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Types of Plastic Materials

The chemical composition of plastics is not restricted to one definitive structure. In fact, plastic comes in such a wide variety of compositions it can be used for everything from plumbing pipes to garbage bags. The chemical name of a plastic compound reflects its composition, and the compound's properties direct its usage.

  1. Polyethylene Plastics

    • Many products that you use every day are made from polyethylene. Common types of polyethylene plastic include polyethylene terephthalate, high-density polyethylene and low-density polyethylene.

      According to the American Chemistry Council's website, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is used for the packaging of bottled beverages and the packaging of food products, like microwavable food trays and packaging films. Additional polyethylene-based products that you may have in your home are milk bottles and liquid detergent bottles, which are composed of high-density polyethylene, and shopping bags and trash bags, which are composed of low-density polyethylene.

    Polypropylene Plastics

    • Polypropylene plastics do not always have the look of what you would consider "typical" plastics. Their structure allows them great versatility, and they can be made into a wide range of products. While polypropylene can be used to make items like tubs for butter or margarine and dishwasher-safe containers, it is also used as a fiber to make carpets, the kind you would find on a miniature golf course or surrounding some swimming pools.

    Polyvinyl Chloride Plastics

    • Polyvinyl chloride-based plastic products can be found in your kitchen or bathroom. Waste Online lists plastic cling wrap, mineral water bottles, and shampoo bottles as common polyvinyl chloride products. Polyvinyl chloride plastics are not only used in products you may find in your home, but they may also be a part of your home. This plastic is also used for pipes, linoleum flooring and vinyl siding.

    Polystyrene Plastics

    • Polystyrene plastic products may take the shape of traditional looking plastics or foam. Yogurt containers, meat and fish packaging trays, egg cartons, disposable vending cups, electronics packaging, plastic eating utensils and hamburger boxes are common polystyrene plastic products.

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