Types of Plastics Used to Make Bottles

Bottles are in use for many year different types of materials have been used to make bottles like glass bottles, metallic bottles/containers and now plastic bottles are capturing the market. Where ever you go in your daily life you will see plastic bottles or containers everywhere. Plastic bottles are found in stores, shops, homes, offices, workplaces, schools, bars, café shops, bathroom, and bedroom etc. Plastic bottles & containers that are designed for packaging can be made from a variety of materials and can be fashioned into an almost unlimited array of shapes and sizes. The choice of plastic will vary based upon a specific packaging application or use.

A misconception regarding plastics and plastic bottles

Approximately for every person, not linked to plastic field – all the plastic material are same and all the bottles are made with same types of material this is not true.

What characteristics should I be aware of when purchasing a plastic bottle or container?

1. Shelf Life
2. Visibility
3. Labeling
4. Oxygen Barriers
5. Color
6. Shape
7. Moisture Barriers
8. Load Strength
9. Impact Resistance

• Temperature Endurance
• Environmental Responsibility

Here is the list of plastic materials/resin used to make plastic bottles.

High Density Polyethylene Bottles

HDPE is a naturally translucent and flexible material that can be classified in two groups.

Natural HDPE Bottles

It’s naturally white and translucent. Used to make Milk Bottles

Colored HDPE Bottles

Used to make Shampoo and Laundry Detergent Bottles.

The majority of plastic bottles utilize HDPE resins because they are inexpensive, impact & chemical resistant, and provide superior moisture barriers. HDPE is mostly used in the creation of milk and juice bottles but due to its chemical resistant properties, it can also be used to hold household chemicals and detergents. Pigmented or colored HDPE bottles have an enhanced fracture resistant property.

Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE) Plastic Bottles & Containers

Is comparable to HDPE in composition but more translucent. It is generally less rigid and chemically resistant than HDPE. Being a softer material, LDPE can be used for squeeze plastic bottles and other flexible applications like plastic film and grocery bags. LDPE is also used in the manufacturing of some flexible lids and bottles, as well as in wire and cable applications. LDPE is significantly more costly than HDPE.

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Plastic Bottles

Is frequently used for plastic carbonated beverage and water bottles. PET is a type of polyester. Manufacturers use PET plastic to package products because of its strength, thermo-stability and transparency. Customers choose PET because it is inexpensive, lightweight, reseal able, shatter-resistant and recyclable. PET bottles are labeled with a resin identification code #1 PETE imprinted on or near the side or bottom of the container.Polycarbonate (PC) Plastic Bottles

Polycarbonate plastic is a clear and transparent plastic with good physical and chemical properties. The most common example of PC bottles are 9 gallon water bottle and baby milk bottles.

Bisphenol A (BPA) and Polycarbonate

Initially Polycarbonate was made from Bisphenol A route. A research showed that bisphenol A is not good for health and PC bottles banned in many countries. Different plastic are available for bottling that are free from BPA but now a days PC also available in BPA free form.

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) Plastic Bottles

ABS is the most common engineering polymer. ABS is used from pipes to housing and casing for electronic. ABS is also blended with PC and have better properties high impact strength. ABS is also used to make bottles. ABS is a blend of three components

1. Acrylonitrile
2. Butadiene
3. Styrene

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Plastic Bottles

It’s naturally clear resin that is resistant to oils and provides an excellent barrier to most gases. Rigid PVC has excellent resistance to strong acids, bases, and many organic solvents. PVC is also one of the least expensive plastics. PVC Plastic Bottles are an excellent choice for salad dressings, mineral oil, and vinegar. It is also frequently used for shampoos and cosmetic products.

Polypropylene (PP) Plastic Bottles

Is mainly used in the manufacturing of jars, food packaging, laboratory equipment, plastic caps/closures, and auto components. One key advantage of polypropylene is its stability when exposed to high temperatures. This quality allows Polypropylene to be filled with hot products and dishwasher safe food containers.

Polystyrene (PS) Plastic Bottles

It is a clear and rigid economical plastic that is used in disposable cutlery, plastic models, CD and DVD cases, and smoke detector housings. Products made from Extruded polystyrene (XPS) can be found in packing materials, insulation, and foam drink cups.

Polystyrene is not easily recycled due to its light weight (especially if it’s XPS). Polystyrene does not biodegrade, and is often an abundant pollution along beaches and waterways.