The global packaging industry turnover is around $500 billion, with packaging
container sales accounting for the major part and packaging machinery sales estimated
around $25 billion. Used in a wide range of industries across food and drink, healthcare,
cosmetics and other consumer goods as well as a range of industrial sectors, packaging has
become an essential everyday item, with its usage growing broadly in line with the global
economy. Packaging growth is typically higher than GDP in emerging markets, where
increases in standard of living are typically used to buy packaged food, beverages and other
everyday commodities. In mature markets, packaging growth is typically in line with (or
sometimes even below) GDP, as increases in standard of living are often used to consume
services with limited physical packaging content, e.g. travel and tourism. There are, however,
packaging opportunities to outpace GDP also in mature markets, as packaging can be used
as a mean to create services like convenience, tracing etc.
Packaging has accompanied mankind throughout history from the early days when
primitive humans lived as nomadic hunters/ gatherers. These early humans would have been
subject to geographical migration of animals and seasonal availability of plants. This nomadic
lifestyle would typically not encourage property accumulation beyond what could be carried
on ones back. Nonetheless, these people also needed containment and carrying devices.
Early packages in these days were typically wraps of leaves, animal skins, shells of nuts or
hollow wood pieces. Packaging has developed tremendously since those days, reflecting
human society development via domestication of plants and animals to farming followed by
industrialization and later information and knowledge society (to make a very simplified
overview of World history). Throughout these stages different style packaging has always been
around, to support contemporary lifestyles,
The need for packaging has been long-lasting/ sustainable, but the designs,
materials, styles and functions have evolved and developed tremendously over the years. Also
new growth segments, such as active and smart packaging, often have long roots in history.
A wooden cask is an early example of active packaging for wine with beneficial effects on
quality in the maturity and aging process for wine. Nowadays, wooden barrels have passed
maturity stage in its packaging concept life cycle, and are in a declining phase, being replaced
by cost and resource leaner solutions for many applications.
Today market demands are getting stronger for packaging development supporting a
sustainable society. Packaging must perform well in all three dimensions of sustainability, i.e.
people (social), profit (economy) and planet (environment). A good package should be cost-
efficient and provide value to generate revenue, it should have a good user interface
(handleability, information etc) and should be lean on resources, recoverable and prevent its
contents from being spoilt. Innovation, knowledge generation and transfer are key elements
to realize this and WPO World Packaging Organization tries to contribute through e.g. the
World Star (Student) Award Scheme, within the framework of its mission: Better Quality of
Life through Better Packaging to More People.
The health of the packaging industry is strongly linked to that of the world economy as
a whole. However, reliant upon upstream industries for their raw materials, packaging
converters have to cope with fluctuations in raw material prices, dependent upon levels of
supply and demand. In a climate of low overall inflation, rising prices for raw materials have
put something of a squeeze on converters. Downward pressure on prices is being exerted by
brand owners and retailers alike exacerbated by moves towards consolidation at all levels
of the supply chain. In addition, moves towards central purchasing by packaging buyers have
also impacted upon packaging margins.
To summarize, also in limited growth, mature markets in Western Europe, Japan and
North America, there remain opportunities for growth driven by more functional and
convenient packaging, as well as general growth across a range of consumer goods areas. At
the same time, rapid growth in packaging usage in the fast-growing economies of Asia, Middle
East, Latin America and also eastern Europe has presented new opportunities for packaging
suppliers.
Out of all these factors, health awareness was regarded as the single most important
driver to growth in the packaging industry in a Pira survey of the WPO membership. The ageing
of the populations throughout the world was considered the least important driver to growth
in the market, although even in this case, more than half of all respondents considered this
to be important to some degree.
Economic trends
The economy is the single most important influence on packaging consumption. The
level of economic activity has a fairly direct influence on demand for bulk/ transport packaging
in particular and indirectly provides the right or wrong climate for investment into packaging
material research and development.
In recent years, the progression of the world economy has been strong but also
unevenly distributed, with rising oil and raw material prices and strong growth particularly in
emerging markets. In the US, the economy is slowing down (lead by declining property prices)
and the resulting financial turmoil may slow down the World economic development in the
years ahead.
Demographic trends
Much is said about the potential of Chinas one billion consumers, but demographic
factors often have a much more complex effect on demand trends. In the packaging market,
a great deal of attention has been devoted to ensuring that the offer responds to the demands
of particular demographic segments, and takes into account the ageing of the worlds
population that is now occurring.
The population of the world currently stands at 6.47 billion, up from 4.07 billion people
in 1975, and set to grow to around 9.08 billion by 2050 taking the average of UN forecasts.
By the same measure, the population of Africa will more than double to 1.94 billion, while that
of Asia will grow by around one third to 5.2 billion. The population of Europe, meanwhile, is
forecast to decline, from 728 million to 653 million, with the population of the worlds more
developed regions set to rise only slightly, from 1.21 billion to 1.24 billion.
China is currently the worlds most populous nation with a population of 1.32 billion,
ahead of India at 1.1 billion and the USA at 298 million. India is set to overtake China by 2050,
when its population will have risen to 1.59 billion versus Chinas 1.39 billion.
Lifestyle issues
Lifestyle trends that are today impacting upon consumer purchasing decisions are
important. For the packaging industry, many of these trends are positive, encouraging
innovation and expansion of e.g. chilled cabinet selections in supermarkets. Consumers are
becoming increasingly demanding and short of time, seeking out convenience food solutions
that represent an advance on more traditional processed foods. The expectations of food
quality are rising and growing awareness of health and other issues present new challenges
to retailers, packers and packaging suppliers alike.
2. Convenience
Rising sales of convenience foods and developments in convenience food
packaging have been a major feature of packaging markets in recent times. Packaging
technology has developed to the extent that the ready-meal offer has improved
significantly, attracting a broader and also wealthier customer base than was
previously possible, as consumers are prepared to pay a premium for quality, pre-
prepared meals.
3. Health awareness
Consumer health concerns are an increasing influence in many end-use markets
for packaging. Examples include:
Rising sales of bottled water, fruit juice and milk drink markets in many countries,
to the detriment of spirits and, in some countries, carbonated soft drinks;
Increasing demand for packaged fresh food products.
4. On-the-go lifestyles
On-the-go lifestyles have emerged as a result of several factors. Longer
working hours, longer commuting times, and a wider range of leisure activities have all
contributed to the notion of time-poor consumers. In addition, consumers are less
inclined to spend what valuable time they have preparing food. The main consequence
of this has been an increased incidence of snacking during the day and rising out-of-
home consumption as well as a greater reliance on ready-prepared foods in the
evening.
Brand issues
The power of the global brands continues to increase strongly. Where markets
are dominated by a small number of companies, the success or otherwise of a new
packaging product can often be assured by its adoption by just one major global brand.
Aside from quickly generating a high level of demand in its own right, this also tends
to bring with it copycat switches by minor brands.
2. Retail trends
The retail industry is increasing in power and diversity. Hypermarkets are
usually sited outside the city centre, while discounters can be found everywhere and
specialty stores are usually in the larger cities. Convenience stores continue to make
headway and grow strongly, located in airports, train station and city centers.
On-line retailing, with goods, either being delivered through the post or via
retailers own fleets of delivery vans, is expanding strongly. Today, items delivered are
often "over packed" in packs that are not specifically designed for the purpose. In the
future, packaging development tailored to the needs of on-line retailing will be
necessary.
Active packaging
Intelligent packaging
Nanotechnology
Digital print for packaging
Environmental concerns have led to governments throughout the World taking steps
to deal with the issue of packaging waste and recycling. Packaging directives from the
European Commission, for example, have led to the imposition of challenging targets for
recycling, and national governments are also examining new ways to discourage packaging
waste. Landfill is a major political issue, with landfill taxes and ban on landfill of organic
material being introduced by governments in some cases before the necessary
infrastructure is in place to provide alternatives to disposal.
In the light of climate change and environmental concerns, major retailers and brand
owners have started to put pressure on suppliers, demanding carbon footprints and
sustainable business practices. Also Consumers have begun to desire all things natural,
unaffected by unnatural processes, hence the suspicion of GM foods, etc. The packaging
industry has taken steps to address the environmental question, but this has been more of a
function of cooperation with government rather than a broader perspective. A broad
collaboration throughout the value chain will be required in the future to address
sustainability, avoiding sub-optimization.
One effect of constant pressure on industry to reduce resource use and cost
together with environmental legislation, has been to encourage the packaging industry
to reduce the amount of packaging used, by lightweighting of materials, with examples
across metal, glass, plastic and paper and board packaging. This has been made
possible through the development of new technologies aimed at the strengthening of
materials through new formulations and processes, factors which have also influenced
other packaging materials areas.
Materials
Packaging material outlooks towards a $1 trillion milestone in
2020
Booming global demand will drive expansion in the world packaging market across the
next five years according to the latest analysis from Smithers Pira.
In its flagship report The Future of Global Packaging to 2020, Smithers Pira data charts
how a market value forecast at $839 billion (768billion) in 2015, will undergo healthy year-
on-year growth at 3.5%, reaching $998 million in 2020.
Expansion will not be uniform however. Emerging countries will expand beyond the
market average, creating new opportunities for material suppliers and converters.
Simultaneously more established regions are undergoing significant business and
demographic changes that will transform value chains in the packaging segment.
1.
2. Rigid plastics will increase market share
Rigid plastic will experience the highest annual growth across the study period 4.4%
year-on-year. This can primarily be attributed to the popularity of plastics, like polyethylene
terephthalate (PET), as substitutes for heavier metal cans and glass bottles formats. As a
lightweight option these meet the dual goal of reduced material consumption and cost; and a
reduced CO2 footprint during transit.
Greatest expansion will occur in the next five years in new regions like Africa, the
Middle East and Asia. Conversely in some developed markets, like Australia, demand for rigid
plastic is reaching a saturation point in certain key applications such as carbonated soft drinks
and bottled water. Strong competition between rigid plastic packaging and flexible plastic
packaging in particular is a source of growth, as various food and beverage applications could
utilize either plastic type.
Smithers Piras data shows that Asia will continue to be the most significant regional
market for flexible format packaging, and will increase its relative share of sales 42% to nearly
45% between 2015 and 2020.
Global food will continue to dominate the market for flexible packaging aligning with
the pan-industry demand for lightweight packaging.
containers by their neck fixtures will allow flexible formats to displace rigid PET in the beverage
segment where its penetration has hitherto been limited.
The rise of online retail has been one consumer shift that is responsible for much of
the recent growth in the board packaging market, an application where it is the dominant
format. Emerging markets such as China and India shop online as frequently as more
developed countries, and consumers increasingly prefer digital shopping over physical retail
experiences. This provides several key aspects of board packaging that are changing. For
example 3040% of online purchases are returned, meaning that their packaging must be
easily opened and resealed.
In the future, e-commerce will likely see even further focus on tailoring board
packaging to maximize the end-user experience.
Metal packaging will mirror the average annual growth in packaging for 2015-2020
according to Smithers Piras data.
Aerosol cans have seen an overall increase in demand as personal care, cosmetics,
household and automotive care industries grow steadily. This growth is primarily centred on
the growing consumer class in Asia. There will be scope for innovation too, looking to repeat
the success of the likes of Unilever that has cut its aluminium use by 24 tonnes per year after
moving its deodorants to a 50% smaller compressed can format in 2013.
1. Food
2. Beverages
Across alcoholic drinks markets, there has been a general trend whereby wine
consumption has been falling in the traditional wine-producing nations such as France
and Italy, losing share to beer, while the reverse is true in the UK and other such
markets where beer is the traditional choice and wine is almost always imported. On
the whole, consumer preferences are converging, although there are instances where
consumption has grown in traditional markets, such as vodka sales in Russia
(principally due to pent-up demand from supply shortages in the past) and beer sales
in the Czech Republic. Russia and the Czech Republic rank one worldwide in per capita
consumption of spirits and beer respectively.
3. Healthcare
The key event in 2005 was the merger of Procter & Gamble (P&G) and Gillette
in a deal valued at some $57 billion. P&G is among the top three players in cosmetics
alongside LOral and Unilever and ahead of Japanese number one Shiseido, with
P&Gs portfolio encompassing major make-up brands such as Max Factor and Cover
Girl, Oil of Olay skin care and Head and Shoulders shampoo. The Gillette deal will make
P&G the leader in global mens lines, and also add a number of other major consumer
brands such as Duracell and Braun.
5. Industrial/bulk packaging
The global market for industrial and bulk (transport) packaging was valued at
$105 billion in 2004, representing an increase of 5% on 2003. At $30.8 billion, North
America represents the single largest market with a 30% share set to fall to 27%,
behind Asia by 2009. Overall sales are forecast to grow at an average rate of 2% over
the period to reach $117 billion.
Growth in packaging consumption has remained positive and reliably strong for the
Asian region, according to new report
The definitive study on the global packaging industry, The Future of Global Packaging
to 2020 examines current market sizes, market and technology trends and forecast demand
over the next five years.
Asia accounted for the largest share of the packaging market in 2014, followed by
North America and Western Europe. Growth in packaging consumption has remained positive
and reliably strong for the Asian region and there is still much potential for growth as the
consumer class becomes more fully realised and consumption of cosmetics and other fast
moving consumer goods as well as healthcare grows.
Flexible plastic packaging was the fastest growing market globally in 2014, followed
by rigid plastic packaging and board packaging as the third fastest growing sector. Looking
ahead, flexible plastic packaging is predicted to continue as the fastest growing packaging
category.
Sustainability issues have enhanced the focus and presence of lightweighting upon
the industry. It has become a common trend for packaging converters to reduce the weight of
their products in order to reduce costs associated with transportation, reduce CO2 emissions,
and to help create a more sustainable supply chain. In the last 20 years, the weight of an
average 50cl plastic bottle has come down by around 50%. Lightweighting is also occurring in
other markets such as metal, glass, and board.
Thanks to the vibrant economy of the Philippines, the packaging industry enjoyed
volume growth in 2015. This supported growth in different packaging categories as
consumers become increasingly affluent. For example, flexible plastic registered the most
dynamic growth in dog and cat food packaging since the higher disposable income of Filipinos
encouraged pet owners to move away from feeding their pets with table scraps or leftover
food. Similarly, despite the sluggish growth of the alcoholic drinks industry, glass bottles
continued to dominate packaging for alcoholic drinks. The stronger demand for different
industries such as beauty and personal care, soft drinks and food drove favourable volume
sales for PET bottles, which support convenient and on-the-go usage or consumption.
With the growing importance of convenience in the busier lives of Filipino consumers,
closures play an important role in highlighting a products functionality and ease of use. During
the review period, easy-to-use products became prominent, contributing to the volume growth
of closures. For instance, plastic screw closure, which is the most popular form of closure in
the non-alcoholic drinks industry, remained a predominant closure type in sauces, dressings
and condiments. It is not only used for plastic jars, glass bottles and plastic bottles but also
for aluminium/plastic pouches. The rise in metal screw closures for wine also indicates not
just stronger demand for wine in the country, but also the convenience aspect of this type of
closure since it does not require a cork screw. Moreover, for the beauty and personal care
industry, lotion pumps is an example of the use of a closure to emphasise a products
convenience. Specifically, lotion pumps closures are not only being seen in huge pack types
of lotions, conditioners and other personal care products, they are also being utilised as
convenient closures for products such as facial make-up and other skin care products.
Evidently, closures will continue to have an important role in addressing a products durability
and convenience for the packaging of different industries.
San Miguel Yamamura Packaging Corp was the leading local manufacturer in a
packaging industry dominated by local players during the review period. The player benefitted
from supplying sister companies under San Miguel Corp. In 2015, the company acquired
Vinocor Worldwide Direct Pty Ltd, an Australian-based packaging supplier of wine bottles and
closures such as cork and screw caps. Due to the fierce competition within packaging and the
different demands from different industries, other local players increasingly focused on
marketing new pack types rather than specialising in a single format. Meanwhile, Tetra Pak
Philippines Incs dominance in liquid cartons through a comprehensive portfolio and
established brand presence allowed the company to remain the most prominent international
player in the packaging industry.
The increasing affluence of Filipino consumers has supported demand for premium
products within different industries. Manufacturers had turned to packaging design and labels
to pursue premiumisation during the review period. For instance, local alcoholic drinks brands
such as Don Papa, Manille de Liqueur and Pedro Brewcrafters have premium-looking and
artistic packaging to attract young and affluent consumers. Similarly, premium confectionery
brands use elegantly designed folding cartons to exude an image of quality. Also, the
packaging design of new beauty and personal care products targeted for men adapted a
simpler look and dark colours to attain an elegant image and attract consumers across
income classes and not only from middle and high income groups.
With the economic conditions in the Philippines expected to improve over the forecast
period, the packaging industry is expected to have a positive outlook. Rigid plastic packaging,
particularly PET bottles, will likely continue to drive volume growth within the industry. The
growth of primary packaging and the demand for convenience will likely drive up demand for
closures as well. Pack sizes, however, is expected to remain polarised since shrinking
household sizes and the on-the-go lifestyles of consumers has led to greater demand for
single-portion packaged food and beverages products. Meanwhile improved household
incomes have encouraged consumers to trade up from sachet formats to big pack sizes in
home care.
POLYETHYLENE FAMILY
Polyethylene or polyethene (IUPAC name polyethene or poly(methylene)) is the most
common plastic. The annual global production is around 80 million tonnes Its primary use is
in packaging (plastic bags, plastic films, geomembranes, containers including bottles, etc.). Many
kinds of polyethylene are known, with most having the chemical formula (C2H4)n.
STRUCTURE
Polyethylene is the most popular plastic in the world. This is the polymer that makes grocery
bags, shampoo bottles, children's toys, and even bullet proof vests. For such a versatile material, it
has a very simple structure, the simplest of all commercial polymers. A molecule of polyethylene is
nothing more than a long chain of carbon atoms, with two hydrogen atoms attached to each carbon
atom.
Sometimes it's a little more
complicated. Sometimes some
of the carbons, instead of having
hydrogens attached to them, will
have long chains or branches of
polyethylene attached to them.
This is called branched, or low-
density polyethylene, or LDPE.
When there is no branching, it is
called linear polyethylene, or
HDPE. Linear polyethylene is
much stronger than branched
polyethylene, but branched
polyethylene is cheaper and
easier to make. It is also more
flexible and works great for
sandwich wrap.
Naphtha is extracted from crude oil. Naphtha is another word for petroleum. By strongly
heating up ("crack) the naphtha, ethylene is released. In a factory this ethylene is transformed into
polyethylene. The word polyethylene means: "a lot of ethylene parts. These invisible tiny ethylene
parts form the building blocks for polyethylene during the production.
During production polyethylene can already be given a certain characteristic. One can choose
for a stiffer or for a more elastic type. These features dont only determine what kind of things can be
manufactured from polyethylene, but also how easily it can be done. Whether polyethylene has a stiff
or elastic character depends on the "density of the material and on the "liquidity in its melted form.
The density and liquidity also largely depend on the amount of pressure that is applied during the
production of polyethylene. The result of a "low or on the other hand a "high pressure is as follows:
When producing polyethylene at low pressure it gets a high density. The invisible small substance
particles form "straight, robust and tightly packed branches. The result is "dense polyethylene, with
a firm and stiff structure that can be compared with a bundle of straight branches that cannot be
pressed further.
Manufacturing polyethylene at high pressure on the other hand leads to a low density. The particles
form a crisscross of branches and side branches with, literally, no "line. The weight of this less "dense
polyethylene is lighter. It sticks together more loosely and can be compared to a bundle of sticks of
young and elastic wood with a lot of side branches that are also branched off. When you press on such
a bundle and let go of it, it bounces back into shape. So elasticity right from the beginning.
Whether polyethylene has a liquid character or not depends on the so-called "melting index. This
technical word indicates how slowly or how quickly the melted mass flows through a gap. It is not
surprising that the "dense, solid polyethylene flows slowly and with difficulty, as it has a stiff and tough
character. The "less dense and looser polyethylene flows much easier. When it is solidified, it feels
more flexible and it is more elastic.
LDPE is defined by a density range of 0.9100.940 g/cm3. LDPE has a high degree of short- and long-
chain branching, which means that the chains do not pack into the crystal structure as well. It has,
therefore, less strong intermolecular forces as the instantaneous-dipole induced-dipole attraction is
less. This results in a lower tensile strength and increased ductility. LDPE is created by free-radical
polymerization. The high degree of branching with long chains gives molten LDPE unique and desirable
flow properties. LDPE is used for both rigid containers and plastic film applications such as plastic
bags and film wrap.
The radical polymerization process used to make LDPE does not include a catalyst that "supervises"
the radical sites on the growing PE chains. (In HDPE synthesis, the radical sites are at the ends of the
PE chains, because the catalyst stabilizes their formation at the ends.) Secondary radicals (in the
middle of a chain) are more stable than primary radicals (at the end of the chain), and tertiary radicals
(at a branch point) are more stable yet. Each time an ethylene monomer is added, it creates a primary
radical, but often these will rearrange to form more stable secondary or tertiary radicals. Addition of
ethylene monomers to the secondary or tertiary sites creates branching.
The oldest type. A soft, tough and flexible polyethylene type, used for strong, flexible consumer items,
like screw caps and lids. For a long time already, it is also used as insulation material. At present the
most popular application is foil, from which carrier bags, packaging material and agricultural plastic
are made. During the high water levels in Holland in the last years, the tough strong LDPE foil served
as an improvised reinforcement for the dikes.
This is the sturdiest and most inflexible type. Its sturdy and somewhat tough character can be used
for a large range of applications. For example the well-known gift-container and a number of everyday
domestic products like bottles, clothes pegs and the handle of a washing-up brush. Although HDPE is
quite heavy, it can also be used for paper-thin foil that is extremely light and feels crispy. All of us use
this type of foil daily; examples are sandwich bags, pedal bin bags or packaging for vegetables, fruit or
meats.
HDPE is defined by a density of greater or equal to 0.941 g/cm3. HDPE has a low degree of branching.
The mostly linear molecules pack together well, so intermolecular forces are stronger than in highly
branched polymers. HDPE can be produced by chromium/silica catalysts, Ziegler-Natta
catalysts or metallocene catalysts; by choosing catalysts and reaction conditions, the small amount of
branching that does occur can be controlled. These catalysts prefer the formation of free radicals at
the ends of the growing polyethylene molecules. They cause new ethylene monomers to add to the
ends of the molecules, rather than along the middle, causing the growth of a linear chain.
HDPE has high tensile strength. It is used in products and packaging such as milk jugs, detergent
bottles, butter tubs, garbage containers, and water pipes. One-third of all toys are manufactured from
HDPE. In 2007, the global HDPE consumption reached a volume of more than 30 million tons.
LLDPE (LINEAR LOW-DENSITY POLYETHYLENE): A MIXTURE OF BOTH PREVIOUS-MENTIONED TYPES
With this polyethylene one can go into every direction. It has some features from both of the previous-
mentioned types. Both flexible and sturdy products are made from it. LLDPE is generally used in
mixtures with one of the previously mentioned materials. Amongst others, even thinner foils can be
produced. It is also used for multi-layer packaging. LLDPE is extremely tough and inflexible. These
features can be used for the production of larger items, like covers, storage bins and some types of
containers.
POLYPROPYLENE FAMILY
DESCRIPTION
STRUCTURE:
Structurally, it's a vinyl polymer, and is similar to polyethylene, only that on every other carbon atom in
the backbone chain has a methyl group attached to it. Polypropylene can be made from the monomer
propylene by Ziegler-Natta polymerization and by metallocene catalysis polymerization.
Polypropylene can be made with different tacticities. Most polypropylene are is isotactic. This means
that all the methyl groups are on the same side of the chain, like this:
But sometimes there are atactic polypropylene. Atactic means that the methyl groups are placed
randomly on both sides of the chain like this:
This polymer is rubbery, and makes a good elastomer. This is because the isotactic blocks will
form crystals by themselves. But because the isotactic blocks are joined to the atactic blocks, the little
hard clumps of crystalline isotactic polypropylene are tied together by soft rubbery tethers of atactic
polypropylene.
Atactic polypropylene would be rubbery without help from the isotactic blocks, but it wouldn't
be very strong. The hard isotactic blocks hold the rubbery isotactic material together, to give the
material more strength. Most kinds of rubber have to be crosslinked to give them strength, but not
polypropylene elastomers.
There are two main types of polypropylene available: homopolymers and copolymers. The copolymers
are further divided into block copolymers and random copolymers. Each category fits certain
applications better than the others. Polypropylene is often called the steel of the plastic industry
because of the various ways in which it can be modified or customized to best serve a particular
purpose. This is usually achieved by introducing special additives to it or by manufacturing it in a very
particular way. This adaptability is a vital property.
Homopolymer polypropylene is a general-purpose grade. You can think of this like the default state of
the polypropylene material. Block copolymer polypropylene has co-monomer units arranged in blocks
(that is, in a regular pattern) and contain anywhere between 5% to 15% ethylene. Ethylene improves
certain properties, like impact resistance while other additives enhance other properties. Random
copolymer polypropylene as opposed to block copolymer polypropylene has the co-monomer units
arranged in irregular or random patterns along the polypropylene molecule. They are usually
incorporated with anywhere between 1% to 7% ethylene and are selected for applications where a
more malleable, clearer product is desired.
POLYSTYRENE FAMILY
STRUCTURE
Polystyrene is a vinyl polymer. Structurally, it is a long hydrocarbon chain, with a phenyl group
attached to every other carbon atom. Polystyrene is produced by free radical vinyl polymerization, from
There's a new kind of polystyrene out there, called syndiotactic polystyrene. It's different
because the phenyl groups on the polymer chain are attached to alternating sides of the polymer
backbone chain. "Normal" or atactic polystyrene has no order with regard to the side of the chain on
which the phenyl groups are attached.
Atactic polystyrene
The only commercially important form of polystyrene is atactic, in which the phenyl groups
are randomly distributed on both sides of the polymer chain. This random positioning prevents the
chains from aligning with sufficient regularity to achieve any crystallinity. The plastic has a glass
transition temperature Tg of ~90 C. Polymerization is initiated with free radicals.
Syndiotactic polystyrene
Ziegler-Natta polymerization can produce an ordered syndiotactic polystyrene with the phenyl groups
positioned on alternating sides of the hydrocarbon backbone. This form is highly crystalline with a Tmof
270 C (518 F). Syndiotactic polystyrene resin is currently produced under the trade name XAREC by
Idemitsu corporation. Syndiotactic polystyrene is prepared by combining a metallocene catalyst with a
styrene monomer to generate a polystyrene chain with a syndiotactic structure.
POLYVINYL CHLORIDE
STRUCTURE
Structurally, PVC is a vinyl polymer. It's similar to polyethylene, but on every other carbon in the
backbone chain, one of the hydrogen atoms is replaced with a chlorine atom. It's produced by the free
radical polymerization of vinyl chloride.
POLYETHYLENE TEREPHTHALATE
PET is a clear, strong, and lightweight plastic that is widely used for packaging foods and beverages,
especially convenience-sized soft drinks, juices and water. Virtually all single-serving and 2-liter bottles
of carbonated soft drinks and water sold in the U.S. are made from PET. It is also popular for packaging
salad dressings, peanut butter, cooking oils, mouthwash, shampoo, liquid hand soap, window cleaner,
even tennis balls. Special grades of PET are used for carry-home food containers and prepared food
trays that can be warmed in the oven or microwave.
The basic building blocks of PET are ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid, which are combined
to form a polymer chain. The resulting spaghetti-like strands of PET are extruded, quickly cooled, and
cut into small pellets. The resin pellets are then heated to a molten liquid that can be easily extruded
or molded into items of practically any shape.
PET was first synthesized in North America in the mid-1940s by DuPont chemists searching for new
synthetic fibers. DuPont later branded its PET fiber as "Dacron." Today, more than half of the world's
synthetic fiber is made from PET, which is called "polyester" when used for fiber or fabric applications.
When used for containers and other purposes, it is called PET or PET resin.
In the late 1950s, researchers found a way to stretch a thin extruded sheet of PET in two directions to
create PET film, which is now used extensively for video, photo and packaging films. In the early 1970s,
the technology was developed for blow-stretch molding PET into bottles. The PET bottle was patented
in 1973.
STRUCTURE
The structure in the picture is called poly(ethylene terephthalate), or PET for short, because it
is made up of ethylene groups and terephthalate groups.
The ester groups in the polyester chain are polar, with the carbonyl oxygen atom having a
somewhat negative charge and the carbonyl carbon atom having a somewhat positive charge. The
positive and negative charges of different ester groups are attracted to each other. This allows the
ester groups of nearby chains to line up with each other in crystal form, which is why they can form
strong fibers.
1. POLYETHYLENE FAMILY
The most commonly used PE in packaging applications are HDPE, LDPE, and LLDPE.
Properties
HDPE is known for its large strength-to-density ratio. Although the density of HDPE is
only marginally higher than that of low-density polyethylene, HDPE has little branching, giving
it stronger intermolecular forces and tensile strength than LDPE. It is also harder and more
opaque and can withstand somewhat higher temperatures (120C/ 248F for short periods,
110C/ 230F continuously). High-density polyethylene, unlike polypropylene, cannot
withstand normally required autoclaving conditions.
Molded parts made from high density polyethylene are opaque white materials. To the
touch, they feel slightly waxy. Unless there has been thermal degradation during molding, high
density polyethylene has no discernible taste or smell. High density polyethylene is the stiffest
of all polyethylene; a 1/8 in. thick molded plaque can be flexed slightly by hand. Aggressive
manipulation can produce permanent deformation, with some whitening in the bend region.
Thin films have a distinctive crisp sound when handled and readily take on permanent
creases.
When stretched, films deform substantially by necking, certain portions deforming
more than others, becoming white in the process. Once punctured, thin films of high density
polyethylene tear readily.
resistance. The chemical resistance and low permeability of high density polyethylene
sheeting are exploited in its use as a liner sheet for liquid and solid waste containment pits.
Fabricated items may be cross-linked to further improve their resistance to chemical and
physical abuse in such applications as chemical storage tanks and small water craft.
Figure. (L-R) Liquid containments, Drums for water and chemical storage, Bottle caps
b. LOW-DENSITY POLYETHYLENE
Properties
LDPE has a natural milky color. It is not reactive at room temperatures, except by strong
oxidizing agents, and some solvents cause swelling. It can withstand temperatures of 80C
continuously and 95C for a short time.
Since its molecules are less tightly packed and less crystalline because of the side
branches, its density is lower. Moreover, LDPE has more branching so its intermolecular forces
(instantaneous-dipole induced-dipole attraction) are weaker. As a result, its tensile strength
is lower (it is breakable), its resilience is higher (it can stretch up to 6 times its original length
before breaking), and it has low-melting point. It can be made translucent or opaque.
LDPE has an excellent chemical resistance to dilute and concentrated acids, alcohols,
bases and esters as it doesnt react at all to these substances. It has very low chemical
reactivity to aldehydes, ketones and vegetable oils. However, it has poor resistance and not
recommended for use with halogenated hydrocarbons
Figure. Cartons used for liquids made up from layers of paper board and LDPE
Properties
Linear low-density polyethylene differs structurally from conventional low-density
polyethylene (LDPE) because of the absence of long chain branching. In general, LLDPE is
produced at lower temperatures and pressures by copolymerization of ethylene and such
higher alpha-olefins as butene, hexene, or octene. The copolymerization process produces a
LLDPE polymer that has a narrower molecular weight distribution than conventional LDPE and
in combination with the linear structure, significantly different rheological properties.
Items molded from linear low density polyethylene resins are generally somewhat hazy
white materials. Surfaces feel slightly waxy and have little if any surface bloom. They exhibit
no discernible taste or odor. Depending on the co-monomer content, they can vary from being
quite flexible to being stiff materials that flex only slightly before a permanent set is achieved.
The maximum stiffness exhibited is only slightly less than that of the softest high density
polyethylene samples.
Thin films of linear low density polyethylene appear quite clear. LLDPE has higher
tensile strength and higher impact and puncture resistance than does LDPE. Films are highly
resistant to being punctured or torn. Film deformation proceeds by necking, the deformed
region becoming hazy.
The majority of linear low density polyethylene falls within the density range
encompassed by LDPE and thus shares many of the same markets. However, the largest
market of LLDPE is the production of plastic films because of its superior toughness over LDPE
films. Such films are used in many packaging and non-packaging applications. Most stretch
film is made from either cast or blown extruded LLDPE. LLDPE offers the high stretch rate
needed for stretch film. Many polyethylene bundling shrink films are made with Low-density
polyethylene. The low-density polyethylene offers a low shrink temperature and excellent
clarity. One of the most common uses for polyethylene bundling film is for wrapping water
bottles and canned goods. The polyethylene bundling film is thicker and offers more strength
than polyolefin or PVC shrink film. Items such as food container lids and toys, where flexibility
combined with toughness is needed, are injection molded LLDPE.
Figure. (L-R) Stretch film used in non-food wrapping, and Bundling shrink film used for
wrapping bottles and cans
2. POLYPROPYLENE
Properties
PP has a density ranging from 0.88 -0.92 g/in3, which is lower than other engineered
thermoplastics. Polypropylene is normally tough and flexible, especially when copolymerized
with ethylene. This allows polypropylene to be used as an engineering plastic, competing with
materials such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Polypropylene is often opaque or
colored using pigments. It can be made translucent when uncolored but is not as readily made
transparent. Randomly polymerized ethylene monomer added to polypropylene homo-polymer
decreases the polymer crystallinity, lowers the melting point and makes the polymer more
transparent.
Polypropylene has good resistance to fatigue. It is non-toxic and highly resistant to
most alkalis and acid and organic solvents. It has high tensile and compressive strength,
highly resistant to cracking and puncture, and most importantly it can retain its stiffness and
flexibility intact even at very high temperatures (160C), but as a rule, PP may be used at
temperatures ranging from 93C -149if not stressed. It also stretches, although less than
polyethylene.
Figure. (L-R) Laboratory items, PP and Aluminum layer plastic film packaging used in chips and snacks
Because of its high melting point, PP works very well for use in food containers where
temperatures can reach high levels such as microwaves and in dishwashers. Many plastic
items for medical or laboratory use can be made from polypropylene because it can withstand
the heat in an autoclave.
Most plastic tubs for dairy products are polypropylene sealed with aluminum foil (both
heat-resistant materials). After the product has cooled, the tubs are often given lids made of
a less heat-resistant material, such as LDPE or polystyrene.
Due to the resistance to fatigue, this means that it can be used on items that are going
to have high stress, such as hinge mechanisms on water bottles and more.
Rugged, translucent, reusable plastic containers made in a wide variety of shapes and
sizes commonly made of polypropylene, although the lids are often made of somewhat more
flexible LDPE so they can snap on to the container to close it.
Polypropylene can also be made into disposable bottles to contain liquid, powdered,
or similar consumer products, although HDPE and polyethylene terephthalate are commonly
also used to make bottles.
It can also be produced in sheet form, widely used for the production of stationery
folders, packaging, and storage boxes.
It is an excellent alternative to others because it does not contain BPA. BPA is not a
safe option for food packaging since this chemical has been shown to leach into the food
products. It has been linked to various health issues, especially in children.
3. POLYSTYRENE
Properties
Polystyrene is very chemically inert, being resistant to acids
and bases but is easily dissolved by many chlorinated solvents, and
many aromatic hydrocarbon solvents. It is attacked by many organic
solvents, which dissolve the polymer. Polystyrene is combustible and
like all organic compounds, polystyrene burns to give carbon dioxide
and water vapor. Polystyrene, being an aromatic hydrocarbon,
typically combusts incompletely as indicated by the sooty flame.
Polystyrene can be made solid or foamed. Polystyrene can be made solid or foamed.
Solid polystyrene is clear, hard and brittle. It is a rather poor barrier to oxygen and water vapor
and has relatively low melting point. It can be naturally transparent, but can be colored with
colorants.
Foamed polystyrene is of two common types: extruded (XPS) and expanded (EPS). A
popular brand of extruded polystyrene foam is called Styrofoam which is owned by Dow
Chemical Corp. Foamed polystyrene is well known for its durability, lightness, good process
ability, and good insulation properties.
Expanded polystyrene (EPS) sheets are produced from solid beads of polystyrene.
These beads are expanded by injecting and dissolving a small amount of pentane gas into the
base material during production. Under heat, the gas expands the beads to form closed cells.
These cells are approx. 4o times the volume of the original bead, and can be molded to into
different forms. While still a closed cell structure and resistant to water, it is not as resistant
to moisture as XPS. It is generally cheaper than it extruded cousin and scientific tests have
shown EPS to have a lower impact on the environment and can be recycled a lot easier than
XPS.
Extruded polystyrene also begins with solid polystyrene crystals. The crystals, along
with other additives are fed into an extruder where high heat and pressure form the mixture
into a plastic fluid. This thick liquid plastic is then forced into a die where it emerges and
expands to a foam. This foam is then shaped, cooled, and cut. Because of the extrusion
process, XPS is able to maintain its thermal and/or physical properties more uniformly than
EPS. Another advantage of XPS is its strength: because it subjected to higher compression
during the manufacturing process, it is slightly more rigid than EPS. Also, because the closed
cell structure is indeed finer than that of EPS, XPS resists moisture better.
Although it is a closed-cell foam, both expanded and extruded polystyrene are not
entirely waterproof or vapor proof. In expanded polystyrene there are interstitial gaps between
the expanded closed-cell pellets that form an open network of channels between the bonded
pellets, and this network of gaps can become filled with liquid water. If the water freezes into
ice, it expands and can cause polystyrene pellets to break off from the foam. Extruded
polystyrene is also permeable by water molecules and cannot be considered a vapor barrier
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.
Figure. (L-R) Different forms of polystyrene cups, Polystyrene used in food packaging
Food packaging includes vegetable trays, meat trays, hot beverage cups and other
such packaging. Polystyrene cups can be both made from general purpose polystyrene or
foamed polystyrene. Because polystyrene foams exhibit good damping property, therefore it
is used widely in packaging fragile items inside boxes.
4. POLYVINYL CHLORIDE
Properties
Raw PVC (unplasticized) has high rigidity. Its mechanical property is very good; the
elastic modulus can reach 1500-3,000 MPa. The soft PVC (flexible PVC) elastic is 1.5-15 MPa.
The heat stability of raw PVC is very poor, so the addition of a heat stabilizer during the process
is necessary in order to ensure the product's properties. PVC starts to decompose when the
temperature reaches 140C, with melting temperature starting around 160C.
Chemical stability is a common feature among substances containing halogens such
as chlorine and fluorine. This applies to PVC resins, which furthermore possess fire retarding
properties, durability, and oil/chemical resistance.
PVC has inherently superior fire retarding properties due to its chlorine content, even
in the absence of fire retardants. For example, the ignition temperature of PVC is as high as
455C, and is a material with less risk for fire incidents since it is not ignited easily.
Furthermore, the heat released in burning is considerably lower with PVC, when compared
with those for PE and PP. PVC therefore contributes much less to spreading fire to nearby
materials even while burning. Therefore, PVC is very suitable for safety reasons in products
close to peoples daily lives.
Under normal conditions of use, the factor most strongly influencing the durability of a
material is resistance to oxidation by atmospheric oxygen. PVC, having the molecular structure
where the chlorine atom is bound to every other carbon chain, is highly resistant to oxidative
reactions, and maintains its performance for a long time.
PVC is resistant to acid, alkali and almost all inorganic chemicals. Although PVC swells
or dissolves in aromatic hydrocarbons, ketones, and cyclic ethers, PVC is hard to dissolve in
other organic solvents. Taking advantage of this characteristic, PVC is used in exhaust gas
ducts, sheets used in construction, bottles, tubes and hoses.
PVC has good insulation properties, because of its higher polar nature the electrical
insulating property is inferior to non-polar polymers such as polyethylene and polypropylene.
5. POLYETHYLENE TEREPHTHALATE
In the context of textile applications, polyethylene terephthalate is referred to by its
common name, polyester, whereas the acronym PET is generally used in relation to packaging.
Properties
PET in its natural state is a colorless, semi-
crystalline resin. Based on how it is processed, PET
can be semi-rigid to rigid, and it is very lightweight.
It makes a good gas and fair moisture barrier, as
well as a good barrier to alcohol (requires additional
"barrier" treatment) and solvents. It is strong and
impact-resistant. PET becomes white when exposed
to chloroform and also certain other chemicals such
as toluene.
PET is hygroscopic, meaning that it absorbs
water from its surroundings. However, when this "damp" PET is then heated, the water
hydrolyzes the PET, decreasing its resilience. Thus, before the resin can be processed in a
molding machine, it must be dried. Drying is achieved through the use of a desiccant or dryers
before the PET is fed into the processing equipment.
PET is 100% recyclable and it can be recycled back, either to its original elements or
into other products.
Metalized Films
One of the more popular innovations that has taken place in the recent past is the introduction
of metalized films. With the application of a layer of aluminum to a polymers surface, the finished
product proves to be more resistant to both water and oxygen transmission as well as providing a
metallic and glossy appearancemuch like that of aluminum foil. The ability to provide some of the
key properties possessed by aluminum foil, for a considerably lower cost and tare weight makes
metalized films a popular choice in the food and confectionary fields.
Packaging films are selected to match the characteristics and needs of the food product. Film
permeability, water vapour transmission rates and sealing characteristics need to be measured and
tested at film selection and again at package converting and product fill stages, since the ability of a
film to handle MAP performance characteristics may vary within each stage.
Active Packaging
Intelligent Packaging
Upon the detection of a change, an automatic response takes placeresulting in neither the product,
package, or consumer being compromised. In the flexible film field, there have been steps taken to
create, continually develop, and implement intelligent packaging in films. While the polymers that are
utilized in packaging applications are immune to attack by algae, bacteria, and fungi, microbial growth
is still possible (Coles). Antimicrobial films that are capable of controlling the growth of
microorganisims in food have recently been researched and developed due to higher demand for
extended shelf life and food safety. Companies such as Mitsubishi and Maxwell Chase Technologies
(FreshRPax) have made huge strides in developing films to help protect consumers against microbial
threats (Anyadike). Currently, there are antimicrobial films using additives such as silver and
naringanase (an enzymederived fungus (Anyadike)) in developmental stage
Looking to the future of flexible films, there are already foreseen consumer and development
trends as well as continuing innovations in the field. An ongoing trend in the packaging market is the
development of materials which possess highbarrier properties. There is continuing research
regarding biodegradable/compostable films (there have been launches of biodegradable films such
as the bio based film released by Alcan in early 2008) and the push to make them more widely
available and utilized. A recent application of foodgrade flavor molecules added to polymer
structure has resulted in the development of a film that releases odors/aromas on the inside or
outside of a package (Byrne). The flexible film industry has been the center of revolutionary
developments and innovations, both of which will not cease anytime soon.
Coinjection Molding
Coinjection is a polymer injection technology in which different polymers are injected into the
same mold. Co-injection molding is a process in which two or more differentpolymers are laminated
together by injection molding. These polymers may be identical except for color or hardness, or they
may be of different types. When different polymers are used they must be compatible and melt at
approximately the same temperature.
The skin plastic is the material that is expected to be deposited on the cavity wall over the entire
surface of the part. The core plastic displaces the skin plastic at the hot core, pushing it to fill the rest
of the cavity. The end product is a sandwich-like structure, with the core plastic in the middle and the
skin plastic on the surfaces of the part.
Co-injection molding takes advantage of a characteristic of injection molding called fountain flow. As
the cavity is filled, the plastic at the melt front moves from the center line of the stream to the cavity
walls. Because the wall temperature is below the transition temperature (freeze temperature) of the
melt, the material that touches the walls cools rapidly and freezes in place. This provides insulating
layers on each wall, through which new melt makes its way to the melt front.
Co-injection Molds ensure consumer safety and product integrity- paramount in food and medical
packaging. Plastic part performance must now deliver security and extended shelf life to avoid product
spoilage.
Advantages Disadvantages
Material cost savings and lighter weigh parts Machine costs are 25 to 30% higher than for
standard injection equipment
Two different or alike materials can be shot Good tool makers familiar with tooling
simultaneously into the mold requirements are difficult to find in some areas
Some co-injection machines can be adapted for Material viscosities must be very similar or part
gas assist, which allows the machine to perform can easily be core-rich or skin-poor
dual functions
Allow an outlet for regrind usage on internal Sometimes difficult to obtain technical support
core for equipment problems
Gas assist injection molding is a process that produces large plastic parts with complex designs and
superb cosmetic and surface finshes. The process is especially ideal for large handles, equipment
covers, doors, bezels, cabinets and skins. Gas assist injection molding is a low pressure process that
requires the injection of pressurized nitrogen gas into the interior of a mold. The gas flows through
strategically placed gas channels to displace the material in the thick areas of the part by forming
hollow sections. The pressurized gas pushes the molten resin tight against the cavity walls until the
part solidifies, and the constant, evenly transmitted gas pressure keeps the part from shrinking while
also reducing surface blemishes, sink marks, and internal stresses. This process significantly reduces
material usage while producing a part with superior structure and aesthetics.
Processing
1. Molten plastic, shown in red, is injected into the mold cavity. The shut off valve in the nozzle is
open.
Plastic flows progressively into the cavity of the mold tool until it is approximately 70% filled.
2. The shut off valve closes to prevent the plastic material seeping back into the injection head.
The gas, shown blue, is injected into the core of the plastic, which at this stage is still molten.
The gas progresses the molten plastic into the extremities of the cavity
3. The plastic in the mould tool solidifies. The gas is evacuated leaving the center of the molding
hollow. The mold opens. The molding is ejected.
During the 'normal' injection moulding process of packing a mould cavity with plastic material,
stresses are introduced into the component. Often these are along the line of flow of the packing
material. In service these will result in the moulding warping and changing its dimensions. By using
the gas medium, transmission of pressure throughout the moulding is more efficient and therefore
less pressure is required.
By injecting a gas into the material the cavity pressures are lower and being derived from within the
component will considerably minimise the risk of warping In addition, with the material being
pressed against the mould surface by the gas until it solidifies, the moulding will have better surface
definition and will be more likely to be dimensionally correct.
The combined benefits of not packing a moulding are less material is used. By not having to pack the
material, and in thicker components the resultant hollow core, can save as much as up to 30% on
the material used. Another major benefit is the reduction in machine times that can be achieved.
With no molten core to solidify, the material in the mould cavity solidifies quicker thus enabling the
component to be ejected sooner.
Quality
Better dimensional control, and increased surface quality are major benefits of using gas injection.
Sink marks caused by local thick/thin deviations in wall section can be eliminated.
moulders can now be directly linked as an integrated blow/fill/seal line.This is likely to improve bottle
hygiene and will be particularly
important in the advancement of aseptic processing.
The move to plastics packaging from other materials has resulted in an increase in the number of
aseptic and hot-filling operations. In some cases, the nature of the product determines which process
should be used.
Aseptic processing is preferred if a products taste is likely to be affected by heat, while products
containing solid particles are probably better hot filled. There are many products that can be either
aseptically or hot filled. To decide on the best option for these products, the total packaging cost needs
to be considered.
Hot filling does not require sterile, clean room conditions. Bottles do not have to be sterilised or
moulded under sterile conditions. Hot fill bottles have to withstand the high fill temperatures and resist
panelling on cooling. As a result, they are usually heavy and there are many design constraints. Heat-
set blowing cycles are long, resulting in a 20 to 40% loss of output on the blow moulder.
Aseptic bottles can be blown at standard machine speeds and are lighter. There are fewer constraints
on bottle design. The need for bottle sterilisers and specialised aseptic filling machines adds
significant costs to the aseptic filling operation. It is anticipated that developments in clean-blowing
and more efficient aseptic fillers will see the advance of aseptic filling of plastic bottles.
Plastic is one of the most versatile materials of our modern age. And yet, the popularity of
plastic is the problem. According to an article at 33 rd Square, we use 20 times more plastic than we
did 50 years ago and masses of this material is finding its way into landfill to spend hundreds of years
taking up space. By recycling plastic, the amount produced and wasted can be reduced whereas the
process has short-term advantages for the environment, the long term results arent so good.
Collection. Recyclable plastics are collected from homes and businesses by local recycling
schemes or from recycling facilities.
Sorting. Plastics are either sorted manually or sorted by advanced machines. The plastic
recyclables are further sorted into their different type. Any plastic types that cannot be recycled
are disposed in landfill.
Cleaning. At the recycling plant, the plastic is cleaned of any impurities such as food waste, ink
and labels, etc.
Grinding. The plastic is ground into flakes or chippings which then go through the process of
washing and sorting again.
Purification. The flakes and chippings are either purified with a chemical solution or melted
down to form plastic beads.
End-use. The flakes and beads are sent to a plastic manufacturing plant to be melted down
again for processing into new products.
Most of the time, these plastics are turned into bin liners, carrier bags, plastic bottles, window
frames, flooring, CD cases, drainage pipes and etc.
Recycling plastic conserves the natural resources and energy that would be required to
produce plastic from scratch.
When plastic is recycled, less plastic is sent to landfill and thus, less of this material takes up
room in our environment for hundreds of years. In fact, recycling one ton of plastic can save 7.4 cubic
yards of landfill space.
3. Ease of Recycling
Plastics are becoming increasingly easy to recycle. Besides the invention of new plastic
recycling technology, governments all over the world have plastic collection schemes in place.
The process of recycling plastic can be particularly harmful to the environment. When the
material is melted down, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are released into the atmosphere. These
are harmful to nearby plant and animal life.
2. Carbon Emission
As heat is required to melt plastic, the process generates carbon emissions. These greenhouse
gases contribute to global warming and are already taking an effect on our planets climate.
While the VOCs released from recycling can harm the environment, they also present health
risks to people who use recycled plastic. Plastic resin is manufactured from petroleum and this
substance can leech into the foods that are stored in recycled plastic containers. This isn't cited as a
major threat but plastic manufacturers are careful to use only a small amount of recycled plastic in
food packaging.
4. Downcycling
As plastic carries potential health threats, much of recycled plastic finds its new home as a
less useful product - this is referred to as downcyling. For example, a plastic bottle might become
plastic furniture and in turn there is still a demand to produce new plastic for plastic bottles.
After plastic has been recycled once, its very rarely suitable for a second round of recycling.
This means that the material will eventually end up in waste despite its secondary, prolonged use. If
plastic recycling continues in this way then manufacturers will always have the same demand for new
material.
REFERENCES