Plastic Recycling Numbers Explained: A Complete Guide to Plastic Scrap Recycling Symbols and Resin Identification Codes

 Understanding plastic recycling numbers is one of the easiest ways to recycle plastics correctly and reduce environmental waste. Every day, millions of plastic products are discarded, yet many people are unsure what the numbers inside the recycling symbol actually mean. These numbers—known as resin identification codes (RICs)—identify the type of plastic used in a product and help determine whether it can be recycled.

At IvoryPharInc. com, we are committed to promoting responsible plastic recycling and supporting the global circular economy. As a trusted PET roll scrap supplier, recycled plastic scrap, plastic regrind, and recycled plastic pellets, we believe education is the first step toward reducing plastic pollution and conserving natural resources.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn:

• What plastic recycling numbers mean

• The seven types of plastic and their uses

• Which plastics are recyclable

• Why proper plastic sorting matters

• Tips for effective plastic recycling

• How recycling supports a sustainable future

 

What Are Plastic Recycling Numbers?

Plastic recycling numbers, also called resin identification codes (RICs), are numbers ranging from 1 to 7 found inside the familiar triangular recycling symbol on plastic products.

PET bottle scrap

Introduced in 1988 by the Society of the Plastics Industry (SPI), these numbers identify the specific type of plastic resin used in manufacturing. Contrary to popular belief, the recycling symbol does not automatically mean a product is recyclable. Instead, it identifies the plastic material so recyclers can sort and process it correctly.

Understanding these codes helps consumers:

• Recycle plastics correctly

• Reduce contamination in recycling streams

• Improve recycling efficiency

• Support the production of recycled plastic materials

• Reduce landfill waste and ocean pollution

At Ivory Phar Inc., we encourage businesses and consumers to understand these plastic recycling symbols so they can make environmentally responsible decisions.

 

Why Plastic Recycling Numbers Matter

Every year, hundreds of millions of tons of plastic are produced worldwide. Without proper sorting and recycling, much of this plastic ends up in landfills, rivers, and oceans.

Knowing your plastic recycling symbols helps:

• Improve recycling rates

• Reduce plastic waste

• Lower greenhouse gas emissions

• Preserve natural resources

• Support the circular economy

• Increase demand for recycled plastic scrap

Proper recycling begins with correctly identifying each plastic type.

 

The 7 Plastic Recycling Numbers Explained

Plastic #1 – PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)

PET is one of the most commonly recycled plastics worldwide.

Common Uses

• Water bottles

• Soft drink bottles

• Cooking oil bottles

• Peanut butter jars

• Food packaging

Recyclability

PET is highly recyclable and can be transformed into:

• Polyester clothing

• Carpet fibers

• Packaging straps

• Recycled PET pellets

• New plastic bottles

Because of its excellent recyclability, PET remains one of the most valuable recyclable plastics.

 

Plastic #2 – HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)

HDPE is a durable plastic known for its strength and chemical resistance.

Common Uses

• Milk jugs

• Detergent bottles

• Shampoo bottles

• Chemical containers

• Plastic crates

• Pipes

Recyclability

HDPE is widely accepted by recycling facilities and is commonly processed into:

• Recycling bins

• Plastic lumber

• Drainage pipes

• Outdoor furniture

• HDPE regrind

• Recycled HDPE pellets

HDPE is among the easiest plastics to recycle.

 

Plastic #3 – PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC is widely used in construction because of its durability.

Common Uses

• Plumbing pipes

• Vinyl flooring

• Window frames

• Medical tubing

• Cable insulation

Recyclability

PVC is difficult to recycle because it contains additives and chlorine that complicate processing. Specialized recycling facilities are generally required.

 

PET rolls scrap

Plastic #4 – LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene)

LDPE is valued for its flexibility and moisture resistance.

Common Uses

• Shopping bags

• Bread bags

• Shrink wrap

• Plastic film

• Squeeze bottles

• Packaging film

Recyclability

Although historically difficult to recycle through curbside programs, many recycling facilities and retail collection programs now accept LDPE film scrap.

Recycled LDPE can become:

• Trash bags

• Plastic lumber

• Shipping envelopes

• Composite decking

• Recycled LDPE pellets

 

Plastic #5 – PP (Polypropylene)

Polypropylene offers excellent heat resistance and durability.

Common Uses

• Yogurt containers

• Bottle caps

• Food containers

• Automotive parts

• Medical equipment

• Storage bins

Recyclability

PP recycling continues to expand globally.

Recycled polypropylene is commonly used for:

• Automotive components

• Industrial fibers

• Storage containers

• Plastic pallets

• Battery cases

 

Plastic #6 – PS (Polystyrene)

Polystyrene is lightweight but presents recycling challenges.

Common Uses

• Foam cups

• Egg cartons

• Disposable plates

• Packaging foam

• Take-out containers

Recyclability

Because of its low density and contamination issues, PS is among the least recycled plastics.

Specialized recycling programs may accept clean polystyrene foam.

 

HDPE bottle scrap

Plastic #7 – Other Plastics

Category 7 includes all plastics that do not fit into categories 1 through 6.

Examples include:

• Polycarbonate (PC)

• ABS

• Nylon

• Acrylic (PMMA)

• Bioplastics

• Mixed plastics

Recyclability

Recyclability varies significantly depending on the material composition.

Many Category 7 plastics require specialized recycling technologies.

 

Why Proper Plastic Sorting Is Important

Sorting plastics correctly is essential for producing high-quality recycled materials.

Incorrectly sorted plastics can contaminate entire recycling batches, reducing material quality and increasing processing costs.

Proper sorting allows recyclers to produce:

• Recycled plastic pellets

• Plastic regrind

• Plastic flakes

• Industrial plastic compounds

• New plastic packaging

At Ivory Phar Inc., proper sorting is fundamental to maintaining the quality of recycled plastic scrap supplied to manufacturers worldwide.

 

Environmental Impact of Improper Plastic Recycling

Improper disposal of plastics has serious environmental consequences.

Contaminated Recycling Streams

Mixing non-recyclable plastics with recyclable materials reduces recycling efficiency and increases operational costs.

Landfill Waste

Many plastics require hundreds of years to decompose.

During this period, they occupy valuable landfill space while slowly breaking down into microplastics.

Ocean Pollution

Millions of tons of plastic enter oceans annually, threatening marine ecosystems and wildlife.

Plastic waste harms fish, birds, turtles, and other marine animals through ingestion and entanglement.

Resource Depletion

Every plastic item sent to landfill instead of being recycled increases demand for virgin plastic production, requiring more petroleum, energy, and natural resources.

Increased Carbon Emissions

Manufacturing virgin plastic generates significantly higher greenhouse gas emissions than producing recycled plastic materials.

Choosing recycled plastics helps reduce overall carbon footprints.

 

PET lumps

Tips for Effective Plastic Recycling

Everyone can help improve recycling by following a few simple practices.

Learn Local Recycling Guidelines

Different municipalities accept different plastic types.

Always verify which plastics your local recycling program accepts.

Check the Recycling Number

Look for the resin identification code before placing plastics in the recycling bin.

Clean Plastic Containers

Remove food residue and liquids before recycling.

Clean plastics improve recycling quality.

Keep Materials Dry

Wet recyclables can contaminate paper products and reduce recycling efficiency.

Avoid Bagging Recyclables

Loose recyclables move more efficiently through automated sorting systems.

Plastic bags should typically be recycled separately at designated collection points.

Separate Different Plastic Types

Mixing plastics makes recycling more difficult.

Proper separation increases recovery rates.

Choose Reusable Products

Reducing single-use plastics remains one of the most effective ways to decrease plastic pollution.

Reusable containers, bottles, and shopping bags significantly reduce plastic waste.

 

The Role of Recycled Plastics in the Circular Economy

Recycling transforms discarded plastics into valuable raw materials that can be reused repeatedly.

The circular economy reduces dependence on virgin materials while lowering waste generation.

Recycled plastics are widely used in industries including:

• Packaging

• Automotive manufacturing

• Construction

• Agriculture

• Consumer goods

• Electronics

• Furniture

• Industrial products

High-quality recycled plastic materials help manufacturers reduce costs while meeting sustainability goals.

 

Ivory Phar Inc.: Supporting Sustainable Plastic Recycling

At Ivory Phar Inc., sustainability is at the core of our business. We specialize in supplying high-quality plastic scrap, recycled plastic pellets, plastic regrind, and post-consumer (PCR) and post-industrial (PIR) plastic materials to manufacturers and recycling companies worldwide.

Our product portfolio includes:

• PET bottle scrap

• HDPE scrap

• LDPE film scrap

• LLDPE film scrap

• PP scrap

• ABS scrap

• PMMA (acrylic) scrap

• Polycarbonate (PC) scrap

• Plastic regrind

• Recycled plastic pellets

By promoting responsible recycling practices and supplying reliable recycled plastic materials, we help businesses reduce waste, conserve resources, and build a more sustainable future.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What do the numbers inside the recycling symbol mean?

The numbers identify the type of plastic resin used to manufacture the product. They help recycling facilities sort plastics correctly.

Which plastic recycling number is the easiest to recycle?

PET (#1) and HDPE (#2) are the most widely accepted and recycled plastics worldwide.

Does every recycling symbol mean the plastic is recyclable?

No. The symbol identifies the plastic type, but local recycling programs determine whether that material is accepted.

Why is plastic sorting important?

Proper sorting prevents contamination, improves recycling efficiency, and increases the quality of recycled plastic products.

Can plastic be recycled more than once?

Many plastics can be recycled multiple times, although material quality may gradually decline depending on the polymer and recycling process.

 

Final Thoughts

Understanding plastic recycling numbers empowers consumers and businesses to recycle smarter, reduce waste, and protect the environment. By recognizing the seven plastic resin identification codes, properly sorting plastic waste, and supporting recycled materials, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future.

At Ivory Phar Inc., we believe responsible recycling is essential for building a circular economy. Whether you're a manufacturer, recycler, or environmentally conscious consumer, every correctly recycled plastic roll scrap item helps conserve natural resources, reduce landfill waste, and minimize plastic pollution for future generations.

 

  

E-mail: sales@ivorypharinc.com

Website: https://ivorypharinc.com

#petrollscrapsupplier  #plasticrollscrap #plasticrecycling 

Rethinking Polyethylene Recycling: A Complete Guide to Recycling LDPE, HDPE, and LLDPE Scraps Onsite

Recycling has become one of the most important pillars of sustainable manufacturing and responsible waste management. As industries around the world strive to reduce their environmental footprint, polyethylene (PE) recycling has emerged as a practical and profitable solution. Polyethylene is one of the most widely used plastics globally, found in packaging, agriculture, construction, consumer goods, and countless industrial applications. While its durability and versatility make it indispensable, these same characteristics mean that polyethylene waste can persist in the environment if not properly managed.

For manufacturers and recycling companies, onsite recycling offers an opportunity to transform production waste into valuable raw materials rather than treating it as disposal material. By recovering and reprocessing polyethylene scraps, businesses can lower production costs, reduce landfill waste, minimize virgin resin consumption, and contribute to a circular economy.

In this guide, we'll explore the three primary types of polyethylene—Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), and Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE)—their characteristics, applications, advantages, disadvantages, and modern methods of onsite recycling.

 

Understanding Polyethylene (PE)

Polyethylene is a thermoplastic polymer produced from ethylene monomers. Due to its excellent balance of strength, flexibility, chemical resistance, and affordability, it accounts for a significant share of global plastic production.

The three major categories include:

• Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
• High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
• Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE)

Although they are all polyethylene, differences in molecular structure result in unique physical and mechanical properties that make each suitable for different industrial applications.

 

Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)

LDPE scrap has a density below 0.94 g/cm³ and features a highly branched molecular structure. This branching reduces crystallinity, making LDPE soft, lightweight, flexible, and easy to process.

Its excellent moisture resistance and transparency have made it one of the preferred materials for flexible packaging and protective films.

Advantages of LDPE

Excellent Flexibility

LDPE can bend, stretch, and flex repeatedly without cracking, making it ideal for products requiring softness and elasticity.

High Transparency

Its clarity makes it an excellent choice for food packaging, retail bags, and protective wrapping where product visibility matters.

Outstanding Moisture Resistance

LDPE effectively blocks water and moisture, protecting products during storage and transportation.

Good Chemical Resistance

It resists many acids, alkalis, and alcohols, allowing its use in chemical packaging and industrial liners.

Easy Processing

LDPE melts easily and can be processed through extrusion, injection molding, and blow molding with relatively low energy requirements.

Disadvantages of LDPE

Despite its many benefits, LDPE has several limitations:

• Lower melting point than many engineering plastics
• Poor resistance to prolonged UV exposure
• Lower tensile strength compared to HDPE
• More susceptible to scratching and puncturing

Common Applications of LDPE

LDPE is widely used in:

• Plastic shopping bags
• Stretch films
• Shrink wrap
• Packaging films
• Bubble wrap
• Bread bags
• Squeeze bottles
• Flexible lids
• Agricultural mulch films
• Irrigation tubing
• Protective industrial packaging

 

High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)

HDPE has a density above 0.94 g/cm³ and contains far fewer molecular branches than LDPE. This creates a tightly packed molecular structure that provides exceptional strength and rigidity.

HDPE has become one of the world's most recycled plastics due to its durability and widespread industrial use.

Advantages of HDPE

Superior Strength

HDPE offers excellent impact resistance and can withstand heavy loads without deforming.

Outstanding Chemical Resistance

It resists numerous industrial chemicals, making it suitable for storing detergents, acids, and cleaning agents.

Excellent Weather Resistance

Unlike LDPE, HDPE performs well under outdoor conditions and has better UV resistance when stabilized.

Long Service Life

Products manufactured from HDPE often last for decades, especially in construction and infrastructure applications.

Highly Recyclable

HDPE retains much of its original performance after recycling, making it an ideal material for circular manufacturing.

Disadvantages of HDPE

Some limitations include:

• Lower flexibility than LDPE
• Difficult to glue or bond with adhesives
• Limited resistance to prolonged high temperatures
• Can become brittle under extreme cold conditions

Common Applications of HDPE

HDPE is extensively used for:

• Water pipes
• Gas distribution pipes
• Chemical storage tanks
• Household detergent bottles
• Milk containers
• Industrial drums
• Pallets
• Crates
• Recycling bins
• Playground equipment
• Marine applications

 

Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE)

LLDPE film roll scrap combines many of the advantages of both LDPE and HDPE. With a density between 0.915 and 0.925 g/cm³, it features short linear branches that improve strength without sacrificing flexibility.

Its balance of toughness and elasticity makes it particularly valuable for film applications.

Advantages of LLDPE

Excellent Flexibility

LLDPE maintains flexibility even at low temperatures.

High Tensile Strength

Compared to LDPE, it offers significantly improved puncture and tear resistance.

Superior Stretchability

Its ability to stretch without breaking makes it ideal for stretch wrapping pallets and industrial goods.

Good Impact Resistance

LLDPE withstands rough handling during transportation and storage.

Disadvantages of LLDPE

Some drawbacks include:

• Lower chemical resistance than HDPE
• Limited thermal stability
• Slightly more difficult to process than LDPE
• Requires careful control during extrusion

Common Applications of LLDPE

Typical products include:

• Stretch wrap
• Agricultural films
• Silage wrap
• Packaging films
• Frozen food packaging
• Industrial liners
• Cable insulation
• Trash bags
• Protective covers

 

Comparing LDPE, HDPE, and LLDPE

Property	LDPE	HDPE	LLDPE
Density	Less than 0.94 g/cm³	Greater than 0.94 g/cm³	0.915–0.925 g/cm³
Flexibility	Very High	Low	High
Strength	Low	Very High	Moderate to High
Chemical Resistance	Good	Excellent	Good
Moisture Resistance	Excellent	Excellent	Excellent
UV Resistance	Limited	Good	Moderate
Recyclability	Excellent	Excellent	Excellent

 

Traditional Onsite Recycling Process

For many years, manufacturers have recycled polyethylene scraps using conventional plastic recycling systems. While effective, the process involves multiple labor-intensive stages.

Step 1: Collection

Production waste, rejected products, film trims, and off-cuts are collected throughout the manufacturing facility.

Step 2: Sorting

Different plastic grades are separated to maintain consistent recycled material quality.

Step 3: Washing

Materials are cleaned to remove:

• Dust
• Oil
• Labels
• Dirt
• Adhesives
• Food residues
• Other contaminants

Step 4: Shredding

Large plastic pieces are reduced into smaller flakes using industrial shredders.

Step 5: Melting

The shredded material is heated inside an extruder until molten.

Step 6: Pelletizing

The molten plastic is cut into pellets that can be reused in manufacturing.

Although this method has been the industry standard for decades, it presents several disadvantages:

• High electricity consumption
• Significant water usage
• Multiple machines required
• Large production footprint
• Labor-intensive operation
• Potential degradation of plastic properties due to excessive heat

 

Modern Low-Temperature Onsite Recycling

Advancements in recycling technology have introduced a new generation of compact plastic granulators that simplify onsite recycling while preserving material quality.

Unlike conventional systems, these machines use low-temperature granulation technology, relying primarily on controlled friction rather than excessive external heat.

This approach helps maintain the original molecular characteristics of polyethylene while reducing operating costs and environmental impact.

How the Process Works

The recycling procedure is remarkably simple:

1. Feed the Plastic Scraps

Production scraps, trims, rejected products, and film waste are loaded directly into the machine.

2. Crushing and Softening

Instead of fully melting the plastic immediately, the screw mechanism crushes and gradually softens the material through friction.

3. Extrusion

The softened plastic is extruded into short strands.

4. Pellet Cutting

Rotating blades cut the strands into consistent plastic pellets.

5. Air Cooling

Rather than using water cooling systems, pellets are cooled using air before collection.

The finished pellets can often be reintroduced into the manufacturing process, reducing dependence on virgin polyethylene.

 

Traditional Granulator vs. Modern Low-Temperature Granulator

Feature	Traditional Granulator	Modern Low-Temperature Granulator
Machine Size	Large	Compact
Melting Method	High-temperature heating	Low-temperature friction
Water Cooling	Required	Not required
Energy Consumption	Higher	Lower
Material Quality	Can degrade	Better preserved
Water Pollution	Possible	None
Ease of Operation	Requires skilled operators	User-friendly
Material Preparation	Sorting, washing, shredding	Minimal preparation
Maintenance	Higher	Lower

 

Benefits of Onsite Polyethylene Recycling

Manufacturers increasingly recognize onsite recycling as both an environmental and economic investment.

Key benefits include:

Lower Raw Material Costs

Recycled pellets reduce the amount of virgin resin required for production.

Reduced Waste Disposal

Instead of paying for waste transportation and landfill disposal, companies recover valuable materials.

Increased Production Efficiency

Production scraps can be recycled immediately, minimizing downtime and storage requirements.

Improved Sustainability

Onsite recycling supports corporate environmental goals and helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with producing virgin plastics.

Better Quality Control

Manufacturers maintain complete control over recycled material quality, ensuring consistency in finished products.

Circular Manufacturing

Reintroducing recycled polyethylene into production creates a closed-loop manufacturing process that maximizes resource efficiency.

 

Best Practices for Recycling PE Scraps

To achieve the best recycling results:

• Separate different polyethylene grades whenever possible.
• Remove excessive contamination before processing.
• Monitor pellet quality regularly.
• Blend recycled resin with virgin resin according to product requirements.
• Maintain equipment through regular cleaning and inspection.
• Store recycled pellets in clean, dry environments.

These practices help maintain consistent product quality while maximizing recycling efficiency.

 

Conclusion

Polyethylene remains one of the world's most valuable and versatile plastics, serving industries ranging from packaging and agriculture to construction and consumer products. Whether working with LDPE, HDPE, or LLDPE, effective recycling transforms manufacturing waste into a reusable resource instead of an environmental burden.

While traditional recycling systems continue to play an important role, modern low-temperature onsite granulation technologies offer manufacturers a more efficient, economical, and environmentally friendly alternative. By simplifying the recycling process, preserving the properties of polyethylene, reducing energy and water consumption, and producing high-quality recycled pellets, these advanced systems help businesses improve productivity while supporting sustainability goals.

For plastic manufacturers and recyclers alike, investing in onsite polyethylene scrap recycling is more than a waste-management strategy—it's a smart business decision that reduces costs, conserves natural resources, and contributes to a cleaner, more circular plastics industry.

 

Website: https://ivorypharinc.com/

Email: sales(@)ivorypharinc. com