Plastics are ubiquitous in our modern world and are used in almost every imaginable application from food packaging to medical tools. However, it’s important to understand that not all plastics are created equal. Different types of plastics or plastic resins are used for different purposes, and each type has unique characteristics that make it suitable for specific applications.

Broadly, there are seven categories of plastic resins, each differentiated by structure, chemical composition, and molecular weight. These seven categories are polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), and acrylics.

Polyethylene (PE) is most widely used plastic resin and is used for everything from grocery bags to toys. It’s lightweight, flexible, and durable, making it an ideal choice for packaging and a range of other applications. There are two main types of PE: low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE). LDPE is softer and more flexible, while HDPE is tougher and more rigid.

Polypropylene (PP) is another popular plastic resin that is often used for bottles, containers, and other packaging applications. It is also used for automotive components, ropes, and home appliances. PP has excellent chemical resistance and is also heat-resistant, making it suitable for both hot and cold applications.

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a widely used plastic resin in construction industry. It is often used for plumbing pipes, window frames, vinyl siding, fencing, and electrical cables. PVC is extremely versatile and is available in rigid and flexible forms.

Polystyrene (PS) is an inexpensive plastic resin that is used for a wide variety of applications ranging from food packaging and lids to insulation panels. PS is lightweight and has excellent heat resistance, making it suitable for hot and cold foods.

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a clear plastic resin that is widely used for packaging food and beverages. PET is strong and lightweight, making it suitable for bottles and other containers. It is also highly recyclable.

Polycarbonate (PC) is an incredibly strong, impact-resistant plastic that is used for a range of applications including automotive parts, eyeglasses, and bulletproof windows. PC is also used for plastic bottles and containers and is extremely heat-resistant.

Acrylics are a family of versatile plastic resins often used for signage, aquariums, airplane windows, and lenses. Acrylics are available in both rigid and flexible forms and are extremely durable, making them suitable for a range of applications.

Plastic resins provide a wide range of benefits and are used in a variety of applications. Understanding different types of plastic resins is essential to choosing right material for any application. There are seven main categories of plastic resins: polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, and acrylics. Each plastic resin has unique characteristics that make it suitable for specific applications.