HDPE Plastic Recycling
We all have a responsibility to protect our planet and make a concerted effort to recycle items. At Plastic Expert, we can help you operate as eco-friendly as possible by recycling HDPE waste.
Most commonly known as Polyethylene, HDPE is processed into two different forms. Although there are many types of Polyethylene, it can be categorised as Low Density and High Density. Here we will be looking at High-Density Polyethylene; the stronger and heavier of the two plastics. In particular, we will be looking not only at the HDPE recycling process but also the recycling of HDPE film.
If you are wondering what kind of things are made from HDPE, consider milk bottles, detergent bottles, bleach bottles, shampoo bottles, and tupperware. HDPE film is widely used in warehouses, as its tensile strength is excellent and is resistant to corrosive chemicals. It can be used for food contact and it can be sterilised easily. Chemicals previously used for food contact were found to leach chemicals. Because HDPE film is transparent, it has many other beneficial uses.
An Introduction To HDPE Plastic
As HDPE is a very popular type of plastic, it can be easily found in businesses such as:
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Utility Pipes
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Boxes and Pallets
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Containers and Drums
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Cosmetic Containers: Shampoo, Conditioner
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IBC Containers
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HDPE Canisters
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Wheelie Bins
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Cleaning Products: Laundry Detergent
Where Is HDPE Plastic Found In Businesses?
Before we look at the exact process entailed in polyethylene recycling, it is worth considering some facts regarding the eco-footprint of this product. Most people will come into contact with HDPE every day. After all, this strong plastic is used to make everything from shampoo bottles to drink containers.
Since this material has a lot of different uses, it means that there is a large environmental impact when it comes to HDPE plastic. However, businesses can ensure that HDPE is recycled correctly to reduce this impact.
Environmental Facts About HDPE Plastic
Let's Take A Look At Some Of The Key Environmental Facts About This Type Of Plastic:
Aliases – This plastic has a number of different names. It is referred to as HDPE as well as high-density polyethylene. It is also called plastic #2.
Pollution – Like all other plastics, there is a high amount of air pollution produced when manufacturing HDPE. Plastic production releases the likes of sulphur oxides, nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, non-methane hydrocarbons, and carbon dioxide.
It is also responsible for solid waste such as coal ash and other particles that occur due to burning fuel. This is as well as water pollution like iron, suspended solids, dissolved solids, chromium, and ammonia. Therefore, the environmental impact is much higher than using recycled plastics to create HDPE products.
Recycling rates – The most widely recycled plastics are the two used to make soft drinks bottles and milk bottles: PET and HDPE. HDPE is a popular choice for these products due to its strength, flexibility and recyclability.
Incineration – In recent years, plastic waste such as HPDE has been sent for waste-to-energy (incineration). However, burning plastic is not a sustainable solution to dealing with plastic materials. The waste should be segregated at source, and recycled into new products.
Another disposal route we often hear are landfill sites. In the coming years however, these are set to close. Waste sent for incineration increased by 0.8 million tonnes (7.7 per cent) to 12.5 million tonnes in 2020/21 compared to 2019/20. This is coinciding with policies to divert waste away from landfill.
Decomposition – Plastic waste can take a number of years to decompose, depending on the material’s structure and environment. With these environmental issues, there is pressure on manufacturers to use recycled pellets. Other benefits of using recycled polymers include lower costs and a demand from customers to purchase more sustainable products.
Recycling HDPE Into New Products
Using HDPE plastic to make new products is the preferred approach. It saves resources, water, energy, and landfill space, as well as reducing pollution. Here are some of the products that can be made through HDPE recycling:
Recycling bins
HDPE can be recycled into new wheelie bins and recycling containers.
Plastic lumber
This is used for playgrounds, picnic tables, and outdoor patios.
Utility Pipes
HDPE is often used for utility pipes for its corrosion resistance and durability.
Crates
HDPE crates can withstand exposure to sun, rain, and other environmental conditions without significant degradation.
Non-food bottles
For example, anti-freeze bottles, as well as bottles for motor oil, laundry cleaners, cleaning products, conditioner, and shampoo.
Garden Furniture And Flower Pots
Recycled HDPE can be used to create outdoor furniture such as benches, tables and chairs.
Floor tiles
HDPE is known for its impact resistance. This means tiles made from HDPE can withstand considerable wear and tear.
Sheeting and film plastic
This has a wide range of applications, from agricultural films and liners to packaging materials and bags.