The following table illustrates the most common types of plastics used, their applications and the symbol which is often used to identify them on forms of plastic packaging.
| Polymer Types | Examples of applications | Symbol |
|---|---|---|
| Polyethylene Terephthalate | Fizzy drink and water bottles. Salad trays. |  null |
| High Density Polyethylene | Milk bottles, bleach, cleaners and most shampoo bottles. |  null |
| Polyvinyl Chloride | Pipes, fittings, window and door frames (rigid PVC). Thermal insulation (PVC foam) and automotive parts. |  null |
| Low Density Polyethylene | Carrier bags, bin liners and packaging films. |  null |
| Polypropylene | Margarine tubs, microwaveable meal trays, also produced as fibres and filaments for carpets, wall coverings and vehicle upholstery. |  null |
| Polystyrene | Yoghurt pots, foam hamburger boxes and egg cartons, plastic cutlery, protective packaging for electronic goods and toys. Insulating material in the building and construction industry. |  null |
| Unallocated References | Any other plastics that do not fall into any of the above categories - for example polycarbonate which is often used in glazing for the aircraft industry |  null |
If you are having difficulty identifying your plastic waste please contact:
- The supplier of the material.
- Call the WRAP helpline on 0808 100 2040 or email
- Or visit Recoup at www.recoup.org
