Frequently Asked Questions.

What do those symbols on a plastic container mean?

They are plastic resin identification codes. These codes do not necessarily mean that a container is recyclable, since there may not be a recycling market for a particular code. 1= PET (polyethylene terephthalate), 2= HDPE (high density polyethylene), 3= PVC (polyvinyl chloride), 4 = LDPE (low density polyethylene), 5 = PP (polypropylene), 6 = PS (polystyrene), 7 = OTHER (other).

What is PET?

PET is the type of plastic labelled with the #1 code on or near the bottom of bottles and containers. The chemical abbreviation PET stands for the thermoplastic synthetic Polyethylene Terephthalate, also known as Polyester. PET packaging is reprocessable after usage, if it has been collected separately, which is preferable. During combustion, the PET itself maintains and accelerates the combustion process. This prevents the emission of hazardous chemical substances. A complete combustion of PET results in the substances carbon dioxide (CO₂) and Water (H₂O). Learn More.

Do I need to worry about phthalates in PET?

No. "Phthalates" (pronounced THA-lates) are a class of chemicals that include three subsets, each with different properties. PET, or polyethylene terephthalate, belongs to one of these phthalate subsets, but not the one most commonly associated with the term. Orthophthalate is the phthalate subset most commonly referenced and discussed in popular literature and on internet sites; it has been the subject of some negative press. Often used to make various plastics more flexible, orthophthalate is also called a plasticizer. PET does not contain plasticizers or orthophthalates. Plasticizers are never substituted for terephthalates used in the manufacturer of PET, nor are the two ever mixed. PET packaging is selected by companies for a wide variety of product applications because it is safe, strong, shatter-proof, and recyclable.

What is PLA?

Polylactic acid or polylactide (PLA) is a biodegradable, thermoplastic, aliphatic polyester derived from renewable resources, such as corn starch (in the U.S.) or sugarcanes (in the rest of world). Although PLA has been known for more than a century, it has only been of commercial interest in recent years, in light of its biodegradability. Learn more.

How do plastics work?

Visit HowStuffWorks to learn more. http://science.howstuffworks.com/plastic.htm