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About Plastic Raw Materials |
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Resin Identification Code
In order to help you understand the differences between various plastic raw materials, we have attached a short description of the polymers which are used in the plastic packaging industry.
Please note: this information is only for your general knowledge. For exact specifications
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Abbreviation |
Polymer Name |
Uses |
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Polyethylene Terephthalate |
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PET is commonly used for carbonated beverage bottles. provides very good alcohol and essential oil barrier properties, generally good chemical resistance (although acetones and ketones will attack PET) and a high degree of impact resistance and tensile strength. PET is used for: polyester fibres, thermoformed sheet, strapping, soft drink bottles.
Max. hot fill: 60 C.
Density (gr/cc): 1.36
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High-Density Polyethylene |
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HDPE is the most widely used resin for plastic bottles. Compatible with a wide range of products including acids and caustics (but is not compatible with solvents), provides good protection at below freezing temartures, supplied in FDA approved food grade.
Max. hot fill 90 C.
Density (gr/cc): higher than 0.94.
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PVC is naturally clear, has extremely good resistance to oils but it is vulnerable to solvents, has very low oxygen transmission, provides an excellent barrier to most gases and its drop impact resistance is also very good.
Max. hot fill: 60 C.
Density (gr/cc): 1.35
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LDPE is similar to HDPE in composition. It is less rigid and generally less chemically resistant than HDPE, but is more translucent. LDPE is used primarily for squeeze applications: Dispensing bottles, wash bottles, tubing, and various molded laboratory equipment
Max. hot fill: 65 C.
Density (gr/cc): 0.915 - 0925.
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Polypropylene is used primarily for jars and closures and provides a rigid package with excellent moisture barrier. One major advantage of polypropylene is its stability at high temperatures, up to 200° F. Polypropylene is autoclavable and offers the potential for steam sterilization. PP has excellent chemical resistance, but provides poor impact resistance in cold temperatures.
Max. hot fill: 110 C.
Density (gr/cc): 0.91
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Styrene offers excellent clarity and stiffness at an economical cost. Styrene does not provide good barrier properties, and exhibits poor impact resistance.
Max. hot fill: 65 C.
Density (gr/cc): 0.95
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Other plastics, including acrylic, polycarbonate, polylactic acid , nylon and fiberglass. |
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