PET Recycling

what is pet plastic?

PET (PolyEthylene Terephthalate) is represented with the number 1 logo. PET is a thermoplastic polymer resin, and while PET does have “polyethylene” in its name, it’s a different molecular structure than pure polyethylene plastics. It has a high melting point of 245°c, which leads to it being formed and recycled in alternative ways. PET is produced through the polymerisation of terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol.

Uses of PET Plastic

Non-food bottles
Fibres for clothing
Sleeping bags
Transparent carbonated drinks bottles

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is pet plastic recyclable?

Yes! PET plastic is recyclable. The material can be used to recreate a range of products including new bottles, clothing, automotive parts and much more. Recoup’s ‘UK Household Plastics Collection Survey 2014’ confirmed that nearly 60% of PET plastic bottles in the household waste stream are now being collected for recycling.

How is PET recycled?

Chemical recycling processes are especially suited to polymers formed by condensation reactions such as PET. However, the plastic must be fairly free from other impurities.

The recovery of polyester materials such as PET can be accomplished using a procedure called hydrolysis. It is the reverse of the reaction (polycondensation) used to form the polymer in the ﬁrst place, as the addition of water or water vapour to the process causes decomposition.

Most plastic bottles are made from PET resin plastic which is 100% recyclable. Unlike high density polyethylene which is rigid and stiff, PET bottles are clear and lighter.

PET Density

PET density density ranges from 1.38 to 1.43 g/cm³, making it a lightweight material that is easy to transport and handle. The low density of PET also helps to reduce the carbon footprint of transportation, as less energy is required to transport a given volume of material. Despite its low density, PET is a strong and durable material that is resistant to moisture, chemicals, and heat, making it a popular choice for food and beverage packaging. Plastic bottle caps made with polypropylene have a density of 0.92 grams per cubic centimeter, which is lighter than seawater’s average density of 1.027 grams per cubic centimeter, and therefore, float in seawater.

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A GREENER FUTURE

Importance Of Recycling PET Plastic

Recycled plastic can be repurposed into new products. This saves raw materials from being overused and waste from ending up at waste-to-energy facilities. The recycling industry can then recycle this packaging material, reducing the problem we are seeing with single-use plastic. Once recycled materials are repurposed into new products with varying possibilities, they can then re-enter the multi billion pound plastics industry.

Making sure your business has an efficient recycling program in place will contribute to an increase in recycling rates and boost your green credentials. As this material is highly recyclable, organisations producing a large amount of this waste should ensure it is being sent to a materials recovery facility to further be recycled appropriately. We also supply plastic balers to help you reduce your waste volume and store materials easily.

pet disposal near me

We offer PET disposal and recycling services for businesses across the UK. Our team works with a range of businesses from varying sectors to help them sustainably manage waste streams. If you would like to book a collection for plastic waste, get in touch with our specialist team today.