So far, there are nearly a hundred known types of plastic materials.
There are seven commonly used plastics, namely:
1. Polyethylene terephthalate PET
For example: mineral water bottles, carbonated beverage bottles
Usage: Heat resistant to 70 ℃, only suitable for warm or frozen drinks; High temperature liquids or heating can cause deformation and release harmful substances to the human body.
2. High density polyethylene - HDPE
For example: cleaning products, bath products.
Usage: Can be reused after careful cleaning, but these containers are usually difficult to clean and leave residual cleaning products, becoming a breeding ground for bacteria. It is best not to recycle them.
3. Polyvinyl chloride - PVC
For example, some decorative materials.
Usage: This material is prone to producing harmful substances at high temperatures. If used, do not let it get heated.
4. Low density polyethylene - LDPE
For example: cling film, plastic film, etc.
Usage: It is breathable and impermeable, and has weak heat resistance. When the temperature exceeds 110 ℃, it will experience thermal melting, leaving behind some plastic preparations that cannot be decomposed by the human body.
5. Polypropylene - PP
For example: microwave lunch box.
Usage: This is the only plastic box among the seven that can be placed in a microwave oven and can be reused after cleaning.
6. Polystyrene - PS.
Hong Kong Style Shield
For example: bowl shaped instant noodle box, fast food box.
Usage: It is both heat-resistant and cold resistant, but cannot be placed in a microwave oven to prevent the release of chemicals due to high temperatures.
7. Other plastic codes - Others