How Are Plastic Water Bottles Recycled?
Other People Are Reading
-
Collecting
-
The first step in the recycling process of plastic water bottles is the collection of the bottles. Some cities offer curbside collection for the recycling of plastic water bottles and other goods, but some don't. Cities without curbside collection often have a central collection bin where consumers may turn in their plastic water bottles on their own.
Sorting
-
Once plastic water bottles are collected from curbs and central collection locations they are taken to a recycling plant where they are sorted according to their polymer types. Plastics have seven polymer types that are identified by a plastic identification code. Most plastic water bottles are either plastic identification code "1," which is polyethylene terephthalate or plastic identification code "2," which is high-density polyethylene.
-
Processing
-
After plastic water bottles are sorted by their plastic identification codes, they are further sorted by their color to prepare for the processing. The processing of plastic water bottles involves the use of large crushing machines that compact the bottles and form them into plastic bales. The plastic bales are then sold to companies that further process the plastic to make flakes for manufacturing new plastic products.
The New Products
-
Plastic bales formed from identification code "1" plastics are used to manufacture polyester fibers. These polyester fibers are used in the manufacturing of carpet, clothing and other fabrics. They are also used to make new bottles. Plastic bales formed from identification code "2" plastics are used to make plastic grocery bags, milk cartons and plastic bins.
-
Resources
More Like This
Comments
-
I need to know practically how to recycled, as my part of the world need serious recycling plans, as these water bottles letters the street. Hope to hear from you soon. thanks
