There are different types of plastics, including those made from PCR-derived materials. But what is PCR plastic, what are its characteristics and why is it important to use it?
In this article, we will look at what it is, what its specific characteristics are and the advantages of using it.
PCR plastic: what is it? A definition
PCR (Post Consumer Recycled) materials are obtained by recycling post-consumer plastic items. Examples include mineral water bottles, caps, food or cosmetics containers made of PET, PE, PP or HDPE, which, after recovery and careful processing, result in new products. Among the most popular categories of PCR plastics are PET, PP, ABS, PS and PE.
The characteristics of PCR materials and how they differ from synthetic plastics
Post consumer recycled materials have the same characteristics as plastics derived from synthetic sources in terms of physical, mechanical and processability.
The products produced will therefore be:
- lightweight
- versatile
- resistant
- durable
- flexible
The difference between PCR plastics and virgin plastics lies in the manufacturing process. Standard plastics are obtained from particles extracted from petrochemical raw materials. PCR materials, on the other hand, are created by processing plastic particles from waste products that are collected, sorted, cleaned, shredded and melted to create a new element.
Did you know that recycled plastic products are not all the same? Discover the different sustainable materials, read our article:
Recycled plastic caps: the sustainable materials for production
PCR: why use this type of plastic
PCR plastic has a low environmental impact and is a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic. There are several advantages when using it, including:
- the reduction of waste and traditional plastic waste going to landfills
- the reduction of carbon emissions due to lower energy use compared to the production of standard plastics
- the possibility of recycling the material again after use, up to 7 times
- the versatility of use, making it suitable for multi-use operations
Using PCR materials also makes it possible to support European and international objectives to reduce carbon emissions (in Europe, the target is to limit them by at least 55% by 2030). In addition, it is possible to limit the consequences of plastic pollution caused by improper disposal by promoting recycling policies for biodegradable materials and plastic items. This is one way of gaining the trust of consumers, who are increasingly aware of sustainability policies and looking for recycled products.
What can be accomplished with PCR plastics?
PCR materials are suitable for a variety of processes, excellently replacing traditional plastics. For example, they can be used in the production of:
- packaging
- toys
- packaging
- textiles
- household appliances
- automotive parts
PCR plastic is also used for the production of caps and accessories for various sectors, from cosmetics to medical equipment.
Are you already familiar with our new line? You can find it here:
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PCR and other plastics: BMP TAPPI’s commitment to the environment
We have already explained what PCR plastic is and listed its advantages in terms of sustainability. This is a key value for BMP TAPPI. To meet the needs and goal of increasingly circular production, there are several more sustainable products made from PCR-derived materials in the catalogue.
These items can be customised according to requirements, evaluating between different colours, sizes and materials, ensuring compatibility with the components of a special machine or system. For us, ensuring a wide variety of products are manufactured from environmentally sustainable materials means actively participating in the preservation of the planet, favouring recycling policies and the proper disposal of plastic. This is why we will continue to strive in this direction by producing more environmentally friendly articles.
Would you like to know if PCR plastic caps and accessories are right for you?
Contact us to find out more!