How is PET Different from Other Plastic Types？

PET plastic is a sustainable packaging option and the main type of plastic used for beverage bottles due to its excellent chemical resistance to organic materials and water and its high strength-to-weight ratio. Here, we'll explore what exactly PET bottles are, evaluate their benefits, and compare them to other plastic types.

What is PET?

PET, polyethylene terephthalate (also known as PETE) is a strong, hard synthetic material that belongs to the thermoplastic family, which means it can be heated, melted, and cooled into a variety of shapes and sizes. Made from a blend of oils and petrochemicals, it is popular in manufacturing for producing bottles and jars. In fact, almost every plastic bottle is made from PET. It is suitable for a variety of beverages, including carbonated, non-carbonated and dilutable beverages, juices and bottled water.

The material provides a protective barrier against carbon dioxide and light, repels microorganisms, and is EU/NSF/FDA tested and approved. PET is lightweight, has a very clear appearance and looks similar to glass when solidified. It is strong, non-reactive and shatter-proof, allowing the material to meet high safety standards for food, drink and personal care products. It is strong enough to undergo HPP (High Pressure Processing) – a form of heatless pasteurization.

Is PET more environmentally friendly than other types of plastic?

PET is the preferred choice for plastic bottles (and other uses) because it is 100% recyclable and highly sustainable. It can be recovered and recycled into new products again and again, reducing resource waste. This is different from other types of plastics such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), low density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), which are used in plastic wrap, disposable plastic bags, food Containers and disposable cups respectively.

PET also has a low carbon footprint because it uses less energy in the manufacturing process, which helps suppliers reduce overall energy consumption. Due to its light weight, the company is able to transport large quantities of PET products and further reduce carbon emissions during transportation. This also makes it an economical choice for businesses.

PET life cycle

PET products can have a long life cycle and generate very little plastic waste if disposed of correctly by consumers. The material is easily recyclable and recycled PET is a valuable commodity with the potential to close the loop. Most PET products are clearly labeled with the #1 resin code, indicating to consumers that it is fully recyclable PET plastic. For example, some plastic containers are multi-layered, and some people find it time-consuming to sort correctly.

Recycle content

PET products can be produced using recycled PET. For example, a one-liter refillable PET bottle is made from 30% recycled content and has an 81% lower carbon footprint than a refillable glass bottle. Some of our designs can be produced using 100% recycled materials – eliminating virgin plastic from the production process will help save up to 75% of your carbon footprint.

Is PET safer than other types of plastic?

As mentioned before, PET is shatterproof and will not cause harm if broken or damaged - it is known as a "safe" plastic. PET also does not contain bisphenol A (BPA), a large number of harmful chemicals. Certain types of plastic contain this substance, which has been reported to interact with the body's endocrine system, potentially causing negative health effects. This is the main reason many consumers are switching from polycarbonate to PET water coolers, a type of plastic that often contains BPA.

Overall, PET is a safe, hygienic packaging solution and is approved by official health and safety committees. Its composition means it will not react with any food or liquid that comes into contact with the material, making PET risk-free and safe.