Plastic identification code Type of plastic polymer Properties Common packaging applications Melting- (°C) and glass transition temperatures Young’s modulus (GPa)
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET, PETE)Clarity, strength, toughness, barrier to gas and moisture.
Soft drink, water and salad dressing bottles; peanut butter and jam jars; small consumer electronics
Tm = 250;[43] [43]
2–2.7[44]
High-density polyethylene (HDPE)Stiffness, strength, toughness, resistance to moisture, permeability to gas
Versatility, ease of blending, strength, toughness.
Blister packaging for non-food items; cling films for non-food use. May be used for food packaging with the addition of the plasticisers needed to make natively rigid PVC flexible. Non-packaging uses are electrical cable insulation; rigid piping; vinyl records.
0.8[44]
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
Ease of processing, strength, toughness, flexibility, ease of sealing, barrier to moisture
Frozen food bags; squeezable bottles, e.g. honey, mustard; cling films; flexible container lids
2.4-4.1[49]
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE)
Strength, toughness, resistance to heat, chemicals, grease and oil, versatile, barrier to moisture.
Reusable microwaveable ware; kitchenware; yogurt containers; margarine tubs; microwaveable disposable take-away containers; disposable cups; soft drink bottle caps ; plates.
0.17–0.28[49]
Polypropylene (PP)
Versatility, clarity, easily formed
Egg cartons; packing peanuts; disposable cups, plates, trays and cutlery; disposable take-away containers
1.5-2[44]
Polystyrene (PS)
Dependent on polymers or combination of polymers
Beverage bottles, baby milk bottles. Non-packaging uses for polycarbonate, compact discs, “unbreakable” glazing, electronic apparatus housing, lenses (including sunglasses), prescription glasses, automotive headlamps, riot shields, instrument panels.[53]
3-3.5[44]
Other (often polycarbonate or ABS )
Polycarbonate: Tg = 145;[54] [55]
Polycarbonate: 2.6;[44] [44]
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