Types of Plastic
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. |  |
| High Density Polyethylene | Milk bottles, bleach, cleaners and most shampoo bottles. |  |
| Polyvinyl Chloride | Pipes, fittings, window and door frames (rigid PVC). Thermal insulation (PVC foam) and automotive parts. |  |
| Low Density Polyethylene | Carrier bags, bin liners and packaging films. |  |
| Polypropylene | Margarine tubs, microwaveable meal trays, also produced as fibres and filaments for carpets, wall coverings and vehicle upholstery. |  |
| 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. |  |
| 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 |  |
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
