins, pallets, signal lights, and bike racks are all built from PP, which is a number 5 on the recycling scale.

Polystyrene (PS)

Typical applications:

  • CD cases
  • platters of meat
  • plates, cups, and food containers that are disposable
  • razors (disposable)
  • packing for protection

Styrofoam is a stiff or foam plastic that is commonly referred to as Styrofoam. This is a low-density foam with such a low melting point that doesn’t carry much heat and shields well. Making it an excellent choice for carrying warm or cold meals and drinks (when in foamed form).

While PS has a terrible reputation for being difficult to recycle. It could still be done and fits inside the recycling scale’s number 6 category. Vents, foam packaging, insulation, and potted plants can all be made out of it.

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