PET Recycling

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

What Is Pet Plastic?

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.

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. We can help businesses with PET bottle recycling in bulk loads nationwide.

How Is PET Recycled?

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.

PET Density

The Importance Of Polyethylene Terephthalate Recycling

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.

What Can PET Plastic Be Recycled Into?

PET (polyethylene terephthalate) can be recycled into a range of products and introduced back into the market. PET plastic is one of the most commonly recycled types of plastic, particularly due to its widespread use in packaging materials like beverage bottles. The recycling of PET plastic involves several stages that transform post-consumer products into new materials. Here’s a look at what PET plastic can be recycled into:

Fibers for Textiles

After the PET recycling process, the plastic can be spun into fibers used for producing fabrics. These are used in clothing, upholstery, and even industrial applications.

Construction Materials

Some innovative uses include creating construction materials such as insulation, roofing tiles, or even panels.

Strapping Materials

PET products are also processed into strapping materials used in packaging and shipping. These materials help secure goods during transport, leveraging PET’s durability and recyclability.

Packaging

Recycled PET is often turned back into containers for food and non-food items. It's a popular choice for plastic packaging materials due to its strength and hygiene properties. This makes it suitable for direct contact with consumables.

New PET Bottles

Through PET bottle recycling, old bottles are often turned back into new bottles in a closed-loop system. Recycling PET bottles to bottles demonstrates an effective way to reduce waste and resource consumption.